Favorite Artist Quilt Page

I finally finished Deb's quilt page for the CPS Fabric Journal Round Robin. I chose Monet, and here is my page, front and back.

Front

               Back

I transferred photos of the paintings to fabric and combined them with fabrics that reminded me of Monet painting. I also used some multicolored rickrack and yarn and some silk blossoms and colored brads. I hope Deb likes the results.

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On 01/31/2007, GranFranVan said ...

Susan, I really like the work you're showing. The Monet is lovely, I'm sending the link to my oldest daughter who loves Monet. I wouldn't mind sitting in on your study of the book of Daniel, I'd love to understand it better since it seems to be so relevant to our time. A cruise sounds like a wonderful thing to do in the middle of this cold, snowy winter.

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On 01/31/2007, Terri said ...

This looks great. I love the colors in it.

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On 01/31/2007, Rian said ...

Very pretty.

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On 01/31/2007, Micki said ...

It is gorgeous. I love Monet.

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On 02/01/2007, Diane said ...

You definitely need the cruise. You are working yourself too hard getting caught up! The Monet page is great - look forward to its arrival.
:D

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On 02/12/2007, Vivian said ...

Susan, this is absolutely beautiful!!! Wonderful work you do!!
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Sad Week in the Neighborhood

This has been a tragic week in our neighborhood. Tommy disappeared on Saturday and has not been found. Then a neighbor's mother passed away. And yesterday afternoon, one of Vann's very good friends, Chip, who lived on the next street down, died while at hunting camp. He was younger than Vann but had had previous heart problems. So it's a very glum mood in our neck of the woods. Sort of put the damper on our excitement over the cruise. We leave on Friday to drive to Vann's parents' place in south Georgia. Then we'll drive on to Canavarel on Saturday. Our boat sails at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday.

We really need this break, especially now. I hope we come back renewed and in good spirits, with no aches and pains. My back pains have returned. I'm walking every day and doing my p.t., but nothing seems to be helping a lot.  I'm hoping a few days in a deck chair, breathing sea air and soaking up the Caribbean sun will change all that.

I have to finish a quilt page and then make a postcard today. So I better click off.

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On 01/31/2007, windyangels said ...

Thanks for your comment on my journal quilt. I am sorry to hear of the sadness. I do hope you have a wonderful and refreshing time on your cruise. I also love your quilt page for the round robin.

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On 01/31/2007, Debra Spincic said ...

Tommy is still AWOL. Oh no.

Thinking about your upcoming cruise and a tad envious.
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Pressed Between the Pages of My Mind

This week's ArtWord, I just learned, is "Memory." Here is a spread I did in the Northwind Studio 2006/07 altered book round robin that perfectly fits that theme. The photo shows my mama and daddy back when mama was 19 and daddy was about 22. The original book was a photo album with black pages. The artist's theme was "Death," but not in a morbid kind of way. Rather "what happens when we die?" Since Mama and Daddy have both found the answer to that question now, I decided to use them. (Click on photos for larger views.)

Left side of spread

Right side of spread

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On 01/29/2007, Sue B said ...

This is a beautiful spread. Very nicely done.

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On 01/30/2007, Debra Spincic said ...

Very interesting!

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On 02/12/2007, Vivian said ...

I love this! It's so beautiful!
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Dog-gone Doggie Gone

Yesterday afternoon, we had a very sad thing happen in the neighborhood. Little Tommy, Bonnie and Kim's little dog went missing. Bonnie let him out to answer Nature's call, as she always does. When she went back to let him in. He wasn't there. Half the neighborhood turned out to look for him, including Vann and Sophie, but as of bedtime, Tommy was still missing. It's so scary since we have coyotes around here. Big ones. Poor Tommy. Vann and I have vowed to not let Sophie out of our sight, even in our own yard. I don't have a photo of Tommy. Wish I did.

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On 01/30/2007, Debra Spincic said ...

ACK! I rescued some young pups on the highway the other day--called the owner and we discovered they had dug out of the yard. It was a great day for me (& the pups). Unfortunately, not all dogs get rescued. I hope your friend's dog has a happy ending.
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Countdown to Cruising

I have only two more projects to finish before we leave for our cruise on the 2nd of February. Maybe I'll make it after all. I have to finish my Favorite Artist fabric journal page for Deb and make a postcard for Shirley. Here's my Drama Queen altered book spread that I made for Karen T's book today. I chose to do an Esther Williams spread because I remember her from Saturday afternoon movies when I was a kid. I wanted to be just like her. But, alas, I grew up to be a terrible swimmer--and not nearly as shapely.

Below are the tags that I made for the pocket on the right page.

I also wrote and mailed my book club newsletter today, The Bookmark. I didn't send one in December; what with all the holiday hassle and my aches and pains, I just never got it done. I'm going to really try to be more diligent about getting it out and on time this year. The book club members seem to really enjoy it.

Now that I have a few things accomplished, I don't feel so much pressure and stress. I'm really getting excited about the cruise. Still a little nervous since I've never been on a large ship and never been on the water for more than a day. But still excited.

Andy and Jesse have been sick with a stomach virus. Sure hope no bugs come around here before next Friday (when we leave).

The Beth Moore study on the Book of Daniel last night was really good. We have about 25 or 30 women (all ages) taking it. Beth is so inspirational and interesting--even if she is a little off the wall sometimes. We have an hour of discussion of our homework, then we watch the video of Beth teaching for an hour. Pretty long sessions, but interesting and enjoyable.

I'm going now to don my PJs, snuggle up on the couch with my blanket and Sophie and read (Gods in Alabama) while Vann watches the Outdoor Channel.

Adventures With Sophie

The first 24 hours that I wore my pedometer, ending at 3:00 p.m. today, I logged 9,271 steps. That's a few steps shy of my goal of 10,00 per day, but not much. The little device actually makes walking more fun and encourages me to go a little further on my walks with Sophie.

Today on our walk, Sophie had a cat encounter of the third kind. This is the kind of cat enounter that gets her or me in trouble, as opposed to when she simply chases a cat into the storm drain or barks at one until I pull her off. She gets so excited when she sees a cat. Her little tail (stub?) starts wagging, and she has a certain bark that says, "Cat! Cat! Cat!" One of our neighbor's cat was on its front porch when we walked by. Well, Sophie, she spotted him, ran up to the porch, and started barking her "Cat!" bark. The cat, of course, bowed up and started hissing. The front door opened and the neighbor and his teenage daughter appeared in distress. "Shoo, shoo," the girl said to Sophie. But Sophie didn't shoo; she just kept doing her "Cat!" bark. So the father said, "You better get out of here. This cat will claw your nose off."

All this time, I was yelling at Sophie things like "Bad dog!" and "Come!" and "This way, Sophie," and "Get here," and anything I could think of to pull her off the cat. Finally she came back to me, I apologized for her bad behavior, and we eased on down the road. Very embarrassing episode--for me, not for Sophie. Tomorrow I think I'll call ahead and warn the neighbors that we're going walking.

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On 01/26/2007, Susan said ...

Poor you! Sophie was just doing what dogs do, though. =) I guess she is lucky the cat didn't claw her nose - what a lesson that would be!

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On 01/27/2007, Rian said ...

I think Sophie would be no match for a cat. I have a schnauzer too and he loves to chase cats. I hope he never catches one.
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Another Cloudy Day

The sun stuck it's face through the clouds briefly this afternoon, didn't like what it saw, and went back. It's still pretty cold too. Last night was chili night; I cooked a big pot of what Vann calls my "famous chili", and Lori came for dinner. She brought Daisy, which upset Sophie no end, but I was glad to see them both. Today we had chili for lunch, and there's still enough left for several more servings.

I finally got a pedometer today. I clipped it on and went walking with Sophie. We walked a mile, about 2,500 steps. My goal is to get up to 10,000 steps a day. Wow, that's four miles.

Haven't done any art or sewing today, but I did get the computer room straightened up while Linda and Mary (bi-weekly cleaning ladies) cleaned the rest of the house. My sewing room is such a mess, I don't even want to open the door. But I have several projects I have to finish before we leave for our cruise (only nine more days till we leave), so I better get busy.

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On 01/24/2007, Lori said ...

Congratulations on getting the pedometer. I bet Sophie will be very happy with the walks. It is cold here today, and Chilli sounds good!

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On 01/24/2007, Debra Spincic said ...

My dogs have become real pests if I skip their walk. It's good for all of us! I bet Sophie will push you out the door too.
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Message Worth Sharing

My friend Gene forwarded a cute dog story e-mail to me. At the bottom was this picture.

 

Maybe some of you have seen it already. I thought it was worth sharing--and Sophie agrees.

Idea for February Peace Quilt

I'm sitting here checking my e-mail, and I look down. Lying there in the middle of the clutter on my desk is a stack of gift tags left over from Christmas. On top is one picturing a pretty white dove with an olive branch in her mouth on a blue background. "Wouldn't that make a pretty quilt?" I say to myself. Dove? Olive branch? Peace? PEACE QUILT! It took a few minutes for the full idea to take shape, but now I have it. This tag is the inspiration for my February journal quilt. I know the plan was to use Hubble space shots for each quilt, but plans change. And I think this one just did.

I'm a Guardian

At the suggestion of Debra S. on her blog, I took the Myers-Briggs Personality Test. It turns out that I have the same personality type of Mother Teresa (and Debra S.). Boy, is that humbling. I'm the Guardian type, or ISFJ (Introvert, Sensing, Feeling, Judgment). I was mostly F (Feelings).  Now I wish I could just find the strength that Mother Teresa had.

As far as I'm concerned, having a guardian personality isn't always a good thing. I tend to want to "fix" everything, to take care of everyone around me, especially family members. I often don't give them the opportunity to work out their own problems before I try to step in and "help." So I think I need the gift of discernment to go along with my guardian tendencies so I'll know when I need to help and when I need to let go.

"Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies."  --Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Something Else to Worry About

Well I'm in a somber mood this morning. I just finished reading David Baldacci's The Camel Club, a book that definitely does not make one proud to be an American. It doesn't even make one proud to be a human being, for that matter. It has a pretty involved plot, so I won't go into all that. If you want to know, read the book. (It's a very exciting and entertaining read, even if it does ratchet one's anxiety level up a few thousand notches.)

Suffice it to say that Baldacci pulls no punches in assessing why the US is trying to "bring feedom" to the Middle East. His descriptions of covert and illegal operations that just might be going on within our government will give you a case of permanent chillbumps. (There's a special forces training site called "Murder Mountain.") Also his literary suggestion that the differences in the world's cultures and relgions are so great that we're never going to love each other, is pretty depressing.

He offers hope in the form of one lunatic trained killer, with the strength and speed of Superman. But by the time you get to the end of this tale of conspiracy, murder, insanity, terror attacks, etc., the hope that is offered at the end seems tenuous at best.

And guess what else? They (whoever "they" are) have moved the Doomsday Clock two minutes closer to midnight after North Korea's stupid nuke tests. We are now five minutes away from the end. I think they also figured in climate change, global warming, and maybe even the price of oil for all I know.

It's all too, too scary, and I think we should do something about it. Humans are so smart (I mean, we went to the Moon for Pete's sake, or either a sound-stage studio in California). We've invented stuff like the wheel and computers and retractable dog leashes. IPODS smaller than the palm of your hand that can hold 2,000 songs--count 'em. Why the Hubble Telescope alone proves that mankind isn't completely stupid. Humans create art and music that can make you cry. And God loves us, people. God loves us. That means we must be worth a whole lot. So why don't we act like it? Let's get rid of the nukes and plug up the hole in the ozone. Wipe out poverty and crime and racial/religious hatred. Wouldn't that be a lot easier, and a hell of a lot more beneficial, than building some little gadget to hold 2,000 songs? Huh? Don't you think? Who do I talk to about this?

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On 01/22/2007, debbi said ...

I have only read David Baldacci's book, Wish You Well. I enjoyed it very much. I do ask myself what is going on in our world and how can people be so hurtful.

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On 01/25/2007, Vivian said ...

Hi Susan! My husband and I read the book together and loved it! We just bought the next one and can't wait to read it! David Baldacci's books really make you think!

Vivian
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Better Shape Up

OK, I'm beginning to realize that a few people are really reading this blog, so I'm thinking I better start taking my writing a little more seriously and try to give them something interesting, or at least entertaining, to read. This morning in church, a friend said to me, "So you're making fabric journals." The friend is a retired Methodist minister, not a person I would think had a lot of interest in fabric art, quilting, etc. But when I asked him how he knew about the fabric journals, he told me he reads my blog. So starting tomorrow, I'm going to take the journaling (writing) part of this site a little more seriously.

I go now to contemplate on what I might write about tomorrow.

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On 01/22/2007, Lori said ...

I always wonder if anyone reads my blog, but given your story maybe I better start wondering who is reading. What an encouragement for you.
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Wind

The Artword of the week is "Wind." Here's my interpretation of the theme in a fabric postcard entitled "Girl With Kite." (Click on photo to view larger image.)

Copyright: Susan Ramey Cleveland

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On 01/21/2007, Micki said ...

She is very charming, Susan.

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On 01/22/2007, kel said ...

a fabric postcard, well I never knew such a lovely thing existed

as someone who struggles to sew on a button, this artwork seriously impresses me

found you via Artwords

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On 01/23/2007, sophie said ...

Love this!
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Who is this?

A good friend sent me one of those precious e-mails that show cute animals and cuter kids. It contained this one, which looks toooooo much like Miss Daisy. Is that you Dukes?

Sophie Goes To Texas--cybernetically speaking

Well, look at this. Miss Sophie, when my back was turned, hopped on a plane and had a rock-climbing meet-up with Ernie. I might have never known if Diane hadn't sent me this photo. Thanks Diane, for sending Soph on a digital meet-up with this handsome guy. Ruth, I hope Ernie enjoyed the cyber-trip too.

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On 01/20/2007, Diane said ...

What a hoot!
I think I need to get a cyber dog - she could guard my hard drive against viruses. :-) Glad you liked my little digital playing.
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New Altered Book Spread Finished

I have mostly shown fabric art here, but I do dabble in altered books a bit too. (You can see more of my altered book art in my Picture Trail albums.) I discovered altered books in 2005. I have done a couple of books of my own and have been in several round robins. Here's a spread I just finished for Deb's book. The assignment was to illustrate a saying or title. The title was to be hidden on a tag or pull-out so that the viewer would have a chance to guess what it represents before reading the answer. Can you guess what my saying is?

Click on photo for larger view.

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On 01/20/2007, Micki said ...

Your spread is great. I'm guessing "Silence is Golden" or perhaps "Let sleeping dogs lie".
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Jesus in a Dog Door

Don't know if this is large enough to see details. I saw a video about this on the internet this morning. It seems some couple was about to get rid of their two big dogs when they discovered this picture of, they say, Jesus in their dirty dog door. So now they're keeping the dogs, taking this to be a message from God. Whatever, I'm glad the doggies get to keep their home.

Back in the 80s, I lived in a little rental house that had a picture of Ronald Reagan on the enamel bathtub. Really. He was scratched in the enamel on the side of the tub. I didn't take it as a sign from God or anything; but it was quite a conversation piece. Wish we'd taken a picture.

I'm about to go now and see if anyone has left any messages in Sophie's dog door.

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On 01/18/2007, Debra Spincic said ...

I followed the eBay auction where a woman had a melted cheese sandwich with the Virgin Mary's image on it. I believe she actually sold the sandwich for some unheard of money but what was really fun was to see all the jokes other people posted on eBay as a result.

I guess it takes all kinds of people to make the world go around!

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On 01/19/2007, Diane said ...

You probably could have retired on the sale of the Reagan portrait. What a shame you moved!
:D
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WIP Wednesday

Here's a shot of the Africa fabric journal I've been working on. Almost finished excepted binding the pages together.

As always, click on photo to see larger shot.

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On 01/17/2007, Jeri said ...

Susan, that is really pretty. I love the riot of color!

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On 01/17/2007, Sarah said ...

I like! Very much!

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On 01/17/2007, Debra Spincic said ...

Your journal looks very interesting. Can we see some closer pictures? please!

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On 01/18/2007, Susan C. said ...

When I've finished, I'll post photos of each page. Meanwhile, if you click on the photo, it will enlarge.

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On 01/19/2007, Judy Scott said ...

Hello Susan
Thankyou dear lady for your lovely message. It was a huge step for me but a very positive one. xxxx

Your African journal looks fabulous and refreshing too I love the colours youve chosen. Cant wait to see more, Jude xxxx
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You Want a Piece of Me????

I received this beautiful handwoven and beaded pouch containing an atc from Diane yesterday.

                                                       So now it's payback time. The catch is that I have to make and send something I've made to the first five people who sign up her on my blog by way of the comments button. Here's the deal, as it was told to me:

"The first five people to respond to this post (via the comments section) will get some form of art made by me. The only catch, of course: as with most memes, if you sign up, you have to put this in your own blog as well."

But remember the catch. If you sign up, you have to offer the same deal to five other people by posting the above paragraph (in red), or your own version of it, on your blog.

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On 01/17/2007, Debra Spincic said ...

I love that little pouch!

I did this just before Christmas so won't be biting on that hook again for awhile!

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On 01/18/2007, Diane said ...

Goodness, a great photo of the bag and Spirit ATC!!! It looks right at home there.
And, thanks, Debra for your compliment.
:Diane
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I got my copy of Lesley Riley's new book on Friday. Great fabric art. Her Teddy Bear book gave me a lot of inspiration for a page in my Elvis journal. Not sure what I'm going to do with it yet, but I'll definitely have a Teddy Bear quilt. There's also a fabric covered box that gave me an idea for my Elvis quilts. Instead of binding them into a book, I think I'll make a box for them. Not sure what I'm going to do with the Peace Quilts yet.

The premier of "24" last night was very good: exciting, bloody, and hard to watch at times. Not only the gruesomeness of some of the scenes but also knowing that it's possible all these things could happen. The terror attacks, increased fear in our lives, and maybe worst of all, our leaders' disregard for the Constitution in trying to protect the country. It's all very disturbing.

This is Quilt Guild meeting day, and I didn't go. It's cloudy, and storms are predicted, and I'm feeling a little achy and stiff. I'm afraid the cordisone is wearing off and my pain will come back. The past couple of weeks have been so great. But if it comes back, I'll deal with it.

Got to get things in order. Only about two and a half weeks till we leave on our Virgin Island cruise. I have several projects that need to be finished before I leave. My February Elvis quilt, CPS fabric journal and altered book, and the Northwinds altered book. Does it sound like I've taken on too many projects? Well I have, but I don't seem to be able to resist something new and inspiring. Oh, and I also owe a fabric postcard to Shirley. Gotta get that out too. So why am I sitting here pecking on the keyboard? 'Cause I like to--that's why.

Daisy went home last night, and I miss her. But Sophie is at peace once more. I swear, that schnoodle is such a jealous b---h sometimes. She can't stand for another dog to be here getting some of her attention. Wonder why? Could it be that Vann and I have spoiled her rotten with attention? Hmmmm. Could be.

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On 01/15/2007, Debra Spincic said ...

We all have to have our blogging fix!
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Jack Bauer Returns Tonight!

Clean Dog; Happy Dog

Sophie looks much better today, and I'm sure she feels better too. Diane brought her mobile grooming van to our house yesterday and gave Sophie a haircut, bath, and all the trimmings.

Sophie didn't like going in the van very much, but Diane said she did fine once she was in. And I know it wasn't as stressful for her as taking her to the groomer and making her spend all day in a cage. And she seemed pretty happy when she came out all neat and pretty.

 

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On 01/14/2007, Suzanne said ...

I don't think I've ever heard of a mobile groomer before. What a great idea! Sophie does look nice now!

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On 01/17/2007, Buffy said ...

HA!! Bald doggie!
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Mother Sun & Daughter Earth Finished

I just finished my second journal quilt for January. This one is for the CPS Challenge, and my theme is "Peace Quilts." The title of the January quilt is "Mother Sun & Daughter Earth."

This is the back of the quilt:

And here is a close-up of the label on the back:

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On 01/14/2007, Terri said ...

Great journal quilt! I love that background fabric with the batik squares.

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On 01/14/2007, Micki said ...

Very nice journal quilt.
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Jailhouse Elvis

Sophie, can you believe I have that very scene you mentioned in fabric? Another piece from that VIP line. Here it is.

Not sure how I'll use it yet, but Jailhouse Rock will definitely be one of my quilts.

And, btw, I can remember when he did that very number on "The Ed Sullivan Show." (I watched from my cradle. LOL)

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On 01/13/2007, cindy said ...

hi! i saw that same fabric in my local fabric store just before christmas! i was buying some fabric that was stamped with an apron with elvis. i made it up for my stepdad who shares a birthday with the king... it is posted on my blog if you want to peek!

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On 01/13/2007, Susan C. said ...

Cindy, hi. The Elvis apron is cool. I love the "Burning Love BBQ Sauce" recipe. --Susan C,
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Oh What a Beautiful Morning!

Took the dogs out for a walk first thing this morning. The weather is glorious. It feels more like March than January. The sky is so so blue. However, they tell us the cold weather will return early next week with a front down from Canada. That's ok. I'd still like to see some snow. But then, I always want to see some snow.

Sophie did an unmentionable on the neighbor's lawn.

Guess she didn't want to wait till she got to the vacant lot across the road. Daisy is staying with us this weekend while Lori goes with a friend to see the USS Alabama at Mobile Bay.

Vann is at hunting camp, so it's just us girls. Today I'll work on the neverending laundry basket and my CPS journal quilt, which is almost finished. I really should be working on getting my office and sewing room straightened up--but what fun is that?

Smarty Pants Me

Your IQ Is 125

Your Logical Intelligence is Below Average Your Verbal Intelligence is Genius Your Mathematical Intelligence is Genius Your General Knowledge is Exceptional

A Quick and Dirty IQ Test

The Elvis Adventure Begins

Today is the first day to reveal our January 12 x 12s at Quilt Studio. I posted mine yesterday as an early bird, along with three or four other members. The quilts are just gorgeous so far. Makes me wonder if I'm out of my league. Here's my January Elvis, entitled simply "Elvis."

I plan to base each of the remaining 11 on an Elvis song. Several of the Quilt Studio members suggested I do one on velvet. That's a fun idea. I'll have to think about it. I also think I should do one entitled "Elvis Has Left the Building." But that should be the last one (December), and I've already decided to do "Blue Christmas" for December. Obviously, this project needs some more thought to work out the scheduling.

Book Club meets at my house this afternoon, so I have to get busy straightening up and preparing goodies. We're discussing Frank McCourt's Teacher Man, a book that I chose. While it was mildly entertaining, it definitely was not of the caliber of Angela's Ashes. Some writers, and I think McCourt might be one of them, should definitely stop with one good book. Harper Lee knew it, and I think Margaret Mitchell did too. Although we'll never know about Mitchell, since a crazy driver ran her over before she had a chance to write another one. But I digress. And my coffee cup is empty, so I'll sign off.

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On 01/12/2007, sophie said ...

I think the Elivs theme will be a lot of fun. Have you seen the musical All Shook Up? It's on tour now; I saw it in Boston last fall. All the songs are Elvis songs, sometimes sung by unexpected characters in a different context than you might imagine them. I think your pieces have the potential to add some twists to old favorites, too.

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On 01/12/2007, Debra Spincic said ...

I think you could really think outside the box with your theme and have some genuine fun!

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On 01/13/2007, Deb said ...

I thought was very creative and fun. I can't wait to see the rest of your work!

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On 01/13/2007, Susan C. said ...

An Elvis musical? No I haven't seen it, but if it comes to Birmingham (and we're getting lots of Broadway plays now), I'll be sure to see it.

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On 01/13/2007, Beth said ...

This is so cool! I grew up watching Elvis movies on tv and I was in Jr. high when he passed. (Or did he?) Just kidding. Not that you need any help with design, but I keep picturing that 45 cover my mom used to have of "Jailhouse Rock" with Elvis on his toes, wearing the stripes...maybe you could translate that into a block?

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On 01/13/2007, anita said ...

I really like this one, and I'm looking forward to the rest. (And I'm not even a Elvis fan!) Maybe "Elvis has left the building" could be a bonus quilt?

And I agree about Frank McCourt . . . I LOVED Angela's Ashes, tried to read 'Tis and couldn't, did finish Teacher Man but found it pretty lightweight. . .
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WIP Wednesday

I have many Works in Progress, actually. But the one I'll be working on today is a secret. It's my 12 x 12 Elvis quilt, and I can't show it until opening day, which, for me, I believe will be the 15th. Two major works in progress are my computer/art room and my sewing room (yes, I actually have two rooms since all the kids moved out). They're both complete and utter wrecks; and I have vowed to get them neat and organized by the end of January. Therefore, they are works in progress. I'm ashamed to show either one of them (I mean, like, they're really, REALLY messy), but I will show my desk, which is bad enough. So here it is.

 

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On 01/10/2007, Meredith said ...

Messy? I can still see desk top. Your quilts are beautiful.

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On 01/10/2007, Suzanne said ...

I thought the same thing as Meredith. I thought about posting before pictures of my desk and my studio on my blog, but I didn't want to scare everybody....

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On 01/11/2007, Debra Spincic said ...

that wasn't too bad--now let's see worse!

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On 01/11/2007, Jen Anderson said ...

Not too bad, really. I think we all get into the organization mode in Jan.
I enjoyed reading your blog and looking at your photos. Jen
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Time, Time, Ticking...

Well, this day went by like a bat out of hell! I haven't accomplished anything today. Got up early, about 7:00. Read my Sunday school lesson, made coffee, did my p.t. exercises--by then, Vann was up. Fixed breakfast. Then we went to library, hair stylist to pick up book I left there on Saturday, Joseph's Storehouse to deliver a trunkful of donations, Pioneer Hardware where Vann had to get a screw (no, really) and I took a photo of the totum head out front for my 365 photos project, then to Wal-Mart to pick up some things. Came home. Fixed lunch (chef salad and chicken enchilada soup). After lunch, Vann went to run another errand, and I lay down on the couch to read but didn't get many much reading done. I woke up when he came in. That's it to this point. It's getting dark outside, although it's only about 5:00 p.m.

The mobile groomer (Diane) is coming in about an hour to give Sophie a "do." It will be the first time we've used her. She comes in a van all tricked out with everything necessary to groom a doggie. It's more expensive than where we've been taking her (about $15 more), but we don't have to leave the house (twice), and we don't have to leave her at the groomer's all day. If she does a good job, we'll probably keep her.

I have both of my journal quilts finished (CPS January quilt and January 12 x 12) except for the binding. I want to put traditional binding on them, like real quilts. Maybe I'll get that done tomorrow.

Bee Day

My quilting bee met this morning at Martha's house. She had some great non-fattening goodies, and we had a good time stitching and talking. Everyone was there except Rita, Donna, and Doris. I was especially glad that I felt like going. I have missed so many meetings in the past couple of years. I'm hoping things are going to be different this year.

Sally and Cyndi both had just returned from cruises that they took with their families over the holidays. I enjoyed listening to them tell about their experiences. It helped me know what to look forward to in February when we go. I'm excited and nervous about my first ever ocean cruise.

We talked about making things for the Quilt Show boutique. Decided on the coffee coozies from the current issue of Quilting Arts magazine and some kind of sewing bag that I have not seen. I think I'll do the coozies; they look real easy.

We also talked about our friend and former bee member Pat H. She is in hospital recovering from bypass (5) surgery. She isn't taking calls. Don't blame her; if I'd had my chest cut open, I wouldn't want to talk either. She's such a sweet, sweet lady; I just want to do something for her. I guess prayers would be about the best thing I could give her now.

I have my first Elvis 12 x 12 almost finished. Worked on it last night for a long time. Vann liked it even. It is sort of neat, but not really sparkly like Elvis.

Missed Opportunity, Etc.

For those of you doing the 365 Days Photo Challenge, I advise your take seriously the suggestion that you take your camera with you whenever you leave home. This morning, we were on our way out of the neighborhood, on our way to lunch, and I missed a great shot, all because I didn't have my camera. A neighbor, Mike, was standing out on his front porch, taking in the view, dressed gloriously in his bright LSU pajamas (probably a gift from Santa). Beside him, flapping in the breeze, was the LSU banner that decorates his and his wife Kathy's front porch almost all year (right here in the heart of Alabama/Auburn territory too!). Now Mike is a great guy--a terrific wit with a imposing pot belly and an unruly shock of hair, a loyal LSU fan, and an expatiated Cajun from South Louisiana. He struck a commanding pose there in his tiger garb. I'm so sorry I missed the shot. I'll just have to hope for another chance. Today, I had to settle for a shot of my rubber ducky collection (see 365 photo album at left).

Weigh-In went great. I lost 4 pounds last week. There's no motivation for weight loss like taking off a few pounds.

I've started my first Elvis 12 x 12 journal quilt. I'm liking it so far. Guess I better get back to it.

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On 01/07/2007, debbi said ...

I always try to take my camera when I leave the house. I have taken some great unexpected photos.

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On 01/08/2007, Susan said ...

You can miss a good shot even with the camera right in your hand! I missed a dazzling meteorite the other night while I was taking moonshots. My only excuse was that I was . . . dazzled!

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On 01/08/2007, Sarah said ...

Yes - must haves! Camera and journal! Kudos on the weight loss - weigh to GO!

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On 01/08/2007, anita said ...

I don't always take my camera with me when we go off the place, but I DO try to remember to take it when I go outside . . . I'm usually sorry when I don't!
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Screeching Halt Arrives

Woke up this morning to the sound of heavy rain on the roof and heavy pain in my back and hip. So I guess my respite is over--or maybe my respite is just taking a respite. Or maybe it's the rain, or maybe I did too much last week. Anyway, today is definitely going to be a slow-down day. I think I'll skip church, watch Joel O. on tv, and then have a day in the sewing room. Work on my first Elvis 12 x12, which is due on the 12th. I have a plan, but haven't done any actually work on it yet.

Today is weigh-in day at Quilters Lounge. I think Ive lost a couple more pounds; we'll see. Also gotta find my Photo of the Day and snap it. Probably going to be an inside photo today.

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On 01/07/2007, Lori said ...

I am sorry to hear that you are in pain again! I hope it passes with the rain.
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Busy Day

I am so grateful for all the energy that I seem to have all of a sudden. Ever since Dr. T gave me the injections, I've been feeling better and better. (Wonder what the heck was in those shots?)Today was amazing. I did three loads of laundry, spent an hour doing my physical therapy exercises, spent three hours at the beauty shop getting a cut and color, went grocery shopping, came home and unloaded the car and put the groceries away, walked Sophie a mile, and did another load of laundry. And I still have enough energy left over to make dinner (made-from-scratch sloppy joe tonight). Sometimes the adage, "No pain, no gain," is just not true. I keep expecting it all to come to a crashing hault, but so far, so good.

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On 01/06/2007, Debra Spincic said ...

Well, milk it while you can!
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What American accent do you have? Your Result: The South That's a Southern accent you've got there. You may love it, you may hate it, you may swear you don't have it, but whatever the case, we can hear it.
Philadelphia
The Northeast
The Midland
The Inland North
The West
Boston
North Central
What American accent do you have? Quiz Created on GoToQuiz

Well, this is very strange. I answered the questions, and they told me what kind of accent I have. And it's true. I do. I have a very strong southern accent, although I don't hear it myself. Others tell me I do. Guess it figures; I've been in the South all my life.

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On 01/05/2007, cynthia said ...

I just did the quiz with a bit of skepticism and guess what? I rated a North Central accent like from Minnesota. I was born in Minneapolis but haven't lived there since I was 2.

I always like doing these.
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New Photo of Reed & Buffy

 

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On 01/05/2007, Debra Spincic said ...

OH! love those blue eyes!!
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Goals? Hmmmm....

So many people are blogging their goals for the new year this week. I wonder if I should do that. I posted my goal for weight loss at the top of the homepage with a ticker. But there are others--so many others. I hesitate to post them, or even voice them, since I know (from past experience) that most of them won't happen. But, heck, here goes anyway. Maybe posting them will help them happen.

1. LOSE WEIGHT and get healthier. (This one includes better diet and more exercise.)
2. Get my entire house organized.
3. Stop saving little scraps of cloth and bits of paper that I think I might use someday.
4. Stop buying so much fabric and art supplies. Buy things as I need them. (Now see, I know that's not going to happen. But I'll leave it on the off chance that it might help.)
5. Throw away or donate things that I know I'm not ever going to use.
6. Pray daily.
7. Spend more time in my sewing room/studio than in the kitchen.

OK, that's seven--a good number. And actually, these are all the areas that really need changing in my life. I guess everything else is oki. I think the most important ones are #1 and #2 (2 actually encompasses the next three, I think). Sorry, God, I know that #6 is actually the most important and that that practice will help me with all the other goals. So I guess they're all important, even #7, which will keep me away from food and doing stuff I love to do (which is good for the soul as well as the heath). Am I rambling? I feel like I'm rambling.

This morning, I woke to the sounds of a thunderstorm (which I love as long as it's not a dangerous one). It's still stormy here in north central Alabama. Vann has gone with his friend Jerry to Anniston, and I'm going back to the kitchen to finish what I started yesterday. It will be the first room organized in 2007. I've filled two boxes and three large bags with giveaways and throwaways just from the kitchen. Today I wash the curtains and decide whether or not to donate all those cookbooks that I never use (Southern Living Annual Recipes collection). I could put them on Ebay, I bet.

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On 01/05/2007, Debra Spincic said ...

Skip eBay. By the time you pay the listing fee and then deal with the hassle of shipping them (if you get a buyer), you are better off donating them to a local charity. Ask me how I know.
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Diet-Breaking Date

We went to El Chokador (Lori's name for our favorite Mexican restaurant, El Cazador) last night with Bill and Melba to talk about details for our Febuary island cruise. I didn't do too well, dietwise. I had a Chicken Quesadilla Suprema with rice. Also ate too many chips and salsa. But I drank two glasses of water with it. And the only other thing I ate yesterday was a salad; so maybe I didn't screw the pooch too badly. I hope.

We're all excited about the cruise. Since Vann and I have never been on one (and this will be Melba and Bill's 14th), we wanted to pick their brains about every aspect of cruising. According to Bill, the purpose of the cruise is to eat; according to Melba, it's to find a quiet spot with a deck chair and read. Of course, I like both those options, but I'm going to try to avoid food as much as possible.

Melba said I would be able to take my sewing equipment (unlike on the airplane these days). So I'm going to get my "315 Y Seams" wall quilt basted so that I can work on hand quilting it on the ship. Won't that be fun--sitting on deck, listening to the sea and stitching away!

I understand they also have hot tubs, exercise rooms, pools, and plenty of deck for walking. So I vowed to get in some exercise each day. And keep a bottle of water with me at all times. We leave on Feb. 3, which will be here quickly. As soon as we return, I'm leaving for quilt retreat at Camp McDowell. So February will be a busy month for me.

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On 01/04/2007, Debra Spincic said ...

OH, Lucky! and the quilt top is gorgeous!

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On 01/04/2007, Susan C. said ...

Thanks, Debra.

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On 01/04/2007, Sande said ...

Hope you have a great cruise! I've never done one either, but sitting in a deck chair sewing or just enjoying sure sounds relaxing.

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On 01/04/2007, Susan C. said ...

Thanks or the comments, Sande. --Susan
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Remembering Mama

Today is the second anniversary of the day Mama passed away. Since I still find it hard to write about that, or even about her, I'm simply going to post a photo of her and Daddy, taken about 1933. She would have been 19, and he 22.

                                                          Daddy passed away on Jan. 15, 1977.

Here's Photo #3 in my 265 Photos project. For some reason, I can't get the last photo I load to appear in Photo Album window on the home page. (St. Francis is still showing.) So I'm posting it here till I figure out how to make it show in the album window.

This is Weili. He belongs to our son Phillip and his girlfriend Carrie. He was rescued at the animal shelter, and we don't know his exact pedigree. But he's a sweet doggie. We all love him, although Sophie won't admit that she does. She's jealous of him. Last night Weili (this is pronouced Wiley) drug Sophie's toy basket all over the place, stewing toys everywhere, and Sophie got really pissed. She pouted all night.

Phillip, Carrie, and Weili left this morning on their way back to Oklahoma. We won't see them again for a while. We miss them a lot, even Sophie.

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On 01/03/2007, Debra Spincic said ...

Losing moms has to be rough. Sorry to hear you had to go through that experience.
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St Francis With the Pansies

Just posted my second photo in my 365 Photos project. (If you don't know what this is about, look here.) Here's my second pic, shot on 1st Avenue in Leeds at at the home of the lady who runs our local florist shop. She always has such pretty gardens, even in the wintertime. Here's the photo, which also appears in my 365 Photos Album.

I had my first physical therapy session today for the hip/spine thing. I was worried that it would hurt really bad, but it didn't. In fact, it felt sort of good. I went shopping for a friend's baby shower after, so I am pretty tired now, but not hurting at all. I'm encouraged.

Vann is at his therapy session now. Phillip is here packing up, getting ready to go back to Oklahoma tomorrow. I wish he didn't have to go already. Wish he could have spent more time with his dad--and with me and Sophie.

I want to work on my Elvis 12 x 12 this afternoon, but I feel like I should  rest a bit. Not overdo it just because I'm feeling good. Maybe I'll take a reading break on the couch, then after dinner (leftover soul food from yesterday), I can work on the quilt a little.

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On 01/02/2007, Debra Spincic said ...

I'm glad you mentioned the 365 photos. I wanted to do this last year but discovered it ½ way into the year. Now, I can start the year fresh. I'm going to add a spot to my blog too.
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We'll Take a Cup of Kindness (or a plate of peas and greens)

When we woke up this morning, our electricity was off. No coffee, no checking e-mail, no heat, no cooking blackeyed peas. We reported the outaged, showered in the gloomy bathroom, and went to McDonalds for coffee. (McDonalds has great coffee, btw.) After a couple of other stops to pick up stuff we needed, we came back home to a well lit house. The lights were on, and so was the stove. So I began cooking.

We had our traditional New Year's Day feast of blackeyed peas, rice, greens with ham, and cornbread. We eliminated the dessert portion of the feast, due to my dieting, but I don't think we missed it. On second thought, know that I think of a piece of pecan pie or Lane cake, my mouth does begin to water. Quick, think of something else. We invited Andy and Jesse to eat with us, but they decided to stay in today, it being cold and damp and gloomy outside.

I began my 365 Photos project today. The subject of my first photos was Vann's plate of peas and greens just before he dug in. You can see the this first photo in the 365 Photos Album.

Didn't work on quilts today. Too much else going on. I start my therapy tomorrow, but hope to work some in the afternoon if I'm not too tired. A day without quilting is like a day without....well...quilting.

Only 13 more days until "24" is back on Fox Network. Can't wait to see what Jack Bauer and the rest of the CTU team (what few are left) are up to.

Only 32 more days until we start our week-long Caribbean cruise. We're both looking forward to that even more than the return of "24" probably. Hmmmmm. Nahhhhhh.

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On 01/02/2007, Jen Anderson said ...

A cruise, wow, that will be something to look forward to. It could be bad news for a diet, but not necessarily. Plenty of deck to walk around! Jen
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