Say Farewell To November

November 30, 2015

Good morning.  Today is the last day in November, and it's cloudy, and 35F degrees.  We may get up to about 40 degrees with a touch of sunshine peeking through the clouds.   Actually, I can see patches of blue in the sky, so I think we'll be blessed with a bit of sunshine soon. 

I got up around 8:30 today, but I've been rather busy all morning.  First I made breakfast, then I thought I would check my emails.  Wowsie!  It's amazing how many more emails there are this time of year.   Everybody wants you to buy their products.

Next, I had to go out into the main house to chat with one of the dwarfs, and by the time I got back in here, I found Pogo sitting on my lounge chair looking sorry about something.  Oops, time to look around the floor.  He got most of the cookies on his potty patch, but then tried wiping his bottom on various scatter rugs. 

Now you know what I was doing next.  Yup, picking up the rugs, cleaning any spots that missed the rugs, and giving my little guy a bath.  So that pretty much explains why I'm blogging so late this morning. 

Just before all this happened, Pogo was sitting on my lap, practicing taking a few selfies.  Here's one of them.  As you can see, his hair is getting all fluffy again.

Now he's lying here next to me, all curly and squeaky clean.  I'm surprised he's letting me type.  Lately when I am trying to type, Pogo is all over me, crawling over and under my arms.  So usually I just stop for a while and cuddle with him. 

You're probably tired of seeing our Christmas Cactus plant, but it seems like every day it gets more beautiful.  I just have to take another photo of it.  This one is from this morning.

I am definitely going to get a hanging pot for this beauty.  And a bigger pot too.  I can just imagine how gorgeous it will look hanging  from the top of the kitchen window. 

Well yesterday, I did not get to do much of any of the things that I had planned to do.  However, I did finish up a couple of gift projects.  It's been a while since I've used my jewelry making tools, and my hands were not as steady as they used to be.  It took me a bit longer, but I finished what I was working on. 

SIL Eddie came by to work on my lawn tractor, and then we had a nice visit.  He started to set up the remote control ap on my phone, but we ran into a snag.   So I'll wait for my granddaughter, Jazzy. to come by and finish setting it up. 

I spent the rest of the afternoon and part of the evening playing music on my laptop and doing puzzles.  Lifetime channel on TV was playing some wonderful Christmas movies, which I enjoyed tremendously.  Needless to say, I was able to stay awake much later than I have been lately.  It felt good.

Today I don't have a "to do" list.  I'll just see how much I can accomplish and be happy with that.  Well, that's about all my news for this morning.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

p.s.  Don't forget to stop by tomorrow for your World Wide Christmas blog train freebie.  See you in December!

Cooler Temps Are Back

November 29, 2015

Good morning.  The cooler temps are back.  It is 31F degrees at the moment, and it might get up to about 42 degrees later today.  The weather these last few days has been awesome so I can't really complain.

Yesterday, I got up around 7 a.m. (same as today) and just lazed about.  Hmmm, not exactly the neatest thing I do, but I do it well!!   Actually, other than a couple of phone calls, I spent most of the day playing on my laptop.   I love jigsaw puzzles, and I have hundreds of them on my laptop.  So it's easy for the hours to slip away while I'm doing puzzles.

I have a photo of the completed baby cocoon set to share.  It is so darn cute!!   This one will go to baby Ali.  I can't wait to see a photo of her in it.

Next, I will have to pick up a pretty green yarn, (probably Spring Green or a pretty variegated green) to start another set for the next GGbaby.  (due in March)  Her mom's favorite color is green, so voila!  Maybe I'll use the pink yarn to make another blanket. 

I have another photo to share with you.  This photo was taken by my friend Mary Ann's hubby, and it took a ribbon in their local camera club competition.   This is a white deer surrounded by Aspens.  It's an awesome photo, Gene.  Thanks for letting me share it.

None of the packages I'm waiting for have arrived yet, so today I'll probably try to get the rest of the envelopes for my cards addressed.  This week coming up is usually when I mail them out.  Hopefully, I can start mailing out my mailer boxes by the end of the week. 

This week I want to get out the Christmas decorations and put up our trees.  Something tells me that these next four weeks are going to fly right by.  Before we know it 2016 will be here.

Today Joe is going to clean out the birdbath and plug it in.  I've noticed that some of the puddles have been freezing lately.  Obviously, this means that the birdie water will freeze too.  I did not have any luck with the local roofing contractors to get the heated lines put on my roof, so I hope we don't get any wicked huge icicles this year. 

There's not much news for today, so I think I'll just make me a new cup of coffee and get started on those envelopes.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day. 

Hugs, Edna B.

Early To Bed, Early To Rise, The New Me!

November 27, 2015

Good morning.  Gosh, it feels like I've been up a whole day already.  Last evening I put out the lights really early, and Pogo and I fell right to sleep..  I woke up around 3 a.m., and decided that it was a good time to work on the baby cocoon that I had started a while ago.  After it was finished, Pogo and I had our breakfast. 

Next, I started making the little beanie cap that goes with the cocoon.  As soon as it is finished, I'll take a photo of the whole set.  One by one, all my projects are getting finished.  I think I'll start either a pink baby cocoon or a pink baby blanket next.  My hands don't feel right if they are not busy with some sort of craft in them.  Here's a photo of the finished baby blanket.

Well, let me tell you all that Joe cooked us a fabulous Thanksgiving dinner yesterday.  Everything came out great, even the turkey breast.  Needless to say, we were all stuffed after dinner.  I didn't even have room for dessert. 

Pogo is making it very difficult for me to type, as he is climbing on and off my lap and nudging my arms.  He says he wants some attention and petting.  So be it.

I'm back.  My little guy just needed some "me" time.  So I picked up his brush, and brushed his beautiful curly coat.  He loves that.  After some cuddling, he's happy to lie here next to me while I type my post. 

This morning I took another photo of my Christmas Cactus plant.  Every day there are new blossoms opening.  It's just gorgeous.

Yesterday morning, after I had posted here on my blog, I started doing a bit of catching up on my blog reading.  I only got to a couple of my favorite blogs when I heard a loud noise coming from outside, and then all the lights went out. 

I woke Joe up so that he could go out to the shed and get the generator running so that we could plug in our refrigerators and the freezer.   Who knows how long it would be before the power was back on.  Then I called the electric company.  Because I have an oxygen concentrator, they came right out.  In less than two and a half hours, we had our power back on.  Yeahhhhh!!

All in all, we had a wonderful Thanksgiving Day.  There's even enough food left over for all of us (Joe, Mike and me) to have supper tonight.  These two wonderful dwarfs paid for our dinner, so I will see if they would like to have Chinese take out tomorrow night, on me of course. 

Now I think I'll see about getting a bit of my wrapping done (and maybe a bit of dusting)  before I settle down with some crocheting.  So, till Sunday, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Happy Thanksgiving Day

November 26, 2015

Good morning.  I've been up since 4 a.m.  So much for sleeping through the whole night.  haha.  But I've made good use of my time by checking emails, and making breakfast for Pogo and me.  I even put the last few rows on the baby blanket.  I'll take a photo later to share.

Today I have super news.  Our baby Ali was able to go home yesterday, and her mom sent us this photo.  This is Lilah, Ali and Jack.  I have lots to be thankful for.

Yesterday afternoon, I took Joe grocery shopping so he could buy his turkey and other supplies for today's dinner.  Oh my, what a sticker shock he got!!!  Not only were all the turkeys priced way up from last Friday's price, but they only had frozen turkeys left. 

What does a person do when the bird has to be thawed out in time to be cooked this morning?  He decided to put the turkey back and buy a turkey breast instead.  I read the label and there are still (parts of) legs and wings in the package.  I don't know how, but no big deal.  However, it was frozen solid. 

When we got home, Joe immediately put the frozen chunk of turkey into a huge pan of water to thaw it out.  A couple hours later he took it out of the water and put it in the refrigerator.  I asked why it wasn't still in the water and Joe said that it was all thawed out.  HUH????  Peanut butter and jelly is starting to sound really good!

I have a funny story and photo to share with you.  Yesterday, before I left for the market, I put some of Pogo's big fuzzy blankets on the floor (just in case of accidents).  When I get home, I pick them up, fold them and put them away. 

Yesterday, when I got home from the store, I was in a hurry to take a potty break, so I folded the blankets up and set them on Pogo's little bed.  When I came back into the room, I found my little guy perched on top of the pile of blankets, with no intention of getting down anytime soon.   I guess he was just claiming ownership so that I wouldn't put the blankets away somewhere.  haha.  He is such a wonderful little character!  (so yes, I left his blankets there for now)

As you know, most retail stores (not all) have decided to stay closed either all day or at least most of the day so that employees could spend Thanksgiving with their families.  However, they don't tell you that their employees still have to work whole shifts today to get the store's merchandise ready for the big sale.  My daughter Audrey is working (for Walmart) this morning from 4:30 a.m. till 1 p.m.  So much for letting the employees enjoy the day at home with their families.  What's wrong with this picture? 

Why can't we bring back the blue laws where all stores were closed on Sundays and Holidays?  At least close for the Holidays!  Families are so very important, but it's hard to celebrate together when the parents are required to work on the holidays.  It's hard to go to church together when your parents are working on Sundays.  Just food for thought.

I want to wish all of you a very Happy Thanksgiving Day.  Even if it is not a holiday where you live, Y'all have a super day anyway!!

Hugs, Edna B.

p.s.  Stacey, can you please email me so that I can email you back?  Thanks, Edna B.

Gosh, I'm Not Used To This Much Sleep (At Night) All At Once

November 25, 2015

Good morning.  It's only 6 a.m., so it's still quite dark outside.  I put the light out really early last evening, and got a whole night of sleep.  That hasn't happened in a long time.   Hmmm, I could get used to this. 

It's rather nippy this morning.  Only 29F degrees, with a high of 42 degrees expected later today.  If I didn't know any better, I'd think that Winter is slipping in rather quickly.  Blogger doesn't seem to like the cold either because it is acting sort of weird. 

I got up to get Pogo's breakfast, and my page here was all faded out and not working.  I clicked out of it and re-opened it, and it was still here, but the words have moved around.  After a bit of finagling, I've got everything back where it belongs. 

Yesterday afternoon, I had such fun playing on my laptop, making new Christmas QP's.  Before I knew it, the afternoon had passed by and it was supper time.  Time flies when you are having fun.  So, the next four weeks I'll be posting Christmas QP's.  Warning, I may have to post more than one sometimes, because making them gets addicting. 

Also, next Tuesday is the start of the Worldwide Christmas Scrapbooking Blog Train.  I'll be posting a freebie for you, along with lots of other scrap designers.  Make room on your hard drive so that you can download all these wonderful freebies.  I'll post more information next Tuesday.

Today, I have a fun QP for you.  Notice Lola, and her new friend, Ms. Butterfly?  I love whimsy, and I hope you can use this .  Enjoy.

Here is your download link:

Expired

 

I found this poster on the web, and thought I'd like to share it with you.  It's message is really wonderful.  We don't need a reason to help someone, but if you do, then use this wonderful season of love and giving as your reason. 

There are so many ways to help a stranger.  When you are checking out at a fast food or coffee chain,pay for the order ahead or behind you.  Notice if someone is sitting outside a market or store just trying to stay warm.  Visit a nursing facility and visit with a few of the old folks.  I'm sure you can think of so many ways to help someone. 

I have a proposition for you.  If you send me your story (and name and address) of something you've done to help someone needy, I'll make you a neck warmer.  Just be sure to include your favorite color.  If I can post your story, let me know.  No names will be used.  Happy Giving!!

Tomorrow's post may be short, but I'll be here to wish all of you a fabulous Thanksgiving Day.  Now I think I'll make me another cup of coffee (this is a two cup morning), and see if I can't make some more headway with my wrapping.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.                                                                                                

Ever Tried Shooting Your Own Turkey????

November 24, 2015

Good morning.  It's 28F degrees outside my door, and will get up to about 42F degrees later today.  I'll be happy if that's as cold as it gets all winter.  Alas, I don't think the weather gods care one tiny bit about what I think.  

At least the sun is shining, giving the impression that is a bit warmer.  I went outside a little while ago to fill the bird feeder and put more peanut butter bread in the treat cage.  I barely got back inside when all the birds came rushing out to fill their tummies.

One of the things that I do for the little birds and the chipmunks, is to toss a whole bowl of bits of bread and peanuts on the ground under my car.  This is good for when it is raining, or when there are predators around.  Usually, it doesn't take very long before all the food is gobbled up.

I heard on the news this morning that Google is giving free downloads of Michael Jackson's Thriller album.   I thought I would check it out, but got side tracked to my own kind of music.  After a quick peek around, I downloaded one song "Blue Christmas" by Elvis Presley and Martina McBride.  I'll go back later and peek around some more.   Just go to Google, type in free ________ music MP3 downloads. 

A few years ago, I had a super music juke box at the bottom of my blog, but for some reason, Google took it away.  I really enjoyed that, and so did a lot of blog readers.  Maybe someday they'll bring it back?  That would be super.

A few days ago, I took a photo of my Christmas cactus.  It is just loaded with buds, and now the blossoms are popping out.  This thing is just gorgeous. 

This morning, there are at least eight more blossoms opened up on my plant.  I'll have to take some new photos.   I'm going to have to get a bigger pot and a ceiling hanger for this plant and possible a couple others.

Last night, I worked on the baby blanket while I watched TV (Major Crimes).  Aha!  This time I managed to stay awake through the whole program.  As for the blanket, I think there are about four or five more rows to go till it is finished. 

I did try the pattern for the Royal Queen's Neck warmer, but I was not a bit happy with it.  I bought bulky yarn that it called for, but it was just too much bulk to go around one's neck.  I'll try some different yarns with it later. 

Of the three dwarfs who are planning on being home for Thanksgiving, two of them have decided that Joe will cook a turkey dinner.  The third dwarf says he would rather have soup.  Hmmm, we'll see.  I will probably have my Chinese take out tomorrow night instead, and eat some turkey on Thanksgiving Day. 

I found this delightful image on the web and just had to share it with you.  We can all use a giggle to start our day. 

Today I will attempt to wrap a couple more things.  Yesterday I got to wrap and pack up one box, but there are a few little things that I need before I can finish up the rest of the boxes.  I got busy on-line and ordered a few things, and hopefully they will all arrive here in the next few days so that I can finish up all my boxes at least.

The update on Ali, as of yesterday, was that she is still not ready to come home, but has gained weight.  She's now reached five pounds.  We are all still hoping that she will be home for Thanksgiving. 

Well  that's all my news for this morning.  Now I'm off to see what fun today holds for me and Pogo.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Oh, What A Lovely Surprise For Me!!

November 23, 2015

Good morning.  Tis a wee bit damp and gray here in New England, but it's early so things might change in a few hours.  It rained here most of the night.  Right now (8 a.m.) it is 35F degrees, and is supposed to get up to around 40 degrees later today.  Tonight, the temperature will drop down to 23F degrees.  Oooo, just a bit to nippy for me. 

Guess what?  While I was typing this last paragraph, the sun came out from behind the clouds, and everything is looking quite sunny now.  Things change really quickly around here.

Yesterday, I must have been really tired, because shortly after Pogo and I had a bit of lunch, I sat down to watch the news on TV and woke up several hours later.  I wasn't sure if it was nighttime or the next morning until I looked outside. 

Poor Pogo was hungry and looking for his supper.  Gosh, sometimes I am such a bad mommy.  Pogo was good though, and waited while I cooked us up some cube steak.  This cooks up quickly, and Pogo likes it. 

Well I have a nice surprise that I want to share with you.  This morning my friend Kyra sent me some gorgeous scrap layouts, using some of yesterday's photos.  This first page features my beautiful girls.  The kit used is Kyra's "Frederique" which was posted on her blog in April.

This page features Jazzy and Ebeneezer Scrooge.  Kyra used her kit "Highland Christmas" which has yet to be released.

This last page features my SIL Eddie, and the kit used is Kyra's "Fading Hours", which was posted on her blog in March.

Kyra, these are just gorgeous, and I thank you so very much.  What a super way to start my day!!

Would you believe?  Thanksgiving is only three days away!  Gosh, this year is slipping away rather quickly.  There's only 38 more days left till the New Year.  I started all my projects so early, and yet I still have so much left to do.  Yikes!!

I guess this afternoon, I'll try wrapping a bit more and packing a couple more boxes.  And, I still have envelopes to address.  Gosh, if only Pogo could write.  He could do the envelopes for me.  Hmmm, I wonder if this is something that doggies can learn?????

I was planning on ordering Chinese take out food for Thanksgiving, but now Joe is saying that he wants to cook a turkey dinner.  Hmmm.  Turkey prices are low right now, so I might cook a small turkey too just to have the meat for turkey salad.  I like to package it up in batches and freeze it.  However, that Chinese takeout is still sounding quite tasty to me.

Well, that's about all my news for this morning.  I think I'll go to the kitchen and make a fresh cup of coffee before I start some wrapping.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

OOPS!! "Cards For Recovering American Soldiers" Is A Hoax

November 22, 2015

Good morning.  What an eye opener!!  Please disregard the post and address for sending cards to recovering American soldiers.  I checked with Snopes (I really should have done this first I guess), and Walter Reed Hospital DOES NOT ACCEPT cards for our soldiers.  I did not know this but they closed in 2011 to merge with another medical facility.

According to Snopes, I guess you will have to contact your local Red Cross centers to find out how to send holiday cards to any of our military.  All cards must be signed (name only), and will be distributed without the envelopes.  If interested, check out Snopes.com for more information.  I'm sorry for the misinformation.  It sounded like a good idea to me.  (I even addressed several envelopes with cards myself)

I remember back when I was nineteen, participating in a program where we could write letters to service men and women.  I actually got to meet the wonderful young man (and his family) that I was corresponding with.   Sad to say, times have changed, and for safety reasons the government frowns on this now.   Progress?

On to a cheerier note, I went to watch Jazzy perform as the Ghost of Christmas Present yesterday.  What a treat!!  We are so very proud of our Jazzy.  Actually, we are quite proud of all the members of our local drama group.  They all did a fabulous job in A Christmas Carol. 

I did my best to take photos and videos, but there was a rather large and squirmy guy seated to my right, and he kept bumping into my right arm.   The way he was seated in his seat had me quite scrunched in my seat.  Yeesh!!  Some folks just aren't very polite. 

But I did get some super photos, and a few good videos.  I've posted two of the videos on my FB page for those of you who would like to see them.  (for those of you interested, my FB name is Franny Loud)   Here are a few photos from the play. 

The Ghost of Christmas Past visits Ebeneezer Scrooge.

This is a scene from Ebeneezer Scrooge's youth.  That's Jazzy with the skates.

Next, the Ghost of Christmas Present (Jazzy) visits Ebeneezer.

I had to include this shot because I think it is so interesting and fun.  Friends of ours were taking a "selfie" of themselves and Jazzy, while I was off to the side taking a photo of them. 

This next photo is my favorite.  Gosh, it shows just how blessed I really am.  This is what happens when a mom has two sons and a daughter.  She ends up with three beautiful daughters!!   Dee Dee, you too are very blessed.  From left to right, Amber (Bobby's sweetie, Janicee (Kevin's sweetie), Jazzy and Mom (my daughter Deanne).   I'm still patting my shoulder with pride!

Last, but not least, here's a photo of the proud Papa too.  This is my SIL Eddie.  If his chest puffs up any more, it will burst!!   (actually, I could say that about all of us!!)

Well, that's about all my babble for this morning.  I'm off to the kitchen to make a tasty breakfast for Pogo and me.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

A Beautiful Autumn Day In New England

November 20, 2015

Good morning from soggy New England.  The rain started mid-afternoon yesterday, and got heavier during the night.  It's supposed to stop and move on sometime later this morning.  This is good though, because our rainfall is down quite a bit this year. 

I did pretty good staying awake last night to watch my TV program.  I dozed off and only missed some of it.  But I had taped it so I was able to watch the part that I missed. 

This morning I've been up for a couple of hours and already I've accomplished something.  Yeah!!!  I was looking for something in the pantry, and came across something that was out-dated, so now I had to check everything.  I ended up cleaning off two of the shelves and rearranging a few things.  Next, I made breakfast for Pogo and me. 

Today, I will sit down and go through a ton of catalogues and magazines before putting them out in the trash.  I like to remove any of my personal information from them before tossing them out.  My shred bag is getting quite full, so pretty soon I'll have to sit down and do a bit of shredding.

In eleven days, the Worldwide Christmas Blog Train will begin.  If you love scrap freebies, don't miss this.  Lots of wonderful designers (and me too) have come together to bring you a huge collection of scrap freebies.  So mark your calendar for December 1st. 

I found another rather pretty neck warmer pattern on the web, so now I'll have to try this one.  It's called the "Royal Queen's Crochet Cowl." 

Folks, when you are making out your Christmas cards,  why not address a few more to be sent to some of our wounded soldiers.  These guys and gals will be so glad to receive them, and you'll feel good.  Here's the address (borrowed from the web):

An update on baby Ali is that she has been taken off oxygen, and there's a good chance she might be able to go home a little sooner.  This is such good news.   I found the cutest little pink girlie outfit for her, and now I'm shopping for nighties and diapers to fill up the box I'm making up for her.  Us great grannies do have fun!!

Tomorrow is the opening day for "The Christmas Carol."  I'll post the flyer again in case any of you lives near Avon, MA.   It's going to be such great fun, and this proud grandma will be there taking videos.

I've been watching the Shopping Channel this morning, and learning about all the new techy toys that are available now.  I'm not buying, but I sure am learning new stuff.   As I look out my door now, it appears that the rain is almost completely stopped, and the sun is peeking out from behind a cloud.  It's turning out to be a super nice day after all.

On that note, I think I'll wash the dishes and find some fun mischief to get into.   So, till Sunday, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

I Dit It! I Finally Did It!

November 19, 2015

Good morning.  Today is cloudy with a teeny breeze.  There is rain forecast for us beginning this afternoon and lasting all night and part of tomorrow morning.  Hmmm, maybe Joe and I will do our grocery shopping tomorrow instead of later today.  We'll see.

Well, I did it!  Yesterday, I not only wrapped a bunch of gifts, but I packed and labeled a couple of mail away boxes too.  I'd have kept on going, but it was getting to be supper time, and DIL Janet was on her way here.  If I can just get a couple things wrapped each day, I'll be done in no time.  Of course, that's easy for me to say.  haha.

Today I have photos of the Frosty Green afghan, and the newest neck warmer made with "Monet" yarn. 

As I finish all of these projects, especially the afghans, I feel a sense of loss.  Sort of like I need to grab a new batch of yarn and start another one.  I guess other crafters will understand this.  I've already started my "to do" list for afghans to make next year.  This makes me feel a bit better.

This morning, I've been running around like a crazy lady, waving an orange fly swatter around trying to kill a couple of house flies.  They drive Pogo crazy (and me too!) and they must go!   So far, I've managed to get both of them, and I'm hoping there are no more. 

My goal today is to address another batch of envelopes and maybe wrap at least two gifts.  (or pack one box)   I'm hoping the mail brings me some of the things I've been ordering so that I can finish crossing things off my "still need to get" list.   Also, I'll be able to pack up another couple of boxes. 

I've just looked out the door, and my goodness the sun is shining.  Looks like it's going to be rather nice until the rain gets here.    Even the breeze has picked up and our flag is waving in all its glory.

Well, that's about all my news for this morning.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

A Surprise In My Mail This Morning

November 18, 2015

Good morning.  It's another beautiful sunny day here in my little part of New England.  I must admit though, that the overnight temps were a bit nippy.  At 6:30 this morning, it was only 29F degrees.  It's gone up a few degrees now and should make it to the upper 40's later today. 

Well, I guess I have developed a new habit of falling asleep early in the evening, and then staying awake for a few hours during the middle of the night.  In one way, it's not quite my cup of tea, but on the other hand, it's not so bad either. 

Yesterday was another of those "what in the world did I do all day" days.  I do know that I was busy all day, but I'm not sure if I accomplished much of anything.  One of the things that I did was to browse (and browse and browse) through a new catalogue that came in the mail.  I also got caught up a bit on my blog reading and my emails.  During the night, I made another neck warmer.  Hmmm, I guess I did get a few things done.

My morning email brought me a wonderful surprise from my friend Kyra.  What a great way to start my day!!   This gorgeous scrap layout features my handsome Pogo, and features a new kit "The Silence Speaks," which hasn't been released yet.  Kyra, thank you so much.  I love it!!

Oh, I just thought of another thing that I did yesterday.  My little Christmas tree has had it's final season, and I've been looking around for a new one.  Yesterday I finally found one (online) the same size, maybe an inch or two taller, and I ordered it.  I like to put the tree up right after Thanksgiving, so this is perfect timing. 

I did not have a chance to take a photo of the afghan, but I'll do that today.  (Obviously, it did not get wrapped either!)  I'll take a photo of the new neck warmer too.  I used another variegated yarn, and it is  really pretty.

Today I have another QP freebie for you.  This one features some really pretty shades of coral and maroon.  I hope you can use it.

Here is your download link:
Expired
Well, that's about all my news for today.  DIL Janet is coming by later today, and I need to get busy here and think of what I'm making for our supper.  Plus I'm sure there's more fun mischief waiting for me to find it.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

The First Winter Storm Has Arrived

November 17, 2015

Good morning.  While we are enjoying a beautiful sunny day, some folks are having to cope with lots of snow.  On the Weather Channel, they are talking about the first Winter storm, Ajax.  It's dumping snow in some of the Western, South Western and Central states.  Brrr, I'm not ready yet for the snow to begin here.

I dug into my 2012 photo files, and found this beautiful snow covered rose.  I took the photo on December 1st,  This gorgeous blossom is on my pink rose tree which was covered with blooms and snow.  This year the branches are all bare. 

I do have an update on Randi and Ali.  Randi was able to leave the hospital and go home early last evening, but Ali will have to spend a few more weeks in the hospital.  At least, that's the news that I got last evening.   Jack and Lilah were sooo happy to have their mom home.

Another update here, the eye drops seem to be helping my eye, and my cold isn't so bad now either.  I just have an occasional cough.  This is good because I don't plan on missing Jazzy's performance in A Christmas Carol this coming Saturday. 

Last evening, I put a few more rows on the baby blanket.  For some reason, this does not seem to be working up as quickly as the afghans did.  I missed my TV program "Major Crimes" because, once again, I fell asleep.  Next week, I'll use my smarts and tape it. 

While I was poking through my photo archives, I dug out this adorable photo of Pogo.  This was the first day he met Sassy (Auntie Dee Dee's doggie).  Auntie Dee Dee was talking, and as you can see, both Pogo and Sassy were listening intently. 

I took this photo on August 7, 2012.   My little Pogo had been here less than two weeks.  Wow,  can you see the difference in how he looked then and how he looks now?   He's now two and a half pounds heavier, and he rules the whole household.

This next image is one that I borrowed from the internet.  It says it all for those of us with fur babies.

Well, yesterday I did manage to use that wicked "P" word again, (procrastinate) but I did address another big batch of envelopes for my Christmas cards.   Today, I'll take a photo of the Frosty Green afghan, and then I'll get that wrapped.  After that, it should be a bit easier to get into a "wrapping" frame of mind.  (I'm trying to use psychology on myself)

It's looking like there may only be two or three of us here on Thanksgiving Day, so I'm thinking that I might like to order us some take out Chinese food for dinner.  I don't really feel like cooking up a big dinner, and I'm not especially fond of turkey.  I do usually cook a turkey each year, but once it is cooled, I cut it up and package it all into portions big enough to make salads.  I love turkey salad.

Well, time is fleeting and soon Pogo will be looking for some lunch.  Me too, actually.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a magnificent day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Pogo Has A Wicked Sense Of Humor Some Times

November 16, 2015

Good morning.  It's 4:50 a.m., and I've been up for a while.  Pogo and I have just finished our breakfast, and he is fast asleep again.  I'm hoping to be sleeping soon too, after I finish this post. 

Last evening, I curled up in my lounge chair to put the last two rows on the Frosty Green afghan that I'm working on.  Pogo decided that he wanted to sit with me, and settled in comfortably right on top of the afghan.   Actually, he curled himself right into it.  I took this photo around 9:58 p.m.

It was a bit difficult trying to work on the afghan, and I leaned my head back for a moment to figure out how to do this without disturbing Pogo.  I woke up a little after midnight to find that Pogo had changed his position, giving me an opportunity to grab on to the end of the afghan.  I took this photo at 12:08 a.m. 

Somehow I managed to work the last two rows of the afghan.  It is finished!!   I thought I might start on the baby blanket, but Pogo was not moving.  Actually, he was snoring away, ever so lightly;  probably dreaming of how he might be able to snag this afghan for himself.  You gotta love this little guy.

Earlier in the day, Deanne and Eddie came by with two of my great grandkids, Jack and Lilah.  Oh gosh, it is so good to see the little ones.  They've been staying with Deanne and Eddie, and will be at least through tomorrow.  After that, I guess it all depends on when their mom and Ali can come home from the hospital. 

The news today about Randi and Ali was not so good.  It seems they both have had a set back, so more tests are being done.  I sent Randi a photo of the kids and me that Deanne took with her phone.  It seemed to cheer her up a bit.  Here's the photo with moi and Jack, Pogo and Lilah.  We were out in the laundry room just before they were leaving.   I am so blessed.

Today, after I get up from that nice long nap that I'm going to have, I think I must really get serious about my gift wrapping.  It's not my favorite thing to do, so I procrastinate a lot.  I start it, but then I let myself get side-tracked.  Unfortunately, time is slipping away, so I must buckle down now and get it done. 

Right now though, I think I'll put in my six o'clock eye drop (a bit early, I know) and then I think I'll curl up under my blanket and invite the sandman in for a visit.  Mmmm.  Sounds delightful!  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a splendid day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Having Fun Shopping For Baby Clothes

November 15, 2015

Good morning.  Temps are in the mid 40's, but will get up to the mid 50's in a few hours.  The sun is shining and the wind is calm.  Tis quite a nice Autumn day here in New England.

Well, we had thought that our new baby Ali and her mom would be home a couple of days ago, but they've both been quite sick.  Ali was put into an incubator with lights for her jaundice, and her mom has HELLP Syndrome.

I looked this up on Google, and it is a life-threatening pregnancy complication that usually occurs during the later stages of pregnancy, or sometimes after childbirth.  The letters in its name stand for:  H  (hemolysis, which is the breaking down of red blood cells), EL (elevated liver enzymes),  LP  (low platelet count).   Randi, I'm praying that you get well soon.

Mom and baby are still in the hospital.  I'm not sure when they will be able to go home.  I do have a photo, taken on Friday, of Ali in her little basket.

The good news is that Ali was doing much better yesterday.  Here is a new photo that granddaughter Randi (the proud mommy) sent us.  Oh my goodness, she's just darling!

When I went food shopping last Friday, I picked up a few baby things for Ali.  I was looking for drawstring nighties, but could not find any.  Of course, I was rushing a bit.  Soon I will go back to the store, or online to Amazon, to see what I can find. 

Gosh, a lot of old memories have come floating back.  I remember when I was expecting my first baby, (Audrey).  I did not have money to buy baby clothes so I made all of her clothes and blankets.  By hand.  I did not have a sewing machine back then.  Believe me, it was a labor of love.

Yesterday found me very tired.  This "old age" thing isn't always the funnest thing to have.  I used to get along nicely with just a little bit of sleep.  However, the tables are turned now, and if I'm awake a lot during the night, I'm miserably tired all the next day.  The only bad thing about this is that I feel bad for my little Pogo. 

He doesn't complain, but I feel as though I'm neglecting him.  However, I did make up for this a little bit last night.  Around midnight, Pogo got hungry, so I made him a plate of hamburger.  He licked his plate clean, and then curled up and went back to sleep.  So I guess all is well in our little world.

Today I'm doing a bit of laundry, and then whatever fun mischief I can find to get into.  I've purchased a few more scrap kits, so I'll be starting on some Christmas QP's soon.  Not a very exciting day, but a good one.

Before I go, let me ask everyone to say a prayer for the folks in Paris whose lives have been devastated by these latest terrorist attacks.  When, oh when, will all of this hatred end?

Well that's about all my news for this morning.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Our Up And Coming Young Designers Are Just Amazing

November 13, 2015

Good morning.  I guess the rain is gone for a while because the sun is shining and my flag is waving in the breeze.  My tree out front covered with golden yellow leaves is now quite bare.  There are only a few leaves left holding on. 

My beautiful Japanese Red Maple tree is also naked of all its leaves.  This time three years ago, it was still covered in beautiful red leaves.  Here's a photo I took on November 19, 2012.  Quite a big difference from this year.

Well, yesterday I did not get out to do anything because my breathing just was not good.  I ended up having to use my oxygen for a couple of hours.  After that, I just took things easy.  Today I'm much better, so I'm planning on getting things done early.  (at least, that's the plan)

Last night, a new Project Runway program started.  This one features teenagers aged 13 to 17 years old.  Wowee!  These kids are sooooo smart!!   It was awesome to watch them create their beautiful designs. 

Today I have another photo to share from November three years ago.  This one is one of our Blue Jays.  They may be feisty birds, but they sure are beautiful.

My goal for this afternoon is to finish wrapping at least two gifts and address ten cards.  Tonight I will try to finish up the frosty green afghan.  It only needs eight more rows to go till it is done. 

There are two little sparrows peeking in my door at me.  Oh oh!  The feeder must be empty.  I'll have to fill that and put out some peanut butter bread before I do anything else.

There's really not much news this morning, so I think I'll go feed the birds and start getting ready to go out and do my errands.  So, till Sunday, Y'all have a wonderful weekend.

Hugs, Edna B.

Tis A Bit Soggy, But Still Quite Nice

November 12, 2015

Good morning.  It's rather gray and damp here in my little part of New England.  The rain has been steady, buy very light.  Today's temps won't be too bad, about 53F degrees.  Not a bad day after all.

Yesterday, my doctor called in a prescription for eye drops for me, but I did not have a chance to go pick them up.  I'll do that this morning.  Plus I have to go to the Town Hall to sign my tax papers.  Thank goodness a nice lady calls me to remind me because I always forget. 

Well, I do have some information on our new little baby.  Her name is Alima and she weighed in at 4 pounds, 12 ounces and is 17 3/4 inches long.  Deanne spent her whole visit at the hospital cuddling little Ali.  Here's a photo of Deanne holding our newest cutie pie.

Deanne said to me "Oh Mom, she's soooo tiny!"  I had to remind her that she too was a teeny tiny baby.  She weighed 4 pounds, 15 ounces  when I brought her home from the hospital.   So I dug out an old Polaroid of Deanne in her carriage, with her big sister Kerri peeking in at her. 

 

DIL Janet came by last evening with an armful of goodies.  She brought me a birthday cake, and a whole box of cupcakes in case I did not like the cake.  Plus she gave me a gift card to JoAnn's Fabric Store.  Oh my, you can be sure I'll have lots of fun with that gift card!   She even gave me three birthday cards.  She could not decided which one to buy, so she got them all.  (She spoils me, but I love it!)

 

I've been trying, not too successfully, to fight off a cold these past couple of weeks.  If I could just get rid of the cold, my eye would probably clear right up.  Ah well, if I can get all of the "sicky" stuff out of the way, maybe I can stay healthy all of next year.  This year hasn't been so healthy for me.  I really don't want to miss out on next Spring.

 

Well, that's about all my news.  Now it's time to get ready to go do some errands.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a wonderful day.

 

Hugs, Edna B. 

Happy Veterans Day

November 11, 2015

Good morning from soggy New England.  Yup, the rain caught up with us.  It has been raining all through the night, and I guess it will be here for a while.  At least, it is not a heavy rain (at the moment). 

Today is Veterans Day.  A day to honor all the men and women who have given (and are giving) so much to keep us and our beautiful country free.  Please remember to honor all of our military dogs too.

 

Let's try to stop all the hate mongering around the country, and remember why it is that we all want to live here and who made it possible for us.  This is  The United States of America.  Everyone here should respect our flag and honor our military persons.

 

 

I love these images that I have borrowed from the web, and enjoy sharing them with you.  A lot of my family and friends have served in the military.  I am ever so thankful for all of them. 

 

I have more good news for this morning.  IT'S A GIRL!!!  The first of the two new babies expected has arrived.  She was born sometime early this morning.  I don't have any other news of her particulars yet, but I'll try to have that info tomorrow.  My goodness, one down and one to go.

 

My next piece of news isn't so good.  My right eye has been bothering me for a few days, and during the night it really flared up.  It's been red and weepy and crusty.  YUK!  I called my doctor's office a little while ago, and I'm waiting for a call back.  It sounds like I have "pink eye." 

 

How does this happen?  When the nurse calls me back, I'll have to ask her.  What I do know is that I am contagious and will not be able to go see the new baby.  Now that's a bummer!!  DIL Janet is supposed to be coming by later this afternoon after work.  I'll have to ask if this is okay too.  I would order take out so that I would not have to touch any of the food she would be eating. 

 

I dug out an old photo from my archives.  When I had my ceramic store (in  the 80's and 90's) we loved decorating our windows.  Especially for military holidays.  All the "Smileys" were made by our staff and students.  For those of you not familiar with "Smileys", they are cute figurines of all different occupations. This is a photo of one of my storefront windows.

 

 

I don't have much more news, and before I go let me post a QP freebie for you.  This is soft and pink, and I hope you can use it. 

 

 

Here is your download link:

Expired

 

Now I'm going to go wait for the doctor's office to call.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

 

Hugs, Edna B.

Some Days, Pogo Has A Lot To Say!

November 10, 2015

Good morning.  It's a bit nippy, only 48F degrees and cloudy, but it will warm up a bit more soon.  Today the temps are supposed to reach almost 60F with some sunshine.  Not bad for an Autumn day.

Well, I did not do everything I wanted to do yesterday, but I did do a couple loads of laundry.  Plus I took some photos of the new crochet projects, and I addressed a few Christmas cards.  So I guess that wasn't too bad.   Here are the last six neck warmers that I've finished.  Two light raspberry, one pale plum, two spring green and one rose camo.

 

I probably don't need this many neck warmers, but they are fun to make and I'm sure to find lots of folks who could use a nice surprise on a cold day.  Joe thinks I'm nuts because whenever I go by someone on the side of the road holding a sign asking for help, I pull over and give them some money.  So now I'll give them a neck warmer too.  You know, I figure "but for the grace of God there go I."

 

Late yesterday afternoon, I decided to take a warm wet face cloth and clean Pogo's face around his eyes.  By the time I got his little head all wet, I decided to just put him in the sink and give him a full bath.  Obviously, this was not on Pogo's "to do" list, but he goes along with it.  He's a very good little fellow.  After he was dry, I put a nice warm sweater on him so that he would not catch a cold.

 

I have some photos of my little guy that I took a few days ago while we were at the park.  Pogo was sitting in the car in his car seat.  As you can see, he had a few things to say to me.  He was in a big hurry to get out and walk around.  Goodness knows that there are so many different smells there that need to be sniffed!  And he's a great sniffer!!

 

 

After supper last evening, I curled up in my lounge chair with my crochet hook and the baby blanket I'm working on.  I was all set to watch this week's episode of Major Crimes.  Well, I guess you know what happened next.  I woke up about three hours later and had to wait for the re-run of my program to come on.  I'm just lucky that my crochet hook hasn't fallen out of my hand and dropped down into the inside of the chair.   (Ah, but I have a spare hook stashed away for just in case.)

 

I don't have a list of things to do today.  I'll just start somewhere and see how far I can get.  Goodness knows there's lots here to keep me busy for a long time.  haha.  I have a couple of phone calls to make, so maybe I'll do that first. 

 

Well, that's my news for this morning.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

 

Hugs, Edna B.

We're Running Out Of 2015

November 9, 2015

Good morning.  Tis a bit nippy this morning.  Only 44F degrees at the moment.  The sun is shining though, and the temps should reach the high 50's later today.  Can't complain though.  It is after all, Autumn.

Have you been looking at your calendar?  Hanukkah is only twenty seven days away, and Christmas is less than two weeks after that.  Thanksgiving is only seventeen days away.  Basically, this all means that the New Year is less than two months away.   Yeesh, time is slipping right by me.

I guess today I'll have to buckle down and start addressing the envelopes for my Christmas cards.  This usually takes me a few weeks because I only do a batch of them each day.  I also have to get serious about packing up my holiday boxes.  Even though I start early on this stuff, I'm usually scrambling to get everything done on time. 

Last night, I  took a break from the neck warmers, and worked on a baby blanket.  I'd like to get at least one of these finished before Christmas.  One of the two new babies coming is due right around Thanksgiving, and the other is due in March.  It looks like I'm going to be busy for a while.

Speaking of time flying, Jazzy's drama group will be performing "A Christmas Carol" in less than two weeks.  Jazzy will be playing the ghost of Christmas Present.   Here's their poster for the upcoming event.  I'll be there at the Saturday afternoon performance taking lots of photos and videos.

I just had to take a small break and go outside with birdseed to fill the feeder.  My little birds were peeking in the window to let me know that the feeder was empty.  When I finish this post, I'll make up some more peanut butter bread and take that out to the treat holder.  In these cool temps, the little birds need lots of food.

I've been watching the Weather Channel, and the weather isn't looking so good around the country.  They've been showing videos of the flooding in Florida and other parts of the Southeast.  Do you suppose all these wicked new weather patterns will ever slow down? 

I'm watching a video showing the new road paving that is being done in Atlanta, Georgia.  They are using bricks that soak up the water and let it pass  through into the ground.  Hmmm, is this a new idea?  Do any of you remember the cobblestone streets from way back when?  We had them when I was a little girl, but then progress came along and got rid of them.  Now progress seems to be wanting to bring them back.

My friend Beth sent me a birthday card featuring one of the Halloween QP's, and I'd like to share it.  What a beautiful card.  Thank you so much Beth. 

Joe cut his finger a couple of weeks ago at work, and instead of going to the ER to have it looked at, he did it the "man" way.  His way.  Unfortunately, even though he did his best to keep it clean, it got very infected and he finally had to give in and go to a clinic to have it checked.  Now he is taking an antibiotic for the next ten days.  Guys, it's very manly to have your cuts and other boo boos checked when they happen. 

Well that's my news for this morning.  Now I think I'll address a few envelopes and get started on my holiday boxes.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.