Saturday, November 12, 2016

IT's Fall ...And Craft Fairs!

I love fall - especially when the temperature is finally cooler.  I also LOVE all the craft shows that are in the area.  I am going to one at our HS today!  I especially love this one because when my oldest son was a freshman in the band - they needed money to pay for the miscellaneous band expenses that the school district did not pay for.  One of the parents came up with the ideas of a gift market. 12 years later - it's still going strong.  I remember how hard we all worked to get the vendors to signup.  The students were great.  They would play Christmas music outside to get the crowds in, they caroled through the halls, they helped vendors set up and customers with their packages afterwards.  They have anew director now - and there are some things that are different.  I do know there is a different sense of pride when you start something up as opposed to when you just continue a tradition - but it is still a good fair just the same.
... SO I'm off with my daughter to shop 'til we drop - then lunch!  Food is always a good plan!
Hope your weekend is memorable!



Wednesday, November 9, 2016

We Must Work Together

I am so glad that I will not see another political ad for a while.  I am very tired of all the negative - on all sides. Now that it is over - we must stand together to make the country a place that we are proud to call home.  It doesn't matter who won or who lost - we just have to stand together.  Enough fighting!  Let's work together in peace - for everyone's sake.



Pray for peace people everywhere!

Tuesday, November 8, 2016

Expect the Unexpected

This weekend has been one of the craziest EVER!  It actually started on Wednesday when my son - who is stationed in CA decided that he needed his truck.  OK - we could ship it...right?  NOPE - wanted to drive it back - because it's only 18 hours -PIECE OF CAKE...right.  He would get in Thursday evening, stay the night - rest and leave Friday morning...NOPE.  Came home, ate dinner, showered, checked out his truck and immediately left.  I did finally persuade him to only drive 4 hours that night because on the route he had to travel was literally baron and nowhere to stop. And he had to report every 3 hours.  WHEW - can kind of rest.  Next day was the same song...second verse...except after 15 hours of driving - he was exhausted!  Another hotel located.  Finally - on day 3 he made it back to base...safely!  So this 18 hour EASY drive turned in a 24 hours tiring event!  So glad for his safe return...so glad he didn't drive straight through!  Kids - it's hard to watch them grow up!




Enjoy your kids!
Have a wonderful day!!!

Thursday, November 3, 2016

Rain, Rain - Please Stay

Today is a slightly rainy day.  I never mind the rain much here.  Times that it rains can be few and far between,  We have had drought conditions for several years.  Then we get two days of soaking rain and then we are in flood conditions due to all the run-off.  Last winter we had lakes that were 15+FEET low.  It was sad to go to the lakes and see the ramps t the boat docks suspended in air.  In the spring we had 2-3 weeks of gentle ran.  Almost all the lakes returned to their normal levels and we were our of the drought.  Hoping for the gentle showers to continue - at least for a few days!



Wednesday, November 2, 2016

November is Here Already!

I can't believe it!  We are closing in to the end of another season.  Time to start thinking about Thanksgiving plans.  I always wonder if we should go traditional or just a nice big meal.  This year we will be fortunate to have 3 Thanksgiving dinners.  Wednesday - Thursday - and - Friday.  When your kids grow up - you do whatever you can to see them.  I have two sons that have commitments on Thursday.  I really don't care what day we celebrate the feast - as long as we can have the family together around the table to enjoy the meal.  Hope your preparations are going well!!!





Have a great day!

Monday, October 31, 2016

BOO!!!!

Well - tonight is one of the scariest times of the  year...other than election day.  I know all the kids out there have thought hard on what to wear tonight.  I love to see their imagination at work!  So - prepare for the scare!!!!!



Happy Haunting!

Sunday, October 30, 2016

WHOOP!

What a great day!  College football...tailgate parties...friends...good food...new friends...traditions...fantastic weather...marchins...families...touchdowns...and half time shows!  Enjoy your weekend!!!!!




Saturday, October 29, 2016

Today is a First

Today I am on an adventure with friends.  I am traveling several hours to attend a football game.  I know this doesn't seem like much to many - but this is the scoop.

I have had 3 children +my husband attend this university.  We have paid enough in tuition for the dean to buy his own summer home over the past 8+ years.  I have attended many tailgate parties and watch numerous march in ceremonies before the game...but I have never been to a game.  I am not a hugh football fan - but I LOVE the halftime shows.   My children were in the high school band and participated in many competitions.  I really miss that.  And with the cost of tickets being through the roof  - I was ecstatic where some tickets were just given to me!  Oh HAPPY DAYS!!!!  So I don't know who you are rooting for this weekend - but all I can say is...GIG 'EM!!!!



Friday, October 28, 2016

Click to viewTime Flies!

It's almost November!  I can't believe it.  It feels like April here.  Haven't even gotten my Halloween decorations out.  Need to get busy on that one!   Have seen some interesting decorations this year.  Lots of skeletons.  They are sitting on rocks, hung from the rafters and buried in the ground.  My favorite is the one where two skeletons have on patriotic shorts and boxing gloves.  I got a real good laugh out of that one...too bad I didn't have my camera!  Hope you see some fun and scary decorations this weekend!



Wednesday, October 26, 2016

Crochet - A Dying Art

Today - I am going to teach a crochet class.  I do this every few months.  I love to crochet.  It is so relaxing.  I learned when I was in grade school.  I would watch the nuns crochet  at lunchtime.  One day I asked Sister Veronica if she would teach me.  It was so much fun to learn.  Several of my neighbors crocheted too - and my grandmother. She lived in Wisconsin and we only saw her in the summer.  I made her a shawl every year as a Christmas gift.  My grandmother had a "Popcorn Stitch" crocheted bedspread on her bed.  It was made of string and must have weighed 50 pounds!!!!!  It was HEAVY but soooo BEAUTIFUL!!!!  She also made lace for doilies and pillowcases!  It is a shame that people do not have the time t relax and enjoy making things by hand - but as long as someone wants to learn...I will teach them!


Crocheted Doll Dress from the State Fair

Tuesday, October 25, 2016

Sounds of Nature!

It's another beautiful morning here in Texas.  As I walk my dog this morning - I can still hear the birds talking to each other.  I have spotted several opossums and armadillos scampering across the road.  There is a rumor that there is a bobcat in our neighborhood - but I have never seen it.  I did see the remains of a fox once - the wild dogs got it... :(    Although this sounds like a walk through the woods - I actually live in the city.  5 minutes from every shopping convenience known to man!  I can only imagine who unique this place must have once been - full of wonderful nature and wildlife!




Have a GREAT day!

Monday, October 24, 2016

Your Opinion Matters


Today is the first day for early voting.  I went to a designated polling station and there was a line!  It moved really quickly.  Glad to see lots of people are out!  




Your opinion matters!

Sunday, October 23, 2016

Family Day


Sunday was traditionally a day of no work - all play - to spend with your family.  We have all gotten away from that.  I remember the BLUE LAWS.  My mom would take us to the SAFEWAY parking lot to ride our bikes safely.  She would read in the car - while we would ride around in a BIG CIRCLE for hours!  It was great!  What are your family memories!



Happy Sunday!

Saturday, October 22, 2016

Hoping for a Better Day

On St. Patrick's Day a hail storm came through our area.  The amount of damage to homes in the area was huge.  We needed to get our roof replaced - and finally had it done yesterday.  After going over details with the contractor- one of the big items on my list was the landscaping in my front yard.  I am not a gardener and it is difficult for me to keep a yard.  We invested in having a professional landscape the yard and I have been working very hard to keep it looking good.  The contractor assured me that they had a quality control person that makes sure that all will be taken care of.  Well - I guess he had the day off yesterday.  Plants were smashed, branches were broken off trees and an entire tree was destroyed (Looks like I took a twig from the yard and stuck it in the ground).  Then - to top that one off - I went to our backyard area to do some pool maintenance and the smell of urine hit me in the face,  They had peed on the concrete.  YUCK!!!!!!!  There are no kind feelings in my heart of contractors!


Friday, October 21, 2016

Another One Done

Just finished another project.  Some days are definitely better than others.  I love the fabric for this stocking!  There are several different stocking designs - so I made one for each of my children.  Now they have a fun kid stocking and a decorative stocking!



Have a wonderful Friday!

Thursday, October 20, 2016

End of a Season

Today is the last day of my daughter's cross country season.  I admire these kids so much.  They are up before light to run their 5+ miles and do whatever workout coach has for them.  They prepare for this season during the summer - while most of their friends are sleeping in for 3 months!  So...GO TEAM!  I hope each and every one of you has a PR today!

Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Rip Van Winkle


Did I fall asleep and miss the holidays?  It's been 93+ here for over a week.  Doesn't seem like the holiday season - it's summertime!  I just can't believe that there are only 2 more months until Christmas!  Well - I guess I'll go sit in front of the AC and hope for the best!



Have a great day!!!

Tuesday, October 18, 2016

October's Theme

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month.  I think we each know someone with this affliction that touched our lives.  Hopefully we can beat this and other cancers soon!  Always keep those affected by this disease and their families in your thoughts and prayers.


Monday, October 17, 2016


Just Another Day!

Happy Monday!  It;s the start of another new week.  I always wonder what will be in store for us.  Still waiting on the fall weather to stick around.  Temperatures on the mid 90's today.  This doesn't feel like fall to me today.  I finished another Christmas pillow yesterday - but so much more to do!




Here are the cute little witches that have put a spell on our weather!



Have a wonderful day!

Sunday, October 16, 2016

TODAY!!


This is the day the Lord has made...Let us rejoice and be glad!




Enjoy your Sunday!

Saturday, October 15, 2016

Friendships

It is always special to spend time with people...especially those whose company you enjoy.  Relish those time... and find an opportunity to make it happen!




Have a wonderful day!

Friday, October 14, 2016

SHOPPING!!!!!

Today is a FUN day!  I am going to one of the few Christmas shows in the area that I enjoy.  The FW Junior League's Christmas in Cowtown.  I ALWAYS find such unique things there!  Can't wait to see what is in store for this year's show!!!  Hope your day will be as exciting as mine!



Thursday, October 13, 2016

DEFINITELY SOUP DAY TODAY!

Well - it's fall weather again today in Texas...of course this weekend it is going to be 90 - but today it's 64.  It is cool outside and crisp!  I love it.  Today is definitely a soup day!  My favorite is a Chicken Noodle Soup recipe that I found in a diet book.  I'm not a soup person...but I love this soup!  Here's the recipe:

Trist's Chicken Noodle Soup

1 1/2 cups wide egg noodles          1 1/2 cups vegetable broth        

1 TBS butter                                   1/2 cup water

1/2 cup chopped onion                   1/2 chopped celery

3/4 cup chopped carrots                 1 1/2 diced cooked chicken      

6 cups chicken broth                       1/2 tsp basil

1/2 tsp oregano                                1 tsp poultry seasoning

1 tsp salt                                           salt and pepper to taste

 

In large pot, melt butter. Cook onion and celery in butter until tender.  Add carrots, chicken, chicken broth, vegetable broth, water, basil, oregano, poultry seasoning, salt and pepper.  Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.  Add uncooked noodles, cover and let simmer for 15 minutes!  Enjoy!!!  (Hint: The poultry seasoning I use is Eversom California Garlic Medley.  I get it at Kroger in the Seafood Dept - ask for it by name!)

What's you favorite soup recipe?  




Have a great day!

Wednesday, October 12, 2016

Finished Another Project!


It took about two weeks - but I finally finished this project.  A request for an advent calendar for a child.  I think it turned out great!  Let me know what you think!  Now on to the next task.  Have a great evening!


Tuesday, October 11, 2016

REGISTER TODAY

Today is the last day you can register to vote in this years' election.  Your voice matters!  Your opinion counts!  This is OUR country and we shouldn't just sit back and go WHATEVER!  And most importantly...If you don't vote - DON'T COMPLAIN!







Have a Great Day!!!!

Monday, October 10, 2016

ONE PROJECT DOWN...

I have been busy sewing..but had a nice break yesterday.  Finished the farm animal panel today!  Really cute.  Wish my kids were younger for them to play with, but for some reason - after 6th grade they just aren't into it.  RATS!  Enjoy these cuties!





Sunday, October 9, 2016

A DAY AT THE FAIR!

We realized that our youngest daughter had never been to the fair.  I asked her if she wanted to go...sure!  Dallas is an hour away.  We drove there today.  PERFECT fair weather!  We ate the healthiest food we could find...crawfish cakes, cotton candy, pretzels, and of course ...funnel cake!  (The line to Fletcher's Corn Dogs was way too long!)  We saw the butterfly garden, admired the beautiful quilts and rode the ferris wheel!  Even went car shopping!  The Marine Corp Drum Corp was there too!  OORAH!!!!  I love Sousa music!  All -in - all.. a GREat day!  "Can we go again next year?"....You Betcha!








Saturday, October 8, 2016

FALL WEATHER HAS ARRIVED!

The weather this year has been CRAZY down here in Texas.  It always is.  We have been through droughts as well as floods.  Last week it was 90.  Today it's 50.  we never put our summer clothes away.  

I have several projects going at once on this football Saturday.  Hoping to complete at least one of them today.  Of course there are the usual chores and activities that get in the way...but that's life!  Hope you have a wonderful Saturday and that the weather is god where you are!



Friday, October 7, 2016

BACK TO WORK!

Well - the road trip was a success as usual.  Lots of beautiful fabrics to choose from. Fabulous lunch.  Wonderful girl gab time!!! So much to do...so little time!  Found the latest in a line from moda fabrics and the designer Stacey Iset Hsu.  It's a farm animal set.  So cute.  I will be starting that this weekend.  She also did the Lil' Red series.  Also - extremely adorable.  We - time to get busy sewing!  Hope your day is going your way!




Have a great day!!!

Thursday, October 6, 2016

ROAD TRIP!

Today I am going to my FAVORITE quilt store to shop for fabric.  This store has the most beautiful fabrics...things you can't find in the chain fabric stores.  I like to buy all my fabrics from small quilt shops.  They are all soooo different!  A dear friend and I go about every 3-4 months to this particular store. It's an hour away and great to get away for some "ME" time. Shopping - lunch - gabbing...you know fun stuff.  Last time I went - we found some wonderful fabric for Breast Cancer Awareness.  This is what I made...




Hope you have a wonderful day!!!!

Wednesday, October 5, 2016

No More Treasuries on ETSY :(

Yesterday was the last day for the treasuries.  I feel that it helped me get to know fellow artisians on ETSY.  I will miss them.

This summer was CRAZY with my kiddos home from college and just stuff.  I am trying to get more new fall and Christmas items in my shop.  I have recently done several custom orders for Raggedy Ann & Andy .  


Recently - clown impostors have been scaring the kid in our community.  Good thing I have this little guy to protect us!



Have a great day!

Sunday, June 5, 2016

Cleaning Out My Closets!

I have been getting ready for NEW products for the fall and Christmas season.  In doing so - I have cleaned out my current inventory.  All 2015 fall and Christmas items are on sale.  They are 10% - 25% off the original price.  Please visit my shop to view all the marked down items!  

Happy Pre-Fall and Christmas!!!





Monday, May 30, 2016

Don't  Forget About Dad!

June is almost here.  This is the month where families really start getting into the summer activities.  It's also the month where we remember our fathers.  Take time to give you dad a hug - or remember him any way you can.  The memories are wonderful!  





Happy Memorial Day!

Sunday, May 22, 2016

Summer is Approaching!

Well - it's been a very active few weeks - but I'm back!  Life as I know it has been interesting to say the least!

Several of my children are home from college.  One graduated from college.  One is finishing her sophomore year in HS with the usual theater plays and banquets.  Lastly - one will complete basic training in a few weeks.  

The bathroom renovation is 99% complete - which puts a smile on my hubby's face.  But the piece de resistance was fracturing my wrist!  I have been able to complete several projects.  Here is a look at some new listings!  Enjoy!  








Have a wonderful evening!!!

Sunday, May 8, 2016

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!!


To all you wonderful mom's out there...ENJOY YOUR FAMILY on this day!!!!
And to all you children out there...Give you mom a hug and tell her THANKS!




Wednesday, May 4, 2016

NO...I haven't Dropped Off the Face of the Earth!

...But I came close!!!

We are now in week 8 of our 6 week bathroom renovation - which included our master bedroom - ie. my sewing room!!!!!  All my patterns, fabric, notions, equipment is literally scattered around the entire house.  So I am trying to get motivated to add new listing to my shop.  I just completed a primitive chicken...Paula Mae.  She is designed from a Simply Nantucket's design.  Let me know what you think!  Hopefully more summer inspirations coming soon!!!



Have a wonderful evening!!!!

Tuesday, April 19, 2016

Summer Theme

I just has a request for an ornament with a summer theme!  I had never thought about that before - but it is a great idea!  I forget that everyone has needs are different from mine.  I am so glad I received the request!  Here are several views of the finished product.







If you have any ideas - let me know!  I'd love to see if I can create them!


Have a great evening!