sredeluxe

Life Is a Carnival ... Two Bits a Shot !

2012-01-23T19:22:00.000-05:00

That's about how it's been for me the past couple of weeks ... you know ... like being at a carnival ... where there's so much going on ... distraction at every turn ... it all comes at you from so many angles that it's hard to focus on any one thing.

I'm kind of feeling like a circus juggler ... with a whole lotta balls in the air ... & God forbid one should fall ... and send everthing off kilter!

Right now I'm trying to make sure that my requirements are complete for our Dealer Changeover ... and that has to be my main focus. That all happens within the next few days ... and I still have lots to do.

That's only on the work front ... so let's throw in some other personal requirements ... like dentist & doctor appointments ... and other family issues ... OMG like I said ... a real juggling act!

So ... bear with me while I get past all of this ... and I'll hopefully have some free time soon to share some things I've been wanting to!

Pneumonia ... Seriously?

2012-01-05T19:24:00.001-05:00

So ... after being up half the night Tuesday ... coughing my darned fool head off ... and my back hurting every time ... I had a bad feeling that I was beyond a cold ... and looking at (minimally) a chest infection ... but suspected it was what the doctor diagnosed ... pneumonia.

It was worse at night ... while I was horizontal ... I'd cough my brains out ... but nothing came up. That can't be good. So I went to the Walk In clinic (my doc is next door but fully booked up with other sick people) ... so saw Dr. Zarha who checked me out ... and confirmed that I had "walking pneumonia".

She prescibed 3 different things to combat the problem ... & $43 later ... with the drug plan ... I got the meds needed to combat this foe. Nasal spray for my sinus infection ... kick-ass antibiotics for the lungs ... and a narcotic cough syrup to let me sleep through the night.

I can feel them all working ... and am relieved at that. But I'm still confounded as to how I got this.

I know that at Mr. G.'s funeral it was very cold out ... and I was already sick from the Pink Eye ... so the rest of my defenses were down ... and the stress & frigid temperatures must have been just enough to make it happen.

Just glad I had enough sense to get it diagnosed when I did ... as I can actually feel these meds doing their job ... and starting to get me back on track.

Off to get more rest & fluids ... just as the doctor ordered.

Did I mention? ... I don't do sick very well?

Hugs ... Marie

Out With The Old ... & In With The New!

2011-12-31T17:27:00.006-05:00

I had planned to be up early today ... to go to the clinic and get something to relieve my current affliction. The alarm went off at 6 ... and knowing I could sleep in today (after being up half the night anyway coughing miserably) promptly shut it off ...but I was dismayed to see 10:45 on the clock when I finally was awake.

By the time I was fully functional and ready to head out ... it was 12:30. My first stop was the clinic ... and was further dismayed to find that ... they were closing at 2:00 pm ... and due to the backlog of cases ... they were not accepting any new patients. I decided that my next best option was to go see Ash ... my pharmacist. He really knows his stuff and was sure he could at least recommend something to me to deal with this grief.

Glad I did ... he took one look at me and knew that I had conjunctivitis ... or otherwise known as Pink Eye.

He gave me the best non-perscription thing he could ... Polysporin drops made just for this thing.

After just one application ... I did get some relief from that "scratch-my-eyes out" feeling ... and am glad that it will help until I can get some actual antibiotics ... which is what I will need to abort this virus.

It will be a low-key New Years for me ... given my current situation ,,, but in spite of it all ... I do wish all of you the very best for the coming New Year.

Peace ... Love ... and Joy to all. May life be loving & kind to you & yours in 2012.

Biggest Hugs to All ... Marie

PS ... caught up in my misery, I totally fogged on my promise to share the pic of the finished Go Bag!

This is the outside flap.

Will see if Mel can take an actual full shot of the whole thing tomorrow ... though it might be really late in the day! She has plans to party-hop tonight ... so expect she'll be pretty much sleeping the day away tomorrow!

She bought herself a spankin' hot little red party dress ... that I'm sure will leave them all breathless! My baby is sooo growed up now ... OMG!

Life Is ... Moving On.

2011-12-30T20:42:00.001-05:00

Ups & downs ... joys & sorrows ... gettting through it ... unexpected surprises ... every day life sends us these ... in varying forms...and it keeps us moving on.

Yesterday was sorrow ... Mr. G's funeral service was difficult for all of us ... but particularly hard for my friend Paula ... she had to endure her mother's service in the morning ... and Mr. G.'s in the afternoon.
Duty calls ... you do what you must. Several of us had to return to duty after the service ... and continue on in spite.

In the midst of it alll I was surprised by a special Season's Greeting ... a card signed by all my staff and a gift card to Michaels to boot! It was their way of saying thanks ... for all I've done for them this year! I truly appreciated this unexpected gift!

And well ... with all of this added stress ... my resistance is down & I'm dealing with a nasty upper resperatory demon that has afflicted my sinuses/chest/eyes ... the latter being the current worst. Goopy crap is impairing my vision and making me want to scratch my eyes out! I will most likely visit the clinic tomorrow to see if I can get something to make it go away!

Oh ... and I've forgotten to mention that I was totally able to get some quality stitching time in over Christmas ... and my Go Bag is nearly done!

I'll share that with you tomorrow ... as DH is chomping at the bit to get some Net time just now!

More soon ... Marie

R.I.P. ... Mr G.

2011-12-29T01:01:00.003-05:00

When I arrived at work today ... I was surprised to see lines six-deep of shoppers waiting at the checkouts ... but not surprising in light of the fact that we have had actual winter weather ... a few cms of snow followed by rain ... and to top it off ... sub-zero temps that froze it all.

I swear that almost everyone had salt in their carts ... which contributed to the line of carts.

In the midst of it all I was stunned to be informed of the saddest news ... in spite of our hopes and prayers ... Mr. G succumed to his illness ... and lost battle on Dec. 23rd.

The staff was not informed right away ... the family decided to wait until after Christmas to ... hoping to spare us the extra burden of pain that they were dealing with.

But tomorrow is his funeral ...and we will be there for our family.

I will pay my last respects and attend the funeral service of this wonderful man who didn't make it through. I am truly sad for his loss ... but sadder still for those he has left behind.

My Favourite Christmas Carol ... Carol of the Bells

2011-12-25T01:47:00.000-05:00

Hark! how the bells
Sweet silver bells
All seem to say,
"Throw cares away."
Christmas is here
Bringing good cheer
To young and old
Meek and the bold

Ding, dong, ding, dong
That is their song
With joyful ring
All caroling
One seems to hear
Words of good cheer
From ev'rywhere
Filling the air

Oh how they pound,
Raising the sound,
O'er hill and dale,
Telling their tale,
Gaily they ring
While people sing
Songs of good cheer
Christmas is here
Merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas
Merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas

On, on they send
On without end
Their joyful tone
To ev'ry home

Ding, dong, ding, dong.

Hark! how the bells
Sweet silver bells
All seem to say,
"Throw cares away."

Many years ago ... in my days of youth ... I was part of our church's Christmas troup that went caroling to our parish members homes. It was total fun to entertain ... singing from the heart all of the wonderful music that is part of Christmas. This one is my all-time fave songs... and while I cannot authenticate this as fact ... my sis Cathy believes that it actually was Ukrainian in origin ... and yes we did sing it in Ukrainian ... and it was lovely.

We were reminiscing those days tonight as she & family joined us for our traditional Christmas Eve buffet gathering ... we opened a few small gifts ... and shared some Christmas spirit(s).

So I'm curious to know ... what is your Number One Favourite Christmas song ?

And So This is Christmas .....

2011-12-24T17:32:00.000-05:00

The retail madness finally over ... I can finally begin to enjoy & anticipate Christmas!

While I did have to work today ... I actually had a really great day ... many regular long-time customers made a point of chatting with me after their purchases ... to wish me Merry Christmas ... and several actually thanked me for my great service to them this year! That was special! And ... yesterday Diane Matheson stopped in to say Hi & Merry Christmas in person ... so that was lovely too!

This week was a sad one for two more staff members. One of my cash staff received news that her father passed away out in Nova Scotia. He had been ill for some time ... and while she is relieved his pain is over ... it doesn't make his loss any less painful.

My friend & co-worker Paula lost her Mom ... and my heart goes out to her ... certainly a difficult time to have this happen ... another curve ball in life ... death's timing sucks.

My SIL Kristine is awaiting bad news soon too ... her brother Jamie is in critical care right now fighting cancer ... his time is very short ... he only has days left ... heavily medicated for the pain ... which is all the medical staff can do for him.

And so this is Christmas ... not the best one ... but the burden of the living is to carry on ... in spite.

Some of you have shared memories of similar losses at this time of year ... so you know the pain & sadness first hand.

Despite the adversity ... I want to wish all of you a Merry Christmas ... and All the Best in 2012!

Peace ... Love & Joy to you & yours! Cherish those who are special to you ... remember those you miss ... for they will be with you in spirit!

Love & Big Hugs ... Marie

A Sentimental Moment

2011-12-19T20:36:00.002-05:00

So there I was last night ... working feverishly to complete this huge card for Mr. G. & family ... and I was adding cut - out bits from saved cards that ... for whatever reason I had saved over the years.

I wanted to add bits from these ... on the pages of the card ... stuff like graphics & scripting ... and then welll ... I stumbled across one that just made me cry.

It was from my dearly departed SIL Patty that she had sent back in 1989 ... wishing a Merry Christmas and telling me that they were planning on coming out (from Nova Scotia) to our wedding the following February.

As it turned out ... my brother did manage to make it ... but she was tied up with her business and not able to attend.

I only saw her once after that. My brother had been transferred by his company back to Toronto ... and I visited them at their new house when they had settled in. Patty had landed a cool new job selling travel insurance to travel agencies in the South-Central Ontario Region ... which required her to travel and visit these agencies as a rep.

It was summer ... and they had rented a weekend cottage on a lake ... to enjoy . It worked out great for her ... as she could stay there on the weekend then she could head to appointments closer to this location than it would be from home.

On Monday morning ... she was doing just that ... heading for her first appointment. She was en route when the thoughtless actions of a truck driver put her in a fatal situation. She met with this fool in a head-on collision that ended her life.

He was going too fast ... and not prepared to slow for a vehicle ahead that was turning right ... so he pulled left to avoid colliding with this car ... and she was right there.

Senseless ... nowhere to escape ... final. Tragic.

My brother was only able to identify her by her wedding ring.

To this day I cannot imagine how horrible it must have been for him.

To make matters worse ... my neice Emma had just been born ... the day before. My sis ... Emma's Mom ... was the one who had introduced Lawrence & Patty ... and none of us could bear to tell her of this tragedy ... until she was home from the hospital ... and her funeral service pending.

Cathy had planned on naming her first sweet baby Emma Jane ... but changed it to Emma Jean ... Jean being Patty's middle name.

When I stumbled accross this special old Christmas greeting ... I just lost it.

For me ... Christmas is all about family ... cherishing & sharing with those we love ... and for remembering the ones who are no longer with with us.

I know this is not unique to me ... I'm certain that many of you have these sad feelings too ... especially when the holiday season is here.

Share if you wish to ... the memories of special people that you want remembered ... at this time of year.

Call it a Hugfest ... let's be there for each other ... to share in our feelings ... of loss ... remembrance & love for those we so dearly miss.

One Week To Go ... 'Til Chrismas Eve!

2011-12-17T23:49:00.000-05:00

Where does the time go? OMG ... Christmas Eve is a week away!

But I am gaining on it ... a bit at a time. Planning to shop a bit more tomorrow and the wrap like a fiend!

Today my focus has been on creating a really big card ... the most special one to date ... as it will be from the staff of the whole store ... for Mr. G & the Graham family.

Those who have been following will know that he has recently been diagnosed with Prostate Cancer ... and has decided to retire ... not only to deal with his treatment ... but to focus on beating this ... and we are all praying that he will succeed in doing so.

We as a group decided to share our good wishes sooner than later ... as our hopes & prayers are needed now ...for encouragement & support.

I penned a poem remeniscent of "T'was the Night Before Christmas" ... but with a whole new twist ... encompassing our hopes, prayers & wishes that he will have the strength & ability to beat this foe.

I'm just about done with my efforts on it today ... and will carry on with it tomorrow ... with a ton of "Cut & Paste" to do with photos.

Sleep now ... more to do tomorrow!

Two Weeks Till Christmas ... and I'm So Behind!

2011-12-10T23:48:00.001-05:00

Okay ... more than behind ... more like behind the "eight ball"!

I haven't really even started Christmas shopping ...except for the wee staff gifts I picked up ... some 2-year Planners ... which I'm hoping they will use to write in their schedules and personal events to help me plan their required time off etc.

These were a big hit the last time I gave them ... such a little thing ... but it was so effective ... very slim and fits in to any purse or backpack ... perfect for everyone.

I've had social events that required my attendance ... like a Farewell Dinner for one long-time staff member who left recently ... and our annual Duffin's Creek Board Dinner last night ... which was wonderful at The Keg!

When I've found a little spare time I've been adding seams to my new Go Bag ... and have made some really good progress on it.

You can see some of the seams starting to come together ... but there's still many more to do ... so I'm pecking away at it when I can. I haven't imposed any specific deadline on myself for completion ... so I'll be finished whenever I'm finished.

I suppose I'd better get focused on being Santa pretty soon ... or there won't be much under the tree!

Oh darn ... no tree yet either! The kids are gonna have to help with that next weekend ... for sure!

While I'm sure it'll all come together on time ... I still have sooo much to do!

Show Was Fun ... But ...

2011-12-06T22:50:00.000-05:00

Oh well ... shows are always a crapshoot ... ya never know what to expect!

It was fun ... but traffic was very low ... the weather certainly did put a damper on things ... as it poured all afternoon! Needless to say it was a bit disappointing ... but the spirit of the season was there ... for the people who did come in.

I did get to hang out with Jen ... and enjoy warm apple cider ... and a tiny yummy cupcake that one booth offered ... topped with a wee sugar Gingerbread figure ... sweet!

It's Show Time !

2011-12-03T23:45:00.000-05:00

While I like the exposure on the Web ... Artfire in particular ... to share my wares ... every once in awhile I like to "get out there" & personally share my creations with the public!

Such an opportunity recently presented itself ... a Christmas Bazaar / Fundraiser for local dance studio.

My dear friend Jen (a former neighbour) has two girls who are very talented & very involved in dance ... at the Alison Darling Studio ... which is a stone's throw from here & where this event will be held.

It's a mere $20 to have a table ... plus I get to hang out with Jen for a few hours ... and that is worth the price of admission alone!

I'll have an assorment of goodies to share ... from earrings to Potpourri ... so it should be fun.

Will fill you all in with the details when it is done,

I Survived Magic Weekend!

2011-11-27T20:35:00.000-05:00

Well ... I'm late out of the gate at wishing all my US friends a Happy Thanksgiving ... and I hope it was full of good fun & good food!

I myself was enveloped in the craziness that we at the Tire call "Magic Weekend" ... our annual event that is the kick-off to the Christmas season.

Friday & Saturday I was there from 7 - 4 ... to process the throngs of shoppers out for the best deals ... and OMG ... we were at one point a little overwhelmed! I had to keep calling in more & more staff for help! It was certainly a Black Friday for us ... as we were sooo in the black (way better than last year)!

I was glad at the patience of the crowd ... they were very content to wait in long lines to score their deals ... next year we'll plan for more staff earlier! Who knew so many people would have this day off & free to shop? Live & learn. Yes well ... that's retail for ya!

In the free time I could scrounge ... I tried to relax & spend a bit of time in the therapy of creative pursuits ... finished piecing a new heart for a special project ... and then this new Go Bag ... which seems to have raptured my creativity!

Maureen Greeson has referred to this style as "whole cloth CQ" ...but I prefer caaling it "Faux CQ".

Faux translated from French would mean "Fake" ... but Faux sounds more elegant. It employs seam treatments ... but on one piece of solid fabric as opposed to a traditionally pieced CQ format.

Here you can see the right & wrong sides of the denim fabric I'm working on ... thought I'd show both as the lighter wrong side shows it better. On the right side ... I'll stitch the seam treatments ...mostly in Pearl Crown Rayon for it's awesome & spectacular contrast on the denim ... and if need be I could throw it in the wash the odd time.

So now with the basic map in place ... I'm going to start creating seams ... yaaaa the fun part!

I'll share more when I get that happening!

Busy Busy Busy! BDs, Projects & Retail ... Oh My!

2011-11-22T23:49:00.005-05:00

November is always a busy month for me ... both my kids are November babes ... so I don't even start thinking Christmas until ... well ... today!

Melanie's BD was November 13th ... yes my baby girl was born on a Friday no less ... so I've always thought of Friday the 13th as a pretty darned lucky day.

In Canada ... 19 is Legal age ... and it is with mixed feelings of relief and dismay that I welcome this milestone in her life!

I have to say ... it was quite amusing to watch her do Birthday Shots with a couple of friends that we've known since Grade 3! Tim treated to dinner and a huge bar tab ... but he also instigated many of the shots. Her party was at the Bear & Firkin where he works ... and while he was actually working that night ... indulged in a few shots with the group.

Mommy lasted till 9:00 pm ... with only one drink for good cheer ... and headed home ... as she had been at work early that day ... & was pretty much done!

Tim's BD was yesterday ... and he wanted to go to the Imperial Buffet for dinner. So we did ... and then afterward met up with his friends for some BD cheer.

This was his King Birthday ... born on the 21st ... and turning 21! Now that's a special BD!

Both of their gifts this year were wallets.

I was thrilled that ... weird as this may seem ... the very wallet that I chose for Mel. ... she was actually contemplating buying from Danier ... not two weeks ago ... but I was unaware of that when I bought it!

And Tim's ... was exactly right for what he needed ... a new one that was a bit more elegant than his old raggy thing ...just enough for ID and cash ... and he was happy with it. Hard thing to accomplish for a young man whose first love is electronics ... video games specifically ... which he also got from Melanie.

Okay ... so even with all these special events going on ... I've been focusing on some creative endeavours ...because welllll ... when the ideas hit ... ya just gotta go with the flow!

I pieced another CQ Heart ... because I have plans for a new project themed with it. And ... right out of left field came another project that has consumed me ... a small purse that I'm calling a Go Bag ... the kind of thing that will accomodate just the bare essentials ... wallet, phone & keys. Base is denim ... with the outer flap worked in Faux CQ ... seam work done on a solid base. Some pics will help to visualize ... when I get to that stage.

And then there's my day job ... which is becoming more intense with Christmas on the horizon! Yup ... sales are up ... and that's a good thing!

More soon!

Ciao for now!

Hugs ... Marie

On The Roller Coaster ... Yet Again!

2011-11-15T20:47:00.000-05:00

Yes well we all know life is about "ups & downs" and that's why I always feel like I'm on the perverbial Roller Coaster!

The Past two weeks have been no exception.

Now that I'm over this "sick thing" ... I'm back into the grind and from now on ... it's pretty much "full tilt" to Christmas! Yup ... that's the way it goes in retail ... Halloween is but a memory ... pack it away and Deck The Halls! And ... just to make sure I can stave off the worst new bug that might rear it's ugly head ... I got my annual Flu Shot this week too!

I don't think that I mentioned this ... but one of my regular day gals had a very bad injury a few weeks ago ... she was getting off the bus on her way home from work one day ... and managed somehow to trip on the stairs ... the worst is that the way she fell ... she managed to fracture BOTH ankles!

OMG ... like one would have been bad enough ... two is gonna definitely put you right out of commission! She can barely walk at all ... let alone stand! I feel so bad for her ... she is one of my most dedicated people ... the kind who will do whatever it takes ... whenever it's needed!

Okay ... this is a glimpse ... I phoned her today to see how she was doing ... and if she had any idea when she might be able to get back on duty. She was being faced with the possibility of surgery to fix one of the fractures ... but the specialist told her that ... fortunately it would not be needed. While happy about that ... this same specialist warned her that because she's diabetic ... she would have to expect a longer recouperation time. And ... while she can accept that ... the realization that winter weather is imminent ... and that she'll have to be extra careful ... she dresses every day in her uniform ... just to keep focused that soon she will be coming back to work!

Now that's dedication!

Yesterday I got some very grim news ... our Dealer ... Bill Graham is going to retire ... for health reasons. He has recently been diagnosed with Prostate Cancer. This is a cruel diagnosis for a man that was expecting to have Golden Years in front of him. Now it is uncertain as to how much time he has left.

Harder still ... is the repercussions for us all ... going into the busiest time of the year ... knowing that the Boss is personally overwehelmed by a fight for his life.

As a team ... we can only perform as we must ... to focus on the task at hand ... and to do what we must to get through. We are strong ... and can do this ... in spite of all odds.

But it so sucks ... that we will have to face the ultimate demise of one man who is so loved by his staff ... a gentle giant .. a husband & father & grandfather ... it is just so hard to anticipate.

And ... on the horizon ... the prospect of a new dealer ... what does that mean for all of us? Are we all secure in our positions ... or will we be replaced by staff of his/her choosing?

It's not even something we can speculate on at this time ... it's a "wait & see" situation.

I for one am confident in my abilities and contributions to the day-to-day performance that is required to keep things happening ...but I do worry for some of my protoges.

Time will tell!

It's a Cake Walk!

2011-11-10T23:44:00.000-05:00

Imagine my surprise ... when the local Wednesday paper arrived ... and right there on the cover was my daughter's boss!

Lisa is another local Pickering artist ... her medium ... cakes!

She & her team recently won top honours on Cake Walk - Wedding Cake Edition (TLC - Slice) ... with their Halloween themed creation!

You can see some of her fabulous creations at : flourconfections.com

Playing With Paisleys

2011-11-08T21:44:00.000-05:00

I actually have a few projects on the go right now ... one is simmering for a grand debut early next year ... and one is sort of a spin-off that just kinda happened as a result.

The latter is in essence ... beaded paisleys ... and I've cranked out 10 so far ... and they are pretty cool!

I'll get them scanned in and put up on ArtFire soon for you to see.

I'm thinking they'd be a perfect little embellishment for a CQ piece ... they're strung on wire ... which can be couched down ... then embellished as your heart desires ... fill it up with stitchery or more beads ... an SRE spray or ... well ... just let your imagination run wild! After all ... there are no rules here.

Inspiration is the key ... and fun will be the result!

Hugs ... Marie

MUCH Better ... Thanks!

2011-11-04T20:28:00.000-04:00

Ahh ... it feels so good to be back to my old self again. I'm confident this nastiness is behind me.

At the worst of it ... I did seek out the advice of a trained professional ... namely a pharmacist ... to find out what I could / could not tolerate in combination with meds that my doctor has me on. Funny how it fell in step with what I was already contemplating!

There's this cool product that I've employed from time to time that for me seems to help a lot ... and it's basically a mega-dose of good ol' Vitamin C ... Redoxon 1000 mg hits ... helps naturally to fight invading viruses ... that's it's job ... that's what it does ... and why didn't I think of that earlier?

I also added just a few doses of Tylenol Rapid Release and OMG ... I can function again!

It's all good!

FLU ... Ewww

2011-11-01T17:01:00.000-04:00

It's been a long time since I've had the flu ... sure ... the odd cold here & there ... but the past few days ... OMG! Wouldn't wish this on my worst enemy!!!

It started Saturday ... and got worse as the day progressed. I had already planned to have a few more vacation days (in lieu of Friday & Saturday I had to cover because of scheduling conflicts) ... I just hadn't quite planned to spend them in horizontal misery! Didn't even make it through my whole shift ... didn't care ... just had to go lie down!

Nausea ... dizziness ... headache ... stabbing flu pains ... but worst was a dry hacking cough that wouldn't stop & left me feeling like I'd been beaten ... couldn't sleep ... then the coughing turned painful ... like my lungs were on fire ... ooowwww.

That was enough! Headed out in search of brandy ... which I have found works better for chest congestion than any damned cough medicine! It's that warming sensation that radiates all the way down ... and the alcohol's sedative effect turns off the cough trigger ... and I'm sure it wipes out some germs along the way!

While I'm still feeling a bit rubbery ... the worst is over ... the brandy did get rid of that nasty hack ... still the odd one now, but not painful like yesterday. Keeping my diet light ... soup, eggs, toast ... the thought of anything heavier just not appealing at all.

To top it off ... this was the first time ever that I didn't do Halloween treats ... I felt bad about that ... but felt worse period. Mel had to work until 6:30 ... and called to see if I had picked up any candy. No ... I said ... but feel free to grab some if you feel like doing Shell Out ... so a bit later she arrived with several boxes of treats ... got some tea lights for two plastic Jack O Lanterns and set up outside to hand out treats! She only had two kids come to the door! Awwwe!

I'm thinking that she missed the bulk of the traffic the hour or so before ... and with Halloween on a school night ... they were done early. Gotta give her A for effort!

Evanescence ... AWESOME !

2011-10-26T02:21:00.001-04:00

I haven't been to a concert in a very long time ... think the last one was Pink Floyd ( before kids with DH) so ... okay that was well over 20 years back!
Tonight I had the incredible adventure of seeing Evanescence LIVE and OMG it was an awesome show!

It was way cool that I enjoyed it as much as my daughter did! Amy Lee has an incredibly powerful voice and such unforgetable talent ... the air was electric ... with the resounding echoes of all the TO fans singing along to all their faves as she belted them out (several time she just let the crowd sing the lyrics) ... interspersed with songs from her newest album (which I'm sure will be as succesful as the previous ones ... by the sound of what they shared!)

While it was a general admission show ... which translated into standing for the whole thing ... I wouldn't have missed it regardless ... but I think there should be a standing rule that us short people should be automatically be allowed front row spots ... really hard to try & catch a glimpse of the action while peaking between tall people! I did resort to watching part of the show on monitors ... and even the cell phones of some of those tall people in front of me!

Still ... it was worth it ... and wouldn't have missed it for the world!

Hearts For Betty

2011-10-24T13:03:00.002-04:00

Hurricanes are a phenominal force of nature ... that wreak havoc and create severe destruction in their wake. Imagine back-to-back hurricanes!

Our dear friend Betty Pillsbury can tell you a thing or two about that experience ... and how she was affected ... suffering loss of crops (the full effect may not be known until spring) and household damages.

I saw the picture she shared of water flowing across her garden like a river ... crazy ... devistating.

My heart went out to her ... for having deal with it all ... and pray she can recover her business & crops next season.

I found a post on CQI from Cheryl Anderson ... inviting members to create Hearts For Betty ... to share heart ornaments as a show of support & caring for one individual who contributes so much to the stitching world through her amazing talent & teaching.

I had the opportunity to meet Betty at a stitching weekend many years ago ... and learned tons from her ... and in general the whole weekend was a blast ... especially the Downtown TO shopping trip!

So ... now my "heart" will really be going out to her ... as I will mail out my ornament today.

Yes ... I have pics and No you can't see ... at least until I know that she has seen it first!

Hugs ... Marie

That's What I'm Talkin' About!

2011-10-09T18:21:00.001-04:00

Can't you just taste them???

MMMMmmmm!

Rich & Yummy ... with some goodness in there somewhere!

Happy Thanksgiving !

2011-10-08T10:47:00.005-04:00

MMMmmm ... I can almost smell that ham baking ... and all the fixin's that'll go with it ... like roasted sweet potatoes ... squash ... and baked stuffing!

Keep the Pumpkin Pie ... I'm going with luscious Carrot Muffins ... which will of course have a Cream Cheese frosting ... but Melanie decided to buy a piping bag from the shop where she works so they'll look extra decadent!

The weather is supposed to be awesome ... and I'm sooo thankful that I'm off to enjoy it!

Decided to play with a new background this morning ... a change is as good as a rest!

Happy Thanksgiving to all my Canuck friends ... what will you be enjoying?

Hugs ... Marie.

It's Snowing Again!

2011-10-03T18:51:00.000-04:00

Just kidding! I don't mean in the natural sense ... but I'm referring to those snowflakes I had created last year ... pendants ... pins ... and earrings!

I had some left over ... & have put them up on ArtFire ! I have a few more to scan in ... that were not shown last year ... and hope to get to those this long weekend ... Thanksgiving weekend here in Canada.

I was hoping to create more this year ... but am now thinking I may not have the time ... work is imposing some unexpected staffing challenges and well ... I may be otherwise occupied!

So what's there is the balance of what I have available ... scoop 'em while ya can!

Hugs ... Marie

And ... The Winner Is ...!

2011-10-01T21:49:00.001-04:00

Well ... even though I did have to work today ... Tim did treat to dinner tonight and we had a great time!

Melanie couldn't make it ... as she was part of her company's booth staff at the "Baking & Sweets" show at the International Centre this weekend ... and Dad was swamped at work shipping out three tractor-trailors of products to meet a deadline for one major client ... so my sis Cathy & neice Becca, Tim & I had a lovely time regardless! Irish Nachos (potato cross-cut fries topped with traditional Nacho fixin's) and deep-fried Mozzarella Sticks started us off with cocktails ... then Wings in Forty Creek sauce with a side Caesar salad for me ... Honey Garlic for Cathy & Becca ... while Tim opted for Hot. No ribs on the menu ... poo! But really good wings ... so we did totally enjoy!

Tim's boss John treated me to a birthday dessert ... OMG ... a huge scoop of French Vanilla Ice Cream drizzled with caramel & chocolate sauce, with a warm Chocolate Fudge Brownie in the centre ... and a mound of fresh whipped cream on the side to boot! It came with one solitary candle ... and a rousing chorus of "Happy Birthday" from the staff & guests!

All in all ... just lovely! Good food ... good fun ... good memories!

So now ... without further ado & as promised ... the name of the winner ... that one name drawn from the infamous Lucky Tin is ...

Lisa Jo ... from Black Bear Cabin!

Congrats to you my dear! I'll need you to e-mail me your snail address so I can forward your prize!

Thank you all for your BD good wishes ... much appreciated! Hugs to you everyone!

Marie ... aka ... the BD Girl!

Birthday Coming ... and that means ... a BD Draw!

2011-09-28T11:10:00.000-04:00

I keep telling myself ... "You're not getting older ... you're getting better!"
My body keeps telling me ... "Yup ... you're getting older!" Ugh!

Ahhhh to be twenty something again ... a physical impossibility I know ... but I try to do it mentally!

October 1st is the day ... Kids & Dad are taking me out for dinner ... and that's all I really want! Don't need any presents ... but I'm going to give one!

I do apologize for being "late out of the gate" ... I'm having issues with the downstairs computer ... it won't let me get onto the Net ... have to wait for DH to find out what's up with that! Mel let me use her box to get on-line.

For several years now I have taken up a tradition started by Nora Creeach ... a dear departed e-friend. It was a book I won in one of her BD draws that led to an epiphany & triggered my ability to create patterns! I can't say that will happen for you with this gift ... but it will be something cool created by moi!

My dear followers ... your names are automatically entered into the Lucky Tin for the draw ... and a comment post will get you a second entry! Other readers may enter too by posting a comment!

I'll draw the winner after my BD Dinner on Oct. 1st.

Good Luck to all!

Birthday Wishes & Hugs also going out to two of my fellow Libran stitchers ... the amazing Pat Winter ... whose BD is the day before mine ... and who incidentally is having a huge BD Draw of her own ... and to the awesome Betty Pillsbury ... a few days after mine ... I still have fond memories of that stitching weekend in Markham! It was so great to learn so much from you!

Hugs ... Marie

9-11 ... Ten Years After

2011-09-11T21:06:00.000-04:00

I know we all remember the horror vividly ... it was a catastorphic event that shook us ... to the very core.
We stared in disbelief that such an unbelievable disasterous event could be happening as we watched ... that the lives of so many innocent people could be lost ... fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, firefighters, police officers ... paramedics ... all who had no idea that this would be their last day of life ... 2,977 was the final official count of the victims that day.

My niece Sarah was born on September 4th that year ... my sister recalled standing & rocking her new baby ... as she watched the events on TV ... crying openly ... and feeling such grief for all mothers out there ... who had lost their children ... but at the same time feeling blessed with this new sweet creature in her arms.

My niece Amber's birthday is September 11th ... it was her worst birthday ever! Who could feel happy on such a day ...knowing the awful things that happened? At that time she was already becoming socially concious ... and realized what the whole event meant to all of those families affected by the loss of loved ones! It took her a long time to shake off the grief ... and to this day never forgets what happened on her 15th birthday.

This year Sarah turned 10 ... and shared her day with several friends ... the way kids should.

This year Amber turned 25 ... yup ... a whole quarter century ... and is currently going to school to become a paramedic.

I'm not certain if those specific events had any bearing on her career focus ... but she is determined to follow her heart. Maybe it's her way of sharing her giving spirit in light of the trauma she felt back then.

Time is the healer of all wounds ... & I pray that it has been for the families of every soul lost on that tragic day.

Fruits of My Labours

2011-09-07T01:07:00.001-04:00

I added a whole whack of new stuff over on ArtFire today ... some were completed recently and some I had scanned in ... and finally had the chance to list!

I've been preoccupied lately by the Little Black Dress ... or rather Neck Lace that would simply be the perfect thing to finish it!

Delicate & classy ... maybe even sassy ... definitely different!

Labour of Love Day !

2011-09-05T23:39:00.002-04:00

Labour Day Weekend ... the last long weekend of the summer ... and I had to labour!

Yup ... it was my weekend on ... but the store is closed today for the holiday and tomorrow is my day off so it worked out okay.

I suppose Labour Day in general is meant to recognize the efforts of all who work ... and who have over the years contributed to building strong nations ... affording us the bountiful lifestyle we enjoy today.

I for one spent the day labouring at what I love most ... creative endeavours! I had a few ideas simmering ... and turned them into completed projects ... 4 and a half to be exact! I'll get to scanning the finished ones in tomorrow ... and will have them up shortly on ArtFire for you to see.

For now I have to finish up with another form of labour ... laundry!

Hugs ... Marie

PARTY ... Like You're ... ONE!

2011-09-01T23:34:00.000-04:00

Well ya know ... a special event ... like your first birthday ... there's gotta be fun ... and cake!

Those two li'l monkeys sure got a fun one!

Uncle Chris came to visit for the day ... Alex got a photo op here with him.

Cake is not a regular item on the menu of any meal ... but hey ...it's expected for your BD!

Yummy ... we like cake!

There were lots of fun presents ... and check out the cool new Cars chairs!

That's how ya party when you're ONE!

Meet Jasmine!

2011-08-29T19:26:00.000-04:00

Kids can surprise you ... okay that is putting it mildly ... they can make you shake your head and wonder sometimes when they decide they want something ... unusual!

This is Jasmine ... Melanie's new pet. She is a Yellow Belly Ball Python.

We picked her up yesterday & she's now getting aquainted with her new environment.

I suppose it's the lesser of two evils ... because before this she was contemplating spending her hard-earned money on an elaborate tattoo ... in the wake of several peircings (ears, nose & belly button).

In general Mel is a good kid ... I've never had to fish her out of a police station ... or worse had her brought to the door by same (for all the neighbours to see) ... so indulge her whimsical notions.

As far as pets go ... this baby is rather economical ... she only feeds about once a week ... yup one frozen mouse will do her ... and they cost about $2.00 each.

The cats don't know what to make of this new creature ... Kota doesn't seem to care for it at all!

He used to enjoy watching the fish swimming around in the tank ... but they're gone now and this thing is just ... welll ...not a fish. After their first encounter ... he ran from the room muttering!

We'll see what the long term brings.

I personally have not gotten up enough courage to hold her ... but in time I may ... maybe.

It's not that I don't want to ... it's just uncharted territory for me too ... at the moment!

So Long, Ross French!

2011-08-27T20:27:00.001-04:00

Ross French has been our "fix - it" guy for nearly ten years ..... and now he's due to retire!

He's soft-spoken ... he gets in & does what needs doing ... and moves on to the next job.

We are going to miss his professional abilities around here.

We wanted to give him a keepsake ... and this card included some pics

as well as messages from all of the residents thanking him for his dedicated service.

My friend & fellow board member Val penned the poem & took the pics around the co-op.

I cut out and pasted exactly enough little houses for each unit ... plus an extra one for the office.

Each small house was labelled with a Unit # so that residents could add their own message.

We ( The Board of Directors) took him out to The Mandarin Restaurant for a

Farewell dinner ... and presented him with this card. He was thrilled!

So long Ross French ... we're all gonna miss you!

Happy 1st BD to The Twins!

2011-08-25T22:54:00.000-04:00

Happy BD You Two

Happy BD Aiden & Alex ...

Happy BD You Two!

That's how ya sing Happy BD to twins!

My how time flies! These li'l monkeys turned 1 today!

Getting so big ... and almost walking!

Love & Hugs ... Aunt Marie

OH YEAH ... I Can Scan Again!

2011-08-13T16:06:00.002-04:00

Hardware frustrates me ... when it's all hooked up & running smoothly its great ... but when you find yourself with a great scanner hooked up to a dead computer ... well that sucks!

So ... yesterday I finally did something about it ... unplugged it from the dead one ... and after re-organzing the computer station downstairs got it hooked up to the one that works. I did have driver issues that DH had to help with ... but it's all good now!

I've got lots of little goodies that I've been tinkering with ... aimed at ArtFire !

Some of you may know that they have recently made changes that pretty much eliminated the "basic" memberships ... so PRO I go!

I've added some beaded CQ motifs ... that'd be perfect for adding sparkle & pizazz to a project ... & they could even be used to secure a cabachon or frame a ciggie! There's a few up already ... and a bunch more on the way ... just as soon as I get them scanned!

As I've been light on the visuals of late ... thought I'd treat you to a project that is "hot off the press".

It started out as a motif until my brain decided to switch gears ... and now it is Neck Lace ... with earrings to match! I like it so much ... I'm keeping it ... but hey ... I may be making more!

Enjoy!

It's Official ... Amy & Chris Are ... Engaged!

2011-08-12T16:57:00.001-04:00

Isn't this gorgeous?!!!

I heard it said (some time ago) that "People still get married, buy houses, & have children ...

but not necessarily in that order!" True enough for Amy & Chris.

Priorities change when you find out that twins are in your future!

They bought a home together and got settled in ... and the nursery ready!

They also had to move my brother (Amy's Dad) in too ... so there was a lot on the go!

Welll ...those two l'il dickens are almost a year now ... August 25th to be exact!

They took their first family vacation altogether ... to Newfoundland ... to meet Chris's family!

With the sea and icebergs as a backdrop ... Chris got down on one knee ... and proposed!

Amy cried for ten minutes ... then after she regained her composure said YES!

They're planning the wedding for next year in September ... but wisely checking out locations now.

Amy has a friend who is a wedding planner ... and will be helping them with arrangements ...

and booking the venue now was the first thing on her list!

It seems like a long time away ... but at the speed of life these days ...

it'll be here before they know it!

CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU BOTH!

Big Hugs ... Love ... Aunt Marie

More Cards For Life Events!

2011-08-03T00:36:00.000-04:00

Like Nana Roseanna Danna used to say ... "It's always something!"

OMG ... I've created a perverbial monster!

These cards I've been creating seem to fit the bill so readily for a wide variety of occasions that I've created several more recently for BIG events!

( I swear I'm gonna have to clue Hallmark in to this untapped market ... maybe even offer my designs up for sale!)

Mel has taken pics for me ... but need to get them from her computer to this one ... after they get downsized to a portable format ... as they're just too large to put on the Jump Drive,

A Baby Shower ... A Retirement ... and a Farewell Amanda are the most recent creations!

Jennifer is due sometime later this month with a baby ... Ross is retiring after 10 years as our reliable Maintenance Guru at the co-op ... and a gal that has worked for me for five years just landed an awesome job at a resort out in Banff, Alberta as a Reservations Clerk ... the very field she's been going to school for!

How can these awesome life events not be appreciated?!!

The fact of these matters are that these special people/events were celebrated with custom unique cards that celebrates them ... and that my friends is reward enough ... in that each of them will feel special in their own right ... which they are.

I'm fortunate to have a talent that can create special things for special people ... and it doesn't have to have a monetary value attached ... when the end result is the reward of making someone feel special ... just because they are.

Visuals will follow ... as soon as I can post them!

Hugs ... Marie

Alive & Kicking ... But Hot!

2011-07-23T21:32:00.000-04:00

Well ... I haven't fallen off the face of the earth ... I've just been busy ... and/or haven't found time to actually sit down & catch up.

I had heard that this summer was forecasted to be hot & dry ... and so far it has been exactly that.

But ... there's hot and then there's HOT! This past Thursday was just ridiculous! Oppresive heat! It was the first time ever that I closed the Garden Centre ... because of the heat/humidity! Nobody in their right mind was looking to garden that day anyway!

So much going on recently that has been distracting me too. I recently aquired a new family doctor ... after not having seen one for several years ... and he insisted on a full regimen of tests ... everything from bloodwork to mammogram and a Bone Density Scan ... and while that was not my initial reason for going to see him ... thought it was prudent to cover a wide spectrum ... to see what was up with my general health.

I wasn't quite prepared to learn that I have severe osteoporosis.

For several years now I've been having issues with various types of pain ... mostly joint pain ... specifically in my knees ... and hands. But to think that my interior structure is weakening to the point where I have to worry about the possibility of fracturing things ... like my spine or hip bones ... wellll ...it's downright disconcerting!

I've never had a broken bone in my life ... and now I have to worry that any false move could do just that. It's kind of scarey.

Upon medical advise I have begun a calcium supplement regimen ... but repelled the suggested therapy of a drug called Fosamax ... which is supposed to help strengthen bone ... but that apparently has alternative affects in a small percentage of patients ... my sister being one ... something diagnosed as Jaw Death ... when the drug basically causes the jaw bones to weaken.

Needless to say when my doctor suggested this treatment ... I categoracally declined. His response was to recommend me to a specialist.

After an appointment with same this past week ... who actually understood my concern ... recommended a different course for treatment ... so we'll see how that pans out. I already have an appointment to see him next year after the two bi-annual treatments ... I guess that's all I can do for now ... except to be careful about my daily routine ... so as not to put myself at risk with activities that could cause a problem.

It sucks getting old ... and even more so when it adds to having to worry about things that could dibilitate me.

I have too much to do ... and don't want to have to worry about such things ... but it doesn't do any good to ignore the possibility of it happening. Caught between the rock & the perverbial hard place.

Life goes on.

Happy 144th Canada!

2011-07-01T19:14:00.000-04:00

1867 ... was the year this nation became one!

I remember our Centennial ... I think I was probably like Grade 5 then ... and we celebrated it just before the end of the school year by honouring our past in costumes of our ancestors. My Mom sewed a pioneer costume for me from brown & white checked gingham ... complete with a bonnet ... and I was so proud to wear this pioneer-type costume ... to pay hommage to those who forged this wonderful land.

They came from all parts of the world ... arriving here with hopes and dreams of a better life ... free from opressive government ... and war-torn environments. They were not afraid of hard work ... and put forth every effort to achieve their goal ... to live in peace in a lifestyle that was productive & rewarding.

They never expected that it would be easy ... or that they would become rich ... but it was a better life than they had known ... and that was all that mattered.

My father was born during my grandparents journey from Ukraine. They made it as far as Poland when he was born ... spent some time there and arrived in Canada just after his second birthday. They were farmers by trade ... and settled in Saskatchewan ... carrying on their inherant abilites there.

My Mom & her Mom were both born here ... but Grandma's parents arrived as newlyweds from Ukraine ... settling in Sandy Lake, Manitoba. They were also from a farming background ... and continued with their trade here.

I suppose I've enjoyed the richness of an immigrant past ... as it has been instilled in me from a very young age. I was taught things that were important to them ... like stitching ... and growing things ... and preserving the fruits of your labours to save for the winter months ... when opening a jar of preserves brought you all the wonderful bounty that was summer.

I am glad to be one of the fortunate people to call Canada my home ... and native land!

Raising a pint ... of what else ... than "Canadian" to this awesome country of ours!!!

Cheers ... to 144 years!

As Expected ... She Cried !

2011-06-25T18:35:00.000-04:00

Yup ... we managed to pull off the surprise as planned!

Diane had no idea (until she got to there) that it was a bigger event than she thought!

She was totally shocked to find a whole bunch at the table ... when she thought that only three of them were having dinner ... yes! Gotta love when a surprise is a surprise!

I had the dubious honour of presenting her with the card and her "Honeymoon Cash" gift (over $350.00) and ... ya ... she was swept up with emotions ... and cried ... joyful tears!

All of the planning and scheming was worth it ... we had a really fun night ... and now she can let it all sink in as she has a week off for holidays.

Her next holiday booked off is for the wedding ... but she has promised to take all of us with her in her suitcase (via the card) ... to Jamaica! Sweet!

While The Cat's Away . . .

2011-06-17T00:29:00.000-04:00

So we busy little beavers have been scurrying about in secret to organize a surprise for Diane who thinks this event is something else ...and as she booked a few days off to visit her neice in Ottawa ... we can get going in earnst & not fear getting caught!

The card is smaller than the one I had done for Jenny ... as I wanted to make sure it'd fit in her suitcase! Yup ... we're all going to Jamaica ... at least our hearts will be!

Here's a shot of the envelope ... hearts & flowers & bubbly!

and the poem that's computer-scripted inside

and here's all of our hearts ... some messages added & more to come.

The card front is a compilation of pics cut from gift bags ...with scallop-edge scissors that cost a whole $1.00 ... which I also used to cut the inside hearts with!

Also found & used Gliiter Glue pens to add just a wee bit of sparkle ... hearts on the card & trim on the envelope ... even bubbles over the champagne glasses on the envelope!

Yup ... it was cheap fun ... but turned out way cool!

I'm expecting there will be tears of joy when we present this and donations

to her "Honey Moon Fund" at the dinner we're planning next Friday eve!

Will tell more about that after the event!

Hugs ... Marie

So , Here's The Latest Episode on my Roller Coaster!

2011-06-04T19:50:00.001-04:00

Of all rides at any Amusement Park ... my least favourite has always been the Roller Coaster.

But life ... anyone's life ... is typically that ... a big freakin' Roller Coaster ride!

I guess it really has been a couple of weeks since I posted anything ... and where the heck did May go??? Okay so now we're into June ... and it was weird how all of a sudden it now seems to be ... summer!

The rain seemed to disappear ... and warmth & sun seemed to magically appear ... until today ... when thunder storms were prevalent. That weather band seems to have moved through ... and back to clearing skies. YAY!

I did manage to scan in the pics of the Twin Frames ... but damned if the box upstairs didn't crash! Yup ... you guessed it ... with the pics still on there! I hate when that happens! DH has promised to move the scanner for me ... but may have to get Amy to snap pics & send to me now that she has possesion of them.

I've taken on a new project for work ... seems my last big card was such a hit ... that I was asked to do another for the next big event ... Diane's wedding!

Speaking of Roller Coasters ... her life has been one too the past few years ... especially having to go through her mother's cancer fight ... then her passing after losing the fight ... so it was fabulous when she told us that she & Les were formally engaged & going to get married in August ... in Jamaica no less!

You know those times when you've found out that someone is going away to some really great place ... and wanted to get taken along packed in their suitcase? ... well ... I finally figured out how that can work! Via a big card!

I am going to insist that she take us all to Jamaica! Inside the card I penned a small poem ... and without reiterating it completely now ... suffice it to say that the message conveys that we will be with her as she & Les say their " I do"s.

I'll save a thousand words trying to describe the card ... Mel will get some pics for me to share when it's finished ... so you'll just have to wait a wee while until it's done.

This past week was devistating for my DH. One of his co-workers ... someone who he's worked closely with for over ten years ... dropped dead from a massive coronary ... a mere 52 years old! DH turns 51 in a couple of months ... so hit him pretty hard. Guess it left him feeling his mortality ... as well as the loss of a valued fellow employee. Pretty much sucks.

And as if that weren't enough to deal with ... my Mom ended up in hospital too with "drug-induced dementia" ... after her doctor changed up her long-time medication! Seems these changes had an adverse affect & now hospital staff is putting her through a barrage of tests to get her back on track ... she was home briefly ... but ordered back by the doctor for further evaluation.

Lord ... give me strength!

This too shall pass ... but it certainly increases the stress levels. The Roller Coaster ride continues!

It's Been A Looonnnggg Weekend!

2011-05-23T21:26:00.002-04:00

May 24 weekend ... also known as Victoria Day ... when those with cottages typically get their summer abodes open ... and those of us without cottages typically get their gardens planted.

This year proved to be quite a challenge ... Forget-me-nots just took over my small backyard ... and as much as I hated to do it ... I had to hack a bunch of them down ... just to gain ground!

There is still a 2 foot deep border of them around the garden but they'll have to come down before they go to seed ... or I'll have the same blue backyard next year!

I have reclaimed the area that has been reserved for tomatoes ... and planted some annuals that will be the focus of my summer colour ... it was definitely a labour of love ... but worth every second spent !

Crazy Quilt Gatherings - Issue 2 Up For Preview!

2011-05-17T22:16:00.001-04:00

It's official ... and it's another awesome edition of Crazy Quilt Gatherings from none other than the incredible Pat Winters ... and will be available for you this weekend!

You can preview the latest edition here.

I'm so excited about this one ... because it features a special block that I'm thrilled to share with you all ...something I created some time ago ... entitled Twilight in the Fairy Glen!

This block was my submission to "another" magazine's annual Calendar Contest.

While it didn't win a coveted spot in their calendar ... I personally felt it was some of my best work.

So ... check it out!

I'm thrilled that Pat asked me to submit my work for her CQ Gatherings ... this marks my sixth published piece ... I hope you enjoy it!

Love & Hugs

Marie

Friday The 13th!

2011-05-13T20:08:00.001-04:00

Are you superstitious? Does a Friday the 13th spook you?

I for one love them! My daughter Melanie was born on one ... and I know three people who have their birthday today ...Deb & Moe from work ... and my dear sis Nadine! Hope you all had a great day!

I'm still working away at Amy's first Mothers Day gift ... took soooo much longer than I thought ... but nearing the final stage & hope to scan at some point over this weekend ... and will visit her on Tuesday to deliver ... so pics will be forthcoming shortly thereafter!

Time flies so fast ... the Twins are nearly 9 months now ... Amy recently told me about the differences in their food adventures ... funny how their palates vary ... one seems to be a "meat & potatoes" kinda guy ... while the other seems to have a more adventurous food spirit ... taking to the likes of Brussel sprouts, mango & turnip! Kids , eh? They are such a surprise!

Well it has been a long & busy day ... and while that's a good thing ... it's also tiring for an old broad!

Time for feet up and some Tube Time!

Later ...Marie

Happy Mothers' Day To All You Moms!

2011-05-08T20:51:00.000-04:00

Hope all you Moms got pampered today ... you deserve it!

It dawned on me that this is my 20th Mothers' Day ... wow! Where does the time go? But for my Mom ... it's her 59th! I'm so glad I still have her with me!

My dear children found me a replacement bottle of my fave perfume ... that escaped from my purse & smashed on the ground (half full no less!) ... a box of decadent fudge in various flavours ... & DH got me a lovely bottle of Chardonnay ... that went very well with my Clam Alfredo for dinner!

For my dear neice Amy ... it is her 1st ... and though I haven't been able to connect with her yet .. I hope she is enjoying it! The twins are just over eight months now ...getting mobile ... teething ... and all the other fun stuff that comes with those infant stages ... stuff I am glad is long gone! It's lovely when your children are self-suffiecient ... have jobs ... & help pay the rent!

I am working on a special gift for her (which I'd hoped to have completed & delivered to her today ... but it is still in the works ... so maybe by Wednesday ... my day off I'll be able to get it to her). Will share pics after she receives it. For now ... suffice it to say ... it's a Twins frame.

Amy lost her Mom to cancer in 2001 ... my project incorporates fabric from the dress her Mom wore as my Matron - of - Honor. Blue satin ... and Brenda certainly was the Devil With the Blue Dress On!
I miss her every day ... she was a kindred spirit ... an awesome Mom and was taken far too young.

As I was working away on the frames ... my thoughts turned to my first Mothers' Day ... it was quite an event!

Tim was barely 6 months old ... and I decided to go visit my Mom for the day. On the way home ... I had car trouble ... on the 401 ( Toronto area residents can appreciate this ... it's one of the main arteries for traffic through the city). I was in the left centre lane of a six-lane highway when the engine started acting strange ... had to move over three lanes through heavy traffic to get to the shoulder before it all-out died! I was nearing panic at this point ... this is not where you wanna be ... ever ... let alone with a 6-month old in the back seat! He had been peacefully asleep until we stopped ... then woke up hungry & began to cry.

Ya ... just what I needed at that moment ...a crying hungry child ... while I was in tears having my own little panic attack!

I had planned to be home by then to feed him ... but a Mom's gotta do what a Mom's gotta do ... so I climbed into the back seat .. got him out of the car seat & whipped out the boob! ... all the time praying that (A) I wouldn't get rear-ended or that (B) help wouldn't arrive while we were nursing ...with me still crying my eyes out!

Somehow we got home ... don't even remember how (but I think it was by tow-truck).

So ... got any great Mothers' Day memories to share?

Sharing Sendai Block #2

2011-05-08T00:54:00.000-04:00

Instead of making you scroll down to see the "before" picture, I decided to start with it on this post so that you could quickly see how it transformed ... from the bare state to the finished one.

The starting point for this block was the heart. I wanted it to be like a floral wreath ... and just add as my creativity dictated from there. I kept thinking ... from the darkness of dispair ... into the light of hope ... and to life continuing in the face of adversity.

The butterfly at the centre caught me up ... quite close to what we know here as a Mourning Cloak.

If one creature in nature could be so reprisentative of a feeling ... surely this one seemed to fit.

Seam by seam & patch by patch I kept adding things as my inspiration dictated. Once the heart wreath was in place, I felt compelled to complete the tree at the bottom. I had cut off the greenery that completed the original scene ... but replaced it with a different look ... a wonderous full-blooming Flowering Crab that I sooo love to see this time of year.

Then I decided to add the vine with the pink florettes and heart-shaped leaves.

On the bottom right ... I added the script For Sendai and surrounded it with Griffin Rose Buds in yellow for remembrance ... of all the lives lost in this devistating event.

Spring here was obviously on my mind when I added the Lilac spray on the upper left corner. I am fortunate to have an awesome bush out back of my yard ... and just had to add the bouquet of them!

Upper right ... the blue & cream seam treatment came out of the blue ... but left a patch of pink bare ... filled in with a bunch of laser-etched roses ... I was going to add leaves & such ... but decided that their basic beauty needed nothing more.

Last but not least ... Forget-me-nots. Thank you Pat for reminding me how welcome these spring flowers are ... they' re taking over my small backyard as we speak ... but I welcome them and their cheery disposition ... they bring joy & colour to my world and to the rest of the world.

So ... there ya go ... it`s done and I`m happy with it!

Hugs!

Quick Update ... YAY ... It's May!

2011-05-02T18:52:00.000-04:00

Enough with the April Showers ... let's get on with the May Flowers!

As I drove up the drive today I noticed that the big batches of tulips in the beds in front of the office are showing flower buds ... and can't wait to see the multitude of yellow blooms! On the next street over one house has a Forsythia hedge that is now in bloom ... and it looks awesome! Ahhh ... the plants are saying that spring is here!

Rainy weather has put a damper on the opening of the Garden Centre ... but better weather this week has prompted us to get it happening ... and that is encouraging.

I'm also looking forward to this weekend off ... and to hopefully get some spring clean-up done outside ... and anticipating finishing my second block for Sendai before then. It's getting pretty full ... just a few more things to add ... then I'll scan & share. I'm liking how it's coming together!

Well ... that's about it for now ... more soon!

A Day of Sorrow ,,, Followed By a Day of Joy!

2011-04-29T19:48:00.001-04:00

Isn't that the way life goes ... mourning the passing of a friend one day ... and revelling in the joy of of a new beginning the next?

I had to start work early today ... so didn't have the opportunity to experience the celebration going on in England as William & Kate were wed.

Thanks to the Net and ABC News ... I was able to view all of the events of the day and well it was simply awesome!

If you followed this Royal Wedding ... you will know what I mean ... it was such a joy to share in the wedding day of two special people who will one day be the future of England.

God Bless & keep them ... and give them a wonderful life together!

Their future holds such promise!

Paulette ... RIP

2011-04-28T23:33:00.000-04:00

It's always sad to have to say goodbye ... but sadder still when someone too young has lost a valiant fight against that awful consumer of the living ... cancer.

Paulette was a co-worker. She found out two years ago that she had a tumor growing in her. She was so scared ... as I'm sure any of us would be to be told this ... but once the diagnosis was confirmed ... she resolved with every fibre of her being to fight it ... to do whatever she had to ... to buy more time.

Initial treatment was encouraging. Chemotherapy did help to slow and shrink this invasive predator ... and she was able to hope that it could be beaten ... but alas ... it proved to be stronger than she could fight ... and on Easter Sunday ... she was overcome by it ... and passed away.

Her funeral service was this morning ... I decided I had to go ... to pay last respects to this courageous lady.

Needless to say that her family is devistated ... her two sons and her DH were openly distraught ...but remembered her with such loving thoughts ... that simply moved everyone to tears.

I kept thinking of others I've lost to the same demise ... felt their pain at being helpless to change the outcome ... and missing a life lost to this tragic disease. Never easy ... painfully final.

Rest in peace Paulette ... your fight is over ... may you enjoy life everlasting ... free from the pain and suffering. We will miss your bright smile.

Happy Easter !

2011-04-24T12:55:00.000-04:00

Wishing you all a Happy Easter ... Peace, Joy & Love to everyone!

Hugs ... Marie

Playlists ... Dead & Gone!

2011-04-21T22:50:00.001-04:00

Well ... I was wondering how long it would take before the copy-right police would catch up to the Playlist thing. I had noticed that certain songs were ...over time ...becoming "blocked" ... but as I checked them out tonight ... seems more are blocked than available!

I've dumped the whole works ... which is a shame ... I really enjoyed that music ... oh well!

Everybody wants their cut ... if it don't pay ... then the music don't play!

"The day the music died!"

Food For Thought ... The Numbers Add Up ... to 111

2011-04-20T22:45:00.000-04:00

I want to share with you something that I actually received via e-mail that piqued my interest because I tried it and ... weird as it may seem worked every time!

Try it yourself ... and do the calculations for others in your family and just see how uncanny the results are!

This year we're going to experience four unusual dates - 1/1/11, 1/11/11, 11/1/11, 11/11/11 - and that's not all!

Take the last two digits of your year of birth - now, add the age you will be this year. The result will be 111 - for everyone!!

This is the year of Money!

Also this year, October will have - 5 Sundays, 5 Mondays and 5 Saturdays. - This happens only every 823 years.

Wierd!

Sendai # 2 - Bare Block

2011-04-16T10:24:00.000-04:00

I did get the block scanned this morning for you to see. I think you can grasp more clearly why I'm partial to the pattern piecing method. I was able to put the one beautiful butterfly smack-dab centre on the first piece ... one large leaf on the top left corner & at the bottom right a different scene from the same fabric that was the centre on the first block.

The fabric in the centre was from one of those ties I scored a couple years back at Goodwill. It has brighter threads through it that don't show very well here ... blue, pink & gold ... which I used for other patches of the block.

Enough talk ... time to rock!

Blank Canvas # 2 Awaits & Confessions of a Really Crazy Quilter!

2011-04-15T23:58:00.003-04:00

Spent the day playing ... and the fruits of my labours is a completed second block ready to stitch.

It takes me a lot longer to piece a block than most I'm sure. I do it by hand. Oh ... I do have a machine ... but it's really old ... and cranky ... so I don't even bother with it anymore.

Add to that ... I don't do "flip & sew". I do it by pattern. Crazy you say? So ... it's Crazy Quilting!

While the set-up is time-consuming ... I find it more precise. I can also select the best features of what a piece of fabric can yield ... especially when it comes to prints ... it's much easier to position a pattern piece over the exact section I want from it ... pin it place and just trim. I mark the selvages to make sure I remember to leave extra fabric where I need it. I tend to position my seam line on the straight grain of the fabric ... so it doesn't stretch the wrong way in the sewing process.

There is a big bonus to doing it this way in that I can re-use the pattern again.
I did that with the Portholes project ... though I actually used 3 or 4 differnt ones. I simply store all the bits in a Zip-loc ... and save them for another day!

I've also done it again for my second block ... only the design got flipped horizontally. This time my centre piece has the point downward ... and my first inclination is to work it into a heart ... then proceed from there.

I will get a scan of it to share ... but that may have to wait until the morning ... kids & I decded to go out for dinner to the Imperial Buffet ... and just too full right now to go up to the box to which the scanner is attached ... load it on the jump drive & come back down (long story short ... old box upstairs is no longer hooked to the Net ... is turtle slow ... about ready to fully crash ... and only good for a few things ... like scanning ... and I pray it will co-operate every time I turn it on).

So ... think I'll spend a bit of time tonight just letting the new block "speak to me" ... maybe get some mental images of what I want to do & where ... then get to stitching tomorrow.

Last day of freedom ... then it's back to the grind on Sunday.

Later ... Marie

Finished My 1st Block!

2011-04-14T19:19:00.001-04:00

So here it is all finished now. Added Alton Loop lilies on the bottom right corner, plumed reeds above that, a woven seam topped with a row of garnet hearts, stitched that cloudy lace in place & then carried the clouds across the sky.

The leaves at the bottom centre looked too bare so I went over again & filled it in. The blueish cast-on row did get beads added & finished with bullions to close.

Throughout the block I stitched an armada of tiny gold butterflies. They are beautiful creatures of nature ... gentle as a breeze ... and always remind me how awesome nature's creations are. They bring me a simple joy ... something so welcome on a summer day ... a captured feeling I wanted to share with those who have endured so much.

Butterflies come back ... life goes on ... healing & rebulding will follow ... all in time.

Hugs ... Marie

They Were There!

2011-04-13T23:02:00.001-04:00

Tsunami ... we who have no possible chance of experiencing this phenomial force of nature in our personal environments will find it hard to fathom the degree of devistation that it can unleash.
If you have the stomach to watch ... the link above will take you to a first-hand account ... and powerful raw footage of the event as it was captured in real time ... these people were there!

It will scare you ... it might even bring you to tears for their plight ... but it will also impact on you the need for our help ... however small it may be ... in light of the seemingly insurmountable task of these people to start rebuilding their lives and their nation.

If you haven't already done so ... I urge you to consider adding your name to the growing list of stitchers who have found it in their hearts to give what they can ... to create a block ... crazy or sane ... to help the initiative started by CQI International ... Hearts & Hands for Sendai ... to create quilts that will ultimately raise funds to help a small portion of those people directly affected.

I've added two links on my sidebar that will take you to blogs where you can find out all you need to know about how to get involved.

I'm nearing completion of my first block ... and now intend on submitting another ... my heart dictates to the need ... and I'm proud that my hands can help ... in some small way ... to make a difference.

Hugs ... Marie

Another Quake In Japan

2011-04-07T23:29:00.004-04:00

It's like "waitng for the other shoe to fall" ... on the heels of one quake ... there are sure to be aftershocks ... and that seems to have come today.
I had to work until 9 ... but one of my co-workers happened to hear on the news about this second one. My first question to him was "Where?" ... but all he had heard was Japan.

When I came home ... DH had the TV tuned to Citypulse 24 ... our local station that has all of the latest breaking news ... and my heart saddened when I heard them include Sendai in the report.

I immediately went to Hideko's blog to see if there was any further news ... but no new info there.

Hoping & praying that all is okay for her & her family.

Added afterward : while searching for more info about this last quake ... found that it was about 40 miles from Sendai ... but also found riveting You Tube video clips of the March 11th devistation.
The Helicopter footage is phenominal!

Reality is overwhelming ... and personally even moreso resolves my desire to help!

Sendai Block So Far

2011-04-01T19:47:00.001-04:00

So ... in a nutshell here's how the block looks now after the recent aforementioned additions.

I had to add a few more roses on the bottom right side to fill it in more ... I had deliberately left it spare thinking that I was going to add that piece of lace there ... but after playing with it for a while decided ... mmm ... no. That was not where it belonged ... especially after I put it where it is now.

It kinda reminded me of clouds ... whispy & swirling ... blowing in from the east ... and well that's quite appropriate ... as Hideko's blog is called Winds From the East!

I'm planning on extrapilating on that at the top ... maybe adding more whisps of clouds and some birds to fill the sky. On that garnet red patch on the right I may add some reeds & plumes which will also bend as if being blown by easterly breezes .

The half wagon wheels on the bottom right corner got ripped out twice ... first the spacing was off .. the next the spacing per section just was not what I wanted ... apparently third time's a charm.

The Cast-on scallop row on the bottom left patch seems to need more ... might be a good place to add some beads. (Can you believe it? Not one of them on there so far?!!)

I have a special idea for the small bits of fabric on various patches ... one particular thing I decided would fit on all ... but I'll show that on the final reveal!

Okay ... so now I think I'm gonna go stitch for a bit!

Stitched All Day!

2011-03-31T23:55:00.000-04:00

It's been a very productive day ... as I spent most of it stitching.
Had a few other things to do that I managed to squeeze in ... like eating ... but as nothing in the outside world required my attendance & as I had the day off I just stayed in my jammies and stitched away.

I got quite a lot done on my Sendai block ... and will hopefully get some scanning done tomorrow night so I can show you what I've added.

One seam I did last night was in Kreinik gold cable Herringbone to which I added some leaf pairs in YLI Pearl Crown Drab Green & some Colonial Knot florettes in same but in Cranberry.

Today I added a seam with half wagon wheels using Ribbon Floss ... another with Cast-on scallops ... a Feather Stitch vine with bullion leaves Bullion-tip Lazy Daisy flowers ... and covered most of one patch with large green leaves worked in short-end Fly Stitch.

I've also pinned a small piece of lovely lace in place and will anchor that down next.

I think that's pretty much it for today. Time to get horizontal ... have an early start tomorrow!

Embellishments As Previously Mentioned

2011-03-27T22:20:00.001-04:00

So here's the visuals for the embellishments I told you about yesterday.

Some threads I forgot to mention ... because I hadn't yet added them on the first pic ... the enhancement on the flowers was 2-strands of Vikki Clayton's silk floss ... Peach I think ... and the tiny branches were in YLI Silk 30.

While I was stitching ... I realized my threads & ribbons had originally come from Japan ... and that there were many other things that I loved that also came from there.

I drive a Toyota Corolla 5-speed standard ... one of the best cars ever made! While actually built here ... orignated there!

Also ... sushi ... I love it! We make our own quite often with traditional Japanese rice & nori that come all the way from Japan.

Well ... I have a bit of time to stitch now ... so off I go!

Where To Start?

2011-03-26T22:11:00.012-04:00

OMG two posts in one day ... but that's what happens when one gets inspired!

I'm happy to say that I've spent the last several hours stitching away ... it was difficult at first trying to decide where to begin.

I definitely decided on the bottom left corner. That little patch with flowers seemed to call to me.

So ... decided to embellish what was already there. I enhanced the stems with backstitching ... then whip-stitched over that for more definition. Next I added to the tiny blue floral pattern ... using single-wrapped French Knots with Vikki Clayton's #12 Silk Pearl in Alpine/Lavender. Ohhh this thread is so lovely to work with!

In the bottom centre I've added a spray of French Knot Roses ... also Vikki's stuff ... it's called OMG Red 1149 in 4mm ribbon. So far I've added the stems with her silk floss (Imperial Green 3331) ... and next will be the leaves ... also in silk ribbon (YLI 72 - 4mm).

I'm taking this a seam or patch at a time. I find that I work best if I focus on what calls to me at the moment.

I'll scan & add the visuals tomorrow.

I'm feeling confident that this block is gonna be so awesome!

My Empty Canvas

2011-03-26T13:22:00.001-04:00

Okay ... here we go! I started with some kimono fabric and pulled from the colours on it adding some other cool bits that I have in my stash. Sorry to say the actual colours are not showing true ... they are much more awesome in person.

So ... on to the stitching part!

Block Pieced ... & Ready To Stitch!

2011-03-25T18:50:00.002-04:00

I decided to stitch it by hand instead of machine ... but must zig-zag the edge ... so will pop over to see my sis Cathy ... the seamstress extraordinaire ... who always has machines at the ready.

It's been a while since I've done any stitching ... let alone a CQ block ... that darned beading bug really had me mesmorized for the longest time ... but now I'm so ready to play with ribbons & threads again!

Must run ... have to work at noon so best get moving!

Hugs ... Marie

Added later ... the zigzag actually ended up on her serger ... for an awesome edge!

Strength in Numbers ... Hearts & Hands for Sendai

2011-03-22T15:54:00.003-04:00

I've felt this way before ... in the wake of disaster ... this feeling of wanting to help ... to do something for those affected.

The last time was after Katrina left New Orleans in devistating ruins.

This time I want to do my part to help in Japan ... but more specifically ... Sendai.

I have discovered that Leslie over at CQ International has a project underway in joint effort with Hideko in Japan to create quilts that will become part of an exhibit there ... money will be raised by viewings of the quilts and eventually they'll be auctioned off and the proceeds donated to a charity chosen by Hideko.

You can get full details by clicking on the link below. Sane or CQ ... it's up to you.

Hearts and Hands for Sendai

8" blocks are the requested size ... it's one small thing we can do. It's work from the heart ... and from our hands ... that can & will make a difference ... and make our world just a bit smaller ... by showing support & compassion on an international scale to some of those who have been affected by this catastrophic event.

Imagine the hope we can share ... complete strangers half a world away giving their talents to help comfort & support ... and let them know we care.

Trust me when I tell you ... the donation of one block and a few dollars ... will make your heart feel so good! We have a chance here to show how much strength there can be in numbers!

I hope that more of you out there will find it in your heart to accept this challenge.

May God Bless You ... if you do!

Hugs .. Marie

Happy St. Patty's Day !

2011-03-17T17:03:00.003-04:00

While I personally do not have an ounce of Irish in me ... I want to wish all who do ...

Happy St. Patrick's Day !

Erin Go Braugh !

Today Felt Very Spring-like! ... Here Anyway!

2011-03-13T22:55:00.009-04:00

While it seems to be taking a long time to get here ... today definitely felt like a spring kinda day!

Started off with a bit of sun then clouds ... and a few fluuries ... but spring really is like fall in reverse ... so this is pretty typical for the time of year.

Yesterday I heard a very definitive sign that spring is very near ... laughing robins!

Yay ... they're back ... that made my heart sing! These guys are the first sure sign of the seasonal change!

And the whole "spring ahead" thing has happened ... so more light later in the day will be something to look forward to!

Another sure sign of spring (while pretty specific to our household) ... DH went to inspect the boat this morning ... to see how it fared over the winter! I'm sure he's looking forward to getting it in the water for some fishing ... though that won't be for a couple of months yet.

Spring Break is this week too ... for some. My break will be next month ... as I usually take a brief reprieve before the Garden Centre season begins.

Have you noticed how late Easter is this year??? Almost the end of April! Hopefully by then everyone won't have to wear coats over their Easter finery! That's something to look forward to ... for us anyway.

While we look forward to spring ... I simply can't help feeling a sense of dispair for the desperate situation that Japan has had to face recently.

When the awesome powers of nature are unleashed ... as was evident there ... one cannot help but feel compassion for those who have been devistated by the whole event. The video footage that I've seen of the quake & the tsunami aftermath seems so surreal ... that it's hard to fathom the reality of it. But reality it is ... captured live on video ... in all it's horrific visual footage.

How overwhelming a 30 foot wall of water must be!? When huge ships are tossed about like toys & smashed into bridges ... it's hard to imagine ... but so driven home by the actual footage.

I pray for them ... and for us all ... as this is just one incident of forboding that makes us realize how fragile our blue planet really is ... and my greatestest fear is that the whole end of this planet will happen as the Mayans forecast ... in 2012.

I'm usually an optimist ... I really hope that they were wrong on this ... but ... it is out of our control ...things will happen as they may.

I think I've mentioned before that I'm a fan of a band called Linkin Park.

Melanie got me their current album for Christmas ... and it is very thought-provoking.

The album is titled "A Thousand Suns".

One of my favourite tracks (lyrically) addresses the whole " end of the world" issue:

"God Bless us everyone
We're a broken people living
On a loaded gun.
And it can't be outfought
It can't be outrun
It can't be outmatched
It cant't be outdone.
No-o
And when I close my eyes at night
To images of dieing light
Far from the world of you and I
Where oceans bleed into the sky!"

Prophetic? Apocolyptic?

Hoping we have more time than this prophecy affords us.

I don't mean to be all gloom & doom ...but hey ... it could happen!

God bless us everyone!

It's Finally Here ...YAY!

2011-03-09T22:41:00.004-05:00

My copy of Crazy Quilt Gatherings has finally arrived!

Ohhhh Pat ... it is so awesome! The preview was amazing ... but there's nothing like having a physical tangible printed copy in one's hands! I know I'll be pouring over it again & again!

For those of you who have not had the pleasure yet ... scroll down a few posts and click on the link ... and you can see how to get your very own!

Sick ... and I Don't Do Sick Very Well!

2011-03-07T18:27:00.002-05:00

The temperature goes up ... then down ... then up ... sheesh ... the perfect breeding ground for germs ... and sometimes resistance is futile! You can't see it coming until ... wham! It get's ya.

Some bug has got me ... a sinus thing that is now moving down to my chest ... and all I wanna do is get into my PJs and sleep. But even that isn't a relief when you wake up several times a night sneezing or hacking ... it's such a nuisance.

It totally throws me off my game. I don't like to feel miserable ... and I can't seem to focus on anythhing but that. Medication can get me through the day ... until I can come home & get into bed. Calling in sick is not an option ... so just suck it up and wait till it's over.

Sorry to share the misery with you all ... but like I said ... I don't do sick very well!

Where the heck is spring? Wiarton Willie ... did you mess up ... or what?

On a positive note ... Sunday March 13th begins Daylight Saving Time ... and I will gladly sacrifice that one hour knowing that soon this dreary winter crap will be over.

I know everyone is feeling the same!

Chicken Noodle soup ... maybe that'll help! Ugggghhh. (Aaaachoooooo! God Bless Me!)

Something Is Very Wrong In Bloglandia!

2011-02-27T22:27:00.003-05:00

I was checking out what my fave bloggers have been up to this evening ... when something very strange happened!

Mary Anne Richardson's Blog (aka Magpies Mumblings) seems to have disappeared!

At first I thought it was a glitch ... as we all know can happen on the Net ... but every link I knew to her blog came up with the same message ... something about this blog has been removed!

Say it ain't so! She has even been removed from my Followers list! She would never do that of her own accord!

MA & I have been friends for years ... getting together several times a year to share creativity & do lunch ... & sometimes shop her local faves ... so I just had to make sure she was okay.

I called her in a panic fearing something was wrong ... but she is fine ... just very confused at the moment as to why this has happened. She is in the process of contacting Blogger to find out why ... and that's all I can tell you at this point.

This is so weird ... I mean she's been blogging for years ... so how could they just deactivate her like this? What could she have done that was so wrong?

Stay tuned kids ... we'll get to the bottom of this.

And Still They Won't Let Me Be!

2011-02-27T12:57:00.003-05:00

Well ... apparently even sealing up the bead box didn't help ... like the perverbial "moth to a flame" ... there's no accounting for what the creative mind insists on visualizing!

I'm not saying that it's a bad thing ... and I really love what I've done ... but just cannot seem to get my brain to focus on stitching. I did do several mending projects ... thinking that having a needle in my hand might help ... but no ... it didn't.

These new pieces will incorporate fabric ... and one of the ideas is a new CQ embellishment.

Eventually these will be destined for ArtFire ... sorry ... no sneak peaks ... guess you'll just have to wait! I'll let you know when I have them up ... though it won't be for a while.

Must get going ... it's past one already ... and still have lots that I need to get done today!

Show & Share ... The "Phoenix" Saddlebag

2011-02-21T23:29:00.011-05:00

Some time ago I told you about a purse that I was making ... or rather remaking ... as this was not the first one ... but rather the latest in a series of remakes of the original.

I don't exactly remember when I aquired the original ... except that I can ballpark it to sometime in my early 20's. OMG! Was it that long ago!???

It was "love at first sight"! IT WAS PERFECT!

Okay ... it was expensive ... but what the heck ... quality is always worth a few extra bucks! Chestnut brown heavy gauge leather ... totally awesome.

It was simple by design but everything that I wanted in a handbag. It had one deep inside pocket & a smaller outer pocket with it's own closeable flap ... and a large flap that covered both ... with a belt-like extension that joined to a buckle at the bottom/back to close it up securely.

Best of all was the shoulder/neck strap ... it could be adjusted to be worn on your shoulder or hung around your neck ... across the chest ... which is the way that I preferred ... the kind of bag that you never set down or worry about losing ... because it hangs off of you.

Time took it's toll ... I used it for years & years ... until the original stitching began to deteriorate under the stress of wear. I could not just simply toss this gem ... but instead carefully took it apart and traced out the pattern of it ... with aim to recreate it.

And I did ... kind of ... but I'll admit my choice of components was not the best. While I did use a good heavy gauge leather ... I crocheted replacement pockets with jute ... and it didn't prove as durable as I anticipated. It began to fall apart. I retired it sooner than I would have liked ... and resorted to various other bags along the way ... all very worthy fuctional bags ... but not my saddlebag!

I just had to make another one. I decided that I had the "skeleton" of it already ... and that I could use it to expand upon to create the next. I was torn between starting from scratch ... or incorporating the remains into the resurrection.

While deliberating on the course of action ... I considered what materials I had at hand ... the first two choices were a caramel-coloured leather jacket or my awesome old black leather pants. Melanie tried on the jacket & it fit her nicely. The pants ... not so much ... & let's face it ... no way I was ever gonna get into these again! So ... the pants it would be ... only the leather was too thin to create a bag from ... so it became a "veneer" ..... yup I used my trusty fave glue Weldbond & glued it to the old panels ... fabricated the rest of it from other leather remnants & sewed it all together with LusterSheen. The strap came from another purse I had found at a thrift store.

To make it really unique I used some red & lavender scraps for the design on the flap.

It was a big job ... but I've got my saddlebag ... again!

And Now For Something Completely Different!

2011-02-17T15:20:00.009-05:00

I have been cranking out a whole bunch of new things since Christmas ... and add to that a bunch more that were created a while ago ... and voila ... a whole new collection of wonderous things for you to see over at . . .

Art Fire!

As you may well know ... I've been obsessed with beads for some time now ... haven't done any stitching because of it ... but what you'll see there will clearly indicate why!

I feel pretty much done with this phase for the moment ... and am going to try very hard to ignore their whisperings ... put the lid on that bead box for a start to muffle their calls ... pull out some fabric & return to stitching new things! Ahhhh!

To entice you ... I've added a sneak preview below!

This was one of the ones I finished over the weekend.

Several of the pieces in this collection are what I call Neck Lace ... pun intended ...

these ain't your run-o-the-mill necklaces ... oh no!

They adorn the neck ... like lace!

I've mixed in some earrings, pendants and some other whimsies for fun!

Sorry ... there's no belly button things! Teehee!

Thanks ... and Hugs ... Marie

Have You Seen It Yet ???

2011-02-15T09:44:00.006-05:00

Hello everyone ... hope you all had a wonderful Valentines ...

I'm still enjoying my gift of Lindt hearts ..... yay ..... more chocolate!

The CQ world is buzzing with excitement! Pat Winter has launched her new magazine!

You can preview the awesome 1st edition of Crazy Quilt Gatherings here!

I'll save my words ... just go see! It will leave you speechless!

Huge Congrats to Pat! Can hardly wait to have it in my hands!

I've been a busy little beaver over the weekend finishing projects & scanning pics of some new things that will be up soon on Art Fire! Hoping to get them up on Thursday.

Must run ... things to do before I head in to work!

Hugs ... Marie

Jenny's Farewell Dinner

2011-02-05T21:47:00.003-05:00

So a bunch of us got together tonight at Boston Pizza for a lovely dinner & a few laughs.

Took a while to get seated ... someone penned us in for Sunday instead of Saturday ... but made up for the wait with some free munchies until the table was ready. There was 15 of us in all ... so it had to be a big table!

After dinner we gave her her big card ... and as we guessed ... she loved it! It'll take her hours to read the whole thing ... but she started tonight ... & will read more when she gets home!

Several of the gals brought cameras ... so am hoping I can get some pics later.

Long day ... off to put my feet up & relax.

Don't Laugh ... But Snicker If You Must!

2011-02-02T22:33:00.006-05:00

I remember vivdly my mother telling me that "It's not nice to laugh at other people's misfortunes". Although my kitty is not a person ... I sincerely believe that somehow there is a human trapped in this creature's body ... everyone who knows him can testify to that!

He's a Maine Coon Cross ... they are a fascinating breed. He talks ... more like chatters ... & he is very entertaining. He fetches ... and loves human food ... must be present at the dinner table requesting to partake in whatever happens to be served at the time ... even if it is not really something that a feline should feast upon!

I've been wanting to show this pic since last spring! Mel actually has this as the "wallpaper" on the computer ... so I see it every time I log on ... but it took me a while to find it in her files & copy to mine.

This is my sweet li'l Kota kitty ... who had serious mats in his fur last spring. Mel's friend Vicki works as an assistant at a vets ... and did try hard to help clip out the mats ... but there were just too many for a fledgling to handle. I had to take him in to our vet ... have him sedated ... and they gave him what is called a "Lion's Cut" ... and aptly named ... is what you see here! $160 later ...

Although he was not entirely thrilled with the whole event ... he was relieved of the nasty mats ... and was one cool kitty over the hot summer!

Once his fur grew back in .... he looked more like his old self again ... and appreciative for the relief. For those who don't know ... mats go right down to the skin ... and pull at the epidermis causing severe discomfort. Shaving them off & allowing the fur to grow in again is the only way to correct the problem.

This is what he looked like months after that had happened. Back to his beautiful long-haired self ... without those nasty mats! He is such a beautiful boy!

Jenny's Card

2011-02-01T22:24:00.010-05:00

Okay ... so this is the really big card I made for Jenny!

Her last official day was Friday ... but I was off ... & suggested to the gals that we should do a "Farewell Dinner" for her ... and we'll do that this Saturday evening ... and will present it to her then. Hopefully by then the rest of the staff will have had a chance to sign it!

It measures 20 x 20 when folded as you see it above ... but folds out to 40 x 20 to reveal all of these Happy Face characters & balloon captions messages from the staff!

Last but not least ... I personalized it with my own crazy logo!

The management & staff was really impressed with my creation ... amazing what you can do & how much fun you can generate with a few packs of ... stickers! I'm sure Jenny will love the effort ...but moreso all the good wishes that everbody sends her way! It's a keeper!

Now you can appreciate why the whole visual thing was essential! A picture (or 3) is worth the 1000 words!

Will tell ya more after the dinner thing!

Hugs ... Marie

3 Years ... 3 Lucky Names & 3 Prizes!

2011-01-25T21:14:00.005-05:00

Hi all ... as promised ... on my 3rd Blogiversary ... and with the help of my trusted assistant DD Melanie ... 3 names have been drawn from the Lucky Tin!

These are all first time winners ... and you lucky people are:

Kerry

Connie Eyberg

and

Jonoleso (oops ... correction ... Lesley is now a 2nd time winner!)

Please e-mail me at sredeluxe@rogers.com with snail-mail info so I can send you your prize!

Thanks for following along ... and congrats!

It's been a rather different week. Last Monday one of my long-time part-time gals handed in her notice ... and is moving on to a new adventure.

When you've been doing what I've been doing for this many years ... you can sense when things are about to happen ... and I was half expecting it. After all ... a lifetime career with the Tire is not usually the objective of most young employees ... we're more like a stepping stone to fund their schooling and then they move on ... to other endeavors. But they do learn a lot along the way ... things they can use in whatever else they choose to do in life ... that's just the way it goes!

Jenny had been studying fashion & design and landed a part time job with BCBG Max Azria ... which is a high-end ladies designer clothing house with many retail outlets. She decided to commit herself entirely to persuing a career with them ... it's right up the alley she's been looking for!

She's one of those people that everyone likes ... she's personable ... funny ... and friends with just about everyone. I knew that once word got out that she was leaving ... everyone would want to sign her card to wish her well! No ... a small one was just not going to work ... so I headed out to various greeting card retailers hoping to find a
gang-size one.

I'm sure they used to be available ... but I looked everywhere ... thought Hallmark would have them for sure ... Party Packagers was the closest I came ... but the only big ones they had were for Valentines Day! I was seriously contemplating augmenting one of them to fit the bill ... but "tacky" was the first thing that came to mind.

Okay ... so here is where the consumate designer takes over and the idea of creating one took hold.

Bristol board that'll work ... and maybe an alphabet template to make the words ... I have oodles of markers that I could use to colour them in ... but OMG ... that would be tedious.

And then I found myself standing in front of a myriad of stickers at Buck or Two!

Ready made peel-off/stick on script ... and these stars are way cool ... but when I saw the Happy Face sheets ... and I absolutely had a plan!

I'm going to get pics of it to share ... as it's kinda better with visuals ... a thousand words saved!

I'm also gonna put my two cents worth in to Hallmark ... and maybe even offer up my services!
I will also point out my disappointment at not being able to find any cards for twins ... while I'm at it! Sheesh!

Okay well that's my news for this evening ... DD is patiently waiting for a turn on the box ... so I'm off to play ... more bead ideas dontchaknow!

Hugs ... Marie

The Twins First Christmas

2011-01-20T10:06:00.004-05:00

Christmas Day Aiden & Alex turned 4 months!

Here's a pic Mommy snapped of them sporting new Christmas PJs!

Hard to believe how fast they're growing!

Amy tells me they now weigh 17 /18 lbs respectively!

Reflection, Projection & Prizes ... Oh My!

2011-01-15T10:21:00.007-05:00

New Years Greetings to all from snowy Pickering!

Yes ... Mother Nature is sending it down big time ... and since I've no place to go ...
let it snow ... let it snow ... let it snow!

I'm slowly emerging from the vacuum that consumes me once the Christmas season is done! I feel spent from it all ... but now ... posting for the first time this year ... with a brand new look ... I'm ready to go!

I find myself pausing to reflect on what I've done over the last twelve months ... and look ahead to what I want to accomplish in the next year.

This morning I've been scrolling through my own blog ... from present alllll the way back to Day One ... reviewing what I've shared over these past 3 years!

Yup ... another Blogiversary is on the horizon! I started this on January 25th 2008, and have reminded myself not only why I began blogging, but also of all the things that I've blogged about!
(And ... you know it ... there's gonna be a prize draw! ... more on that later!)

My aim at the start was to have one place to share ... with all my friends & faithful fans ... my creations & creative process ... in all mediums.

It used to be quite tedious trying to keep track of who I shared what with ... which list I posted what on ... and trying not to cross-post. Here it's "one-stop-shopping" ... and I don't do lists much anymore!

So ... here I am at the brink of the future ... contemplating what I anticipate accomplishing this year. At the moment ... my battery is low ... so just taking some much needed time to recharge.

For a while now I've been mentally organizing a grand new creation ... a full 3-D carousel horse! My good friends at Kreinik have already supplied me with materials & I feel ready to proceed.

Perhaps if I focus on one spectacular creation ... I will achieve one spectacular result! ... and well ... it could happen if I don't get too distracted by other things (which we all know from past experience ... has happened ... more than once!).

Well ... I don't plan to start today ... or even tomorrow! I've learned over the years (and wisely so) not to force it ... to let it happen when it will. I put my trust in that ... and it hasn't failed me yet!

Enough philosophy for one day ... let's get on to some fun!

Three years! ... over 300 posts ... wow!

Three prizes are up for grabs!

My dear "Followers" ... your names are automatically entered once ... & posting a comment gets you another! Share this draw info and a link ... & let me know ... that'll get you a third entry!

Everyone is welcome ... and a comment post will get your name into that Lucky Tin ... but if you also decide to add your name as a Follower too ... your name will go in a second time.

Draw date will be January 25th ... Good Luck to All!

Looking forward to sharing a lot more!

Hugs ... Marie

And a Happy New Year!!!

2010-12-31T18:36:00.003-05:00

Well my friends ... we are here yet again ... it's the last day of the old year ... and we are ready to ring in the new!

Wipe the slate clean ... forget the past ... and look forward with optimism to the future ... and to new things!

Christmas was peaceful and enjoyable here. Santa brought me far too many decadent treats ,,, like Turtles (mmmm ... I love Turtles) and Ferrero Roche ... and chocolates ... but I swear I will eventually eat every one of them ... and not give a second thought to calories! After all ... it's the question of "mind over matter" ... if you don't mind ... then they don't matter!

My Mom was definitely surprised at her early birthday celebration! We had a great time!

Of course the twins simply stole the show! They just turned 4 months ... and simply loved all of the attention. Amy included a cute photo of them with her card ... which I must scan in and share ,,, hopefully tomorrow.

For now ... I'll raise a cup of good cheer to all of my cyber friends ... and wish you all the best for the New Year to come!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Love & Big Hugs to All ... Marie

Merry Christmas to All !

2010-12-25T03:44:00.002-05:00

It's all bought ... made ... and wrapped ... & now under the tree!

With a sigh and relief that it's finally here ... I want to wish each & every one of you a very Merry Christmas!

Yes ... I'm up now at close to 4 am ... because I had a big nap earlier ... after a get - together buffet with my sis Cathy & her family. Food glorious food! What more could one ask for?!!

That to me is the best part ... enjoying it all with family ... after all the stress of getting to this point!

I am glad to report that I did indeed finish my knitted project for my DD ... there were sparks flyin' off them needles I tell ya ... to get it done!

Well ... must perform my last duty of Christmas morn ... to get the stockings hung!

Merry Christmas to All ... & to all a Good Night!

All The Best ... Love & Hugs ... Marie

One More Week Till Christmas & TGIF !

2010-12-17T18:19:00.004-05:00

I'm sooo glad it's Friday ... and that I don't have to work this weekend!

Business has been brisk ... and sales have been better than we expected ... it's nice to have to call in more help than to send people home!

But all this busy is hard on a body ... and I'm looking forward to getting time this weekend to get ready for the big day!

Sweater update ... I'm moving right along ... the back section is done ... just need to finish the front top sections and 1.25 sleeves ... so it might even be finished in time to be opened and wearable Christmas morning (she said with fingers crossed!)

Beyond Christmas ... there is one more important event that I'm focusing on.

My Mom turns 85 this year ... and my sis has been planning a surprise birthday party for her!

Mom's actual BD is Dec. 30th ... but my sis Nadine is planning the surprise for Boxing Day. Mom thinks it will be a Christmas Open House ... but won't she be surprised when everyone shows up for a BD party!

Nadine & her DH do graphic work for web sites ... and I want to share the invite she created for this ... as it is so beautifully done ... capturing so many memories over her lifetime!

Well ... am off to get more knitting done!

Will check in again soon!

The Snowstorm Is Over ... I Think

2010-12-09T21:16:00.005-05:00

125 ... yup that seems to be where the storm of ideas ended ... so I'm on to other things now ... like working on a knitted bolero that I hope to finish for my DD for Christmas!

I started one sleeve & took it to work ... spending part of my dinner hours knitting it ... so have 2/3 of it done ... and last weekend got going on the body which is now over 1/3 done.

It'll be close ... or not finished ... maybe I'll have to cut myself some slack ... and just give her one sleeve ... which would actually be kinda funny ... then get it finished and give her the whole thing when it's done!

With all the seasonal stress ... my immune system has been weakened and I wound up with a nasty cold bug that settled mostly in my chest ... hacking & coughing ... but it seems to be clearing up now ... since I've bombarded it with big doses of Vitamin C daily.

Ohhh ... we finally got our first snowfall of the year! A whole 5" ... just enough to make everything white ... and driving miserable.

You cannot imagine how even that much snow generates buying of weather-related stuff ... washer fluid ... wiper blades ... snow brushes ... batteries... salt/ice melter ... shovels ... snow blowers ... tires! Had to call in back-up staff to keep up with the demand ... not complaining though ... as it's good for business!

So ... with two weeks to go till Christmas Eve ... I finally got some gifts and a bunch of stocking stuffers bought this week. Next weekend we'll get our tree & decorate.

How are your Christmas plans coming along?

Prize Forfeited ... and the New Winner Is ...

2010-12-03T19:09:00.003-05:00

Well ... we have an unusual situation here!

Linda H has decided to share her good fortune! See ... Lucky Linda won my BD Draw this year ... and she also won it last year ,,, so at her request ... she suggested that I draw another winner from the Lucky Tin.

Unfortunately that was not possible ... because I had (ever so efficiently) dumped all the slips with the names into my recycling bin and set them out for collection.

So ... she sugested that (if possible) that I pass her gift on to the person who made the fifth comment in the draw ... so that person will receive her prize!

And the new winner is ...

Lesley

Come on down!

Life does throw ya curveballs sometimes ... and it's not always a bad thing!

# 300 ... And The Winners Are ! ...

2010-12-01T22:39:00.002-05:00

Melanie just arrived home from school ... she was participaing in the Holiday Concert with the choir (which I didn't get to see because I had to work) ... she assisted me with the drawing of the names from the Lucky Tin.

I put 71 entries into the tin. As I was shaking it up ... the lid flew off and we had to pause the draw for a couple of minutes while we recovered all the names that jumped out of it ... but finally and without further drama the winners are :

Crazyqsis

Kathy

and

Linda H

Thanks everyone for playing ... and congrats to the winners!
Please e-mail your snail-addresses to me so I can get your prize on the way!
(Linda I have yours.)

It's been a blast!

Hugs ... Marie

#299 ...I Survived Magic Weekend!

2010-11-30T09:01:00.005-05:00

I hope all my American friends had a Happy Thanksgiving! I meant to add this on the last post ... but was so focused on flakes (and totally tired from work) that it slipped by me.

This weekend was our big kick-off to Christmas at the store ... Magic Weekend. It's always very busy and extremely stressful ... leading to exhaustion. But that's the way it goes in retail, folks!

Thankfully I'm off today and glad for a breather. I can start cutting up my sheet with names for the Big Draw!

I'll be working until 9 pm tomorrow and will do the draw when I get home ... so will include all names received before then.

I appreciate that some of you have added your names in as official Followers ... thanks! My number has more than doubled!

Want a sneak peek at the prizes? Click on the link on the side bar under Marie Alton Presents to see some of the Snowflakes featured on ArtFire!

Until tomorrow then ... Hugs ... Marie

#298 ... It's Snowing ... In My Basement!

2010-11-26T17:51:00.004-05:00

So what I really mean ... is that so far all we've seen here really ... is a few flurries ... but it's a virtual snow storm in my studio!

When I first began creating snowflakes ... I initially challenged myself to make 100 ... different ones that is ... and as of today I'm at 120!

As mind-boggling as that seems ... it is a drop in the bucket compared to Mother Nature's
phenomenal creative talents!

Just think about it ... how many snowflakes fall in one single fall ? Billions? Gazillions? They sometimes pile up feet deep ... AND EVERY SINGLE ONE IS DIFFERENT!

Like I said ... my efforts a mere drop in the bucket!

But ... that is not to say that I am any less proud of my creations ... I am totally thrilled with them ... as thrilled as I know some of you will be ... if & when your name happens to come out of the Lucky Tin!

As of today ... 60 names are in the draw ... so three snowflakes will be finding their way to some of you ... but as many as 20 are up for grabs depending on the entry count as of Dec. 1st!

Christmas is a time of sharing ... and of giving ... you can dictate both!

Tell all your friends ... join in the game ... blog about it for extra chances (and post a comment too!) ... the more the merrier!

Let it snow ... let it snow... let it snow!

Milestones ... and Draws!

2010-11-20T11:44:00.008-05:00

As I logged on to Blogger today ... I noticed that I'm getting very close to my 300th post!

This one is in fact 297 ... wow who woulda thunk it?!! I'm sure there would have been more if I hadn't been hit with hardware problems earlier this year ... kinda put a cramp in my ability to post things I would have liked ... especially with the pics ... as it left me without my scanner too.

Melanie did help out with some pics ... but if you have teenagers ... you know how difficult it can be to pin them down & get them to help! One of these days I'm just going to have to get a camera and really learn how to use it ... that would be problem solved!

But I digress.

Post # 300 will be a " And The Winners Are ... " !

And ... coincidentally ... Linda H of Stitch Lines (who was the winner of the past 2 BD Draws) is also close to this same milestone and having a draw of her own!

I always check out her posts when I find myself on Blogger ... she is a very talented gal ... and her posts are always entertaining and informative!

So I guess it's time I actually become one of her faithful followers ... which will also get me more shots at her prizes!

Speaking of which ... it has always boggled my mind as to why I have so few?!!! I've never really pushed for followers ... as it's a personal choice to be one I feel ... but to those of you who do read often ... I'm going to follow Linda's lead ... and offer rewards to those who let me know that you're out there ... and enjoy reading my blog! Let me know that I'm not "talking to myself"!

Today I'm going to add the Followers gadget in my side bar ... my initial list of followers will automatically have their names put in 3 times to the infamous "Lucky Tin" ... and if they post a comment here too ... they'll get in 3 more times!

New Followers ... will be entered 3 times too ... with one extra entry for a comment post!

All Bloggers who post & link to this draw ... and let me know ... will also get their name in 3 times!

If you don't blog but want to join in ... please make sure to include an e-mail contact in your comment to secure an entry.

Now here's the best part! The prize count will increase exponentially with the number of entries in that Luck Tin!!!

For every 20 ... there'll be one prize! So ... that'll mean ... 100 entries = 5 prizes ... 200 entries = 10 prizes and so on! The sky's the limit!

But wait! ... there's more!

If the entry count hits 300 ... I'll up the prize count from 15 to 20!

So ... get excited ... join up ... join in ... spread the word ... and let's see how much fun we can have ... and how many prizes there will be! Hee Hee Hee!

Linda's draw will be on November 25th ... one month before Christmas!

I will do my drawing from the Lucky Tin on December 1st ... that's only 10 days away!

Big Hugs ... Marie

Marie Alton Presents . . .

2010-11-09T09:19:00.003-05:00

I am VERY pleased to announce that I have a new studio on

Art Fire

First up ... a sampling of Snowflakes! Pins ... Pendants ... & Earrings !!!

I invite you to stop by and visit ... and now that I've figured out all the ins & outs ... I'll be listing items regularly ... so make sure to add the link to your Faves!

I'M SO EXCITED!

Big Hugs ... Marie

Amy's Shower & Time To Catch Up!

2010-11-06T22:11:00.005-04:00

Food & Balloons & Punch ... Oh my!

A table full of gifts!

Oooops ... almost forgot a pic of the cake!

Chris & Amy & Boys

Mom & Us

L to R - Chrissy, Nadine, Stephanie, Cathy, Marie,

Russ (Grandpa) & Lawrence

The Cousins

(L to R)

Tim, Melanie, Becca, Sarah, Amy & Emma

Great Grandma Geney & Grandpa Russ

The hardest part about having time off ... is having to get back into the grind of your day job when it's finished!

Reality and responsibility set in and it takes a while to get up to speed ... but I'm there now and with the weekend off I found myself with some time to catch my breath and catch up with you!

Amy's shower was a blast! I'm still trying to figure out how half of the food I made got lugged back here ... because I thought it'd be all eaten! Well ... at least I didn't have to cook all week as we had a whole bunch of leftovers!

Have to say that it was all worth the effort. Had a fabulous time visiting with family and dear old friends who attended ... and it was a rare photo opp ... as all 7 of us kids ... and Mom were in attendance! I think the last time that happened was over 25 years ago ... at Russ's wedding.

The link above will take you to the album on Face Book ... there are 30 pics in total ... but for those who don't do Face Book ... I've added a few high-lights.

Just A Quickie

2010-10-22T10:45:00.003-04:00

I'm actually on holidays this week but have been really busy planning a Baby Shower!

We're having a family shindig for Amy & the twins on Sunday ... and there's so much to do ... but my lists have kept me organized ... and am on track to be ready!

Today I finish shopping ... then it's on to all that chopping! I insist on it all being fresh!

Tomorrow I'll mix up the coleslaw & potato salads ... and make the platters ... cheese, meat, veggies & fruit ... Melanie and my neice Emma have been assigned to make sushi and to decorate the Party Room .. so all I have to do Sunday is pick up the cake ... make the punch ... then have fun!

Chat more soon ... gotta git busy!

Change Is Good!

2010-10-11T11:09:00.001-04:00

Well ... I did like the effect of rain on the window pane but while scolling through templates this one caught my eye ... love the batik ... so let's try this one for a while!

And The Winner Is . . .

2010-10-10T10:31:00.002-04:00

First of all ... apologies for posting a day later than planned ... had a busy day yesterday ... getting ready for Thanksgiving ... and crashed early.

Today is one of those rare days ... numerically speaking! 10/10/10 ... so I did the drawing at 10:10 ...

and the one name out of the Lucky Tin is .....

Linda H !

Congrats to you Linda ... I have your address ... and will send your prize off soon!

Thanks to all of you for your good wishes ... I did indeed have a lovely day ... No. 1 son treated to dinner and I treated myself to a new bamboo steamer (always wanted one to do Dim Sum).

Now I have to get busy cooking ... ham & all the fixin's!

Happy Thanksgiving to all my Canuck friends!

Hugs ...Marie

It's That Time Again!

2010-09-30T13:18:00.003-04:00

October 1st ..... OMG ... that's tomorrow!

As many of you know ... that'd be my BD ... and it's time again for the traditional

Birthday Draw!

Have to admit that I'm kinda behind here ... I've been bitten by the Bead Bug again ...
and the barrage of ideas & creations has been incessant. Trying to fit life into this just annoys me!

In a word ..... snowflakes!

I'm not entirely sure if it is true ... but I think I heard (or maybe I read) that no two flakes are the same ... just like people!

Regardless ... I have been challenging myself to create each one different! So far the count is close to 40 ... aiming for 100. I'm thinking these will be my staff gifties this year ... but also creating pairs if earrings and single pendants & pins that I'm planning on putting up for sale.

More on that later ..... still in the planning stages!

But for now .... drop me a note to say HI and get yer name into the BD Draw!

Gee ... I wonder what the prize will be ! ?

Happy Birthday wishes to Pat Winter ... and Betty Pillsbury!

Any other Librans out there?

Seeing as I'm posting so late .... I'm going to do the actual draw Saturday October 9th!

Love & Hugs ... Marie

More Cuteness

2010-09-19T19:04:00.005-04:00

Well I finally had a chance to visit with Amy and new sweeties a couple weeks ago ... Mel came with me and did snap some pics ... but I'm waiting till she adds some other things on before uploading.

Proud Papa Chris had added these on Facebook ... so sharing here too. How cute are these?

Oh ... this is Munchie ... the original "baby"... who is not sure if he likes these noisy new creatures who have invaded his peace!

Meet Aiden & Alex !

2010-08-31T10:41:00.006-04:00

Finally got some pics to share ..... meet our new sweeties .....

Aiden Christopher & Alexander Nicholas

Momma Amy & Babies

Amy, Chris & Boys

Grandpa Russ

Uncle Chris

Everyone is simply "over the moon" ecstatic that they arrived safe & sound!

Hoping to meet them this week ... but as you can imagine they've had soooo

many visitors ... want to make sure Momma gets some rest!

More soon ... Hugs ... Marie

Babies Are Here!

2010-08-26T14:56:00.003-04:00

Had great news this morning ... Amy & Chris are now proud parents of two healthy boys!

Aiden & Alex arrived a few weeks early ... but all is well ... tho Mom is exhausted from 14 hours of labour ... 4 hours of pushing!

So ... now I'm a "great" aunt ... can't wait to meet them!

Will post some pics as soon as possible!

Hugs ... Marie

PS ... thought it was time for a new look ... gonna try this one out for a while!

Saddle Up!

2010-08-24T11:12:00.005-04:00

It's finally finished! Have all my stuff in it and I'm so happy to have a fully functional saddle bag again!

Now all I have to do is pin down my DD to snap some pics for me!

Last post I still hadn't figured out how I was going to attach the strap ... but allowed my brain some time to work it out & the details came together.

After punching a hole through side and through anchor straps for each end ... I used two double-hole buttons to sew through with a doubled length of strong acrylic thread ... cinching it tight to hold it all in place. It allows the anchor straps to move back & forth ... but I'm concerned that over the long haul the thread may weaken/break ... so intend to search for double-end twist-together grommets ... but if I can't find these ... then simple screws & nuts could work.

For the moment I'll leave well enough alone ... and see how long it holds.

Oh! ... I also dug out my Drag Bag after a long hiatus (which kinda got shelved during my long infatuation with beads). I didn't have much left to stitch on it ... so I've been doing the last of it and am almost ready to sew it up. Just need to make the lining and bottom ... and it'll be ready to use! It's only taken me about three years!

Speaking of which ... I'm off to work on it now!

Chat more soon ... and hopefully will have pics for ya next time!

Just Breathe !

2010-08-06T09:27:00.004-04:00

Hi All ... did ya miss me? Well of course you did!

I swear ... I don't know how time flies by so fast!

I'm enjoying a bit of a breather from the daily grind ... didn't make any special plans ... or go to any fabulous place ... I just let my brain go into "idle mode"... and that is exactly what I needed.

But ... that is not to say I've been idle ... I've done stuff! Watched a lot of movies ... crocheted a second pair of baby booties for my neice ... but my biggest endeavor has been a purse.

Ages ago I had a "saddle bag" ... it was my absolute fave ... and I used it until it literally fell apart. So ... I took it apart & made a pattern from the pieces ... and made another one years ago ... a combination of a leather body and crocheted side panels/trim. Unfortunately I chose jute for the crochet part ... and it broke down faster than expected.

A few weeks back I stumbled across it while looking for something else ... and decided to check it out to see if it could be repaired & put back into use. Uh ... no. But the leather could be salvaged ... so I started to cut off all that old jute ... and let my mind work away at the resurrection plan.

Another thing I had stashed away ... and also one of the fave things from my past ... was an exquisite pair of black leather pants ... custom made ... which cost a pretty penny back then ... and even after all the years of wear were still intact ... except for the lining. There was no chance that I was ever going to fit into them again ... but just for a lark I had Melanie try them on to see if she might want them. They did fit ... kinda ... but too baggy in some spots ... so she declined. She was amazed that these actually fit me once!

This leather would be too thin to make a purse from ... but let me tell ya ... it was perfect as a veneer for the foundation leather of the old bag! I simply glued it on and voila ... the next incarnation! It'll go nicely with my black leather jacket!

I got this crazy notion to do something "decorative" on the main flap ... and it actually worked out pretty cool. I used some coloured bits of leather showing through cut out sections of the black ... initially it was going to be rainbow ... but finally used red and lavender ... and glad I did!

I still have quite a bit of finishing trim to do ... and have to attach the strap (I'm not entirely sure how I'm gonna do that) ... but eventually it'll be finished and I'll share visuals.

So ... that's about it for now ... and I will try to post more often!

Hugs ... Marie

That's It ... That's All!

2010-06-18T18:58:00.002-04:00

Well ... all except for one final exam ... my baby girl is finished High School! ... officially!

She may contemplate another semester ... to get a few extra credits for a field she is contemplating, but she has the required amount for her official graduation diploma.

Yup ... another milestone in life!

Can hardly wait for Commencement ... and the whole "cap & gown" thing!

Hugs ... Marie