A Wicked Week

This week has definitely been one for the books. Way too many appointments, errands, and running hither and yon. I feel like I need a week in bed just to get over it.

Monday: Guild meeting 
Tuesday: Deliver Nancy Drew quilt to quilter/rest of day at court house getting car tag
Wednesday: Annual physical/mammogram/bone density; and grocery shopping
Thursday: Appointment with tax lady and news of a huge tax bill due, laundry
Today: Have Sophie to groomer early, finish laundry

In the spaces between running here and there, I did get a little bit of quilting done--a few more Granny Squares pieced and the binding on another quilt, "September," which I received from Craig (who quilted it) Monday at guild.

And I'm paying. Terrible back muscle spasms this morning, and muscle relaxer not helping. I think it's just my body fussing at me, telling me I've pushed it too far. 

I still have one more load of laundry to do, and I have to pick up Sophie this afternoon. Then I think I'm going to give the body what it's asking for and rest for a while.

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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 04/12/2013, Helen in Switzerland said ...

I'm sure that's the right thing to do Susan. Hope you feel better and full of energy tomorrow!

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On 04/12/2013, Joanne said ...

I think the granny square quilt is going to be one of your masterpieces. Love it!

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On 04/12/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

Bless your heart and other parts, dear Susan. What a week you've had. Indeed, just say "No, thanks" to doing more than resting and getting the tax payment in the mail.

Please keep AMIL in your prayers as she had a sinking spell today (probably low blood sugar as OJ helped), After 8+ hours in the ER, she's in the hospital tonight for observation, hydration, and food. When feeling bad with her gallbladder this week, she just didn't feel like eating or drinking much of anything. Low blood sugar was right on target but the rest of her tank was far too low, too.

Too bad we cannot share a room like in Willie Wonka and keep each other company while we fall apart and rest up!

Hugs!

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On 04/12/2013, Kristine said ...

I felt exhaustion by proxy just reading about your week. I hope things settle down so you can get some rest

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On 04/13/2013, Jan said ...

Sure hope those storms stayed away from your neck of the woods! That's all you'd need! Please post a photo of Sophie's new 'look!' Love your Granny Squares! So scrappy & pretty!
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Another Trying Day Ahead

Wish I could spend the day doing what Bella is doing.

I spent almost the entire day yesterday at a court house annex attempting to renew auto tags. I had, as always, sent my check off in the mail to have them renewed. But I got my check back with a letter telling me I needed to send a copy of my deceased husband's driver's license. When I called to explain that I could not do such a ridiculous thing, I was then told that I would have to come in and have his name removed from the title of my car (both our names were on it). Couldn't do that by mail; had to come in. So I did.

When I arrived yesterday morning, there were approximately 100 people ahead of me, being served by three cashiers. A quick estimate told me that each person was requiring an average of 10-15 minutes at the cashier's window. 

We were, thank God, given seating for the first half of the wait. Well, that wasn't all good. I was seated next to a man whose breath smelled like a dead animal. Thank goodness, it was only noticeable when he spoke. Unfortunately, he spoke A LOT! And I couldn't change seats without risking losing my place in line.

When I finally got to the cashier's window, she had only just begun to serve me when her supervisor or somebody came up to her and told her she had forgot to do an auto inspection. So she had to leave me hanging and go and do her inspection. When she returned, I had all kinds of questions to answer and forms to fill out and sign, etc., etc., etc. When I got away from there, instead of doing the other errands I had on my list, I came immediately home and lay down.

The hassle continues today. I have appointments with gynecologist and mammogram lab at midday. My body is so achy and sore, especially my back and legs, that I don't know how my annual physical exam is going to go. If you're a lady reading this, you know that some amount of contortion is required to get into position for these exams. I just keep telling myself, this time tomorrow it will be but a memory. It's what form that memory is going to take that really bugs me now.

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On 04/10/2013, Jo said ...

Sheesh, thats awful! I only had to bring a dewth certificate and it took no time at all. I'm so sorry! Get some rest.

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On 04/10/2013, Joanne said ...

I understand, and empathize.

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On 04/10/2013, Sue, the Florida Farm Girl said ...

In the name of "security" we all have to do those stupid things for licenses and titles nowadays. Whoever heard of having to have your marriage license to renew your license??? Sorry you're having a rough few days.

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On 04/10/2013, Kerrie said ...

I remember having to do all that after Bill died, Everytime I went to the courthouse in another city, I cried all the way home. Seems like it should be a lot simpler. :(

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On 04/10/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

Bless your heart and other achy parts! I'd have thought the death certificate would be all that was needed, too. Methinks the person who told you to bring Vann's driver's license misspoke or you need to raise Cain with the powers that be who make bereaved folks find a driver's license after years have passed. Ridiculous! How is a driver's license proof anyway? Geeze Louise!

Hope by now you're home again and are curled up next to Bella following her good example.

Be good to you, circle the wagons, and tuck in for as long as needed. Hope you have leftovers for dinner or call out for delivery.

Big hugs!

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On 04/10/2013, Sheryl Colle said ...

So sorry for the hassle they put you through. There is just something about going to those license places that sends dread all through my body. I always take a book, because I know it is going to be a long wait. I did notice the last time I went to get mine in Shelby county, though, the lady I got was just really friendly. That was so unusual, however, because they usually take their sweet time, and hardly give you the time of day. Wonder if they are trying to improve their image? Apparently not where you go. :(
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April Guild

The April meeting of Birmingham Quilters Guild was a busy one yesterday. Program time was devoted to our June quilt show. Our quilt show chairman Judy spoke to us, giving us, among other things, a few pointers on what our judges will be looking at when judging our quilts. Then we had the opportunity to go around to the various committee chairmen's tables and volunteer for jobs. 

But even though our meeting was largely devoted to serious business (the quilt show), we still made time for some fun show-and-tell. I didn't get everything photographed, but what I did shoot, you can see below.

A striking quilt made from Kaffe Fassett fabrics

A Baltimore beauty, all done by hand--needle-turn applique and hand quilting

A Baltimore detail
 

My "Blackberry Creek" quilt, also hand appliqued and hand quilted

My "Scottish Star," machine pieced by me and machine quilted by Elayne Vognild of Crossville, Tennesse

Detail

I bound the two quilts above last week. I have one more to bind and then I have to make sure all my quilt show quilts have labels and hanging sleeves. 

I love Scottie Dog quilts.

A cuddle quilt made from blocks that the quiltmaker won in our November block-of-the-month drawing

More clothesline art

An Amish delight

Scraps and strings

Now I must shower and get ready to run a bunch of errands. 

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On 04/09/2013, Jan S. said ...

Looks like a great show!

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On 04/09/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

How marvelous each and every eye candy quilt is! Thank you for sharing these glorious quilts with us. Your "Scottish Star" is so striking and wonderful and I adore "Blackberry Creek"!!

I finally finished the binding on my "Roses in Winter" UFO so all it needs is a label. Yes, all in the same lifetime!

Did you see the "Now it's time to say good-bye" article about Annette Funicello's death yesterday? I feel like I lost a childhood friend as I was not quite 5 years old when the Mickey Mouse Club first aired.

Hope you're feeling great!

Hugs!

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On 04/09/2013, Joanne said ...

What beautiful quilts! I like your Scottish Star best of all, and the "Blackberry Creek" is great! The one on the clothesline with lots of white looks like my kind of quilt. I have some star blocks that MER made, and I intend to make an Amish-style top with them. Someday.

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On 04/09/2013, Sue said ...

I love your quilts! I'm not sure if I favor one over the other - although I like quilts that are one of a kind (the Blackberry quilt). I think they are just great! Congratulations.
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Furry Friday

 

Sorry, but Sophie is just too scruffy to photograph. She just looks like a big old fur ball. Gotta get that dog a haircut next week. 

HAPPY WEEKEND, EVERYONE!

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On 04/05/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

Don't you just love having a Peaceful Kingdom in your home? Love the pieced pet pillow, too!

Tom is outside roaming and his mother, Boots, is inside pretending to be chased by something invisible. She's rocketing thru the house, sliding around corners, and having a fine time.

Hugs!

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On 04/05/2013, Jan said ...

I had to look twice for Skipper because he blends in with Taco so well! Give Sophie a pat until we can see her furry face again!

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On 04/05/2013, Missy said ...

Just amazing to see Skipper so relaxed with the cats!

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On 04/05/2013, Lisa A said ...

If only they were that sweet all the time, eh?
My Maisy is filthy. I have been saying for weeks that she needs a bath. No more putting it off. The whole house is beginning to take on eau de chien!

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On 04/05/2013, Susan Ramey Cleveland said ...

Believe it or not, the pet pillow isn't pieces. It's cheater cloth. I got the pillow at Home Goods. All the 
Furbies love it except Sophie. She has never lain on it.

Sent from my iPad

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On 04/06/2013, Sue, the Florida Farm Girl said ...

Oh, how nice to see the fur babies making nice.

I thought of you today when I saw this post about the book, The Snow Child. I think you'll like what you see.

http://cottonsnwoolens.blogspot.com/

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On 04/08/2013, Clare said ...

Awww, your furkids are so cute! I love that one is named Sophie. We're planning on getting a new puppy this year and I've already named her Sophie Ren, even if she might not have been born yet!

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On 04/08/2013, Clare said ...

Awww, your furkids are so cute! I love that one is named Sophie. We're planning on getting a new puppy this year and I've already named her Sophie Ren, even if she might not have been born yet!

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On 04/08/2013, mom2fur said ...

Awww, your furkids are so cute! I love that one is named Sophie. We're planning on getting a new puppy this year and I've already named her Sophie Ren, even if she might not have been born yet!
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Small Pleasures

Last week, during one of our family game nights, I won the prize Jed brought for the person who prevailed in the first game of Dixit. The large pink diamond-shaped crystal is that prize.
I think it has brought me good fortune. 

For the first time in weeks, I was able to take the dogs for a walk this morning. Sophie was so excited. I was standing at the bedroom window, looking out at the grey day. I muttered, "I think it's stopped raining. We could go for a walk." 

Sophie immediately jumped down from her chair and started barking, which I translated to mean, "Yes yes yes yes yes yes yes, OH HECK  YES!"

So we did. It was drizzly, and we got a little wet, but I think we all three feel better for having walked. I didn't push it. I told the dogs no hills and no running, and everyone stuck to the rules. I promised them that if my knee and back suffer no ill effects from this walk, we'll do it again tomorrow. I hope I can make good on that promise.

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On 04/04/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

What a pretty first prize and cheers for Jeb to think of getting it for someone - and more cheers that you won it! Won't it sparkle when on a table in the sunshine!

One of my favorite purchases at an antique shop was a round clear glass paperweight with clear bubbles inside. It looks like a bubble posied on the table and is glorious when the sun shines thru it. Think of Pollyanna and envision the rainbows that bounce around the room, too.

I'm delighted you're continuing to feel better and better, too. As they say, you can't beat that with a stick! I can just imagine Sophie and Skipper's jubilation over their walk with Mom.

Please keep AMIL in your prayers. Her asthma acted up and she hasn't been sleeping well. Thanks.

Happy hugs!

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On 04/04/2013, Linda said ...

Awesome!
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Paper Pretties

An Easter card from Andy, art by one of my favorite artists, Marjolein Bastin

The Circle of Friends paper art group, to which I belong, held an Easter Tag swap. Below are photos of all the wonderful tags I received to help cheer up The Yellow House for Easter.

Beverly's Easter egg tag

Vintage beauty from LaVerne

Happy yellows from Grace

A beautiful cross adorns Kathryn's tag.

Shelia's pink tag is precious.

A marvelous blue bunny is the focus of Nancy's tag.

Jeanne used a vintage Easter card to create this tag.

Dana's card is a delight, front and back. In fact, I don't know which is which, so I'm just showing both sides. 

Dana's other side

When I participate in a swap like this, I like to make an extra item and keep it for myself. This is the tag I made and kept.

Below are the other tags I made and sent out.

The back of one of my tags--they all had the stamp and the pink flowers.

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On 04/03/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

What gloriously delightful tags, one and all! I stand amazed at the astonishing creativity shown in each tag. How do y'all think of these things and find the bits and pieces to adorn them?

Applause, applause!!!

Thanks for sharing these beauties with us!

Hugs!

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On 04/03/2013, Mary said ...

Love all the tags, what a wonderful group you belong to! Thanks for sharing, I enjoyed my visit!

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On 04/03/2013, Joanne said ...

Beautiful art!

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On 04/03/2013, Pesky Patti said ...

Neato...thank you for sharing...

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On 04/04/2013, Kai said ...

All the tags are SO pretty! I can't go back & comment on each post I missed while I was in NM but I DID go back & read them all. Main comments: I'm REALLY glad my Susan is feeling better! And, THANK YOU for your sweet comment to me about my absence. I love you! Oh, yes - and WOOOHOOOOO for all the fun kitty photos! Made me SMILE!
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Pain Free and Frisky

Somebody give me some wood; I want to knock on it. I haven't felt as good as I have the past few days in months. Could it be the pretty spring weather? I don't know, but I plan to not look this gift horse too closely in the mouth and just enjoy it. My knee is fine, except for the touch of arthritis that both my knees have; The fibro, while not exactly in remission, is at least not screaming. My energy level has ticked up a tad. It's just a wonderful time.

Jesse blows out the candles on his cake that his mom baked for him.

I hope all of you had as good an Easter weekend as I did. This year, Jesse's (grandson) birthday fell on Easter Sunday, the second time in his life this has happened. He doesn't quite remember the first time, when he was two. After church, his mother Andy, Jesse, and I had a scrumptious lunch at Cracker Barrel, then returned to The Yellow House for birthday cake and gift opening. Andy had baked the traditional family birthday cake, yellow cake with chocolate icing. I believe it was the best one we've ever had.

Yesterday's monthly quilters bee meeting at Martha's house was so much fun. Below are a few photos from the gathering.

Cindy M. produced this beauty in the Dianne Hire workshop last month.

Mary U.'s Dianne Hire creation in the works.

Cyndi W. made these pincushions to sell at the guild's quilt show boutique in June.

Sally's Disappearing Nine Patch

Mary S. shows fabrics chosen for a brother-in-law quilt while, in the background, Cyndi explains to Gerri how to make a Disappearing Nine Patch.

Sally shows her pretty modern lap quilt.

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On 04/02/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

Happy dancing and knocking wood that you're feeling so much better and especially that your knee has thoughtfully let you delay the arthroscopy!! What joy!!!!!!!

A slightly belated Happy Birthday to Jesse! His birthday celebration sounds wonderful and the cake looks delicious!

Love the happy colors in the creations make by your guild members. All are delightful!

We had a scare on Easter and yesterday as AMIL's asthma flared up. She didn't sleep on Saturday night due to restless legs so our Easter dinner was cancelled and AMIL stayed in bed for most of Easter day. I fixed lunch and dinner for AMIL and DS2 and noticed that AMIL needed her rescue inhaler a bit more often. I didn't find out until yesterday that on Saturday she'd put a pan of grease on the stove to warm up, walked away from it, and it filled the house with dense smoke. Guess what is a trigger to set off her asthma - dense smoke. This was her first experience with an asthma attack and it was scary. When she called me at 8:15a yesterday, I could hardly hear her whispy voice. We flew to the asthma doctor and she's now on a steriod and an antibiotic along with her inhalers and is feeling lots better.

On Saturday it was a miracle that AMIL's house didn't catch fire. DS2 saw the smoke, got the pan off the burner, turned the burner off, and opened doors and windows to clear the smoke out of the house. As I mentioned, we knew nothing about this episode until 2 days later. Scary.

Enjoy feeling better!

Hugs!

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On 04/02/2013, Jan said ...

Yellow cake with chocolate icing is THE BEST! It sounds like you had a wonderful Easter & Jesse's birthday with your family! The quilts from your bee are just gorgeous & inspiring! I'm thinking you cancelled your knee surgery! Just try to take it easy & not over-do!

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On 04/02/2013, Lynn said ...

So glad to hear you are feeling better!!

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On 04/02/2013, Sue, the Florida Farm Girl said ...

Sounds like you had a wonderful few days. I'm so glad you're feeling better. Better weather always improves my mood, too.

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On 04/02/2013, Helen in Switzerland said ...

Wonderful news! I'm so glad to read that you are feeling better!

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On 04/02/2013, Nancy in Utah said ...

Susan, I am soooooo glad to hear you are feeling better!!! You know, my Scleroderma has settled a bit too, I can still feel it lurking and my mornings are excruciating, but when my body finally agrees to move as I want it too, I'm in much less pain than normal and my fatigue has also decreased. We are having some nice Spring weather too so maybe...but like you, I'm taking advantage of this and not questioning ANYTHING, LOL. I did finally get an appointment with an excellent Rheumatologist finally, after 8 months on a waiting list, so we shall see what the future holds. For now, I'm gonna sew, sew, sew!!! Big Hugs...

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On 04/02/2013, Valerie said ...

So happy that you are pain free for now. Hoping it will stay gone! I have been having some pain in my hand again from crocheting so haven't crocheted in several days. I sure do miss it. I hate pain. Love seeing those quilts.Just gorgeous. Happy Birthday Jesse!!!!

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On 04/02/2013, sophie said ...

Hurray for PAIN FREE DAYS!!! That's the best news.

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On 04/02/2013, Sheryl Colle said ...

So happy to read that you are feeling better. Enjoy every minute.
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