Blackberry Creek: July 2008

Thursday, July 31, 2008

Gertrude's First Cake

Look what Gertie and I made for tomorrow's bake sale: a chocolate cherry bundt cake. We also made a pot of soup and a pan or cornbread. We're tired now, so I'm going to lie on the couch and watch something mindless on tv while Gert takes a long nap.

But first I have to brag on Gertrude. She's a great little girl, she is. I set her oven for the temperature and time stated in the recipe, and she bakes a perfect dish. That might not sound so amazing to you. But I'm used to baking in an oven whose temperature setting bears no relation to the actual oven temperature one gets. I love you, Gert.

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 07/31/2008, Melinda said ...

Sounds like you and Gertie are bonding well. My oven is tempermental so I understand your excitement. The cake looks wonderful!

On 07/31/2008, Janet said ...

Looks yummy! Sounds like the start of a wonderful friendship with Gertrude.

On 08/01/2008, Joan said ...

Wish i had a girl in my kitchen. My oven's temp never seems to match the settings.

On 08/01/2008, Joan said ...

Yummy cake good gertie

On 08/01/2008, Teresa said ...

Chocolate and Cherries - yummy! Your cake looks delicious!

On 08/01/2008, Hunnybunny said ...

I'm so happy you and Gertie have found each other, she had no meaning before you brought her home. Now you are both happier. haha
Hope you got some reat and are enjoying your day!

On 08/01/2008, Beverly said ...

It sounds as if the two of you are meant to be together. You put yummy things in, and she pushes yummy things out.

Um! I sure wish I could buy that cake. ;-)

On 08/01/2008, Karla said ...

Gertie and you make quite the team! Care to share a slice of that cake? Yum!
Karla

On 08/01/2008, Nicole said ...

Success! You have blessed Gertie with a perfect cake. You can do anything together now!

On 08/02/2008, Brenda said ...

Love you new oven as I know you do and the cake is beautiful. Id love to be there shopping today.

On 08/02/2008, PHyl said ...

I wish I could lick my computer screen and taste that cake! Awesome! You're just too smart (you and Gertie).....
happy baking!

On 08/03/2008, bj said ...

If I could come to the bake sale, I would buy YOUR good-looking cake in a New York minute!!
YUMMY....
bj

On 08/03/2008, mom2fur said ...

Looks like the beginning of a beautiful relationship!

On 08/03/2008, Pesky Patti said ...

Vann is a generous soul as well as very clever! He knew he would be reaping the benefits of your having a new "friend" in the kitchen...How did the bake sale go?

On 08/04/2008, Merrie Miller said ...

Im glad you have Gertrude! That cake looks awesome! And yummy!

On 08/05/2008, Autum said ...

Mmmmmmm.... now I want some cake for breakfast. Do you have any left over?
-----

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Meet Gertrude

Introducing the newest resident of The Yellow House: Gertrude, my new electric range with flat stove top. I love her. I cooked eggs for Vann this morning as soon as she was installed, and they came out perfect. I can't wait to bake something. Thanks again, my dear husband. This is going to make cooking a lot more fun.

But today, I'm doing a major kitchen cleaning and reorganizing. After all, Gertrude deserves a room that looks as nice as she does

In other Yellow House news, some of you have expressed concern that YH's new siding will be some other color besides yellow. Rest easy. She'll still be yellow, but with a few embellishments: taupe-colored shake around the front door and little white fish scales on the top portions of the dormers. Everything else is a nice buttery yellow. The regussification of The Yellow House's exterior begins next week.

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 07/30/2008, witoka said ...

Congratulations on the new stove! I found something that really cleans the glass stove top, I have tried several products. Plain Windex, I heard Martha Stewart mention it, so I tried it and it is good.

I also have 2 more book titles you might like. The Memory of Running by Ron Mclarty, it is very entertaining. I laughed out loud. And the other book is The Book of Joby by Mark Ferrari.

On 07/30/2008, Molly said ...

Gertie looks very similar to my stove, Bessie!!! Bess has been around since before I moved in though, probably 9-10 years or so. I just love her, except she doesn't have a window to her soul like Gert does. Wish she did because I love to watch things bake.

You will LOVE her, I promise!!

On 07/30/2008, Jeanne said ...

Wow, a new flat top stove. You are going to love cleaning that beautiful stove. Gertrude does deserve a place of honor in a spanking clean kitchen. Wish I had a new stove, I need incentive to clean my kitchen. Enjoy to the fullest. That means your family will enjoy all your cooking, and they will be happy too.

Jeanne

On 07/30/2008, Teresa said ...

I think we have the same stove!! I just absolutely love mine and find cleaning it very easy. I like the big glass front and nice deep oven. You're gonna love it!

On 07/30/2008, Gayle said ...

Oh, she's so pretty!

On 07/30/2008, red tin heart said ...

Congrats on the new stove. I want my new house to be yellow.
I love that color..
Sending you warm thoughts, Nita

On 07/30/2008, PHyl said ...

Gertrude is just beautiful!! Be sure to show us what wonderful things you bake this weekend!

On 07/31/2008, Merrie Miller said ...

Thank you for the recipe for the hummingbird cake. I bought the ingredients today and will bake it soon. I'm glad you have a new stove; it is amazing how much you want to bake/cook when you have the right tools. Merrie

On 07/31/2008, Beverly said ...

Welcome to your new home, Gertrude. I just know you are going to love Susan. We all love Susan.

I'm so relieved about The Yellow House. ;-)

On 07/31/2008, Nicole said ...

Nice! We replaced our oven a year or so ago, and it was the happiest day of my life. My old one wouldn't hold an even temperature, so it was impossible to bake anything successfully. What a difference a good oven makes!

On 07/31/2008, Liz said ...

Many congrats... the new stove is lovely. I'm happy about The Yellow House remaining just that... b/c it's perfect!

On 07/31/2008, Donna said ...

Susan,

I love Gertrude! She is beautiful! I know you are so proud of her!

I will be anxious to see what the two of you together will whip up!

Donna

On 07/31/2008, Merrie Miller said ...

Hi again; thanks for leaving the comment on my blog; Murphy and Niles,Zoey and Bitsy all send you their big ole bully love! Murphy says thank you for understanding how bad it is when your lil sister just whomps on you! He said that he loves his hugs from his southern friends and that you are on his list of friends that he loves! Say hello to Ms Sophie from us and give her a special bone too. (PS: Murphy just reminded me to tell you that he loves your new stove too, and that if we lived nearby, why he'd just come on over and you could christen Gertrude by fixin' up some goodies for him! LOL)

On 07/31/2008, Penny @ Lavender Hill Studio said ...

I have a flat top stove and love it...but my dream stove is a gas stove....can't get one here, but maybe someday...

I didn't know TYH was getting a face lift! How wonderful. I can't wait to see the final results.
Hugs,
Penny

On 08/02/2008, Rose Campion said ...

I've got a gas stove and I don't hate it, but I sure don't love it either. One thing about a flat top like that is that they are way easier to keep clean than a gas stove. I'd replace my stove with the flat top, but at our condo, gas comes paid with the assessment whereas we pay the electric out of pocket.

Also, the temperature of my oven is off so much that I try and bake with my toaster oven whenever possible. But generally, it does what its supposed to, so I can't justify replacing it. Your new stove makes me dream of a new one though.

On 08/03/2008, Trudi said ...

It's very nice and clever. My name is Gertrud, too.
-----

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Hello!

This is the last major piece that I cross-stitched. It was 1993, and I stitched it while recuperating from spine surgery. I've found since that it's just too much trouble to try to see those little holes in the linen or even aida. Not worth the hassle. I'd rather be quilting.

Sophie had her annual physical yesterday and was declared fit as a fiddle. She has been gnawing her feet and legs a lot lately, so Dr. Rachel gave her a prescription for allergy. But considering that she suffered a major illness 15 months ago that nearly took her from us, we're happy as clams with her report. Way to go, Monkey Dog!

Vann and I went to Lowe's today to pick out the new light fixtures to go on our front porch when The Yellow House gets her new siding. There were so many choices, but we found some that we both agreed would look great.

When we were about to leave, Vann took a side trip over to the appliances, and I followed. He told me to pick me out a stove, which I did. I have the best husband in the whole world. I know I do. I have been unhappy with my stove for, like, ever. The oven is unpredictable, and the eyes are wobbly. Vann has told me time and again to go and get me another one, but I just haven't. So I guess he thought he'd just have to force the issue. I picked out a beautiful white electric range with a flat cooking surface and a large self-cleaning oven. It will be delivered tomorrow, just in time to do my bake-sale baking in it. Thank you, sweet husband. I'll cook you something extra special too.

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 07/29/2008, Teresa said ...

Congrats on the new stove!!! Sounds like the one I recently purchased and I just love the smooth top. I hope you have many enjoyable cooking hours with your new stove and I just know hubby will be pleased with the results of his thoughtfullness.

On 07/29/2008, Molly said ...

Way to go Vann!!! Guess you can make me that veggie soup now cantcha? Although, I've felt MUCH better today, thank you.

Have fun cooking on your new stove, you will be wondering why it took you so long to pick one out.

On 07/30/2008, Rian said ...

Yay for Sophie. Why do YOU think she is gnawing her feets? Hugs to Vann. What a nice mann.

On 07/30/2008, Beverly said ...

New siding? Will The Yellow House still be yellow? Please say yes - because I am in love with your yellow house.

I'm sure you will love your new stove. I got a new one a few years ago, and I love it, too.

On 07/30/2008, Lallee said ...

You will love having a flat top stove. I found that only flat bottomed pans heated properly on mine, but my kitchen-aides work beatifully.

Yeah for a good report at the vet! Our fur babies are so important.
-----

Monday, July 28, 2008

Thank You, David Wroblewski

I'm sure it comes as no surprise to most of you that I love books and reading. Always have. I credit this fact to my mama, my big sister, and Miss Winnie Carlisle (who rode a bicycle and never drove a car and ran our bookmobile when I was a child).

There's no telling how many books I've read in my life--hundreds for sure, probably thousands, maybe more. But among those books, only a handful stands out in such a way that I remember the plot, the characters, the setting, everything about them for the rest of my life. Books like Lonesome Dove, To Kill a Mockingbird, Watership Down, Gone With the Wind, David Copperfield, The Shining, and a few more. Well now I have another book to add to the list of books that I'll never forget: The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski.

When I sat down here this morning, my intent was to write a review of this book. In preparation, I read several reviews written by readers and writers. After reading and thinking and starting and stopping, I find I can do no better than that prolific storyteller from Maine, Stephen King. Here's what he says about the book:

"I flat-out loved The Story of Edgar Sawtelle. Dog-lovers in particular will be riveted by this story, because the canine world has never been explored with such imagination or emotional resonance. Yet in the end, this isn't a novel about dogs or heartland America — although it is a deeply American work of literature. It's a novel about the human heart, and the mysteries that live there, understood but impossible to articulate. Yet in the person of Edgar Sawtelle, a mute boy who takes three of his dogs on a brave and dangerous odyssey, Wroblewski does articulate them, and splendidly. I closed the book with that regret readers feel only after experiencing the best stories: It's over, you think, and I won't read another one this good for a long, long time.
      In truth, there has never been a book quite like The Story of Edgar Sawtelle. I thought of Hamlet when I was reading it (of course... and in this version, Ophelia turns out to be a dog named Almondine), and Watership Down, and The Night of the Hunter, and The Life of Pi — but halfway through, I put all comparisons aside and let it just be itself.
      I'm pretty sure this book is going to be a bestseller, but unlike some, it deserves to be. It's also going to be the subject of a great many reading groups, and when the members take up Edgar, I think they will be apt to stick to the book and forget the neighborhood gossip.
      Wonderful, mysterious, long and satisfying: readers who pick up this novel are going to enter a richer world. I envy them the trip. I don't reread many books, because life is too short. I will be rereading this one."

Don't be daunted by the size of the book (562 pages). You'll find yourself hanging on every word, rereading sentences, paragraphs, whole pages just to make the experience last longer.

Warning: I cried for the entire last 100 pages, making reading a bit difficult. That's all I'm going to say about that.

I have to thank Nicole of Sister's Choice Quilts for telling me about this book. Thanks you, thank you, Nicole. Now I'm passing on the word to the rest of you. Do yourself a favor: read Edgar's story. You'll remember this brave boy and his remarkable dogs for the rest of your life.

Now go here to read an excerpt.

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 07/28/2008, Joanne said ...

Can't wait to read this book. I read the excerpt, and I think I know what Almondine was looking for.

On 07/28/2008, mom2fur said ...

Susan, that's SO going on my to-read list! I love dog stories, and generally find Stephen King to be 'right on' in his reviews.
I also loved "To Kill a Mockingbird," "Watership Down" and "The Shining." It's hard to explain to people how good a book Watership is when all they think is, 'it's about rabbits.'
BTW, did you ever read "The Plague Dogs," by the same author who wrote Watership Down? (I can't think of his name off hand, but Richard Adams comes to mind.)

On 07/28/2008, Beverly said ...

Okay Susan, you have snared me. I'll have to get my hands on this book.

On 07/28/2008, Rian said ...

Oh, goody. I loved hearing about this book. I'll be in the airport in a few days and will look for it. I'll enjoy my "summer vacation" much more now. Thank you.

On 07/29/2008, Liz said ...

Thanks for the book recommendation! It sounds wonderful.

On 07/29/2008, patti said ...

You know how much I love animals so I guess Iwill just have to go get this book.

You ask if I did my banner. I put it there but I did not create it. Thanks for the compliment.

I love all of your goodies, aprons, hummingbird cakes, great books, and of course your altered playing cards. Wow...you have been a busy girl!

Glad the full moon didn't get you. Happy to hear you are feeling good.

Have a blessed day
Hugs
Patti

On 07/29/2008, Witoka said ...

I am always looking for a good book. I will have to get Edgar Sawtelle. I loved "Watership Down", it is a book I think of at different times as life goes on.

On 07/29/2008, Jeanne said ...

Susan, I love to read too. I was reading when I was just a small child because I always saw my mother reading and I wanted to do what she did. In fact, she taught me to read before I went to school. I am very interested in your book, Edgar Sawtelle. I love animals and you have really sparked my imagination to say the least.

I want to thank you for visiting my posts. I have been so busy with grandkid's week and a wedding, that I haven't been able to visit much at all.

I am back on track and trying to catch up with all my blogging friends.

Take care, Jeanne

On 07/29/2008, Gayle said ...

I will have to read this book as we seem to have the same taste in books! Thank you for the suggestion.

On 07/29/2008, Nicole said ...

I am so glad you loved this book Susan. I kind of knew you would! It is the sort of book that you want to start over again as soon as you finish it. It has really stayed with me.

On 07/30/2008, PHyl said ...

Many thanks for once again telling me about this new book to read!I'm impatiently waiting for the local library to call me...I'm next on the waiting list!If they don't hurry, I'm gonna order the damn thing from Amazon!
Good/great books are hard to come by.
Thank you for sharing with us other serious readers!

On 07/31/2008, bob said ...

I've just finished it. It's simply lovely and I can't recommend it enough. Read no reviews ... just dive in and enjoy Edgar's world.

On 07/31/2008, bob said ...

I've just finished it. It's simply lovely and I can't recommend it enough. Read no reviews ... just dive in and enjoy Edgar's world.

On 07/31/2008, bob said ...

I've just finished it. It's simply lovely and I can't recommend it enough. Read no reviews ... just dive in and enjoy Edgar's world.

On 08/03/2008, Rachel Murphree said ...

Susan -- Over the summer I heard a really good interview with this author, and then forgot about the book until your post reminded me. I'll search this one out!

Here's the interview from the Tattered Cover Bookstore in Denver, CO. They regularly post author readings, etc. Good stuff!
http://authorsontourlive.com/?p=143

On 08/06/2008, Kai said ...

Well, THAT does it! I think I told you I have an odd way of choosing which book to pull from my shelves at any given time. But your personal review has convinced me to read THIS one NEXT! Thanks!
-----

Sunday, July 27, 2008

The Postman Never Has To Ring Twice

...especially when I'm expecting goodies. But great jumping jackrabbits! I was never expecting all the wonderful treasures that yesterday's mail brought.

The photo at left shows some of the fun things that Janet sent me as my partner in Sharon's Cupcake Swap: a terrific cupcake bank to hold my mad money, a cute little mini-purse, beautiful paper napkins, and a handmade fabric flower on a golf tee stem. The lovely handmade gift bag in the back of the photo held everything.

And, as if that weren't enough, Janet also sent me the gorgeous apron, made by Janet herownself, in the photo below.

Click on photos to enlarge.

I haven't finished making some of my goodies for Janet yet. She sent hers early because she's expecting a grandbaby any minute. And we all know where her mind will be when that little sweetie arrives.

Thank you so much, Janet. I've never enjoyed a swap more. You're a terrific partner. I'll have your stuff out to you before the August 18 deadline.

BUT WAIT! That's not all! My bag of Cloth Paper Studio Favorite Things Swap pink goodies from Maria also arrived in yesterday's mail. Lookee what all was in it. (This is my second pink stuff swap this month; the other was SwapBot. Oh, how I do love pink stuff!)

Thanks, Maria. Girl, you really do know how to stuff a goody bag. And what a beautiful bag to stuff! There isn't one thing in the entire group that I don't just love. The collage is super, as is the fabric made from yarn and fibers. And the laces and trims and buttons and beads and those sweet paper napkins and the bingo card, and EVERYTHING. You're a great swap partner, Maria. Hope to swap with you again soon.

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 07/27/2008, Janet said ...

So happy you like all the goodies, Susan! And thank you for all the nice comments! This was lots of fun. Sharon came up with a great idea. (Oh, the little flower is actually a pincushion to slide down in a spool of thread. I found it at the gift shop in the Quilt Museum in Paducah. I can't take credit for making it!)
Have a good week!

On 07/27/2008, Lynne in Hawaii said ...

Did I see you doing your happy dance in that apron??! Hhhhuuummmmmmm? Looks like simply wonderful gifties!

On 07/27/2008, sharon said ...

Oh my goodness. You hit the jackpot. What nice things you got from Janet. I love it all. Look at her even making the gift bag. CUTE CUTE CUTE. You look mighty cute in your new apron too. I'm glad you girls enjoyed the swap.

On 07/28/2008, Susana de Argentina said ...

Susan, beautiful the interchange gifts! I enchant the apron to cook, give desire me to cook! je! je! kisses from Argentina!

On 07/28/2008, Karla said ...

Oh what fabulous goodies! Love it all!
Karla

On 07/28/2008, Gayle said ...

Great Jumping Jackrabbits is right! Yes, those are some marvelous goodies. I thoroughly enjoyed yesterday's post as well. Have a great day.

On 07/28/2008, Brenda said ...

Sweet and condensed milk is very rich and sweet. Thick and used in many desserts. It will be on th aisle with the other can milk. Good luck you will love it.

On 07/28/2008, Beverly said ...

Whoa, you must be in utter bliss. Everything is so pretty. I wouldn't know what to play with first.

On 07/29/2008, kayellen said ...

Wow you are a lucky lady:) Great treasures you
received:)

thankyou for all your sweet comments on flickr...We lost a friend this last week..you flickr gals sure
have been a blessing to me:)

kayellen

On 07/29/2008, Hunnybunny said ...

What fabulous things you received!! I am happy dancing for you, seeing stuff others made around the house always makes me smile. I hope you are dancing around grinning from ear to ear like a fool.

On 08/06/2008, Kai said ...

Ooooooh! SUSAN GOT SOME GREAT GOODIES! Love, love, love all the pink pretties - & the cupcake swap? Wish I'd known about that one! FUN! Your swap partner was a DOLL! I'm GLAD you received so many nice things!
-----

Saturday, July 26, 2008

Working Wet

We had another successful bake sale yesterday. We're more than halfway to our goal of $4,800 to renovate the fellowship hall kitchen.

This time I made a Hummingbird Cake (photo at right) and a pan of Cinnamon Biscuits (photo below, right).

An old school chum whom I hadn't seen for decades came by and bought a cake. I didn't recognize her, but she knew me. She said she could tell it was me by my mouth (that figures).

We were doused by a rainstorm about halfway through the sale; and even though our sale was under a tent, somehow I still got soaking wet, and now my sinuses and fibro are giving me grief. I guess working two hours in wet clothes with wet hair is not good for a person.

Just before the deluge, I found this (see photo below, left). I absolutely love homemade vegetable soup; don't you? The people in the tent across from us were selling this, among other things. I also got some scrumptious goat cheese with pineapple and pecans from them. So good on Ritz crackers.

Treasures arrived in the mail this morning, but I haven't had time to photograph them. So I'll tell you all about that later.

Hope all my blogging buddies are having a good weekend.
I just love y'all!

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 07/26/2008, Violette said ...

Mmm, Mmm, those cinnamon buns look good. You are making me hungry.

On 07/26/2008, Hunnybunny said ...

That soup looks delicious, but that Hummingbird Cake. mmmm
I hope you feel better soon, allow your self some rest so you can get back to full speed.

On 07/26/2008, mom2fur said ...

Oh, wow, those cinnamon rolls wouldn't have lasted 2 seconds with me around!
I have a wonderful vegetable soup recipe. My son James constantly bugs me to make it. Guess it's time to start looking for soup bones!

On 07/26/2008, Kai said ...

What, please, makes it a Hummingbird Cake? I know it LOOKS delicious! But it is the plate of cinnamon buns which make me want to put on a pot of coffee - okay, ANOTHER pot of coffee - and dive in! The soup and flavored goat cheese? Oh, YUM! (And look for the promised book. I mailed it today.)

On 07/26/2008, Teresa said ...

Your baked goods looks scrumptious, but I am so sorry that you are now hurting. Maybe some of that delicious looking soup will help.

Take care - and y'all are doing a great job!

On 07/26/2008, Lynne in Hawaii said ...

Love all the baked goods and soup pics. I bet your kitchen smells absolutely heavenly! I know my sinuses act up when a storm comes through...something to do with the drop in barometic pressure causes pressure in my head. Hope you are feeling better quickly.

On 07/27/2008, Beverly said ...

Susan, you constantly amaze me. First, I saw the picture of your Hummingbird Cake, and I was going to tell you that my mother loves Hummingbird Cake.

Next, I saw your Cinnamon Biscuits - and now I have to tell you that my mother loves Cinnamon Rolls. Please share how you make the biscuits. I like to have treats for my mother. She turned eighty years old this week.

I hope you feel much better soon. Maybe some of that soup will fix you right up.

On 07/27/2008, Amy said ...

Just out of curiosity... How much did your HummingBird cake sell for? My MIL was part of a bake sale & Her Betty Crocker Cake sold for $100! (But then again everything was priced at $100 or more - they made $30,000.)

On 07/27/2008, Merrie Miller said ...

Hi there; that hummingbird cake and the biscuits made me hungry; will you share your recipes? I have never had a hummingbird cake; and the cinnamon biscuits look really fantastic too!

On 07/28/2008, Brenda said ...

Love your pretties. That is such a special package.

On 07/28/2008, Witoka said ...

Yum!!! The cake is packaged so pretty.

On 07/29/2008, Lallee said ...

Hummingbird cake is my most favorite! I would have bought it up in a nano second. Yours looks absolutely delish!
-----

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Tempus Fugit (at the speed of light!)

You've heard it before: Where does the time go? For me, that's not rhetorical--I really want to know where it went so I can go get it.

There's never enough of the stuff. When I've done the laundry, cooked a few meals, blogged a bit, and read a few chapters in whatever book is on my nightstand, I find a week's worth of time has been eaten up and I haven't accomplished anything like what I have planned to accomplish that week.

And, as you know, the older one gets, the faster tempus fugits. Why is that? Why should time go faster now than when I was a child? It does though. Back in the 50s and 60s, a day was about 157 hours, a week was days and days, summer wasn't endless but it almost was, and the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas was forever.

Then came the 70s and 80s, and every unit of time seemed to split in half. A day was now half a day, weekends lasted a couple of hours, and there wasn't enough time between Thanksgiving and Christmas to address Christmas cards.

By the time the 90s rolled around, I saw little point of getting out of bed in the morning. All that showering and blow-drying and making up--the day would be over in two shakes of a lambs tail, and I'd just have to do it all over again.

Now we've turned a new century (can that have been almost nine years ago already?), and I swear I can see the hour hand spinning on the clock. The weeks all run together in a smudge with little definition among the days. Months go by like days used to. And the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is now 45 minutes. (Speaking of which, it's July, right?, not even August yet. I walked into Hobby Lobby yesterday and found the autumn stuff marked 50% off and the Christmas stuff out. I wanted to scream, "Can you just wait a minute! Please! I haven't even got all my Christmas stuff put away from last year." But I digress. That's why I used parentheses.)

Time is like the weather: everybody talks about it, but nobody does anything about it. Don't you think the president or Congress would appoint a committee to study time and find a solution to its speedy romp through our lives? What's going to happen when it runs out entirely? I can see a day, and it won't be long at this rate, when you'll be getting up before you go to bed. There will be no need to get the kids ready for school, because it'll be out already. You won't be able to get to work before it's quitting time, therefore you'll never get a paycheck, therefore you can't pay the bills, which will be past due before you receive them anyway. You see? It's a serious problem. Who do I write to about this?

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 07/24/2008, Pesky Patti said ...

Hey Susan! Time goes so fast for me, too. When I drive somewhere it's in reverse....

On 07/24/2008, Cathi said ...

This is a fabulous post! I couldn't have said it better! I just cannot understand where time goes -- whole weeks go by and I feel like I must have somehow or another missed half of it!

On 07/24/2008, Janet said ...

You have said what so many of us at this stage of our lives have been thinking forever! And in such an eloquent and entertaining way. You're a wonderful author - keep up the good work!

On 07/24/2008, Patti said ...

I'd love to find the person with the answer - I'd elect him or her president in a minute! (Except that the election would already be over!)

I can't believe I ever had time to work. That seems like a different life - and a lifetime ago - this retirement life is going faster than any other life I've ever led!

On 07/24/2008, Beverly said ...

Susan, you hit the nail on the head. I'm just glad it was still there to hit.

If you're starting a petition, I will sign it.

And, why is it that the work day hours go so much more slowly than the time off hours?

On 07/24/2008, Lynne in Hawaii said ...

So thought provoking! So true! Is someone working on the time warp solution? Help! We need help! What ever happen to all the 'free' time I hear so much about? By the time you figure out it is free...its gone!
Thanks for the smile!

On 07/25/2008, Debbie said ...

“Time is free, but it's priceless. You can't
own it, but you can use it. You can't keep
it, but you can spend it. Once you've lost it
you can never get it back.”

I don't remember where this quote came from, but it fits the bill!

I never have enough!

On 07/25/2008, Hunnybunny said ...

This post is fabulous! Might I suggest part of the problem you have with time is how productive you are. Seriously, you accomplish so much I can't imagine having time to bathe and cook, never mind clean if I got as much done as you! LOL
Looking forward to seeing the pink and green room, I love those colors. Like cupcakes, mmmm

On 07/25/2008, PHyl said ...

You've stated what we all know as "seniors", especially! I don't remember exactly WHEN my time starting slipping away faster, but it's connected somehow to my AGE, of all things! (I'm so tired of hearing that, aren't you?!!!)

On 07/25/2008, Joan said ...

This is all so true. as a child of the 50's following i could follow what you wrote and only agree. I seem to have less time now and the clock just races everyday.

On 07/25/2008, Jean B said ...

Susan, It takes us longer to do anything and
we have to sit down and rest so much of our
time. Enjoy the many many things you do 'cause
it DON'T get any better.

On 07/26/2008, Kai said ...

I know you can't SEE me, Susan, but I am giving you a standing ovation! You are SO right about the breakdown of time. Of course, being an Indian, I am SUPPOSED to be laid back about it - you know - be on 'Indian Time' - & maybe on the rez, I WOULD be. But I live here in a clock-driven world & it speeds & spins. Wasn't I just 18 last year? Oh wait, that was FORTY last years ago. Sigh ...
-----

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

The Goldenist Girl of All

Watch Out God! Here comes Sophia!

Goodbye, Estelle, you wonderful golden girl, you. Thank you for so many, many laughs and happy times. You're a class act, lady. No one will ever be able to fill those little, bitty shoes. We'll miss you.

Estelle Getty
July 25, 1923 - July 22, 2008

Words of wisdom from Sophia Patrillo:

"Picture it: Sicily."

"I hate Jell-O. If God wanted peaches suspended in midair, he would have filled them with helium."

"Why do blessings wear disguises? If I were a blessing, I'd run around naked."

"My God, I've left brain cells all over the Eastern Seaboard."

"If I met a man who was over seventy but still looked half-way decent, I'd be on my back faster than you could say, 'I've fallen and I can't get up!' "

"Some people like girls instead of boys... others like dogs instead of cats. Personally, I'd rather live with a lesbian than a cat... unless a lesbian sheds, that I don't know."

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 07/22/2008, Molly said ...

I loved her too, what a hoot! Thanks for your sweet post!

On 07/23/2008, Teresa said ...

Thank you for your post and honor to this wonderful actress. Golden Girls has got to be one of the best programs ever and I still love to watch the reruns.

On 07/23/2008, Beverly said ...

She was a gift to all of us. A gift of smiles and laughter.

On 07/23/2008, Karla said ...

She was definitely the best.
Karla

On 07/23/2008, Liz said ...

Oh my goodness. How I loved this woman. :)

On 07/23/2008, sharon said ...

She was awesome wasnt she?? I loved the Golden Girls. And she will be truly missed.

On 07/24/2008, pam said ...

I agree - the world will miss her - we need more people like her! I loved that show - still love the re-runs!

On 07/24/2008, Gayle said ...

What a wonderful tribute. I laughed and cried at the same time.
-----

Monday, July 21, 2008

Last Guild Meeting of Year

Today was the last meeting of the 2007-08 year for Birmingham Quilters Guild. We'll begin our new year in September. We don't meet in August.

At left is a photo of our donation quilt for next year. It will be given away at our next quilt show, QuiltFest 2009, which will be held next June.

Below is a detail of the center block, all machine quilted in blue thread.

Following are a few more photos of quilts from today's Show-and-Tell.

Click on any photo for a larger view.

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 07/21/2008, Rian said ...

Ooooh, pretty-pretty. I really like that snowflake one.

On 07/21/2008, mom2fur said ...

Oh, my gosh, those are so beautiful!

On 07/22/2008, Lynne in Hawaii said ...

Such wonderful quilts! Lots of talent in your guild!

On 07/22/2008, angelines said ...

Fantastic quilts,the snowflake is so real. Regards from Spain

On 07/22/2008, Beverly said ...

These are just magnificent. Wow! Thanks for sharing them with us.
-----

Sunday, July 20, 2008

Goody Tags

I made these tags for the baked goods I made for this week's bake sale. I put the name of the item and the price on the back of the tags. Just a little something special I like to do. One lady who bought a loaf of my bread wanted to give the tag back. "You probably want to keep this," she said. But I assured her that the tag went with the banana bread.

I've been baking cookies today (cheater cookies, made with a mix). We're having an ice cream social at church this afternoon. Looking forward to homemade ice cream and home baked cookies--and gaining five or six pounds.

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 07/20/2008, Molly said ...

Yum! I could deal with some homemade ice cream myself! Even store bought at this point.LOL

Sounds like you had a nice weekend. We did but I'm beat.

On 07/20/2008, kayellen said ...

What lovely tags and yummy bread!
Have fun at your church social:)

kayellen

On 07/20/2008, Debbie said ...

Love the tags, just a little lagniappe with the bread! Your such a busy woman, I don't know where you find the time! Have a great week.

On 07/20/2008, Debbie said ...

Love the tags, just a little lagniappe with the bread! Your such a busy woman, I don't know where you find the time! Have a great week.

On 07/21/2008, Patti Koosed said ...

Very pretty and inviting tags .
Will make those goodies even gooder!!!
giggle giggle. :)
Hugs
Patti

On 07/21/2008, Rian said ...

What lovely tags! How creative! I would have probably just used a sticky note.

On 07/21/2008, Toni said ...

Your tags are so pretty and the banana bread looks yummy too!
-----

Saturday, July 19, 2008

Who Is My Neighbor?

Yesterday afternoon, my book club, The Bookmarkers, discussed T.C. Boyle's The Tortilla Curtain. I was affected pretty strongly by this book. For me, the "illegal alien" situation has been a lot like the capital punishment issue--many sided, confusing; I just don't want to think about it because I don't know the answer. Boyle's book forced me to see the side of our south-of-the-border neighbors, those who risk everything to cross that border to try to make a better life for themselves and their families in the land of the free.

Andrea wrote a thought-provoking, heart-breaking post on her blog a couple a days ago that deals with the same subject, sort of. Whether you live in California or Texas or North Carolina or Alabama, you're eventually going to have to think about this issue. Those of us who are Christians shouldn't have a problem deciding which side of the fence we're on-but somehow we do. I think we're just a little too afraid that somebody is going to dip into our hard-earned tax dollars, a legitimate concern for sure. But I think I have at least decided that I'd rather my tax dollars go to feed a hungry family from across the Mexican border than to pay for bombs to kill other families on the other side of the world.

Oooops! I've done gone and drifted over that line I try not to cross on this blog. I've gone into the land of political rant, I guess, and I've always tried to not subject my readers to my own personal political beliefs and concerns. Like Andrea said, I have no agenda and no answers. I wish I did. It just makes me feel so sad to know that there are people on God's good earth today who aren't afforded even the basic necessities: food, water, shelter. When here I am with an air-conditioned home, water at the touch of a knob, plentiful food, blessings beyond belief. It just makes me sad. And even that sadness is a luxury.

“We must all hear the universal call to like your neighbor as you like to be liked yourself.”--George W. Bush, 43rd U.S. President

Arlo Guthrie & Emmylou Harris - Deportee
Uploaded by vdeM

Bob Dylan And Joan Baez - Deportee 1976 via Noolmusic.com

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 07/19/2008, Ramey Channell said ...

“We must all hear the universal call to like your neighbor as you like to be liked yourself.”--George W. Bush, 43rd U.S. President

This leads me to wonder if, in the opinion of George W. Bush, or in the opinion of Americans in general, the word "neighbor" would include people in prisons. Are prisoners, guilty ones and innocent ones, our neighbors?

Ramey Channell

On 07/19/2008, Joanne said ...

Jesus said, "When I was in prison, you visited me." I wonder if W visits Guantanamo.

Anyway, isn't Arlo cute?! Goes to prove what I always say, that ugly men improve with age--in looks, anyway.

On 07/19/2008, Beverly said ...

Susan, I share your concern and pain. We are so incredibly blessed, yet you don't have to look far to find those who are suffering.

My sister-in-law works for the Southern Baptist Convention, and she told me they had recently found out about two children locally whose mother had left them months ago. The older girl was in high school, and left after school everyday to go to work. She had been trying to make enough for them to continue to live in the apartment where they had been living. But, everything caught up with her, and she and her little sister were being put out. She just wanted to keep the two of them together until she could finish high school. They wore rags, had almost nothing to eat, and were now going to be on the street. They each ate food out of the trash cans at school - food other people were throwing away. It all just breaks my heart. I have so much.

On 07/21/2008, Gayle said ...

Susan, You have a kind soul. I appreciate your contemplative post.
-----

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Seams Great!

WOW! I wish I had known about Vitamin B Complex for the last five years. Seriously, I know it's too soon to credit the vitamins, but I do feel a lot better today. In fact, I've got a bunch done. Several loads of laundry and some work in the sewing room. I'm working on the Pinwheel Quilt. Here's the first block.

Triangles aren't my favorite shape to work with. I hate the bias edges, and it's often hard to get the points to come together correctly. Nicole told me that Lisa told her if you press the seams open, it's easier to match the points. So I'm pressing all the straight-of-grain seams open. See.

I was hesitant to press the bias seams open. I was afraid that would cause them to stretch. (Bias stretches so easily.) But as you can see, my points come together in the center of the block.

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 07/16/2008, Cathi said ...

I hope that's a sign of what's to come with the steady use of the B Complex. I think of it as my miracle vitamin! Hope it continues to make for better and better days.

On 07/16/2008, Jean Brannon said ...

Sign me up for the vitamin B's as I am like you,
I'll try anything.See you Monday.

On 07/16/2008, Debbie said ...

Love pinwheels, but hate triangles. I'll have to try this. I think I'll get some B complex next time I'm out...I'll try anything once!

On 07/16/2008, Teresa said ...

So glad that you are feeling better and good job on the pinwheels. I just love pinwheel blocks!

On 07/16/2008, Lynne in Hawaii said ...

Thanks for the open seam tip. Looks like it worked very well. Glad you are feeling a little better. I sure dislike seeing a good woman down with the pain.

On 07/17/2008, Joan said ...

Glad you are feeling better Susan

On 07/17/2008, Hunnybunny said ...

So glad to read you're feeling better! That block is so cute, and the back looks so neat. It always impresses me when I see that, I don't do anything neatly. : )

On 07/17/2008, Karla said ...

Happy to hear you are feeling better.
Karla

On 07/17/2008, red tin heart said ...

Susan, this quilt is turning out lovely.. Thank you for the kind comment you left me..
Sending you love, Nita

On 07/17/2008, Rian in California said ...

Glad to hear the Vitamins are doing you some good. The block looks great!

On 07/17/2008, Nicole said ...

I can't take the credit for the open seam tip. It is Lisa who told me that it works for her. Her points come together perfectly every time.
Glad you are feeling better. I once got a Vitamin B injection and could not believe how energetic I felt in just hours! I should take more vitamins.

On 07/17/2008, Liz said ...

Good news on the vitimins! Thanks so much for your advice on my pink bathroom,I really appreciate it!

On 07/17/2008, Gayle said ...

I've added them to my grocery list! Thanks for passing that on.

On 07/17/2008, Beverly said ...

I'm so, so glad you feel better.

There you are being so smart, and I'm wondering if I am capable of making a yo-yo. ;-0

On 07/17/2008, Patti said ...

I took a vitamin B complex pill for years before I retired to help me deal with the stress on the job. I always felt it made me feel better, more alert, and gave me a bit more energy. Even if it's all in our minds, who cares as long as it works.

On 07/17/2008, Rose Campion said ...

I'm glad you're feeling better.

And I'm feeling better knowing that I'm not the only one in the world that has a hard time getting my triangle points to come together. I'm glad it's not just me.

About the quilt square. So pretty. And cute.

And Cupcakes! What could be better than a quilt with cupcakes on it?

On 07/17/2008, Rose Campion said ...

On 07/19/2008, Georgina said ...

That cupcake fabric is beautiful, and good tip from Lisa, I'll give it a try because I don't like the seems open....but if it works I can allways change my mind;-)

On 07/19/2008, Patti Koosed said ...

This looks really good. Good enough to eat those cupcakes!

Thanks for the compliments on my collage sale. That was a shock to me. I was so excited.
Thanks again my friend. Hope the vitimin B helps and that the full moon doesn't affect you this time or anytime!
Hugs
Patti

On 07/23/2008, Violette said ...

B6 is the main B vitamin that helps ward off pain. At one time I was taking it but it didn't help me much. I know that it has helped alot of folks, though.
-----

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

It Only Hurts When I Laugh (tee hee)

Not a good week, so far. Vann reminded me that the full moon is right around the corner, then he told me to ignore it.

Vann also got me a big ol' bottle of B complex vitamins. Someone who has done two tours in Afghanistan told him that's what the military gives people to ward off aches and pains. It's sure worth a try. Anybody know anything about B vitamins for fibromyalgia or chronic pain and fatigue?

BTW, Vann says many, many thanks for all your messages of concern about his injury. His wrist is much better now. The swelling is almost gone, and the pain is much better. In fact, he's getting that "I think it's time to take Shadow out for a spin" look in his eyes.

I haven't done any quilting, sewing, crocheting, or anything since I finished Falicia's quilt. I have done a lot of reading. I'm almost finished with Atonement by Ian McEwan. Next up is The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski, which comes with high recommendations from Nicole of Sister's Choice Quilts and Stephen King of Bangor, Maine.

"Pain is deeper than all thought; laughter is higher than all pain" --Elbert Hubble

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 07/15/2008, Cathi said ...

I don't know about B Complex for other things but I have neuralgia and it is kept under control as long as I take the B Complex every day. When I forget or stop for whatever reason, I can feel the affected nerve start up within a few dayas. As soon as I'm back on the B's, it stops. So it's definitely worth taking, imo!! Hope it works for you as well!

On 07/15/2008, Beverly said ...

Pain, pain go away,
And, don't come back another day.

On 07/15/2008, Penny @ Lavender Hill Studio said ...

I don't know about B complex with pain, but my husband had terrible acid reflux disease. They even did surgery with no results. Then I read online about B complex and how it could get rid of the acid reflux disease. It worked! He still takes one every day and has for the past 9 years. AND he had no joint aches and pains. He is 61 years old and feels like 30. I on the other hand have chronic pain in my neck and back. So let me know if the Vitamin works...
Hugs

On 07/15/2008, Rose Campion said ...

You'll have to tell us about the books you've been reading.

I do know that at the bookstore I work at, we got about eleventy billion copies of the Story of Edgar Sawtelle. It looks sort of interesting, but I'm not sure I'll read it. I see so many books every day. So many books, so little time.

On 07/15/2008, Alexandrine said ...

Dansons la capucine
Y’a pas de pain chez nous
Y’en a chez la voisine
Mais ce n’est pas pour nous
You !
Dansons la capucine
Y'a pas de vin chez nous
Y'en a chez la voisine
Mais ce n'est pas pour nous
You !
Dansons la capucine
Y'a pas de feu chez nous
Y'en a chez la voisine
Mais ce n'est pas pour nous
You !

Dansons la capucine
Y’a du plaisir chez nous
On pleure chez la voisine
On rit toujours chez nous
You !

On 07/16/2008, Debbie said ...

Let me know how the 'B' works...all I need is another pill to take!

On 07/16/2008, Joan said ...

Glad Vann is recovering.

On 07/16/2008, Shelly said ...

We use B for both of my sons Dysautonomia, which fibromyalgia falls under. It keeps them going and pretty much pain free. We use high doses though to keep the Mitochondrial full of energy. When the Mitochondrial don't have enough energy, the body weekens.

Good luck!

On 07/16/2008, Liz said ...

Vitamin B huh? I'd be interested to know.

On 07/16/2008, Witoka said ...

My friend at work takes B12 vitamins and she thinks it helps her with her fibromyalgia, she also goes to the chiropractor regularly for acupuncture. She doesnt seem to have so many bads days as she once had. Some day there will be a cure! I am sorry you have to suffer with the pain. I just read 2 really good (different) books "Garden Spells" and "Sugar Queen" by Sarah Addison Allen

On 07/17/2008, Kai said ...

VITAMIN B! I'm SOOOO going to get some! Thanks for the heads up! And I also bought The Story of Edgar Sawtelle! Doesn't it look great? I just finished The Sugar Queen & loved it! Have you read it? If not, PLEASE allow me to send you my copy!
-----

Sunday, July 13, 2008

Sunday Sampler

I put the last stitches in Falicia's Wedding Quilt this morning (finished binding and added a label). Andy was taking it to the shower at 2:00. While I was making this quilt, I prayed for the couple to have a long and successful marriage, filled with love and happiness. I was too tired and achy to go to the shower. I can't wait for Andy to tell me all about it.

Vann took me to lunch at Ming Hui, our local Chinese buffet, then I came home and camped out on the couch for a long time. I got to feeling guilty about being a couch potato, so I got up, put on my walking shoes and Daisy's leash (Daisy is visiting this week while Lori is at a family reunion), and went for a walk. It was so hot and humid and my fibro is acting up big time, so I knew it was a bad idea, but I did it anyway.

The little brown puppy around the corner, Sweet Pea, wanted to play with Daisy. Daisy being nine years old, is just about out of the playing stage. She thought Sweet Pea wanted to hurt her, I guess. She (Daisy) slipped her collar and took off. I had to run her down and carry her most of the way back home with Sweet Pea following us.

We made it back home just ahead of a thunderstorm. But I didn't go back to the couch--at least not yet. I went to my computer chair instead.

Vann says thanks for all the well wishes. His wrist is better painwise, but it's still swollen all the way to his fingers. He and Sophie did get in a couple of four-wheeler rides today, and Vann has been painting the basement. "You can't keep a good man down," is what he told me when I commented on the fact that he should maybe be resting instead of working. He is a good man, that's true. But I still think he should be a little less active till his wrist is well.

It looks like it buttons for the little pink quilt. I got like 40 votes on the matter, and all but about nine of them were for buttons. Thanks to all of you who gave your opinion.

I want to show you these wonderful new confetti dishes I got at Target last week, then I'm going to put on my PJs and go back to the sofa with my book and a cup of tea. We've had lots of fun using them. They're such a happy design, they make a meal more fun.

Y'all have a great Sunday evening now.

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 07/13/2008, Ros said ...

Those dishes are so cute! I love to have some like that. Polka dots are such fun.

I hope you're feeling better soon and that the fibro lets up on you. I know some people with fibro and it just really kicks their butts.

On 07/13/2008, Ros said ...

On 07/13/2008, Teresa said ...

I saw those dishes at Target and thought what fun party dishes they would be. Glad you got them and are enjoying them. Oh, so sorry about the dog run-a-way, but glad it turned out ok.
Teresa

On 07/13/2008, Falicia said ...

i LOVE my quilt!!! It is beautiful! Everyone just loved it too! Soo many compliments! Thank you so much! I can't explain in words how much I love it, and love you for making it for me!

On 07/14/2008, Joan said ...

Beautiful quilt Susan. Love the names of the dogs very floral. Glad alls well that ends well .Those dishes are fab.

On 07/14/2008, vivi said ...

susan, this is a pretty quilt, so blue! (one of my favs colours)
i have been thinking yesterday, that i want a big bag to carry my patchwork stuff when i go to the class, and it will be in blue patches! i will post a pic when it's done
big kiss!

On 07/14/2008, Janet said ...

What a beautiful quilt! I'm sure it must have been a hightlight of the shower.

Hope you are feeling better today. Maybe the polka dot dishes will cheer the day for you!

On 07/14/2008, Beverly said ...

Susan, the quilt is just gorgeous. I saw it at Donna's Quilt Show this morning. I know they will treasure it, and it will be a blessing with all of your prayers in each stitch.

Feel better soon.

On 07/14/2008, Hunnybunny said ...

The quilt is beautiful! I hope you guys are both feeling better soon. I can't believe how much you've been doing! I take a couple weeks off of blogging and come back feeling inadequate, LOL. I love the flower vase too, and think the buttons will look fantabulous!

On 07/16/2008, PHyl said ...

We have relatives this week and I'm behind reading your blog; I LOVE the sweet, cheerful polk-a-dot dishes!And the crocheted cupcakes.So thankful Vann's wrist is better!
-----

Saturday, July 12, 2008

Another Peachy Market Day

We opened our bake sale yesterday at 3:00 pm and were sold out by 4:00 pm. Next week, we have to bake more stuff.

I bought Chilton County Peaches, fresh shelled peas, okra, and four fried peach pies that Veronica's MIL made. Mmmmmmm, good! I'm cooking peas and okra for dinner today. If you've never had peas and okra, chances are good that you're not from the South.

The Yellow House was the scene of a family accident yesterday. Vann slipped in the shower, fell, and tore ligaments in his right wrist. A trip to Dr. M. showed that nothing was broken, but he's out of commission for driving the 4-wheeler or Shadow for a while. His wrist is in a brace and he is icing it for 20 minutes every hours, or some such.

Here are a few pics from yesterday. It was so hot and humid, I almost had heat stroke. But as you can see in the first picture, my friend Jean and her sister Debbie (who never go anywhere that they don't dress like fashion plates), didn't let the heat cramp their style.

Our friend Kenneth (below) wore a very appropriate shirt, didn't he?

Our mayor and good friend T.W. (below) bought my iron skillet cornbread.

We had a very good musician (below) to entertain shoppers and merchants this week.

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 07/12/2008, PHyl said ...

What a great time it looks like everyone had!But I'm like you...cannot do the humid heat anymore.Poor Vann!!!
My sympathies 'cause he can't ride the bikes!Thank God nothing "broke" in the fall...he's lucky to live with a good "nurse"!

On 07/12/2008, Teresa said ...

Yum..mouth watering peaches. Thanks for sharing all the pictures. I wish we had a market like that close by.

On 07/12/2008, sherry said ...

Congrats on a successful bake sale. Those peaches look so yummy! Sorry to hear about Vann's accident but glad nothing was broken. Wishing him a speedy recovery.

On 07/12/2008, Beverly said ...

Fresh peaches and fried pies. My mother used to make those - she called them peach jacks.

I'm glad he didn't break any bones, but torn ligaments are quite painful. Tell him to keep up the icing. In the end, it will make a huge difference.

On 07/13/2008, Georgina said ...

Those peaches make are mouth watering, they remember me the ones we have in the south of Argentina. Hope Vann is OK soon, with the delicious food you said you were going to cook, I'm sure he will.

On 07/13/2008, Fitzy said ...

Glad Vann didn't break anything, but I know he's hurting! Give him a bloggy hug for us all.

We have very few outdoor markets, I guess it's a function of the hot weather here, just not very conducive to grow crops to share. boo

On 07/13/2008, Penny @ Lavender Hill Studio said ...

The sale looks like so much fun! Congrats on the success..

Yikes! I am so sorry to hear about Vanns accident. Give him a hug from me....

And if it is not too late...I vote for the buttons..

On 07/13/2008, Rian said ...

Ooooh, peaches. Nothing better. It looks like a wonderful time, but I don't think I could take that kind of heat and humidity. Call me in the spring...

On 07/13/2008, Brenda said ...

Oh girl it all looks so good.I love times like that. Not much like that here,but I do remember the days.

On 07/14/2008, Joan said ...

Hope Vann is feeling better. Love the market pictures . Peaches look so yummy.

On 07/14/2008, Daisy Cottage said ...

Jean and Debbie are adorable!!! Oh I love their dresses! I'm sorry about Vann!! Hope all is much better now!

xo,
Kim
-----

Thursday, July 10, 2008

With or Without?

I need advice. I can't decide if the pink quiltlet looks better without the black buttons or with them. What do you think?

With or without? Black buttons or no black buttons? What's it gonna be?

Also, look below what the mailman brought this morning! Isn't this the sweetest little handmade book? Rice at Voodoo Cafe sent it to me out of the blue clear sky. Thanks, Rice. It's going to look great with my little collection of little books.

This afternoon, I think I'm going to bake banana nut bread for tomorrow's bake sale. Then tomorrow, I'll make strawberry cupcakes. Veronica and Beth are making the blackberry cobblers this time; I don't know what all everyone else is making. I'm looking forward to getting some more fresh peaches at the market. We've run out, and we're almost out of tomatoes and cucumbers too. To me, best thing about summer is the fresh fruits and vegetables.

Prayer Request: Let's keep the people of Paradise, California, as well as the firefighters, in our prayers. Many homes are in danger of being consumed by the fire that the firefighters have been battling for weeks without a day off.

Gayle at Sparkle Jars tells us that her dad, stepmom, grandmother, and their pets have been evacuated and that the fire is only 1/2 mile from their home.

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 07/10/2008, Sunny said ...

Hello! I just happened upon your blog and thought I say, I like the black buttons. I mean, either way looks wonderful, but the buttons really make it complete. Wonderful work!

On 07/10/2008, Fitzy said ...

I love it "with"!! It helps move your eye from the vase to the buttons to the border.

Very, very cute.

On 07/10/2008, ceramicnut said ...

My vote is for the black buttons, I love how this turned out.
LINDA

On 07/10/2008, Teresa said ...

I like it with the buttons as well. It sure is cute!

On 07/10/2008, Dale Anne said ...

LOVE it WITH BUTTONS!!!
Just came upon your blog.......

On 07/10/2008, Karla said ...

I'll be the odd duck and say without.
Karla

On 07/10/2008, Lynne in Hawaii said ...

I really like it with the buttons! They add awonderful contrast! Sounds like some yummy fixin's happening in your house! Still on my trip...back in a week.

On 07/10/2008, Deb said ...

WITH the buttons really adds that little extra! The quilt has turned out beautifully!! I love it!

And I love handmade books like the one you received. My sister has made those before, and I have one. For the life of me I can't figure out what to write in it that won't mess it up. So it just sits looking pretty! :)

On 07/10/2008, Beverly said ...

I vote for the buttons. It has turned out great, Susan.

I will definitely keep them in my prayers. Fire is so devastating.

On 07/10/2008, Terri said ...

I think it needs something, so I pick the black buttons.

On 07/10/2008, Molly said ...

I'm another odd duck, I love it without the buttons! It looks fresher and more spacious. The buttons kind of are too heavy looking, I can't describe it well. They call attention to themselves and not the yoyos. In the second pic(w/o buttons), I see the yoyos first with a vase and border, they look much more front and center, more modern.

Molly, who really wants to quilt again someday!

On 07/10/2008, Trudy Neill of Windemere Farm said ...

My vote is for the buttons...the completion of the vision is drawn from the outside frame to the inside, just like a bee is drawn to the pollen! Wonderful job, Susan, I really like this piece very much.

On 07/10/2008, Chris p said ...

I like the buttons-They make the pieces pop! This is an awesome quilt!

On 07/10/2008, Cathi said ...

I vote for the buttons -- they really finish this off. Gorgeous quilt! Love it!!

On 07/10/2008, Andy said ...

I like the buttons. And i'm sorry you never got any of my strawberry cupcakes. They weren't all that great anyway. But I did eat most of them.

On 07/10/2008, Kai said ...

Oh, dooooo keep the buttons! It makes the piece POP! And yum to the banana nut bread! My mouth is watering! Mercy, between yours and Anita's goodies, I'd gain 100 pounds. Everything you both COOK sounds so fabulous!

On 07/10/2008, PHyl said ...

Oh, yes, the quiltlet needs the black buttons to balance the black vase! And I love it all together.....sweet little yo-yo's!

On 07/10/2008, Karyl said ...

Susan-
A very pretty quilt!!! I say it looks nice either way but black is not my favorite color so if you really like buttons I would make them the same as the flower color that they are going on! But thats just me! Like I said very pretty either way -- Tomato Tomatoe!!!! And I agree the fresh produce is the best part of summer! I recently made banana bread Hawaiian style! Just for variety! :o) Happy Summer!
Karyl

On 07/11/2008, kayellen said ...

Add the buttons!!!Looks great:)
I just added you to my friend list.
Remind me when I get back from Washington and I will send you a sample of my mom's industrial double sided adhesive tape:)
I think you would love it for all your crafts!

Take Care,
KayEllen

On 07/11/2008, kayellen said ...

On 07/11/2008, Donna said ...

Been following your progress and really love your little quilt. I like the buttons!

On 07/11/2008, Patti Koosed said ...

I like the black buttons.

I also like the book you received. It is delightful!

Thanks for stopping by my blog it is always good to hear from you.

Thanks for the compliment on my magnets. They were fun to make. I need some guidance and of course I have found that in one of the talented artists through blogging. With her help I will get better. Also thanks for the compliment on our new porch and sidewalk.

Hugs
Patti

On 07/11/2008, Joan said ...

Like it with buttons coordinates with edging and vase. Have fun baking

On 07/11/2008, May Kristin said ...

Definately WITH the buttons! I love it!

On 07/11/2008, Betty Jo said ...

Well I'm not one to follow the crowd. I love the quilt, and I like it better without the black buttons. Although I adore buttons, I love the yo yo flowers so and I've always liked to see the center of them. xoxo

On 07/11/2008, Alison Gibbs said ...

I love the look of the buttons but I think I would rather a different coloured button, maybe light green.
Alison

On 07/11/2008, pam said ...

I'm going "with" the buttons.

On 07/11/2008, Sherri said ...

Go buttons!!

On 07/11/2008, Liz said ...

I kind of like it without... but either way is still adorable.

On 07/11/2008, Wendy said ...

With. It ain't finished until it has beads on it! But buttons will do just fine :~)

On 07/11/2008, mom2fur said ...

Well, first, thanks for the nice comment on the little outfit I made!
Next, I have to ask...is the 'vase' black? It looks kind of dark brown. I'd go for brown buttons if the latter is the case, or I'd do the black if it's black. I think the buttons 'finish' it nicely.
I love the little book!
And how did the banana bread come out? I made some today. It took 10 minutes longer to cook than the recipe said. But the recipe didn't have an oven temperature listed, so I'm wondering if I should have set it higher than 350. What temp do you use?

On 07/11/2008, Amy said ...

With, they compliment the vase well.

On 07/11/2008, domi said ...

Beautiful quilt. I like it better without the buttons.

On 07/11/2008, domi said ...

Beautiful quilt. I like it better without the buttons.

On 07/11/2008, Jeanne said ...

I like the buttons, it gives the flowers a center.
I love to bake and hardly do it lately. I am always trying to lose weight. The blackberries are getting ripe and my family loves blackberry pie and jam. I have them growing all down my side yard in profusion, so I guess I'll get baking. In one week all my grandkids will be here for one week. We stack them up like cord wood and have a blast. They are from 19 to nine years of age. Nine in all. We have done this for years. It is a very special time.

I guess I went on and on, it is easy to get lost in our sharing at times.

Love ya, Jeanne

On 07/11/2008, Susan Tuttle said ...

What a gorgeous creation!! I prefer without the buttons - i think they are a little dark against all the light hues.

Susan
xo

On 07/12/2008, Nicole said ...

Buttons....YES! They are whimsical and tie everything together. Great finishing touch.

On 07/12/2008, sherry said ...

Sorry I'm a little late. I like it best with the buttons although it looks cute either way.

On 07/12/2008, jodie viall said ...

i really like the buttons. if you're unsure, you could always try a variety of different coloured buttons? black, brown, pink, tan, etc...

what a cute design. i love it!

On 07/13/2008, Lisa said ...

I have never been a huge fan of yo yo flowers, but I really like the way these look with the buttons. They help draw the eye up from the vase. I vote keep em.

On 07/15/2008, Holly Elam said ...

I like it with buttons but a different color, cream maybe.

On 07/17/2008, Edna said ...

I like it with the buttons as well! Just my 2cents worth.. and you don't get alot for 2 cents anymore ;-)
-----

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

More Altered Playing Cards

At left is altered playing card #27/52, entitled "Sa Fille."

Below is altered playing card #28/52, "Girl With Lambs.

I think I might be caught up with my cards now, but I have to check the calendar to be sure.

“When the power of love overcomes the love of
power, the world will know peace.”
--Jimi Hendrix

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 07/09/2008, Karla said ...

Both are wonderful. I really like the stitching around the little girl.
Karla

On 07/09/2008, Molly said ...

I was wondering if you were still doing these! Both are fantastic!!!! I love the pink quilt too and the hearts(do you have a pattern?).

We've been extremely busy, sick and stressed but things are looking up now.

On 07/09/2008, Joan said ...

Love the stitching on the card and the colours

On 07/09/2008, Terri said ...

What is the translation of the text on the first card? I like these!

On 07/09/2008, Beverly said ...

Awesome, awesome. You certainly are productive lately. You're making me feel bad. ;-)

On 07/09/2008, Kelly said ...

What a great idea. I love your altered playing cards and the quote by Jimi--so true! Have a great week.
Kelly

On 07/09/2008, PHyl said ...

Oh, I love this little "Bo Peep"...what a sweet little face she has! And of course all that favorite PINK in the other card, too!I admire your commitment to doing the cards;I've signed on for the new BJP and hope I can do as well!!!

On 07/10/2008, Jeanne said ...

Susan, I adore your cards. So much work. I need some of your motivation for some projects I need to do. Like a quilt top all ready to finish. Thanks for stopping by to see my Babette. She is pretty old and it's a bit scary to see her slow down so much.

Keep up the good work.

Jeanne

On 07/11/2008, Patti Koosed said ...

As usual, I love these altered playing cards !
Youdo such a good job. You are an inspiration!
Hugs
God Bless You
Patti
-----

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Progress in Pink

Lookee! The little pink quiltlet is almost finished. All I have to do is attach the little yo yo flowers and sew a label on the back, and I'll be all done and ready to ship to my swap partner in Sweden.

Thanks to all of you who gave me ideas for de-emphasizing the black vase square. I found some pink rick-rack that seems to have helped, and I bound it in the same black as the vase. Another suggestion was to use little black buttons in the centers of some of the yo yo flowers. I haven't tried that yet but I'm going to. I think that will look great. I'll show you when it's done.

I've also made a few crocheted heart pillowy things. They aren't finished. I'm going to embellish them with flowers and ribbons for knob hangers. I'll show them again when they're finished. They're really easy to crochet and stuff.

Tomorrow, in addition to putting the yo yos on the pink quiltlet, I hope to start the binding on the blue wedding quilt and Andy's green quilt. Oh wow! Progress feels so good, doesn't it?

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 07/08/2008, Patti said ...

Oh - I really like the rick rack! It's perfect!

On 07/08/2008, Terri said ...

Pink and black always looks so wonderful together. I can't wait to see it with the yo-yo flowers.

On 07/09/2008, Debbie said ...

Love the rick rack and the button idea. You're really industrious...I'm jealous!

On 07/09/2008, Patti Koosed said ...

This is so pretty!
Patti

On 07/09/2008, Patti Koosed said ...

This is so pretty!
Patti

On 07/09/2008, Joan said ...

Lovely finishing touches Susan. Oh I love the hearts. It's great when progress is made ,gives such a lift

On 07/09/2008, Beverly said ...

I can't wait to see the yo-yo flowers with the black buttons. This has turned out so pretty.

On 07/09/2008, Pat said ...

Hi Susan!
I had to come over to see you and say "hello" after reading your responses to Beverely's "Bucket List" question!
I have just recently come back from a trip to Irland, and I live in NYC (the borough of Brooklyn) If you visit my blog and look in my right sidebar under thre catagories you'll see I've written a lot of posts about Ireland and NYC!
If you go today you'll see I love a certain singer/songwriter from Alabama too :-)
Your quilts are so lovely! Unfortunately, I have no talent sewing at all.
Pat

On 07/10/2008, PHyl said ...

...what a lucky Swedish swap partner you have to receive this beautifully made little quilt!Are the crocheted hearts to be attached also? (How hard are they to make, anyway?!)Can't wait to see it finished and the yo-yo thingies!You're on a roll, girl!!

On 07/10/2008, Nicole said ...

The rick rack totally worked! Love the result.
-----

Monday, July 7, 2008

Some Yard Sales Make Me Sad

...and it's usually the ones labeled
"Estate Sale."

On the way to Cracker Barrel to have lunch yesterday after church, we passed an estate sale sign, which naturally tweaked my interest. After lunch, after we had taken Lori back to her car, Vann turned in a direction that wasn't toward our home. I had already forgotten about the sale, but my sweet husband, knowing how I love a good rummage sale, drove us directly to the estate sale.

The house was not unfamiliar to me. It's a very old house, sitting on a triangle-shaped lot all by its self, surrounded by ancient shrubbery and trees that have been there at least since my childhood. Though we were more acquaintances than friends, the children who grew up there were students in the Leeds school system when I was. The father was a local merchant, and the mother a local music or dance teacher (I forget now which).

I was excited about the sale. That house, that landmark house, although long in the tooth and much in disrepair now, must hold all kinds of treasures, I thought. And it did, I'm sure. But once I entered and spoke to Mrs. W., the lady of that house, I sort of lost my interest in treasure hunting.

Mrs. W was sitting in the front room, walking cane propped against her chair, romance novel in her hands, greeting her customers. Her daughters and friends were taking care of the transactions. I spoke to her, asked how she was doing, and said what a wonderful lot of things she had for sale. She smiled a little weakly and told me that her family had had to pry each piece out of her hands while she kicked and screamed in protest. I'm sure she exaggerated a little, but I could tell that she was having a hard time saying goodbye to the bits and piece of her past. "These things are my life," she said. I smiled but felt like crying.

I wanted to leave then and not be one of the visitors who was pawing through this lady's life. But I felt that would be rude, and I was still somewhat intrigued. I had never been inside that house although I think my sister has (one of the daughters was her age and her friend in school), and I was curious. So I toured the rooms, looking more at the house itself than searching for treasures.

The wallpaper, what was left of it, was circa 1950-something. The floors were ripply bare boards, the walls all stained. One could tell that the ghosts were having a hard time keeping out of sight until nighttime. There was a dark emptiness about the place now, an emptiness sprinkled with the dust of decades past. These rooms where a family once took meals and watched Uncle Miltie, where children played and teenagers listened to 45 rpms and laughed, had been reduced to dark and dusty piles of stuff for sale.

I found a lovely quilt top (see photo at top), a book of beautiful Victorian postcards, and some little coasters, paid M. for them, and went home. I didn't ask, but I'm sure that sale was a preamble to Mrs. W. moving in with one of her daughters or into a retirement home. I pray that she can come to grips with her losses and learn to be happy wherever she ends up. I pray we all can do that someday.

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 07/07/2008, Beverly said ...

Now, that just made me cry. Getting older can be so sad. I pray that she finds joy in what comes next.

On 07/07/2008, Karla said ...

So sad. I feel the same way at estate sales but I look at it as keeping their legacy alive as I know I will take good care of their treasures.
Karla

On 07/07/2008, Jeanne said ...

That story is thought provoking for sure. We all wonder as we get older, what the future holds for us. I have already told my children, to move us to assisted living or the nursing home. My husband feels the same. I don't want to burden them.. I hope I have the time and the will to eliminate the things my children do not want before it is a problem. That poor lady, and her children, to have to sell her things is sad to say the least.

The bright side is you have a treasure and will love and take care of it.

Jeanne

On 07/07/2008, Joan said ...

That was sad. In old buildings I always think of all the families that sat around for meals and family tomes over the years. In fact yesterday I went into a very large house in London and my imagination went into overdrive. Thank you for his post.

On 07/07/2008, Kai said ...

It was my intention to comment on each of your recent entries (I've READ them all - just not had a chance to comment) but after reading this, your latest, I feel so sad. This hits VERY close to home because a neighbor and LONGTIME friend was forced from her familiar home by a daughter who actually had less than honorable reasons for putting her mom in a nursing facility. Ms. Amy - my friend - was doing quite well in her own place. The move was the beginning of her demise. I want to run to that house where the estate sale happened and steal away that lady; take CARE of her myself. But I can't, of course, & so I feel very sad.

On 07/07/2008, Deb said ...

Susan ~ I can definitely see the sadness in the situation. I have told my mom that she will never have to go to a nursing home if I can help it! I think families are for taking care of their own (unless it's such an overwhelming medical situation that it's impossible). I hope my children feel the same. Looks like the quilt top was a great treasure to bring home to remind you this dear lady and what's ahead for her. Thank you for sharing.

On 07/07/2008, Lacy said ...

Your story reminded me of an old friend - Carol. Carol's mother would place a piece of masking tape on the bottom of certain sentimental items, such as furniture, figurines, etc. And on that piece of tape she would write the name of the child that had mentioned an interest in it. I thought, what a nice way of making sure each child had something they really liked. As for me I've made sure to do a complete house cleaning each year to rid my cabinets and cupboards of useless items. That way if anything should happen suddenly, my one and only child will have less of a burden in taking care of my things in the end. And lets face it none of us will get out alive. Amen! Sorry this is so long, but I do love reading your blog.

On 07/08/2008, red tin heart said ...

I could not make my my Mom sell her stuff. I would not be able to handle it. It is like she said," This stuff is my life."

Each piece represents a memory..
When they are gone from this earth it is different..But when they are alive?
I don't know...
xoxo Nita

On 07/08/2008, angelines said ...

Hello Susan, in Spain there is an expresion when people speak very well it is what pico, traslate pico is like you write very well in your blog.
I love the fat quarter you bought. Each thing I've got, has some history, when something damage I feel sad to lost. Sorry for my bad Enghish. Regards from Spain

On 07/08/2008, Nicole said ...

You express yourself so eloquently Susan. My heart aches thinking of my father in that same situation. As long as we can take care of him, it just won't happen. He is fiercly hanging on to his independence and I believe that our respect for that and the fact that he is included in everything our family does and decides is what keeps him going year after year.

On 07/08/2008, Gayle said ...

Such a beautiful post...absolutely beautiful. I look forward to catching up on other posts. I missed reading your blog in the morning.

On 07/10/2008, PHyl said ...

My heart goes out to this elderly lady;it seems the children could have let her keep items special to her, even if stored. And not make her have to watch little pieces of her life be sold to strangers!Thank you for giving some of her treasures a good home!

On 07/14/2008, Daisy Cottage said ...

((((Susan))))
You have such a loving and compassionate heart. Thank you for sharing about this precious lady.

I have felt that way before too at estate sales...and when I bring home the owner's treasures I try to always remember where I got them and picture their home in my mind and heart. When I know the name of the owner, I refer to their things by name - like, "this buffet belonged to Kate... or those are Tilley's gloves". It helps me to honor them.

xo,
Kim
-----

About Me

Hi. My name is Susan, and I'm a lover of all things fabric related. When I first started sewing, in my teens, I made clothes. I learned to sew on a beautiful Singer treadle machine. I remember the first garment I made was a dress for the 4-H dress review when I was in Junior High.

In my 20s and 30s, I made almost all my and my children's clothes. I added quiltmaking in my late 20s, and gradually drifted away from garment making. I still make the occasional wearable, but most of my sewing time is spent on quilts.

I also enjoy reading and occasionally pick up the crochet hook or knitting needles. I invite you to visit here often. I'd like to share my interests with you.

Thursday, July 31, 2008

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Monday, July 28, 2008

Sunday, July 27, 2008

Saturday, July 26, 2008

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Monday, July 21, 2008

Sunday, July 20, 2008

Saturday, July 19, 2008

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Sunday, July 13, 2008

Saturday, July 12, 2008

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

“When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace.” --Jimi Hendrix

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Monday, July 7, 2008

“When the power of love overcomes the love of
power, the world will know peace.”
--Jimi Hendrix