Quilting Ranny

My Newest Project

2012-01-28T08:24:00.001-08:00

All is not totally lost. I want you all to know I haven't thrown in the towel totally yet and I am working on a new quilting project. Let me rephrase that, I have been working on this for several weeks now and here it sits. I loved this Easterish, baby chicks and lamb print and decided to make a baby quilt with it.

However, when the main body of the quilt was finished, I felt the print in the middle was flat had no dimension to it so I took out my fabric puff paints and embellished it a bit and now it looks much nicer.

The blue border is a flannel barnyard print with lambs on it and then the dotted fabric is a cotton print with colors that blend in well with the panel. I am going to try to finish adding the outer border of dotted print today.

I am aware the date on them is in the future. I have a new camera and my granddaughter set the date and it doesn't bother me, so I haven't changed it as of yet. I have bigger things to concern myself with, but I mention it here because for some reason it really bothers others. Go figure??

I just wanted everyone to know I am still working on things, but I believe last year, I burnt myself out working on so many projects for those in need, that I forgot to take care of me and thus created a stew for myself that I need a very long spoon to crawl out of this bowl...but I will!

Make It Monthly

2012-01-28T07:48:00.000-08:00

If you are looking to get a heads up on Christmas gifts this year (I know its early) head on over to Vals blog at Yarnigras and join her Make it Monthly list and make a gift a month. It is a way to commit to doing something fun and at the end of the year, you will have 12 gifts done!

Friday Funnies

2012-01-27T07:29:00.000-08:00

No, trust me I am not starting up a new blog hop. It is just that today is Friday and last night while baking a fresh apple pie, the kids and hubby were having such a great time with the apple peels from the little electric peeler I purchased at a yard sale, I thought I would post them this morning.

I didn't realize when I purchased this little tiny peeler from the neighbor that it would peel apples so quickly or that it would peel them with these extremely long and very thin strands of apple peelings. Who knew there were over six feet of peels on an apple? Certainly not me, but last night it provided not only a great snack, but loads of family funnies!

Here is silly girl eating what she termed last night as 'Appleghetti,' she went so far as to say she needed to have a jar of applesauce for the top of it like spaghetti and some Cinnamon for Parmesian cheese. You can see she has this wonderful imagination!

Then my hubs comes in from carrying wood in for the night and he sees her and decides he wants some. However, it wasn't until he held it up that we realized these strings of apple were longer than he was and that is six feet!

Of course there was some mention of the Lady and The Tramp picture but of course even if that happened (which it didn't), you would never catch it on camera. :)

To really get a sense of how much peelings there were, the silly girl set a bowl and a fork out as if it were dinner. As I said, I have never seen apple peelings gone so quickly and between all of them, they ate this entire bowl full.

Of course all of this fun was so I could make a mile high apple pie. While the top crust didn't come out looking perfectly pretty...is was pretty tasty. I brushed the top with some milk and sprinkled it with Cinnamon sugar before popping it into the oven. I am sure hoping it is delish as Rachel Ray would say as it wasn't done until the kids went to bed so hubs and I decided to wait until they could share a piece before we

cut into it!

Bible Study is No More

2012-01-25T10:57:00.001-08:00

To the few of you who wanted to participate in my on line Bible study there was just not enough interest for me to take on another blog even if it was to glority God. I am sure everyone is just so busy right now, trying to get things done for the New Year they just don't have time to do another bloggy thing and that is okay.

Right now I am working on a Bible Study with my church and will continue to do so.

I am also working on some personal issues of my own and may not blog as frequently as you are used to seeing me blog, but when I have a project done or something to say I will come back.

It appears to me I am going through some junk that needs to be gone through and God is good bringing me the right people in my pathway to remove the years of stuffing and bring the happiness back into my life.

Right now I am in a period of healing and I must take it one day at a time as it comes!

Great Gummies -VitaFusion Adult Gummy Vitamins

2012-01-21T08:52:00.001-08:00

I am and always have been somewhat of a medical oddity from the time I was small and they discovered one of the valves didn't close to my heart (in 1958 it was a HUGE thing), to having pneumonia many times in junior high and never once running the teeniest bit of a temperature, to broken bones they can't explain.

What is worse I think for the doctors than myself is the fact my body has such horrible reactions to many different types of medications....I am allergic to many antibiotics and pain medications, well lets just say the one and only pain medication I could take in moderation has been banned and is no longer available.

However, worse than those seem to be vitamins. Yes, you read that right, plain simple vitamins. From the tiny One A days to Centrum for Women to Geritol, my body dislikes them all. The doctors nor the vitamin companies I have written to seem to have an answer...I take them with or without food, morning, noon or night...I get dizzy, break out in a sweat and then become extremely nauseous.

Finally, out of desperation, I picked up a bottle of Vitafusions MultiVites Gummy Vitamin for Adults which have 200% the required daily dose of Vitamin D. They also contain no wheat (gluten), milk, soy, eggs or peanuts.

They are doing great. I can take them on an empty of full stomach in the morning, with or without my NSAID and I am doing great. No side effects and for me this is amazing. While they are a bit short in some of the vitamin areas like only 50% for Vitamin C, I don't mind because I take a chewable Vitamin C as well.

These gummies are made by Northwest Natural Products up here in Washington state out of Vancouver, the same company that for years has made Gummy Critters that I give to my grands along with their amazing and awesome Immune C I give to them during the school year and I believe it is what keeps them from getting the flu and colds that go around.

They also have Gummies for women, for the plus 50 crowd like myself and more. To check out these wonderful vitamins, head on over to their website at: http://www.nnpvitamins.com/ and take a look around.

If you are like me and haven't been able to digest vitamins well, these may be your answer.

*This is a non-paid, non-sponsored review. NNP did not contact me to talk about their products. This is a product review based on my own experience with the product in an attempt to share with my readers something that works for me and that I believe in.**

Hubby Looses Cell Phone In Snow

2012-01-18T18:12:00.000-08:00

To set this video up which is very short, you need to realize that we live in the direct path of the snow storm that slammed into Seattle, however, it slammed into us, a coastal town with 13"-18" of snow or a foot to almost 2 feet of snow.

My husband has a job where rain, shine or snow he has to be at work and no he isn't the post man.

He walked outside this morning and his phone dropped, he couldn't find it and while it was ringing in the snow, the ringing is loud and surrounding...lucky for him it lights up when it rings so he was able to find it!

You Won't Find Me On Hoarding Shows, Unless...

2012-01-17T07:39:00.000-08:00

You will never find me on a hoarding show. While I totally understand this is a disorder like a mental illness or addiction I am a bug and critter phobe and can smell mouse droppings a mile away or even death pretty quickly so having animals that have died in my home while buried alive....NO!

However, if I wasn't as squeemish as I am about bugs and crawly things, you would most likely find me on one in the role or professional organizer. I love organization, I thrive on it and while I may not always remember where my keys are (Yes, John after all these years, I keep them in the same place 95% of the time!), I love opening a drawer, closet or cabinet and finding what I am looking for!

My husband has a clothes hamper next to our bed on his side and yet, every night he drops his clothes next to the hamper on the floor, it drives me crazy! Then he proceeds on telling the kids they can't do the same thing. Wait a minute sweets, you can't do that, it is sending a very mixed message!

Yesterday while the snow was falling outside, the kids were sledding, I worked on my new pantry shelves in the basement hubs put up for me. I covered them with a marbled black and gray flecked Contact paper so they would be easy to wash and match the black and white checked flooring I put down! Here is a picture. The area is not wide enough for me to stand back enough to get a great picture, but here you can see the new shelves.

Lucky for me the oldes grand kept coming in to see how she could help and she did the lower shelf as she knows I would not be able to get back off the floor and she helped line everything up nicely. Her organization comes from her engineering mind and liking nice clean lines!

As you can see, I use large food grade buckets for some of my things. I keep sugar in one (my husband loves his sweet tea) and the other holds bread flour. I am in the process of getting a few more for beans, rice, etc.

I do not hoard food, but I believe it is important to have enough on hand that I don't have to go shopping all the time. A bucket like this holds enough beans to last us almost the entire year. It also helps if you are snowed in to have food on had that is easy to cook or be able to cook on a camp stove outside!

I keep a clip board on the shelf and it has a list of everything on the shelves, fridge and freezer in the basement and a pen. It is expected that when someone takes something, they will cross it off the list and make the correction of how many are left. If it is the last one, they will put it on a shopping list upstairs.

I have 2 of these clip boards. One is in the basement and the other is inside a cabinet upstairs that has the list of kitchen items, basement items and the shopping list. On the fridge is a Costco and regular shopping list.

Lastly, here are the shelves hubby and I covered last year with floor tile. You can see they are a bit messy from my re-organization yesterday as I was moving things around to see where I wanted them. Today, I will figure it all out and relabel all the shelves and this area makes it nice because we can keep bins of potatoes, onions and wine down here and it lasts!

Hmmmm. maybe I should open an organization business! HAHA!!

Working on Me

2012-01-16T08:12:00.000-08:00

I want all of you to know that I love each and everyone of my blog readers, followers and I am not out of the game yet, but it seems 2012 kind of started off as 2011 ended....my washing machine went out, we are still struggling with the bank to see if we can keep our home, my Fibromyalgia has kicked into the worst flare ever, my depression has skyrocketed and while I am still here, I just am not feeling the best!

Plus, the beginning of every year finds me crazy busy organizing my home and latest on my list since it is snowing out has been to organize my basement pantry, fridge, freezer and upstairs kitchen area. That my friends is a chore.

First of all, I have this really deplorable, I would like to take a wrecking ball to it but can't afford it now, it is 13" wide x 38" deep x 79" tall. It is to deep to really put anything in it because you can't see that far back number one and number two if you do lose something back there, it takes an act of congress to dig it out. Not to mention I think at one time the walls leaked and the wall is buckling and someone shoved egg crates on the wall!

As you can see, it is very difficult to find anything in this cavern no matter how neat it is and trust me it doesn't stay that way. Soooooooooooooo, since hubby and our contractor buddy don't advise me to use the sledge hammer and our original idea to close this off and cut through the backside and enclose it with cabinet doors isn't going to happen...

I am unloading this cabinet over the next few days to my brand new pantry shelves in the basement (except cereal, oil, EVOO) and pulling out all the shelves in this closet, the busted up wall, etc., and I am putting a catch pan on the bottom and turning this area into my broom/mop/cleaning supplies cabinet!

Last night I inventoried every item down stairs in the pantry, fridge and freezer and made a list and placed it with a pen on a clip board so when something is taken or removed, I can keep track. I also made one for upstairs and I am placing it inside this cabinet door and it will have a list of what is upstairs and a copy of the basement list for easier shopping purposes!

Eventually, I am sure Extreme Home Make Over will be outside our home yelling: 'Kester Family Come On Out,' but until that day (oh Snap, they just ended with a series finalie didnt they?) oh well, so much for dreaming!

So, if I appear quiet, trust me I have caught up on all of your blogs. If I have disappeared from your following I am sorry, but this year I have decided I want to follow blogs that speak of faith, family, quilting, being old, being young, raising a family...I do not want to just follow a blog that does nothing but product reviews and nothing else or a blog that has me constantly running all over the internet to participate in a giveaway.

I find daily my strength comes from spending time in the Bible, cleaning my home, taking my meds and trying to walk a bit further in spite of the snow then I did the day before.

My massage therapist said I need to heal, a friend told me I need to heal, my best friend and hubby keep telling me I do not need to be super chick, I need to take time to relax and heal. Soooooooooooo, I am here and I am always watching your blogs and I will reply to everyone.

But 2012 is going to be the year, I take time to heal!

I Won!

2012-01-13T09:48:00.000-08:00

WooHoo, I was a lucky winner of the Inch Worm Fabrics Valetine Table Topper Kit giveaway by Jeanette! I am so excited to win and have something to make for Valentines day. I am going to keep a book this year of my winnings, my giveaways (coming soon) & my sales of quilts.

I won an adorable kit and was so happy to win! Thank you so much! Isn't it just beautiful? I hope mine turns out as fab as this one did. Thank you Jeanette for your generous offer!

Bible Study Blog Hop - 1 John

2012-01-13T09:21:00.000-08:00

So, have you been reading 1st John? It is a pretty powerful book and I must admit, I haven't read it for the past 7 days (I am still reading it) but the things I have gotten out of it have amazed me.

First I found for me the theme of 1st John seems to be sin (we are all sinners), forgiveness (Jesus was sent to forgive our sins if we turn our life over to Him), Love (we need to love one another as Christians because the world hates us) Family of God (we as Christians whether we are Catholic, Baptists, Lutheran, etc. are a family unto God), Truth (we know the truth and it is that Jesus came to this earth and died on the cross because of our sins to save us) lastely Assurance (we find assurance in Jesus if we follow Him and the Bible that we will be saved).

Not once does 1st John tell us as Christians our life will be laid back, easy to live and filled with forever peace! What it does tell us is that we should not be lovers of the things in this world, but lovers of God and we can't be lovers of God if we have 'idols.'

Now, idols don't have to be made out of stone, they can be anything we feel we can't live without....our job can be an idol, our purses, shoes, clothes, motorcycles and yes, even our home. I am not saying we can't wear or have nice things, but if you open your closet and you have thousands of dollars in purses and you can't buy a purse unless it is a Coach bag or Chanel...you might have an idol you are not even aware of.

What I truly learned on my first day of reading and second days were that I should not have to many things cluttering up my life and my ability to serve God. It was that simple for me. I have allowed things to clutter my life and literally take over and I had to confess to God I had actually without realizing it, placed my quilting for charity not only over Him, but over my family.

Last year I was obsessed to help others and made over 40 quilts for those in need and yes, I did all of these on my own! My life was constantly thinking of fabric, thread and in my sewing closet working away. My chores didn't get done many times, I would argue with my husband I had worked on the dishes...the laundry, etc. but reality hit me....my quilting though for the good of others, had actually become an idol of mine.

This year, I have had to realize, I must concentrate on Jesus and family! If I am asked to help others, I will pray about it. Last night I had a call to take on my pregnant 16 year old granddaughter and I had to say no.
I am raising 3 grandchildren (2 are young impressionable girls) I cannot take on another one who just beat her own mother.

I also must realize that when I do take on projects I have to take them on for the right reasons. Otherwise, I get caught up in them so much, they do become an idol.

What lessons have you learned this week?

Time For Healing....Me

2012-01-11T11:51:00.000-08:00

I went to see my Reiki Massage therapist today for my back due to spasms. She basically said I am a train wreck with so much stress in my life, I need not a bigger plate but a platter! Profoundly, she repeated almost verbatim what I dear friend told me yesterday...Hello, not once but twice, God is speaking!

Here is what they both believe and I am inclined to believe this with them:
1- I am under an enormous amount of stress
2- I am severely depressed
3- I don't take good care of myself
4- I am exhausted
5- I am not healthy right now
6- I am under extreme amounts of pressure right now
7-I am to hard on myself
8- I have PTSD on several work issues

For me the blessing is my MT was a dispatcher for many years and knows the stress it causes the body, also my hearing has been trained to be split ear and that is another thing altogether, but right now, both are very concerned.

So, for 2012 I am going to be a bit kinder to myself:

I am not taking on any new charity quilt projects this year, they wear on my mentally and physically to make as many as I can each year and until my family quilts and projects are completed, I am not making anymore for charity.

I am resigning this year as Scout leader for the Cub Scouts. I am 56 years old more than double what most scout parents are right now, I didn't volunteer for this...I took it one when our leader got sick and she never came back and not wanting to let the grandson down I took it on and expected more help from hubby and have gotten none. I can't make a car, cut a block of soap, pitch a tent, tie knots, etc. Next year these boys become Webelos and they need a male leader!

I am going to take care of me better. That means if I want to get my nails done, I will. If I want to sleep in on Sunday, I will. If I cook dinner and do the best and hubby isn't happy, I have to accept that and move on. Cooking for him in grease and fat is killing us!

Sadly, I have to look at the fact, that if we do lose our home, it isn't my fault! I pay my car payment, my bills, I buy the kids clothes, pay for the music lessons, scouting, gas in my car, a few groceries here and there with my small monthly retirement and unemployment checks.

This year, I have to take care of me...whatever that means at this time!

Girl Scout Cookie Sales

2012-01-10T06:31:00.000-08:00

This is what it is about...friendship, leadership, being part of the community and a team. This year as any other year, the Girl Scouts will be selling cookies and this year is the 100th Anniversary of Girl Scouts. Today thru January 29th we are taking pre-orders.

Postage can be pretty expensive to mail cookies so we are asking those of you who do not have a Girl Scout you regularly purchase from, to at least order a box or more from my girls and set it up as a donation.

Girl Scouts in our area donated over 72,000 boxes of Girl Scout cookies last year to the troops overseas. This year they will still go to Operation Cookie Drop and the USO, to help feed the homeless youth in our area and to help pay for camp for my girls.

This is really easy. All you have to do is let me know how many boxes you would like to donate at $4 per box and we will put that down. Money isn't due until March 2nd.

You can choose to send us a check to GS of Western Washington and ear mark it donations or I can have you go through PayPal whichever would be easier for all of you.

Please, last year my girls sold just over 100 boxes, this year they have a goal of at least 500 and I believe they can do it!

If you cannot don't worry about it, I know the economy, I am not pushing anyone, just letter you all know you have an option

Ryka Revive 3 Ortho Lite Shoes

2012-01-09T10:18:00.001-08:00

After just posting a huge post about these awesome shoes to the wrong blog (sorry Wendy), I had to go in and delete it all and now rewrite it.

I have always been a fan of Ryka shoes long before they were made in China, long before Kelly Ripa got paid big bucks to talk them up and long before the Brown Shoe Company took them over!

Last week I went to our local Famous Footwear to purchase a new pair of walking shoes and with my Neuropathy it is difficult to find shoes that don't make my feet scream in pain, feel like I am walking on rocks or are just plain to hard to walk in!

My goal was to purchase a pair of the new Nike Dual Fusions in Hot Pink, feeling those would motivate me to get outside walking just because of the amazing color.

So I tried on a pair and loved them and walked all around the store in them. Then I tried on a pair of Skechers Tone Ups and didn't like them at all. Then the lime color on these Ryka Revives caught my eye.

Tried them on and loved them. My only decision was which pair was I going to buy? The Nike's which I also loved, were light and felt wonderful or the Ryka's? I chose the Ryka's because they were just within my price range and the Nike's cost a bit more than the gift cared I had received had on it.

Would Ryka hold up under my feet? Would they do as I hoped and allow me to walk in comfort? These were after all, running shoes, not walking shoes. While I love Ryka Sport Walkers, I can no longer wear them as they are to heavy and lets face it, they are basic white, no eye catching colors! B O R I N G!!

Today, I walked around my church parking lot which also happens to be an old elementary school and these shoes were awesome! My feet didn't feel any pain, I didn't feel as if I was walking on rocks or Asphalt, I jumped around a few Hopscotch boards, walked on a balance beam and not just once around, but twice.

When I came home and took the Ryka's off, my feet were calm, not screaming in pain or spasms as many new shoes cause my feet to suffer through. No, they were happy feet. If you are looking for a new pair of shoes pick up the Ryka Revive 3's, you will be glad you did!

Sadly, our local Famous Footwear which is owned by Brown Shoe Company has decided to pull out of our area which will leave us no choice to purchase shoes with the exception of driving an hour to two hours away to Olympia or Silverdale. I find this sad on their part that they would chose to close down as opposed to moving to a store in a more heavily shopped area.

**Ryka, Brown Shoe Company, Famous Footwear nor Nike paid me any compensation for this review, I truly like their shoes and will continue to do Product Reviews on products I like.**

Who Knew Buying A Washer & Vacuum Cleaner Was Sto Stressful

2012-01-09T07:22:00.000-08:00

I am seriously beginning to believe something in our house does not like us and didn't like the people before us or before them...but seriously....there is something that eats light bulbs and appliances and it is becoming so stressful!

We blow through light bulbs at an incredible rate and we have replaced several vacuums and 2 dishwashers, it is crazy. Now, my wonderful, well loved Maytag Neptune Washer took a turn for the worse and according to the repairman...has died.

Well, what was said is the Maytag is now made by Whirlpool and the part I need is no longer made without purchasing a new tub ensemble and the cost for that is over $700....new washer time! I had buying washers and we are to old to do the used washer game where every year or so you are carting an old one out and new one in!

I know many people hated the Neptune, but ours is over 10 years old and until Friday, we have never had one problem with it at all! As a front loader the seal never leaked, it never smelled bad or took on mold because I followed the instructions to give it a bleach bath monthly. It never had the gurggly sound in it I have heard so many talk about and next to my JC Penny model we purchased when we got married, it was amazing!

Now, I have to purchase a new one and with all the technology available and reviews on line, this is stressful. My sales person told me not to purchase LG because while they are amazing, she said it can take months to get parts. GE is made in America and right now not one person I have spoken with likes GE and that saddens me.

I read hundreds of reviews about the Kenmore Elite and sadly, there were more negative reviews than positive reviews and that saddens me with Kenmore once being a brand many homeowners would ONLY purchase.

Samsung has good reviews and the best is Electrolux.

When you are spending the type of money they are asking for appliances now, it is very stressful to me.

It would be wonderful if I could just do a PR on one and not have to pay, kind of like a test drive!

Any suggestions from my readers?

Boxed and Ready to Go

2012-01-08T13:18:00.000-08:00

See for yourself, it is folded and put neatly in the box for its long trip to Arizona and its new home. I finished it, not in time for Christmas or my sons birthday or even New Years, but it is done and now onto finish the pillows to match and in the mail on Tuesday.

Now, it is onto finishing the bisquit quilt for my granddaughter and a rag quilt for my grandson. I can't wait to have them finished as well!

Bathroom Curtains

2012-01-08T08:40:00.000-08:00

I was really shocked last week when I took the curtains down out of our main bathroom and they were faded to almost white and looked like a bad tie dye job! What shocked me most is that we have one of those thick windows with the design so no one can see in and the window is on the side of the house that seriously gets no sun.

Now, I have made curtains in the past and hated it! I can never get them straight, they always come out looking lopsided. This time I measured and rotary cut both pieces then pinned them together and measured and cut again until in my mind and eyes they were perfect.

Then I used my gauging tool with the slide and measured, ironed, measured, ironed, measured and pinned. I was meticulous in my measuring, ironing and hemming.

And here they are: I used left over fabric from my son and DIL's quilt and thought it was the perfect thing to brighten up that light blue bathroom and as you can tell, they still let the light in.

Bible Study Blog Hop - Lets Start Reading

2012-01-07T07:46:00.000-08:00

In my first few posts, I gave you some ideas on how to read, how to journal your reading and some tips for the way I read my Bible and I was truly hoping I would have a few tidbits of feedback and some of you would have linked up. Maybe it is to early in the year, but I am not giving up, so read away my friends, then link up your post and share with the rest of us.

Remember, you must be a follower of this blog to join the study and it is recommended that you do follow some of the others (if there winds up being any) to mentor and study with each other and grab the button on the side bar and post on your blog.

This week, we are going to study the book of 1 John, not to be confused with John that comes after Luke, this is 1 John and comes after 2nd Peter in our bible. There are 4 short chapters and we should reach each chapter everyday for the next 7 days and write notes each day.

When you are done, post your wisdom and some of what God spoke to you about on your blog and link up so we can all read about what God imparted on your heart. Lets remember, 1 John is also known as the Chapter of Love.'

I hope someone will join me, I believe we all should reach out to each other!

Walking Shoes Won't Make You Walk

2012-01-06T07:25:00.000-08:00

I have always had a love affair with shoes and probably started long about sixth grade when a family friend gave me 30 pair of her gently used shoes in colors like yellow, green, red, purple and I was hooked!

I also have neuropathy in my feet, so shoes are hard to purchase because they may feel great one day and like walking on rocks the next.

I purchased a new pair of Ryka shoes because #1 I needed new shoes, #2 I loved the color. I wore them for an entire day and my feet felt great!

However, yesterday I was busy so I wore my boots and while my boots might have been made for walking, they aren't what you want to walk in for a power walk or walk around the block...unless it is pouring out.

Last night, I was sitting here and it dawned on me. No matter how may pair of shoes I have for walking in my closet, unless I put them on and step outside or on the treadmill, they are not going to help me loose weight and they are not going to make me walk. The only thing that will do that is ME!!

I am overweight, my health is is dire trouble if I do not lose weight and while I hate walking alone and have tried to incorporate people into walking with me, it isn't working. So, I must take it upon myself, pull my butt off my chair and walk on my own.

Anyone know of any really good downloadable free books I can put on my IPOD?

Gotta head out for the day, just remember we can all be thin if we put the effort into it. Today, I will walk!

Post Your USA Finds

2012-01-05T15:47:00.000-08:00

Yes, it DOES make a difference! Pay that extra money for a quality product made in the United States to keep jobs here!

Today, at Costco, here is what I found:

1. Duracell Batteries and Kirkland Batteries are made in the USA

2. Eden Pure Heaters are made in the USA...HOWEVER, Bionaire are made in China

3. Stanley tools, made in USA

4. Snap On's the most expensive tool on the market...sadly, made in China (at least the ones on Costco's shelves were)

5. All Costco furniture I saw is made in China.

6. Craftsman tool box made in Mexico

We are looking for a new heater for our home and while I can purchase several BioNaires for the price of the Eden Pure, I will pick an Eden Pure because it heats more area, remains cool to the touch and is made in the United States.

I understand living on a tight budget...but it won't get any better with us purchasing products from China and loosing more and more jobs overseas.

If you know of a great product made here, please let me know and I will list it!

Just Try to Find USA Products

2012-01-04T18:06:00.001-08:00

So today, I am in WalMart and feel like I have nothing better to do than check the labels and see where there products are made. Sam Walton is rolling over and over and over again in his grave, very few are made in the USA.

Dritz Elastic? Made In China. Non-stick brownie pan? Made in China but I opted to pay more and purchased a Pyrex pan made in USA. Yesterday at JC Penney every shoe I picked up was made in China. Why are we doing this? Why are we purchasing products that support a country that is communistic and hates Americans? If we quit buying, the would have to change back to our country.

I lamented the other day that even our Girl Scout badges are made in China.

However, I went to the dollar store the other day and purchased dishwasher detergent...made in USA.

I love Ryka shoes and was disappointed to see they are made in China. They used to be made here, but the founder sold out to Brown Shoe Company and they have all their shoes made in China as far as I can tell. Brown Shoe company is also the parent company of Famous Footwear and are pulling out of our small town, leaving us to shop WalMart, PayLess or travel at least an hour away.

They are closing their doors, when relocating to a better spot in town would increase their business. They are closing their doors and not offering a job to their employees that have been with them for as long as 14 years.
Kicked to the curb like trash!

That is what is going to happen to all of us if we keep buying Chinese made products. This year I can honestly say my Christmas gifts to friends and teachers were...made in the USA! What has happend to our country? We are being sold out and selling out to China and while I hear many complain about it, I don't see many doing anything about it.

Our jobs are going to India, China, Mexico anywhere companies can open a sweat shop, pay a pittance to the peopl and not have to worry about insurance and benefits. They want our business and all the while they are giving us the business!

I decided today if I need things, I am going to check out my local antique and thrift stores first, I am pretty sure they will have more things made in the USA than WalMart, Penny or Famous Footwear!

An Awesome Way To Eat Your Veggies

2012-01-04T07:38:00.000-08:00

I am always trying to find new ways to fix veggies. In our home we love them, but hubby loves them only with some butter and salt and for my weight issues, that isn't going to help. However yesterday I was looking for an idea for dinner and ran across the simplist way to prepare what I call California Veggies (cauliflower, broccoli, carrots).

Cook them until crisp tender then toss them with fresh Basil and splash them with a small bit of Italian Dressing. It can be low fat dressing, homemade. I took a bit out of the batch for me and when the kids saw it they wanted to try it.

We have a WINNER!! We wound up having to leave a bit in the pot for Papa because everyone loved the freshness of the veggies and the change from butter!

I won't say that I will do it everytime, but I will say the kids absolutely loved it and I did to!

I also got myself a new pair of Ryka walking shoes yesterday. My plan is to get up and either walk on the treadmill for 5-10 minutes every other hour or when it is nice outside to walk around my block!

Looking For a New Vacuum Cleaner, Any Suggestions

2012-01-03T07:25:00.000-08:00

Back in the early 1990's, hubby purchased a Silver King vacuum cleaner and I was shocked at the price. Who knew they had vacuum cleaners that could be financed? After using it a few times, I was absolutely inlove with it! It didn't require a bag (that is always a plus), had an excellent filtration system, was easy to pull along since the body was basically an empty shell with the motor mounted on top.

It wasn't just a dry vac, you could use it to clean your floors, vacuum up over flowing dishwater and when the kids spilled an occasional pop (yes, we say pop) in my car, all I had to do was haul out the Silver King and within seconds, all the pop and gunk was out of the carpet. Disconnected the vac and hosed out the body!

It had an attachment to literally squeeqee your floor so you could mop and dry it all at once. Forget carpet cleaners, I would just scrub with oxyclean and get out the Silver King. In over 20+ years of having that Silver King the only time it needed repair was for a worn hose and it was covered by their excellent warranty.

The paper filters were reasonable and lasted years. Then, we moved and the vacuum disappeared. I think it was inadvertently left behind and since then, we have gone through 4 vacuum cleaners in 4 years and not one of them worked well.

We had a Dirt Devil upright that did clean the carpets okay and better than any other, however, I couldn't use it for stairs and it was awful on the hard wood floors, so our dear friend John brought us a stick broom, you know one of those little light weight vacuums? It was amazing for the kitchen and wood floors, but alas, it was older and one day when hubs was cleaning the indoor/outdoor carpet on the patio, it went to vacuum heaven.
I don't remember the brand, but I know it was the only vacuum that could clean our patio carpet and clean it well! We had a Dirt Devil hand held for the stairs, it cleaned up surface dirt but not the stuff that hung around the walls well and it clogged easily.

Then we purchased another canister vacuum and I thought it was a Shark, but hubs says no. It was horrible, removing the cup and putting it back took an engineer each time to figure it out. Within a few short months, the dust cup broke and the plug stopped retracting. Tossed it straight into the trash.

Lastly I have this yellow Eureka vacuum that I shouldn't complain about since I only paid $39 for it, but it takes a bag (a very small bag) and the only way it cleans is when the attachments aren't on it and all you do is use the hose.

So, I want so input from my readers to let me know what you have and what has worked. We have stairs, so I need something that I can lug up and down but not to heavy due to my Fibromyalgia and the kids love for some reason to vacuum the stairs, so light weight. Does it clean well? Does it take bags? Does it have attachments? How long have you had it and any problems.

I could purchase a new Silver King and since I am a prior owner they will cut me a swell deal and only charge me around $1500, however, it may as well only be $10000 for all that is worth because my unemployment check won't pay for it.

Hubbies mom used a Filter Queen and he said it was great, however I have a friend who said she had one for a short time and got rid of it because it was very heavy, difficult to pull along and the hose ripped over and over again.

I am open to doing a product review on a vacuum cleaner, however Shark and Oreck weren't interested, Electrolux told me they would get back to me and have someone contact me for a product review of one of their store models (they never did) and Dirt Devil was more than willing to give me a discount on theirs, however, if I can't see how it works, I don't want to spend the money and thats why I am looking to hear from you.

Bible Study Blog Hop, Week One

2012-01-02T07:41:00.001-08:00

I hope you will grab the Bible Study blog hop button and place it on your blog so others will join in our quest to grow closer to His word. Please just complete the linky at the bottom of this post after you have posted so we can stop by and read your take on this weeks lesson.

In lesson one, I covered why I read and how I read (with pen in hand). I have always had a love affair with my New American Standard Open Bible, but any Bible we take up and read is okay with me. I also use the New King James Version of the Spirit Filled Womens Bible and I have a study Bible. For all intents and purposes, use your Bible, don't rush out and purchase one for this study!

I also keep a spiritual diary separate from my daily journal. Keepin a journal will amaze you especially when you go back a few years and go...wow, I saw that differently back then or wow, God is still speaking to me the same way.

An example is: Do you know there are 24 mentions of the tongue and the damage it causes between Proverbs 1:1 and 13:13? I know there are more in there, I haven't finished yet and the words, 'In Him or In Christ,' can be found in Acts, Ephesians,Romans, Phillipians, 2 Corinthians, James, 1 John, 1 Peter? When I go back and look at my Spiritual journal, I know I was searching for something. The one on the mouth and tongue was to help me curb mine! Seriously!

Do you keep a spiritual journal? How do you journal spiritually? I follow these guidelines when I can:
1. What is Gods message to me today? What is in this reading that I am seeing clearly?

2. Is there a promise from God in what I am reading? Then I break that down a bit further, is that promise universal (does it apply to all?), does it apply to me? You will know when a promise applies to you, trust me.

3. Are there conditions on this promise? Read the passages above and below, some of Gods promises ask us to meet certain conditions and you should never claim a promise unless you are willing to meet the conditions* and always write down those conditions so you do not forget them.

4. Is there a command to keep in this reading?

5. Always remember what we sow, we will reap!

6. How can you apply it to your own life?

**Do not pray prayers unless you are willing to meet the conditions. I prayed the prayer of Jabez over my grandchildre for their safety, several days later my husband and I were given custody and have had custody for over 7 years. I prayed the prayer of Jabez over my son because I didn't know where he was...he is now in prison and I know daily where he is. I prayed the prayer of Jabez to move to Washington and now we are here, things aren't so easy. I haven't prayed it again! All I am saying is if you are going to claim a promise or a prayer, be willing to commit to Gods conditions!

So, I know you are asking why keep a spiritual diary? What is it important? Why does it matter? First of all, I keep mine in all kinds of books. Right now I am using a journal I won last year from another site. In the past they have been in spiral bound notebooks, fancy journals, whatever I have around the house. Don't go out and spend a fortune for these note books.

Reasons for Keeping Spiritual Diary:
There are many reasons and each one of us will have a different reason and I can't wait to hear them all. Here are just some of my reasons behind journaling:

1. It provides me a way to record daily insights I am learning from Gods Word. What I may get out of a passage, you may get something different and sharing those weekly will be amazing!

2. It produces an attitude of expectancy. Okay God today I am expecting a good day, a blessing, etc.

3. It provides a check list in black and white on regularly missed days....do you miss every Tuesday because of school? Do you miss every Saturday because of laundry? Are you missing gaps of days? This is your record to keep, not mine.

4. It provides a review. In a month, six months, a year or more you may pick it up and go...WOW!

5.It provides a quick appraisel of your spiritual growth.

Grab the linky below and post between now and Saturday, I can't wait to hear what you have to say!

Pin Cushions

2012-01-01T13:03:00.001-08:00

I just listed this adorable pin cushion for sale in my Zibbet shop. I love the Victorian period dress an sewing basket and the birds and felt this made an amazingly large pin cushion. It is 7" x 7" and and inch and a half deep so when you pick it up, you won't get stuck. My old pin cushion, the pins went through the bottom. I loved the big bright orange, green and blue button.

The back is completed in a dusty pink modern pattern that just really finished this cushion up nicely. I am selling them for a very reasonable price that includes postage to the United States only. If you live

out of the United States, postage fees apply.

The next one I made because I love polka dots and white polka dots on black just speaks to me in so many things...quilt bindings, skirts, shorts, etc., so it was natural I would make a pin cushion with polka dots as well.

It is made with polka dots fabric and white linen fabric with a large black button in the middle and the back is solid polka dot fabric.

I know many of you already have pin cushions or can make your own, I have so many talented followers. However, what about all the projects you have going on and just can't seem to make those small gifts for friends, family and co-workers....not the Christmas type gifts, but you know, the small gifts for a co-worker who is feeling blue, a neighbor who is just learnign to sew, a thank-you to a friend who made you soup when you were sick?

We can all run to WalMart or other places picking up dollar gifts that break quickly or that are all made in China, but what about picking up a few handmade gifts and keeping them on hand for those special moments when you don't want to run to the store?

Saying Good-Bye to Another Quilt Shop

2012-01-01T11:16:00.000-08:00

Sadly it seems there are many quilt shops closing on line and it breaks my heart. As many of you know I have pushed to help you build your stash for 2011 letting you know about my favorite shops and several of those have been extremely generous to you my readers and donated fabric for giveaways and yet, very few of you have visited those shops and purchased directly from them.

I understand we all have financial needs and can't possibly keep all the shops on line open, but when shops close we must all ask if we did enough to help them or do we buy our fabric at WalMart, Ebay, Goodwill, etc.?
Don't get me wrong, I am just as guilty and giving away so much of my stash last year didn't help them out either.

Some of the shops are closing for personal reasons. So, with great sadness on closings, I still want you to know there is time to start stash building because these shops are offering wonderful fabrics at discount rates.

1- This N That Fabrics are staying open until the last fat quarter is gone. They were going to close December 31 but have chosen to remain open until everything is liquidated. I have purchased 2 orders from them but be aware that they are selling out fast so what you order may not be available. If you allow them some leverage in your order, you will not be disappointed!

2- Rona Ross is an amazing Christian woman and she has been working on her Masters in Divinity (not the fudge sillies) and is turning the corner where she will be concentrating on her ministry. She has an amazing online quilt shop Grace Full Creations and is offering 30 to 85% off fabrics, notions and patterns. Visit her shop today before the doors close forever!

As always, if your stash is all stocked up and you want to help a charitable quilting ministry, you can contact me and always purchase some fabric for my stash as 2011 almost depleted my entire stash!

You can always check out the Quilting shop page here at Quiltingranny for more shops and deals and always support your local shop when you can!

First 2012 Quilt Project (Here it is Sharon)

2012-01-01T11:09:00.000-08:00

This is the first project of 2012 I am going to complete. I have been working on this for almost 2 years now for my oldest grand that lives with us and it seems over and over and over again, it has taken a back seat to charity quilts for others.

This year, I am going to finish this for her, finish a rag quilt for her brother and 3 other quilts I have wanted to start just for fun.

This year, there will probably still be charity quilts, but I am going to concentrate of selling quilts, mug rugs and fabric bracelets in my Zibbet shop and on the roadside if I have to. This year, I am giving more to my family that strangers!

There will be quilts made for the homeless and others, but I will not set my family aside or their needs in 2012 to accomplish this.

This year, our home will be filled with quilts and happiness!

20 Ways To Reflect on 2011

2012-01-01T10:51:00.000-08:00

I love Dayspring and just found this on their web-site, feel free to copy and paste to your blog and add your own reflections...here are mine:

20 Questions for a New Year’s Eve Reflection

1. What was the single best thing that happened this past year? My husband and best friend never gave up on me when I lost my job and encouraged me to keep me going!
2. What was the single most challenging thing that happened? Discovering I have a hearing loss and knowing I can't change it, have no control over it and must learn to accept it. Which, I so far have not done!
3. What was an unexpected joy this past year? Getting to see our granddaughter Emerald and bringing her home for an overnight visit with her Papa!
4. What was an unexpected obstacle? Being told I couldn't continue my ladies Bible Study which I loved so much...this crushed my heart!
5. Pick three words to describe 2011. Glad It's Over!
6. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe your 2011 (don’t ask them; guess based on how you think your spouse sees you). Dedicated, Bitchy, Tenacious!
7. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe their 2011 (again, without asking). Cold, Wet and Tiring!
8. What were the best books you read this year? Bible, Eat the Cookies, Buy the Shoes
9. With whom were your most valuable relationships? Husband, Best Friend John, Suzi, Kirsten, Pat, Lisa G's and Avie!
10. What was your biggest personal change from January to December of this past year? That I became very depressed, gained lots of weight and have no ambition anymore...I have simply, lost my joy!
11. In what way(s) did you grow emotionally? I was able to dump alot of years of garbage out of my life and feel lighter and have more understanding of why I am the way I am at times!
12. In what way(s) did you grow spiritually? I have learned to put my faith and trust in God because Christians will hurt you!
13. In what way(s) did you grow physically? By the pound!
14. In what way(s) did you grow in your relationships with others? I have had to learn to be careful what I say to people they don't always like my opinions and that alone taught me that if we have to be wary of our words with our relationships, we probably need to get out of that and find others who accept us just the way we are!
15. What was the most enjoyable part of your work (both professionally and at home)? I lost 2 jobs this year, so most enjoyable was probably knowing I would be hired for the second job and at home, just being able to sit with hubby and kids at night and spend time as a family!
16. What was the most challenging part of your work (both professionally and at home)? Work was trying to learn a new dispatch center in 8 weeks and home was being away from my family during those 8 weeks!
17. What was your single biggest time waster in your life this past year? The internet!
18. What was the best way you used your time this past year? Making quilts for those in need!
19. What was biggest thing you learned this past year? That just because someone is a pastor doesn't mean they do what is right or Christ like!
20. Create a phrase or statement that describes 2011 for you. Extremely draining on me physically and mentally!

Out With The Old

2012-01-01T10:28:00.000-08:00

Out with the Old year, bad memories, tough times, garbage collected, weight collected and in with the new! I think we all love the freshness of a New Year, taking that old calendar off the wall filled with appointments, comments and replacing it with a fresh new look all bright and shiny.

I do the same thing with my blog. I take a look around and decide (sadly) who I am no longer going to follow anymore. It has more to do with blog posts than anything else. If I am your follower and you haven't posted in over 2 or 3 months and I go to check on your blog and am told it can't be found, or I Email you saying I care (believe me I do) and receive no response.

Then I can only assume you have quit blogging or moved onto opening another blog and don''t want to share it with the rest of us, or life has gotten to be to much and you moved on. I want you to know I am sad that you left and I loved following you and your creativeness, wisdom or just simply your blog made me smile.

Today, I can look back at my bedroom, bathroom. living room and kitchen and say, 'I have no old left, so bring in the new or bring in nothing, I don't want the clutter!' Everything is nicely put away, folded and looks so great. Even under the kitchen sink looks fresh and new.

Yesterday while cleaning my glass cabinet (I have an old kitchen with sliding glass doors on both sides of a cabinet, I scrubbed those doors inside and out and then washed every piece of glass inside. Do you know how it all sparkles when a year of dust is removed?

That is what the new year is about...sparkly, new and fresh! With a few more tweaks of my blog and maybe a facelift in the next month, this will be as well. I hope we all have a wonderful and blessed 2012 and that you will join me in my Bible Study Blog Hop because I truly believe this year, praying women coming together will change lives near and far!

Watch for my first giveway....it will be wonderful, fresh and handmade!

Bible Study Blog Hop

2011-12-31T09:35:00.000-08:00

Lets get this party started! Please sign up with the linky below and add your blog post to the list and if you do follow backs. This is a Bible Study so you have to participate in order to join. I will post on Mondays and you can come and read and link up and then prior to Monday of the following week, I would like you to come back and post your comments.

They do not have to be elaborate, just supportive and informational for all the women here to be uplifted and mentored to. I am not a Bible or Theology expert, so my way may not be the way you study, this is to help us each learn from each other!

You must follow this blog to participate and it would be nice if you follow a few others you see listed here.
Any mean, obnoxious comments will be deleted.

Arsenic In Apple Juice, I Now Believe

2011-12-30T14:19:00.001-08:00

What does this innocent looking can of Safeway Apple Juice have to do with Arsenic and Dr. Oz? If you do not remember what Dr. Oz revealed about apple juice, follow this link: http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/arsenic-apple-juice.

I purchased a can today for my granddaughter and when I got home I read the bottom of the can which shows where the juice originates from.... I was shocked and I mean seriously shocked, especially given the fact I live in Washington state were apples are the main food grown on the eastern side of the state.

I am sure this might not surprise some of you, but I think it will astonish most of you...Safeway Apple Juice concentrate doesn't come from Washington state or any other state in the United States that is a huge apple grower.

No, my dear readers, this Apple Juice comes from...

que the eery scary music:

No, this picture has not been photo shopped, it is really from China. I couldn't believe it. We want to know how to help our economy? Stop buying everything we use from China and now things we eat and drink.

My dishwashing detergent is made in the United States, but my apple juice comes from China.

I will not purchase another can of Safeway or any other companies concentrate from China but opt instead to make only fresh apple juice from apples grown where I live, if not from Washington at least the United States.

Something is wrong with us when we discover how China uses children labor, dumps lead and other poisons into our childrens toys, crayons, etc. until they are caught and yet we trust them to not be poisoning our food?

Not me, I am doing my best to not purchase from China!

Bible Study Blog Hop

2011-12-30T13:26:00.000-08:00

As you can check out on the sidebar, I am preparing for a blog hop. However, I have to wait until my next payday to pay for my yearly McLinky subscription and that will give me time to figure out the glitch in my bloghop button and why I can't get it to link back. Any help here would be appreciated.

This is going to be open to all denominations and nationalities. The hope is for us to encourage daily bible reading and to help each other discover how good God is and give us some amunition to fight the enemy. It is to teach others what we have learned and reach out and encourage each other new and old Christians alike.

What it isn't will be a forum for you to blast other peoples faith, religion or opinions and if you begin to rant and rave and put others down or personally attack anyone elses opinion, your comment will be removed.

I have found in my own walk with God, there are very few women who want to be mentors and I have had to learn on my own, how great to have others willing to hop along and teach us what you have learned.

I will let you know as soon as I get the button working and the McLinky handled.

There will be montly giveaways (Bookmarks, devotionals, highlighters, etc.) all you will need to do is join, follow this blog and those you wish to follow and leave a comment telling us what and how you have learned to study your Bible during the week.

What a blessing to bless others and show the power of Jesus no matter where we all live!

Wow! Did I Do That?

2011-12-30T10:09:00.000-08:00

In addition to these pictures, my computer crashed so everything I had made since January went by the roadside, but there were 7 quilts for tornado orphans, a quilt for a family in Wisconsin who lost everything, 3 or 4 quilts for Japans Tsunami victims, a Christmas quilt for my trainer and a few more I am sure.

I sure hope you made some wonderful things for friends and family in 2011 and can't wait to see your creativity in 2012~

New Pad and Caddy for the Brother

Jelly jar pin cushion filled with goodies!

A memory quilt for my baby sister! There was also a matching pillow with it!

Mug rug for a teacher!

Wall Hanging for a teacher!

King Sized Quilt for my son and his wife...Okay, so I am still working on the binding on this one!

Mug rug for a teacher and I used FMQ around the tree!

So, I made myself a new pin cushion last night, it still counts!

Quilt #2 that I made for the homeless and gave to 2 little girls Christmas day who had no Christmas and are facing their moms possible death!

And adorable wall hanging for Christmas! For our home!

Eight placemats for our wonderful neighbors!

One Last Project

2011-12-30T00:18:00.000-08:00

So, after spending an entire day cleaning and organizing my living room, I am sad to report it still isn't finished. However, this little gem is!

When I organize and clean at the end of the year, that I have to look at and touch everything and make a decision to keep it, toss it, sell it or store it.

When that is done, I take pictures of what I have and record changes over the year for insurance purposes should anything happen.

So, after cleaning, scrubbing, tossing and storing up my sewing closet by projects I will finish in 2012 right out of the gate, I decided I wanted to brighten up my space with a new pin cushion and one that had more room then my first one did and sections for pins and needles.

I came up with this 8" x 8" large pin cushion using black and white polka dot scraps and white linen scraps and then this adorable roaring twenties lady button in red and white.

Here is the back all polka dotty and cheery. Even the black fabric with white polka dots is cheery and that is why I picked out this fabric. It is completed and done and my closet, desk, bookshelves are cleaned, dusted and decluttered.

I plan on making a few more of these and listing them in my Zibbet shop soon after the new year, so if you are in the market for a new pin cushion and don't want to make one yourself, check my shop around the 15th of January and I always have free shipping!

Bible Blog Hop...I Need Some Help

2011-12-29T11:47:00.000-08:00

I was going over some Bible study notes from 2003, yes, I said 2003 and realized how far I have gotten from my daily devotionals where I used to really study the Bible and what it was saying to me.

An example is Luke 7-13 was Gods way of teaching me how to pray. His commandement was to pray without ceasing and His promise was that we are more valuable than Sparrows!

It made me think of how many of you have reached out to me in 2011 with prayers, scriptures and love and I thought what if we could have a ladies (men are welcome as well) Bible study blog hop?

So, here is what I need help with (sorry, it will have to be pro-bono...free of cost to me...willing to barter fabric??)

I first need someone to put my code for my blog button back up because it has disappeared. Then, I need someone to design a blog hop button for this study (I have pictures) and a linky set up. I will set up a page for study comments, etc.

Our nation, friends, family, co-workers, neighbors, postal workers, bankers, doctors, politicians, cities, towns, counties all need our prayers, just think how awesome it would be to do this as a group.

Thanks and lets hope 2012 brings many new friends in Jesus name!

A Grandmothers Acceptance

2011-12-29T08:50:00.000-08:00

I have had a lot of time to reflect over the past year on the things that I see changing in our world and while my belief system may clash with yours, I thought I would post some of the things as a grandmother I must accept:

1- I must accept there was a reason God made young people parents. I love my grandchildren dearly, but raising a family at a time when hubs and I should be planning for retirement and taking vacations isn't for wimps!

2-I must accept the fact that Extreme Home Make-Over is not coming to my house to say, 'Kester family, come on out!' No matter how much I dream they will!

3-I must accept the fact that hubs and I will never be able to take our grands to Disneyland and this seems to bother me more than them!

4- I must accept the fact that while there are federal regulations in place to stop discrimination from happening, if you have been laid off, are over the age of 40, have any type of disability, you will NOT be offered a job!

5- I must accept the fact that the morals, standards and values this country has so proudly stood for and on are eroding at a quick pace and we are so two faced, we can't see it. We claim pride in being an American and then buy everything we can made in China.

6- I must accept the fact that once again I may have to leave my family to find a job and that breaks my heart because living in a small town there is no place for a non-native to find work!

7- I must accept the fact that I am getting older and some days feel every bit of 80 though I know 90 year olds who feel younger than I do.

8-I must accept the fact that when I believed in my heart that God was leading my family to Washington, I may have gotten my wires crossed because it wasn't supposed to be this hard!

9- I must accept the fact that in the past 5 years I have neglected myself, my needs, my body so much that I have allowed my Fibromyalgia to take over and inflict pain upon me.

10- I must accept the fact that no amount of cheap hair dye is going to keep those gray hairs off my head!

We are rounding the corner quickly on 2012, what things have you learned to accept the facts on this year? Please tell me I am not the only one feeling that life has been more of a struggle in 2011 than ever!

However, if 2011 was the best year of your life, let me know that as well. I am definitely believing 2012 will be amazing!

Fast Approaching 2012

2011-12-28T10:49:00.000-08:00

We are quickly approaching 2012 and while I do not usually and will not this year make resolutions. However, I do make a list of things I would like to change or improve upon and I go over that list periodically to see how I am doing.

I have done good in some areas, and will have to try again next year in other areas. It is just one of those things. Life tends to get in the way at times like loosing not one, but two jobs this year, finding out I have a hearing loss and require hearing aid(s), working almost two hours away from my family and the one thing that tossed me this year was being kicked out of my ladies bible study that I enjoyed so much.

I have improved on my spending habits and almost have my car fully paid off. I tried couponing this year but when you can't double coupons and only have a few stores to choose it is hard, so I try to purchase sale items and build around those.

I have stuck to charity quilting and last count, I had donated over 20 quilts. I am not sure if I will continue at this pace in 2012 believing I can sell some to help my family out. On that note, I do try to purchase handmade items as much as possible and try not to purchase things made in China which is becoming more difficult.

I won lots of giveaways this year and will continue playing in 2012. I am looking to change around my blog so it looks neater and I am going to be starting tutorials soon on....(well, you will have to come back and see).

For 2012 I am looking for companies to do product reviews on that are family and grandparent friendly, I am looking for bloggers that would love to donate a handmade item for giveaway, be a guest blogger and share your handmade items, stores, blog with all of us. If you have a tutorial, I want to see it!

I am looking for someone who knows how to put my blog address back into my blog button, it disappeared awhile back, so the button is kind of dead, but still here. Also, if you know how to place buttons on a blog and make them all nice and neat looking instead of willy nilly, let me know.

I am still hoping that Dyson, Shark, Oreck or one of the better vacuum cleaner companies will take pity on me and donate a vacuum I can review so my house can finally be clean again instead of my having to sit on the floor and vacuum with my current vacuum.

As always, if you donate to my blog, your name and website will go on my sidebar for a full year.

I am also rethinking my health as I go into 2012 very over weight!

Nope, no resolutions, just a plan of improvement!

Organization is Bliss

2011-12-27T22:27:00.000-08:00

It has been a tough week in our household. Oldest grand had her tonsils removed on the 21st and while she looked like she was going to glide through it, a few days ago she began having some problems.

Here ears felt like someone was stabbing them with toothpicks, she has picked up a stress viral infection and her mouth is filled with white pus filled ulcers, she has lost 6 pounds and is just miserable.

Hubby, I and our best friend John kept vigil over Christmas. The first few days after surgery we had her sleep on her Papa's recliner, it was perfect for the way the doc wanted her to sit, then her ears, so she slept with me. Then back on the chair with Papa on the couch next to her so I could sleep. Even John took watch for us one night.

Today her pediatrician said the ear pain is related to not only the tonsils but the virus she has causes pressure on key facial nerves. Finally, she has drifted off asleep on the couch where I will cover her and leave her to sleep.

My youngest son and his wife were trying to help her brother by allowing he and his girl to stay with them for a few weeks, they wound up not doing what they were supposed to and they couldn't get them out. Because they were finally escorted out after tearing my sons door off its hinges, the girl went to the office and let them know my son was a felon.

Today, they received a 10 day eviction notice. They have located an attorney who will see them pro-bono tomorrow to see what he can do to help them. They work all night, sleep most days and stay to themselves, they pay their rent on time and have no money to move. Please pray for them!

Emergency room yesterday with the grand and her ulcers, up all night with her screaming in pain and doing all I could to calm her and help her. Today, another day with the doctor.

But..................it is done! I have completely cleaned, purged, rearranged and organized my bedroom and our bathroom. I now have a ton of clothes to get rid of. I am trying through a local listing board to sell my old clothes, but they are in really great shape and nice brands.

I have added two nice sized pillows to my closet, so now I can sit when I do my morning prayers comfortably in my closet with the door closed so I have no interruptions.

Tomorrow, I take on the living room which includes my sewing closet, but that is not going to be to difficult or at least I hope it won't!

How is your organizing going this time of the year?

Oh Yes, I Did Just Say That...ORGANIZATION

2011-12-27T09:16:00.000-08:00

So, I am ducking all the stuff you are all throwing at me right now, old shoes, belts, toys, books, you know all the S T U F F you hang onto year after year saying you will get rid of it next year, you are saving it for a yard sale, your sisters second husbands third cousin twice removed baby (though she hasn't had a baby yet).

You want to say you aren't a hoarder, but look around with an honest eye, are you starting to become one? Do you take everything that says free because you might want to use it in a project someday or do you actually use it in those projects?

I am here to say, its okay to open those closet doors, pull out those drawers and grab the big garbage bag and start dumping the junk. But the fabric is so good? Is it? Even the best fabrics after sitting year after year will begin to show wear and tear. Give it to someone who will use it.

This is the time of year for me to begin as I do every year for the next 2 weeks to month, to organize my home and the clutter and I always begin in my own bedroom. I touch everything in my room and ask myself if I will really ever wear it again? Last year, I sold several bottles of expensive perfume because while I loved it, hubby didn't.

This year, I have to get rid of my grandmothers jewelry box. I opened it the other day and the lid came completely off its hinges and the small shelf snapped. It is time to say good-bye to the box. I am not saying good-bye to my grandmother, just this box that once held all kinds of her treasures. I will always have the memories, I just don't need the clutter!

From there, I will go to my shoes and see which ones I really wear and donate or sell them and my clothes that I either don't wear any longer or can't stand to look at another week and forget it if it makes me look frumpy.

I take one day, one room, one drawer and shelf at a time and I analyse it for what I use it or need it for. If it gets a negative reaction, it goes byedy bye. If I use it and it makes me feel good, I save it.

Last year I joined two separate destashing sites and I cleaned out tons of fabric, gave away alot to my wonderful readers, gave away patterns and books and this year I can say, I cleaned out not one, not two, but three large bins of fabric and an entire box of quilting books and patterns. Mostly for charity quilts, but I did sell some on line and even sold my first item in my Zibbet shop!

Who knows what 2012 will bring, but whatever it brings, I am making sure I will have room to fit it in my small Craftsman home!

Get busy, go organize something!

Christmas Day

2011-12-26T09:17:00.000-08:00

It was a fun Christmas, hope you felt the same!

Merry Christmas To All

2011-12-24T08:26:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas From Our Family To Yours!

Wishing You All A Day Filled With Family

And the Best Year To Come!

Thank You All For Being A Follower!

You Are More Appreciated Then You Will Know!

How To Turn Back

2011-12-23T11:19:00.000-08:00

So, I made the mistake to check out the new blogger and I hate it! It is horrible. How can I change back to the old way? This is absolutely the most awful thing I have seen, I can't find anything! If anyone knows how we can manage our following that would be great as well.

Lastly, if you have a blog that is a dot com, let me know about it, as I am thinking of dumping blogger, so done with their way of not responding to things, ignoring what we want and changing things they think we want!

Faith Is Believing

2011-12-22T07:40:00.001-08:00

Everday is a day filled with Faith and looking around to see God's blessings. Hubby and I were up at 0430 trying to wake up for a 2 hour trip to the hospital. This adorable smiling little girl had to have her tonsils outand she said she knew it would be okay because people were praying for her. She took with her the quilt I made her 6 years ago, my moms nightgown she wears, her Papa and a gift from her 2 siblings.

We woke her up at 0445 so she could have her last sips of clear fluids and got in the car at 0515 and it was icy, cold and foggy. We drove by faith knowing we would make it safely.

I wasn't to sure though with hubby and I short on coffee our tempers were short and when the Yahoo map didn't give us all the directions, hubby got upset with me, I tried to tell him I was giving him what I had but that didn't work, he pulled over in Tacoma and looked himself...they put in a huge piece but when driving that piece is not anywhere to be found!

Luckily he had been to Tacoma earlier so kind of knew where to head. We arrived in plenty of time. Smiling away, ignoring the cold, the childrens hospital has bronze faces imbedded into the building along the walkway with plaques so she was happy she was learning something as we walked.

We were checked in and within minutes in her room, they got her dressed, asked her what she was there for, it was all so amazing! Then came the pre-op meds and I was shocked they didn't work, but when they did oh was she funny! Her surgery took 15 minutes, her surgeon said they came out without a hitch and go eat be back in 45 minutes.

We came back and you could hear little ones crying from surgery, others were combative. Not this one, they nurses said she was amazing, smiling, giving them thumbs up and trying to talk! They gave her a popsicle and then her and Papa slept about 45 minutes. She cried to go home, then cried when her pain level jumped, but she has been amazing. Motrin and Tylenol keep her pain levels down, she is eating (this morning it was oatmeal) and sitting up and feeling great.
People were praying for her and she knows it and she is an amazing believer in the Lord so she tells me it hurts like you said it would but not to bad because God is taking care of me.

A bit of a scare this morning when she couldn't breathe, but some sips of water and she was fine (she had slept all night without incident and I think her throat dried out)!

Left the hospital right in the middle of rush hour and hubby didn't know how to find the freeway, I told him to head towards the water and it will be found...once on the freeway, it was bumper to bumper, but we arrived home safely only to find our neighbor blocking the bottom of the drive.

When hubby asked them if they could move the blocking vehicle the boyfriend got an attitude. Look, hubs said, I have a little one who just had surgery, you are not the homeowner and we never park at the bottom of the drive and block it. I keep praying God will give us the money for a survey, then we can pull down our bulkhead and put a fence down the middle of the driveway on our property line and they can have the 4 feet that is left. Oh, but that isn't Christian is it?

It is Christmas, the time of the year when everyone is supposed to have faith. This year our local Denny's turned private diner, shut down. The owner, purchased 5 others and bankrupted them as well and then told the employees they would not be paid because they were thieving liars and robbed him blind. Hmmm, did they also cause him to be in debt to the IRS for over 3 mil, not make his house payments or car payments and then tell the paper, they don't understand business?

This man does not understand the power of faith and the American public and employees he cheated (he is not an American and made that known to everyone how much better the people in his native country are). Well, two regulars at the diner began taken up money for these people because they are owed 5 weeks back pay...since Monday, they have raised over $17,000.

Faith, we can't see it, physically touch or taste it, but if we believe and have faith it can change our lives. You may not believe in Santa Claus but hold tight to the faith of that little girl Virginia who wrote that letter so long ago and remember faith is not in what is seen, but it is the belief in what we don't see that we believe can come true.

Merry Christmas my faithful followers, never give up the faith!

Christmas Traditions

2011-12-18T08:07:00.000-08:00

Two of the best Christmas Traditions our family celebrates each year is taking the children to the annual Angel Tree party for children of prisoners sponsored by one of our local churches and getting see their eyes light up when they read the note on their gifts their dad has requested they recieve. This year was amazing!

First of all, I got to volunteer to help out and that made me feel great and that I was giving back to this wonderful organization that helps so many prisoners make some small contact with their children and make them feel special. You see, Christmas is about the children in spite of what people think about their parents and I say Shame on You if you think it isn't!

Look at the smiles on these precious childrens faces and tell me they don't believe in Santa! They know this is a magical time of year when the receive something from their dad and they truly don't care what it is, it is the fact he loves them enough to care this much! We decided this year to take a family photo as the oldest really wasn't feeling the need to sit on Santas lap. They had so much fun helping with all the kids that came to the party!

Our other tradition is picking out our Christmas tree at one of the many Christmas tree farms in our area and we have one we go to every year...the only difference is we usually go when it is rainy and dark and this year we have had a dry winter for Washington, but the trek to find the tree was no less fun...walk all over and then voila, here is our tree!

Hoping you are spending time enjoying family and traditions, wishing you all a Very Merry Christmas and Wonderful 2012~

Update on Project Bring Joseph Home

2011-12-17T10:22:00.000-08:00

I sure wish I had a better update to tell, but I still believe this will bless many of you who are reading this or following along.

Total in savings: $90

Offer on house or for housing: 0

I have sent Emails out to several realtors in the area, they all say the same thing...'sorry, we wish you were in a better position to purchase a home, we have so many great ones, but we know of no one willing to lease to own their home, they would rather give them back to the bank.'

Thats okay, because come January, I am doing a writing blitz and this is going to encompass writing many real letters, you know, the ones that take an envelope and stamp? I am going to send letters out to every realtor in every realty office in our county and the county next to us. This way, I know everyone is reading about this and maybe prayerfully, one out of one hundred will say, 'wait, I have the perfect place.'

Remember, we are expecting a miracle in this mission. A home that fits our daily needs, has a separate apartment or area for Joseph and his dog to live. I am believing that when the time comes to sell our home, it will not short sale, but instead sell to pay it off and give us a bit extra...not alot, but enough & I have seen God work miracles in 2 other homes I have sold in the past!

The greatest thing I have to report is how several people have called me or wrote to me and told me how they have reached out to a homeless person this season because of Joseph and his story. These stories bring tears to my eyes and joy to my heart.

You may not be able to give to this project from a moms heart, you may not trust that I will do as I say, but if you reach out to help someone else because of Josephs story, you are doing what God wants this story to do and reach out to others.

Many blessings to all of you who have sent me warm stories, encouraged me and helped us anyway you can!

Tuck Me In A Must Have Book For Little Ones

2011-12-17T09:57:00.000-08:00

Recently I was contacted by the author of this book, Dean Hacohen and he asked me if I would mind receiving a copy of the book and reviewing it for him and let my blog audience know what I think. Well, true to his word, the book arrived in the mail yesterday. Truthfully, I was hoping for 2 books so I could give one away, but this one will be given to my grand children who live far away.

From an adults stand point the book has an eye catching cover and the raised quilt on the front is great for children, the cost is very reasonable $10.00 if you live in the United States, $12.00 if you live in Canada. It is published by Candlewick Press and the only thing I did not like about it , is the fact it was printed in China.

I am tired of everything I pick up being made in China, can't we find companies willing to do the same work here? The last 2 items I received from China, I had to throw out because they smelled so strongly of chemicals I went into an asthma attack.

With that aside, I thought the book was cute. However, I decided to let my three live in grandchildren read it to themselves (ages 8,9 & 10) and while not literary critics, they know what they like and don't like. The 10 year olds face just lit up reading this and she had a smile a mile long. Her opinion, 'this is really cute, I like the little blankets we can cover the characters up with, can I keep it?'

Next, the 8 year old, my grandson said, 'I like it, but it is better for babies, I am to old for this book, I know all the words.' What is the best part? He liked the feel of the front cover but said he likes my made up stories better than a book. Would his baby cousins like it? 'Uh uh, they would love it he said because of all the animals they can tuck into bed.'

The 9 year old said it was Awesome and her favorite part was the decorations on the quilts, because they remind her of all the quilts I have made for them and reading to them at night.

So, there you have it, these opinions are from 3 children who read the book and received no compensation other than the joy of reading it. They gave it a 10 stars out of 10 stars rating and said this is an awesome babies book for them to look at, touch and have someone read to them.

If you are a parent or grandparent I would recommend this book be placed in a childs Christmas stocking or under the tree. Perhaps it can be added to the gifts for a brand new grandchild, niece, nephew, neighbor or friend. You could gift it to the nursery of your church, daycare, etc..

My best suggestion comes from a 10 year old in all her years of wisdom, 'Ranny, we can buy another book, send one to my cousin and at night, we can call her and her mom can hold the book up for her to read along with us.' Now how is that for a great suggestion for all grandparents who live far away?

Purchase 2 and then use your web-cam to read each night so you can see their little faces light up.

Don't pass up this opportunity to grab a copy from your favorite book store and if nothing else, Amazon is selling these books.

Small Victories

2011-12-17T08:42:00.000-08:00

Yesterday hubs and I drove to Seattle, it was a nice ride no radio, just us, no rain or traffic. We stopped for lunch where I had the opporunity to thank 12 servicmen for their commitment to our freedom and then onto visit my new doc, who was very endearing.

When we got home, in the mail was something from unemployment. Praise God, they changed their statement which sad I had unsatisfactory performance to , 'performance out of my control.' I am happy with that, it states further it was my hearing that failed.

Yes, there is power in the written word and sometimes it just takes a well written letter to get something done correctly or turned around. I am grateful I have that gift and more thankful that the county agreed with me and help to have this changed.

I can now relax when looking for work!

Hand Dyed Fabrics

2011-12-15T09:35:00.000-08:00

This morning as I was hopping around the blogs of my followers and those I follow, I ran across an amazing site, Hand Dyed Fabrics by Lori. You may already know about her, but this was the first time I have seen her fabrics and they are simply beautiful!

The fabrics are hand dyed, ironed and ready to go when you order them so no pre-washing necessary and the colors and quilts she shows are amazing. Even if you can't afford her fabrics, you can sure go on over and drool over the amazing work that people have created with her fabric line.

http://www.labfabrics.com/index.php

Binding The King Today & The Best Hot Chocolate Ever

2011-12-15T09:30:00.000-08:00

So, I am beginning the tedious process of binding the king quilt today. Yesterday, I cut the binding strips, 360 inches of binding strips all 2 inches in width. Today, I will miter the corners, fold the binding and iron it and being the slow process of attaching the binding to the quilt on one side before I begin the folding and hand sewing.

In the midst of a fibro flare, this process will take about a week or so. Do I hear anyone shouting, oh...oh...pick me to help....I want to help! HaHa.

I have to share my oldest grands latest kitchen idea. She made hot chocolate yesterday and they were in the midst of after school snacks, when she took a spoon of peanut butter and added to the cup of steaming hot chocolate.

I took a sip and it was like sipping on a liquid peanut butter cup, silky smooth and wonderful!

Being Black Balled

2011-12-14T10:52:00.001-08:00

Have you ever been black balled from getting a job? No, I mean it, seriously! I am not joking as I don't think it is funny, have you ever been black balled? I once was, I gave a two weeks notice, had no contract and left a job in the middle of an outage. The wonderful project manager called me into an office away from everyone as in no one knew where I was & they began looking for me....held me against my will for over an hour telling me how he would ruin me, I would never work again in the business I was in, never be back to the place I was at.

Why did I leave? Because my mother-in-law had passed on and my boys were having lots of problems dealing with her death since she had taken so much care of them growing up. I gave a two week notice, I was really nice about it.

When my husband and others learned about this (they knew I was missing, security was looking for me), they told me to contact the management over not only the supervisor but the company we were assigned to. I did and soon I was in meeting after meeting with people who were very concerned about my treatment.

It was many years ago, I remember the fear walking into the bosses office a month later having to talk to the owner of the company and tell him what happened (alone, no support, no attorney), he listened. He was shocked and when the boss kept interrupting the owner told him to hush. In the end, I won and returned back to work the following year and for several years after.

But that sinking feeling that I had failed or dishonored my family (they were all company people), was horrible.

I feel our local hospital has black balled me. Since living here, I have applied over and over again for jobs and was given an interview one time only. When we first moved here, I heard horror stories about our hospital, but I have never seen it that way. I have always found the nurses, doctors and administrators to be awesome and caring.

I know I only received the one interview because I knew the CEO of the hospital and after talking to him about the numerous applications and resumes I had put in, I believe he pulled rank. Then shortly after the interview, he left the area. Sadly, he did so much to make people believe in the hospital again and he left a huge hole.

Several weeks ago I applied for another position in Human Resources and today I called Human Resources to ask if they were still looking to fill the position and if they received my resume. Yes, they have it, but they haven't made an decisions on interviewing and she was sorry she didn't have an answer for me.

I won't get a call. I have applied for jobs in all areas from PBX operator to floor clerk and nothing! I am sure they have me black balled because when I didn't have a job a few years back and had no money to pay my bill, I sent them a copy of my resume each month and asked them to put me to work at least until I paid off my debt.

If they had given me a job as a housekeeper for 5 days, my bill would have been paid in full and I would have had some extra money in my pocket. I think in some way that upset them. I have worked the medical field, nuclear power, law enforcement, administration and I believe they run scared from anyone that may be more educated that they are.

Today, I had to sit through an excruciating meeting on how to look for work. She was rude to the older workers asking questions, she just as usual followed the boring points in a flyer, showed us a video and said goodbye.

Good Gosh! Does anyone understand why I am so frustrated?

Sooooooooooooooooooo Tired

2011-12-14T07:56:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I had to go visit my Rheumatologist and it is no small feat for me. We live in a small town and he used to come here for over 20 years however the tides that run the medical arena in our area seem to run all the good doctors away and that means I have to drive an hour in each direction.

By the time I get there, I have to pry my body out of the van because it is so stiff and sore, then we visit. He upped my pain meds if I need them, gave me a new NSAID and ordered back and leg massage (this has helped a bit in the past) & he recommends I go to a weight clinic in the area that he believes in and sees the work they do.

I really wish I could. I don't think people who work understand how tired I am of NOT working. Of being pulled like a puppet by the State of Washington to jump through hoops just to receive the unemployment that I worked my tail off to earn. No, living in the area with the highest unemployment of the state, they expect me to miraculously find 3 employers that are hiring in my area every week and apply for jobs. The jobs that are open, I couldn't do if I wanted to.

So, my doc and I visited yesterday and we filled out the required paperwork for the states rehab program...can I sit for 6 consecutive hours? No, I would need to get up frequently and move around. Can I stand for 6 consecutive hours? No, I would need to take frequent breaks. Can I lift 20 or more pounds repeatedly? No. Can I lift my arms over my head? For short intervals & dependent upon my pain level. Can I repeated use my feet and legs to operate foot pedals? Yes. Frequent stooping or bending? No. Frequent stair climbing? No.

He was as concerned as I am about how much the person sending this knows of those of us who have Fibormyalgia, but we followed their questions.

I will go back in a month. He really encouraged me to contact my health insurance providers to see if they would help with the weight loss clinic fees, after all he reminded me they pay for more drastic methods. We both know my loosing weight would be good for me, not perfect, but it would help me a bit and who knows maybe I can get voc. rehab to pay for it if I tell them it will help me climb stairs.

Today, I am exhausted and my arms and legs are being pulled by strings to get up, head out to a 2 hour mandatory meeting with unemployment to show me how to find work. I have a real lead on a job and I am hoping they can tell me how to apply, what words to use and how to get in the door. You see, they have jobs, so I know they are doing something right.

Sadly, in our area, it isn't the knowledge we have, it is the birthright of being born in our small area. People know you, everyone knows everyone, is in everyones business and they don't care about hiring the best person for the job, only the person they went to school with or their brothers wifes sisters uncle. Seriously, I have never seen so many job openings and then a short time later see that job open again and again and again.

I send out a resume and jobs are still open or they close the day my resume goes in and I get a letter post marked the same day my return receipt is post marked.

I am tired. I am depressed and I see no hope right now and that flares up my pain which causes me to be more tired. But I still believe God has a plan for me & that alone keeps me going with my family and friends who know me and know what I can do in spite of my pain.

Now, where did I put my scissors? Thats right, I am cutting my strings today!

Fibromyalgia Costs

2011-12-13T06:53:00.000-08:00

I have a friend who also has Fibromyalgia, she wears a pain patch all the time pumping pain meds into her, but she is at least able to move around much more freely.

She suggested the other day that I contact the clinic she goes to for help. I did, however the problem is they do not take insurance and their basic cost to treat someone is close to $4000. Initially I was told that is it, however when I called them back and spoke to another person she told me I could bill my insurance company, sometimes they pay an out of network fee to help with costs and sometimes they don't.

Their fee's also include all the treatments, testing and medications. I wouldn't normally think about this except I almost have my car paid off and I have been in the middle of a flare up for almost a week now. My body hurts, my hands and feet are swollen, I am exhausted (I sit down and fall asleep), I have had chronic nausea & feel like the walking dead!

I see my specialist today, who I only see about 2-3 times a year, he will spend a few minutes with me and give me medications and send me on my way. He doesn't know anything about me, doesn't know about my job and job loss, that I raise 3 grandchildren and he doesn't care.

The bad thing is I have to drive to Oly and that is about an hour away. By the time I get there, my hips and back will be locked up and I will feel like a worse mess than I do today.

Wish me luck, I am hoping today, we can at least get me back into massage therapy!

Christmas Mug Rug

2011-12-12T12:58:00.001-08:00

Just finished up this last teach project and am heading to the couch to take a nap. You can see a little that I used free motion quilting and quilted a Christmas tree pattern around the outside of the tree and some squiggly motions on the outside of the mug rug.

Now I am pooped and going to lay down.

Self-Publishing

2011-12-10T08:34:00.000-08:00

Recently I have had several people contact me regarding books they have self-published asking me to review the book and pass the news on. Both of these books have been for grandparents raising grandchildren or just grandparents and I have been blessed to pass those onto my wonderful readers.

I am now thinking about walking that pathway having written a book years ago on a grandchilds perspective of living with her grandparents. I tried all the childrens publishers out there and they shut me down cold! Unless you have a publishing agent, they won't even talk to you. I was a bit bummed and shelved my book for years.

Lately as the kids are getting older and I run into so many other grandparents going through the same thing, I am thinking it is time to dust off the pages, burn the rejection letters, look to my grands to do the illustrations and then off to self publishing I will go.

Does anyone know much about this? How expensive is it? Is it legit as I don't want my book stolen or my story.

Just thinking how this book would comfort so many children and families going through this process.

Today Didn't Happen The Way I Planned

2011-12-09T14:21:00.001-08:00

Here it is as I have been asked, the top of the king sized quilt. Unfortunately thanks to my fibromyalgia flare I am in the middle of today, this is as far as it got.

I am on my second pain pill since midnight and still in excrutiating pain, so it will sit here until hubby comes home and folds it up for me.

I was able to work on a smaller project and finish it today as most of it was completed yesterday and that is this cute little wall hanging for one of the kids teachers.

I copied the picture, because I am by no means an artist not can I draw a straight line, but I did it with puffy paints, put a back on it and sleeve and off it will go on Monday to a much deserving teacher for Christmas.

It is 16 x 16 with a Christmas plaid backing.

On a good note, my Fibro doc called me today for an evaluation, I hope this is good news!

Fabric Sales Just In Time For New Years

2011-12-09T07:58:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to let you know about 3 fantastic fabric sales going on at this time.

1.) JoAnne's is offering 50% off fabrics and free shipping, run, don't walk and start stocking up for all those projects you have planned for next year. http://www.joann.com

2.) Want to keep it a bit closer to home? Want to help support an on line quilt shop? Head on over to the Blackberry Patch Quilt Shop where Cathy is offering up 50% off on all fabric and minimum cut is 1 yard, she is making room for new fabric coming in. http://www.blackberrypatchquiltshop.com tell her I sent you over or you hopped by from my blog!

3.) Lastly and sadly, stop by and say good-bye to one of our on line shops, This n that Fabric, they are officially closing their shop this month and running out of fabric quick. I have purchased from them twice already and the first time I was a bit disappointed when all but the fat quarters I ordered were already sold out. Don't fret, the fat quarters I received were excellent quality and my last order arrived yesterday and it was amazing. Fabric is now 40% off on some stock, 50% on others and end of bolts. They do their best to keep it updated. Stop by tell them I sent you, place an order and say good-bye! http://this-n-thatfabrics.com/

As always if you don't need any fabric, I would be more than happy to have some new. This year I have destashed in quilts, sold fabric, given to the girls in our area & in giveaways and literally emptied 2 large bins of stuff I have had around for years.

Looking forward to 2012 and new fabrics!

Pain, Pain, Go Away

2011-12-09T01:32:00.000-08:00

You can't see it, I don't use a walking device, I smile most of the time when you greet me and I tell you when asked, that I am well. I don't show it with tears or complaints on most days but it is there with me always like having a body toothache and it hurts!

You come to my home to visit and love that I have 3 children, a cat and a husband and my home is so clean all the time. I am blessed with the best help in the world, my husband who after work, helps with dinner, cleaning the kitchen and makes me sit down.

I am blessed with 3 wonderful grands who carry laundry up and down the stairs and love sitting next to me while we fold it. They ask why I sit so much now when I used to stand and do almost everything. They ask me if I have drank my water today...they know I forget and they know it is good for me to have. They help me cook and clean.

You don't see me crying when my body won't cooperate and I have to sit down to get dressed. You don't see my crying when I have to try 3 different pairs of shoes on in the morning until I find a pair my feet will fit into. You don't see me crying in pain when the pain in my left foot is so severe I can't straighten my toes.

No one not even my family sees me during the day, when I am trying to do the simple things like walk up the stairs sitting on the stairs sobbing so hard because I simply can't make it up them one more time. Or while washing my dishes my hands and back lock up and I sit in the kitchen floor sobbing and screaming...Why Me, what did I do to deserve this?

No, you see my good side. The happy side, the side I try to show because showing the other side is the ugly side of Fibromyalgia, the side no one wants to see not even me. You don't see me crying when I go to the doctor and all he does is...recommend yet another medication that makes it impossible to think on or I gain another 10 pound and listen to him tell me I am over weight & I scream out in my car in anger because....this isn't the way I planned my life!

You don't see me wince in with a broken heart when I tell you I lost my last job due my hearing failed me and you, thinking you are cute say...what? Not funny now, wasn't funny then. To you, it is a joke, to me it was another thing this insidious disease has taken away from me.

Thats what Fibromyalgia does, it takes and takes and takes and when it give back a good day once in a blue moon, it kicks your ass the next day for the next week or longer. Oh yeah, Fibro flares are real and they are agonizing, but you don't see it, because when you look at me, all you see is a whole person, not the broken one I am inside.

So, when you call and ask me if I want to go shopping, or go work out and I say no don't mock me and say, 'oh, your Fibro again,' be my friend and understand I want to do these things more than ever, I really do. I want to feel whole again, be pain free, weigh 100 pounds lighter, I want to be able to walk and think without my head being all foggy.

So, be my friend, tell me you will come over and visit me, tell me we can sit and have a cup of coffee on a park bench in the snow, tell me you understand and then, hug me because those of us who have Fibromyalgia, really need your love and support. But just don't hug to tightly!

Dedicated to all of you who suffer and know what I go through daily!

Royal Sized Quilt

2011-12-08T15:49:00.000-08:00

This is what my sewing closet looks like right now filled with a king sized quilt for my youngest son and DIL, the quilt takes up the entire sewing area and covers my machine.

I used Patrick Lose fabric on the back, it is called I believe Colorful dots and is the smaller of the polka dotted fabric, the larger might be his as well, but I do not remember.

I then took all the polka dot fabric I had and cut various sizes of squares and placed them willy nilly all over. My son and his wife love the color black and loud prints, so I thought this would be perfect.

I can guarantee you they won't find another one like it anywhere as it is a Quilting Ranny original!

The front is various squares and you can see it just a bit on this picture, however, until it is complete 100% and I can figure out how to take a picture in its entirty of a king sized quilt, I must leave you hanging right now.

This was taken during the edging part, now that is done, I will lay it out and begin the slow and painstaking task of hand knotting it and then in the end I will bind it, complete the pillow shams I made to match it and if they are lucky, it will be in the mail just in the nick of time for Christmas.

After all, haven't you heard? Phoenix is very cold right now in the low 30's and I wouldn't want their warm blood to freeze!

Financial Peace My Way

2011-12-08T09:30:00.000-08:00

I believe we should always have financial peace, it is something that scares me at 55 that I have zero, zip, nada in the bank. It wasn't always that way, while we have struggled here and there, we had major financial issues years ago and at that time, I began reading Larry Burkett in the 90's and felt empowered when I realized he went through many financial struggles on his own.

I wrote plans, worked on a budget and while I was broke, in the hole, didn't have a nickel every pay day I sat down with my paper that was color coded in black, red and green and prayed and cried over my finances. It didn't matter how much money I made, I was always in the red with a negative symbol next to it. But I kept at it.

Several years later, I purchased Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace and followed it to the letter. Eventually, I paid everything off and put money in the bank and retirement. We were able to purchase a home and I was extremely cautious as to how much home I purchased. I paid a car off and two days later it was totalled, I purchased a newer used car and paid it off.

Then, we decided to move (okay, I believed and still do believe God told us to move). Our home was sold for exactly what God told me it would. I paid another vehicle off, put money in savings, paid credit cards off. We purchased a home using money from our retirement plans while I was in Arizona and hubby was here. Looking back that is where the problem started, we used both our incomes and once I moved here, I couldn't find work at all.

So, basically we like so many are in over our heads with mortgage, however we have a lot at stake in this house, we didn't just walk into it, we put a huge down payment down on it and yet, 4 years later we still owe more than what we purchased the house for. We put a new roof on, new doors, new windows...anyway you get the point...lot of money and lots of our life in this house.

But, I still believe that diligent work and chipping at the budget will see us to financial peace. In less than six months my van will be paid off and this will cause a snowball effect because once it is paid off, the money that it free's up can be used for another bill and so it rolls on and on.

What I want everyone to know is that you can make it, the sky might look dark, the horizon may look bleak, but don't give up. Keep chipping away at those bills, you don't have to take the abuse from the collection companies and depending on the state you live in, you don't have to talk to them at all.

Pay your house payment, car payment, car insurance, utilities, groceries, daycare what you need to work and get by day by day. If there is any left make a list and pay the smallest to the mostest (yes, I know that is not a word).

I use Quickbooks for my checking and bills this shows me how I am doing financially and it isn't always pretty. Then I have a file box and they are hard copied and updated monthly in case I loose my computer and it has happened and lastly I use a spreadsheet.

On my spreadsheet I list bills smallest to highest in one column by company name, in my second column are the amounts, my third column is without the mortgage (this will make you breathe better), forth is without my school loan.

I updates these as I pay my bills and monthly I print it out and attach it to the prior month. Quarterly, I print out how much debt we have paid off in the previous quarter. It works for me, I do the happy dance and I realize I have made a difference.

Be collection agency smart:
1. If you do not believe you owe the bill, contact me for a letter you can send asking for proof, but it must be done within 30 days, sent out return receipt requested and DO NOT talk to them on the phone. Keep a file of letter copies and receipts attached to those letters.
2. Check your state attorney generals office and see if they have a list of certified collection agencies in your state. If an agency is not certified in your state, you do not have to respond to them.
3. Check your states statute of limitations on debt. Some states have 3,5 or 7 years limitations, but when you talk to a collection agency and set up any plan, it rewinds the clock.
4. Work with a budget counselor at a local CAP office, bank or credit union and show them what you have, most banks or credit unions will help you if you are serious or local housing agencies.
5. Know your rights as it applies to these agencies. They cannot harass you if you know your rights, if they step over the legal line, sit down and send a letter to the attorney general be specific with dates, times, names if you have them.

I am not saying you don't pay the bills, I am saying you set up a plan, let your creditors know your situation and send them a copy of your plan.

I hate the thought of bankruptcy, we have in our marriage had to file due to extreme hardships, I do not want to float in that boat again. However, because of that, I have taken the time to read Larry Burkett, Suze Orman, Dave Ramsey and know my rights.

Don't sell everything you own unless you feel you need to, to get out of debt. You will regret it and while Suze and Dave say sell things, they mean things of value you never use, collect dust, gifts Aunt Hilda gave you that others admire and you hate. Unless you want to, don't move into an RV on the back of your parents property to pay off your debt.

Just stop spending money you don't have to spend. It is that simple and I am not perfect. I love Starbucks, but I don't go out weekly, daily or even monthly. I go when I can afford it and have an extra dollar after paying obligations. I don't buy new clothes or shoes like I used to and forget even owning a Miche bag, not in my budget right now, so I use the one good leather purse my mom had and you know what? It works just fine!

All I am saying is lets pay off our debt and stop being indebted to the collection agencies, the creditors and the banks and put your money where it will earn the most, in a credit union.

Contact me if you have any questions, I am not an expert, but always willing to help others!

Job Justification

2011-12-07T06:50:00.000-08:00

I am amazed at what the state comes up with for rules when it comes to MY unemployment. That's right, I said it, it is MY unemployment, I worked and I earned it and when I am on it, I am out looking for jobs. I do not need someone to tell me how to look for work!

The unemployment office is supposed to help us find work, however in the last year or so, they really haven't done anything to help me. They have told me repeatedly they do not get jobs in for people with Bachelors let alone Masters degrees. One even told me I should apply for work in the unemployment office, I am more qualified than she was to have that job. Huh, what??

Out of boredom and the hopes that I would learn something new, I took a class for 4 days on how to fill out a job application, how to rewrite my resume, how to dress and how to interview. The class was so B O R I N G as the instructor felt her way was the only way and one poor retired CEO tried to explain resumes aren't looked at most of the time....she chewed him out! But I took the class!

I even took a Microsoft Excel on line class they were offering to brush up on my skills. Still, the only agencies that have called me for employment are law enforcement agencies looking for my dispatch experience and that is okay, except now dun dun duh....I have hearing issues!

Not only do I have hearing issues, but I was terminated due to these issues and according to unemployment my past employer is not stating I was discharged due to my ears (for which I hold a letter stating such) but for unsatisfactory performance. Wow! Now I am a 55 year old has been! As in 'has been employed!'

So yesterday thanks to the federal paperwork reduction act, I receive not one but 2 notices in the mail from (you guessed it) unemployment. The first one tells me if I would like to consider starting self employment they can help me under a program called SEAP. They will train me to be able to run my own business.

Sadly, I couldn't see ice to an Eskimo, so being my own boss wouldn't fit here. I wish I could however, I attempted to start up two businesses in the last year and neither one took off. One was reading tutor for which I am qualified and received 1 paying student whose parents paid and never called or came back. Others called and inquired, but even at $15 for 30 minutes time, people said they couldn't afford it.

Then the disgusting thing is I decided to be a de-louser....that's right, a person who washes and combs out other peoples hair with lice. Eeeeeeeeeewwwwwwwwwww, I don't like the job, no one does, but dealing with it last year in our own home, I learned what worked and what didn't. I made up business cards, worked with a salon that would allow me to use a sink they had. Not one call.

So, opening my own business isn't a good idea or at least from my perspective I do not believe it is.

I am a human resources person and I know how our unemployment office works, it is no big secret, they don't have jobs to offer, employers have jobs to offer. As an employer I would post a job through the unemployment web-site a day or two later someone from the office would contact me via Email and ask us to list our job at no cost with them, they in turn would screen applicants.

That's it folks, there are NO magic jobs out there, the unemployment office wants you to believe they have these jobs, but they contact employers and that is how it is done. With this in mind, I am not sure what they hope to accomplish, but I will play the game.

So, yesterday I am looking for work as I do everyday, spending hours on the internet and I find a local job and darn, my printer won't print. So, knowing my unemployment office very well keeps applications for employers in our area, I go down to pick one up. Nope, they don't have it, but someone should. They send a lady in search.

In the meantime, she delegates to someone else so she can come and tell me how to apply. You can't send an application in, you fill it out on line and Email it. No, you can't because they do not have Adobe set up to do that and they say to mail it. Well, you can't mail it, you have to come here and talk to a counselor first. No, I don't because your web-site sends me to their web-site which tells me to mail it in.

In the meantime, I am rescued by a lady who finds and copies me the application. What I want to know is this:
1- It is one of the largest employers in our area, why don't they keep copies of there application on hand?
2- How many state workers does it take to copy an application? Three! One to tell you at the counter they don't have it and good luck with the job you are applying for, the last person quit under pressure. One to spend less than 2 minutes locating the application and another to copy it because it wasn't the ladies job who found it to make copies.

Yes and they are going to help me find employment. Well, then again, they have jobs and I don't.
Something just isn't right!

ABC Mug Rug

2011-12-05T14:00:00.000-08:00

The youngest grand purchased or won a mug for her teacher over the week-end and today she asked me if I could make her teacher a mug rug...well, she asked me to make something so her cup doesn't burn her desk.

Voila! Apples and ABC's for the teacher and in about an hour.

Having Blog Issues, Give Google A FB Blast

2011-12-05T08:11:00.000-08:00

After leaving several comments in blogger's dead help area, I have become frustrated over their lack of caring about those of us who blog with them. Try getting any help, it is the biggest joke around. They send you to an area that has problems from other bloggers but rarely if anytime is there someone for Google to let us know what is being done to change or fix the issue and NEVER can you leave a message that can actually get you some answers.

Over the week-end, I twittere about the issue I and others are having with not being able to manage our blogs or following. We constantly get an error that reads bX-c9rh3l. Anyone else besides the 14 of us that have complained having issues right now with this?

So, I twittered over the week-end on Google Apps and Google and received not one response back.

So today, I went to facebook and left 2 messages on their FB page and we will see if they respond.

If you are having similar issues and becoming frustrated like I am that Google doesn' t seem to care, I highly recommend you head over to their FB page and leave them a post.

Cabinet Refreshing

2011-12-05T06:15:00.001-08:00

Up front and truth be told here, I am NOT receiving any type of compensation from Dutch Boy or anyone else for talking about this product. I have never used this product, but will be soon. However, to those of you that own old dusty and musty homes, I want you to know this might be of some help.

My home was built in 1926 and it has a funky smell to it. We have tried everything from ripping all the old bushes and Ivy out around it, to using electric smellies, Glade solids, opening the windows, etc. NOTHING works, it smells.

It isn't an offensive stinky smell, but it is a smell none the less and I can't stand it. I once asked a contractor what it was and he told me all the old homes in this area smell that way. He said it is just the old materials they used breaking down and probably years and years of cooking locked into the walls, old lead paint and dead bugs. Eeeewwww!!

Well, I posted I wanted some ideas for the cabinet in my kitchen, colors would be great! Someone wrote and told me about this product and you can bet, I am going to try it out.

I figured I would first scrub the inside of the cabinet with Mr. Clean or Spic and Span, then I will prime it and then paint and leave the cabinet open until it dries.

It doesn't say it eliminates odors altogether, but it reduces odors. When it is done, I am removing the old doors and they are going outside and I am removing the old paint. Yes, I know it is a nasty, stinky difficult job, but I want to see what it underneath all those years of layers. If I dont' like it, I will repaint over it.

Here is what the doors look like now and the interior of the said stinky cabinet. I have discovered through pinterest that I can take the old hinges off, place them in a crock pot of hot soapy water and let them sit and it should soften the layers of paint enough that I can take them off and see what is underneath.

If it doesn't work, I can actually purchase the exact hinges thru Rejuvenation, some glass knobs with a backplate and either chicken wire or cabinet wire behind the glass .

Similar to this picture I located on pinterest. Now that I have been able to really look at just using chicken wire, I think it is pretty nifty or maybe I will just take the doors down to my local glass shop and see what type of specialty glass they can put in.

I may even have hubby take out the old wooden shelves and put new laminate in to see if that helps keep the odor down.

Shoot me any ideas, I would love to hear from you!

Be Kind To All

2011-12-04T07:57:00.000-08:00

My pastor has been preaching on giving and forgiving the past few weeks and yesterday it all came full circle as I witnessed the most agonizing scene this Christmas season. Now,I am not saying I am perfect and those who know me know I can get on my high horse of judging just as much as anyone, but awhile back we had an amazing encounter retreat and I have tried to change.

Judging someone else or their circumstances is judging and God tells us He will dole out our judgement they way we do to others and frankly, over the years I really don't want it coming back to me. Can I get an Amen?

When we judge as anyone knows, we are being critical and condemning or sentencing a person to our form of judgement and we really deep down are hoping something bad happens to them because after all, don't we think we are better than that person is? Isn't that what judging is, saying oh year, un huh I am above you, better than you and I am so superior I don't think you should breathe the air I breathe? Well maybe it is harsh, but I have heard people say someone is a true waste of skin.

I am not working, have no unemployment coming in, no job lined up or interview lined up & what we have for groceries and bills for this month right now is it. Papa can only work so much overtime and doing his best to keep a roof over our head!

I am pumping gas yesterday and a young man approaches me from his vehicle an older truck. He tells me he drove out to Ocean Shores for a job (maybe he did and maybe he didn't, not my call) and it didn't work out, he needs to get home and is broke, do I have some change. He didn't ask for $1 or $5 or $10. While he is asking the young lady in his vehicle is checking for change.
She was very clean and neat neither had meth bumps, rotting teeth, etc.

I told him I had no extra money and I don't or didn't until God stepped in. I am pumping gas and notice his truck has current tags on it, his shoes weren't new, his clothes were clean and he was respectful.

The lady in the brand new Ford Super Duty 4 door truck doesn't just tell him know, she begins berating him, telling him to get a job (he says that is why he is where he is now, he went to look and it didn't pan out) she goes on and on before she turns away from him and begins shouting to someone inside the truck...'this scum is the reason my insurance rates are so high, he can't afford gas, I know he doesn't have f'ing insurance, low life Piece of s*&^.

Now, I don't know what was being said from inside or who was saying it, but she turned on them, if you don't like it, get out and walk, on and on. This young man just sat in his truck and never said a word back...that told me a lot.

I finish pumping my gas, get in my car and you guessed it, God said, I know you have $5 show both of them what compassion is. I grabbed my $5 got out and approached the drivers side of the door, excuse me I said...the lady next door is climbing in her car and watching me.

I handed him the $5, I don't know you, don't know what your circumstances are, but I know you don't deserve what she just did. I just lost my job, the 2nd one of this year and I know that I really don't have any extra money to give, but I also know someday I could be the one sitting here and I would hope someone would have compassion towards me.

They both said thank you and I watched him walk into the store and come out and begin pumping gas into this truck, I waved good-bye.

My husband who knows our struggles was not happy with me, he said I was feeling guilty because of the other person. No, I don't believe I was because if that was the case, I would have just driven off. I felt this young couple needed compassion at that moment, that they need to know God was the provider, not me.

If we are quiet and listen, He will speak to our hearts! What is He telling you today?

Peets Coffee Giveaway..Head Over To Coffe with the Mrs

2011-12-04T07:31:00.000-08:00

If you love coffee and really while I know there are many that don't, there are so many that do.
Head over to Coffee with the Mrs. for a chance to win a wonderful Peets coffee gift.
http://www.coffeewiththemrs.com/2011/12/give-peetscoffee-holiday-blend-this.html
and tell her the Quiltingranny sent you!

Craftsman Home Dining Hutch...Needs Help

2011-12-03T11:29:00.001-08:00

Even if you do not own a Craftsman home, you can help me in several ways with my old stinky dish cabinet.

This is a built in in the dining room of our old house and it needs a make over big time!

I hate the white on white it is ugly and not appealing at all. I am looking for some suggestions to make this cabinet 'POP,' and shine!

I will let you know I am planning on placing chicken wire behind the glass (or maybe I am) to give it a more country look and replacing the knobs to something more of that era. While I believe the shelves are a bit newer, I am thinking of stripping all the 85 years of paint layers off the doors and 2 drawers underneath to see what the wood is like. However, hubby feels that is going to be bigger mess than it is worth.

I know many of you are amazing decorators and have some excellent ideas, perhaps you can fix up some Pinterest pictures for me or show me some of the things you have done. I am excited to try to fix this up.

The walls are currently 2 toned green, but I am planning on changing that if we are allowed to remain in our home to a rich buttery yellow with some blue trim to match a country plaid fabric I have to recover my dining chairs.

Here is another picture of the interior. I am open to any and all suggestions.

It also has a very old funky disgusting smell to it. I am not sure if it is years of old layers of lead paint or if it is because it sits right over the stair well, but I can get the smell to vacate awhile if I leave the doors open for awhile, but a few hours later it is back.

I tried stick ups one time and my dishes and cups smelled like air freshener.

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Scouting in The Cold

2011-12-03T11:13:00.000-08:00

I can't say I know to many adults (actually there weren't many) that are willing to spend a Saturday morning in 34 degree weather in the fog to stand outside and wave and smile to people to help local food banks.

However, these 2 little ones were awakened by me at 7:00 this morning and asked, if they would like to go volunteer and help out and they were warned it was exceedingly cold!

Without a glitch or a moan, they hopped out of bed, got dressed and without breakfast, we were off and they were out and smiling and freezing their little toes off. Not one complaint about how cold they were, how boring it was or how it was Saturday.

Look at this smile, wouldn't you want to donate food to her for being such a happy little Girl Scout? Don't you just love her hat? It is recycled plastic garbage bags purchased from a missionary to Sierra Leone that sells them to help women in need.

It is always easier in my eyes to show children how to be givers and not just takers. How many children I see and adults that feel they should only take.

Really? I have seen families pull up to the welfare office wearing Tommy Hilfiger, layers of gold jewelry in a Cadillac Escalade and receive benefits while hard working families who just lost their jobs and are struggling get turned down because they made $15 to much.

How can we not look around us and see their is a need to help others and shame on those who are only takers and do not understand giving!

Lucky Winners Are...

2011-12-01T07:36:00.000-08:00

Several people won prizes during the giveaway period randomly and those prizes are already on their way. However, it is time to let the giveaway winners know who you are, so without further ado:

Winner of this beautiful fabric is Gwen over at Pokeydot Quilting. Gwen was chosen after Craig and his wife generously turned their win down because they are not quilters. Congrats Pokey!

Our second prize winner and winner of the 2 quilting books is Kathy over at Kathy's Quilting blog...hmmm, I just noticed she is also from Ohio, I see a pattern here & I believe Kathy won something randomly earlier this week...how cool is that since she is new to quilting!

Third prize winner of the 2 gift bags is none other than Nannette G over at Stay and Home Grandma. I know she will find a use for these adorable gift bags.

Carrie over at the Farming on Faith blog won the Design a sweat shirt pattern and I think she will make something amazing with this.

But wait, that isn't all, the following randomly chosen winners will get the following listed in no particular order:

Stray Stiches wins a pattern of my choice for sending the most new followers over to visit and them giving her mention. Thank you for your support!

Busy As Can Be wins a fat quarter of my choosing

Catskill Quilter receives a fat quarter as well.

Lastly, WVHummingbird is the winner of a Christmas door panel.

Thank you one and all for your participation and being members of this blog, I look forward to hearing from you all within the next 24 hours.

This giveaway went well with only 3 Anonymous posters that didn't leave a way to contact them. Anonymous posting are deleted immediately so always remember to make sure you leave an Email addy or way to contact you.

Winners are being notified now!

Only A Few Hours Left

2011-11-30T16:39:00.000-08:00

My current giveaway ends in just under 8 hours at midnight my time in Washington state, so jump on the bank wagon you still have time and in the meantime, congratulations to Nikki who I just had my grandkids randomly choose, Nikki I am sending you a quilting pattern. Enjoy.

Also to Judy at Apron Strings that Bind, you will be receiving a fat quarter.

Thanks for playing and remember, you can win more than once!

My Story

2011-11-30T09:11:00.000-08:00

Who am I, where did I come from? I was born and to my parents in Yonkers, NY and was almost born in a stable to hear my mom tell it. You see, my dad and grandfather were Harness Horse racers and were at Yonkers raceway at the time. So, I had a natural tendency when my mom over the years would shout about open doors if I was born in a barn to pop off with...'almost!'

I lived up and down the east coast and my siblings of which there are 3 were born in different states. My brother who is under me in age by about 17 months was born in Rhode Island. My parents had a handful then as he was born with a club foot and I had heart issues that were as of yet, not discovered.

My oldest sister who is younger than myself was born in Toms River, NJ and I do not know if she was born before of after my surgery but I know I had heart surgery at the age of 2 at Deborah Heart Institute in Toms River and I am sure somehow those two things correlate in someway.

My baby sister was born in Orange, FL and I remember a lot from my childhood, but the one memory that stands out is getting my little bottom blistered all the way home when I stole a gold coin (it was a token) out of my moms jewelry box because she was crying my baby sister had no milk.

In my 5 years of wisdom, I took it and walked to the store and told them I needed milk for my baby sister. Now the store was at the end of our block, so don't panic. Those were the days before CPS and what did I know I was only 5.

From there we took a train to Bridgeville, Delaware and living here were some of the best times in my life. I got to spend lots of time with my cousins who were way older than I was and who spoiled the heck out of me, my aunt and uncle (who loved me in spite of eating all the cherry tomatoes out of their garden one day), my great great grandmother who was blind but still drove the car with me as her eyes....my grandmother and many other aunts and uncles and cousins.

I had my own room, we had a converted attic to play in and it was set up as a miniture house. We also had servant stairs from my room to the kitchen or thats what I think they were called. We didn't have servants, but the house had this magical secret staircase that all of us kids loved.

My great aunt drove the school bus and on Fridays sometimes I could ride with her and then go out to her farm where she and my uncle raised pigs and chickens and I am talking a huge barn full of chickens, I could play and run and be a kid the way so many kids can't today because they are plugged into the tv, the IPOD, video games...my aunt was awesome.

My cousins Adele and Chuckie would rock me to sleep when I spent the night and then argue who would carry me to bed. Adele usually woke me up which caused Chuckie to tease her, but really, I faked sleeping and waking up just to hear them argue because it was funny for a 6 year old. They took me places, they read me stories and I was never treated like a little kid or not wanted. They just loved me and my Aunt Florence and Uncle Biddy were simply the most loving people in the world.

When we moved to Monticello, NY I actually made a long distance collect call to Aunt Florence and cried and begged for her to come and get me. Yup, you guessed it, another whupping! We moved to a farm set up for harness horse training and it was huge, however the neighbor liked little girls...me in particular and the memories from living there are not pleasant.

My parents were never really happy that I can remember, they fought a lot, my dad drank like a fish and my mom hung out with us kids. One day, dad went to work, mom and my aunt Pat Myers packed up the car, us kids and off we went 4 kids no car seats back then or seat belts across country to Arizona.

I wondered many times what my dad must have thought. Did he know before we left? Did he know the day we left, did he think we were coming back? We thought we were just going to visit our grandparents, little did I know how that trip would change my life!

Quilting Joy

2011-11-29T07:47:00.000-08:00

I just finished reading Romans 8 and came to realize through this that no matter what my life has much joy in it. It is like a huge quilt with many bright patterns and colors winding through each section and even though separately it might look like a mess, when it is brought together by its maker, it turns out beautiful.

If I look back on my life in such a way, I can see that God has been creating me for His purpose since I was born and He has lovingly and gently or not so gently at times guided me along the path.

Oh yeah, I have strayed off the path and each time I have, it gets my life all jammed up into a big mess or leads me into unhappiness. God doesn't stop us from straying, He gently calls us back and we have the choice to follow or remain floundering around on our own.

Since I was released from my job on 11/9, I have had plenty of time to sit in my soup pot and stew over the what ifs, but honestly I haven't really done that because the honest truth is, I cannot change my ears or hearing, but I can figure out where God wants me next and right now, he wants my family in Grays Harbor for one reason or another.

Lets take the fact that normally, my husband would melt down at my loosing a job, but he has been so sweet and loving throughout. My best friend John who I stayed with did all he could to keep my spirits high and keep my mind from going 1000 miles per hour. These two love me and I know that and I am so blessed, but it has been my friends and church family that have totally blown me out of the water.

My pastor the first time I returned almost jumped across the church floor to hug me and tell me, 'you are the answers to my prayers...I didn't pray for you to loose your job, but I am not really sad you did because God wants you here.'

Middle girls piano teachers message to me the day I lost my job,' I am so sorry you lost your job, but so happy you will be back home and I can see you when I look outside my window.'

A letter from a church member telling me she loves me and knows this will be hard, but she has missed knowing I am here and so happy I am back.

Teachers and parents of students I have taught and yesterday another quilter whom I know just casually asked me if I was here visiting. I explained my situation and she jumped and hugged me, 'oh, I am so happy you are back.' Then sheepishly, not that you lost your job.

God is doing this. God is sending all these people to me to let me know He loves me and He does have a plan and right now that plan is for my family to remain and stay where we are. I don't know why, but I do know that yesterday for the first time in a long time, I felt this was going to be okay. 1 Peter4:13 tells us to rejoice to the extent that we are part or feel part of Christs sufferings because when His glory is revealed (and it always is), we will be glad with exceeding joy. Amen! Isn't that what it is all about? When we are down and not feeling so happy sometimes, when we are blessed are we not jumping for joy and realizing He has always known best?

Come on, do I hear an Amen, an uh huh? You know I am not the only one that walks around sometimes feeling life is unfair and then when the blessing comes and I am like, okay, I get it now, I should have waited or had patience. It's okay to shake your head while reading this, I promise, I cannot see who you are!

Word is getting out about my quilting for charity and even though I was shocked by someone yesterday who told me when I asked if she would be willing to help make quilts for the homeless: 'my quilts, even the simple ones are just to good for the homeless and I wouldn't give them my time.' Wow! Thank you Lord for giving me the spirit of compassion and the gift to know when at times to keep my mouth shut! After all, I am finding out being homeless is almost like being a murderer in some peoples minds. Hey, everyone is entitled to their own opinion.

I am still looking around for that perfect home for our family where we can bring our son to and I found another on 1.5 acres has a main home, garage and a large building they were making into a huge entertainment room....would be easy to convert it. However, at this time, I have not received a response from the realtor on a lease to own. Sadly, I do not think he will respond because if we do a lease to own, he cannot earn his commission. He can gladly sell my home. Or it is just that God doesn't want us there.

Still, I know that God wants me here and I am filled with joy at that thought. I just received a letter stating my youngest granddaughter will be awarded the schools leadership honor tomorrow and it is a huge secret, she doesn't know. How sad I would have been if I had missed this opportunity to see her face when they announce her name. There are recitals and music concerts and even a tonsillectomy a few days before Christmas. I would have been so upset to not make any of these and the grands would have been devastated.

Yes, my life is like the quilt above, many colors and pieces but when you put it all together, I am Gods masterpiece made just the way He wants me to be and for that, I am joyful and thankful! Because Psalms 139:14 tells us, 'I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works and that my soul knows very well.'

This verse further goes onto say in in part verse 16: 'The days fashioned for me, When as yet there were none of them.' God knows and has known where I will be at any given moment in my life, so I can sit and stew or find joy.

Be joyful and make lots of noise!

Unemployment Confusion

2011-11-28T07:28:00.000-08:00

I was laid off on November 9th and decided to spend a few days where I was staying to apply for jobs even ones with WalMart, Target and Macy's and never got a call. Appled as an administrative assistant for a local newspaper, never got a call and decided my family would be best served with me home.

I did not immediately apply for unemployment. Matter of fact, I waited until the 19th and applied. But boy, do they make it confusing. First of all since I was technically terminated, I had to put that down and then wait for the paperwork to clarify why I was terminated and send it back. Now I am waiting for a determination on whether I qualify because I was terminated due to a disability of not.

Even so, I still have to do my weekly claims. So, on Weds. my last paycheck came in and since I have to put any monies I receive down when I file weekly, I wrote it in yesterday. It is not self-employment pay, union pay, vacation pay or pay in lieu of termination, it was wages earned. So, I put the amount my check was for and hit enter.

Now, I have to call them back and let them know I put the wrong amount down, because they do not want your net pay, they want your gross pay and this will probably prevent me from receiving unemployment for the week and half I was unemployed through last week and maybe into next week or the week after.

I don't know how they calculate unemployment, but I know this is the second week I have had to call them to figure it out. You would think with a Master's degree I could complete unemployment benefit information without messing them up, but it is the way questions are asked.

Why don't they just come out and ask if you are expecting a last paycheck? Nooooooooooo, they want to know if you are receiving union benefits, vacation pay or pay in lieu of termination. Not once do they ask if you are owed or are expecting a final pay check.

I am soooooooooooooooooooo confused. Last week the sweet person on the phone attempted to tell me I still had an issue from my earlier unemployment claim which was closed out by an unemployment judge and found to be in my favor. She argued it wasn't and I let it go, I have the paperwork from the judge herself proving it was, so I am not to worried.

I know there are probably many who cheat the system, but I don't. I use it to help out with things we need not wants, but needs and seriously look for work within a distance of an hour drives time from home. All I am asking if they want gross pay, list gross pay, don't hide it in a 30 page booklet I was sent.

Maybe next week, I can actually do this without messing it up. Have a blessed day everyone!

Word Verification Changes

2011-11-27T17:36:00.000-08:00

I have been receiving spam lately from anonymous commenters and it always seems to make it to my Email box and not in the spam box. In order to attempt to stop this nonsense, I have found it necessary to add word verification back to my blog.

I know this causes an extra step for all of you, but if I could figure out another way to prevent this from seeping in I would. I hope you all understand and continue to follow and leave comments.

Project Bring Joseph Home...Quilt Done

2011-11-26T21:48:00.001-08:00

As many of you know, I am trying to raise money to purchase a home with a small apartment so my son Joseph who is homeless can have a place to live out of the elements.

This quilt pattern and fabric was all donated to me by someone near and dear and who is one of my followers, what a blessing she sent me.

It is 43 1/2" x 56" and has not one, but two layers of Warm and Natural batting inside. It is hand tied with silk ribbon and cotton crochet thread and machine quilting across the width of the fabric.

I have decided instead of listing it as an auction item on my blog, or selling it in my Zibbet shop, that I would actually donate it to a homeless person in our area as the temperatures have dropped to the 30's during the night and I know these people have nothing.

If you would like to donate something towards Project Bring Joseph home, you can do so by contacting me via Email and I will add your name to this quilt as a sponsor.

Right now, we haven't found a home to purchase and we only have $35 in savings to go towards this project, but I have faith that even if I can't raise thousands of dollars to bring my son home, I can help one person, one quilt at a time.

In the meantime, this one is finished and waiting for its home, I am sure God will lead me to a person in need.

Sadly this week I have heard people say that those of us who reach out to the homeless are making them co-dependent or we are because we don't make them find jobs.

However, in our area there are no jobs, plants are closing all around us, people are walking away from their homes and moving in with family in another state for a chance to find work. We have one shelter here and they rarely have room for everyone in need and the homeless in our area do not trust these people.

I do not feel by offering someone a way to keep warm I am doing anything other than what I am called to do, reach out to help others in spite of my own situation. Yes, I have made my son quilts, but they get stolen, so now I send his aunt money and she takes him shopping for warm clothing.

Remember, not all homeless on the street are hopeless or unloved!

Only 4 Days Left...Enter Now Giveaway

2011-11-26T10:11:00.001-08:00

I hope you aren't all on vacation as this giveaway ends November 30th and I am looking forward to announcing the winners.

However, I can't believe with all the goodies, the response has been so light. No one wants fabric, quilt patterns or adorable Christmas items?

Spread the word, Quilting Ranny is having a rocking out giveaway and all you need to do is leave a comment on here any where and please, become a follower.

To get everyones blood flowing a bit, I have just chosen a random winner to receive 3 fat quarters and that winning person is: Kathy from Kathy's Quilting Blog conratulations Kathy, send me your mailing address at the Email I sent you and they will be one their way.

We Have A Winner....

2011-11-26T10:03:00.000-08:00

Amazingly, only 2 people left comments to win the Grandparenting Books, so if Just Pam will contact me, you are the winner of the first one.

The second winner is Lee Ahlers from across the pond in Bairnsdale, Victoria Australia.

Both of these women are grandparents who have different situations. Pam is raising her grandchildren with their parents and Lee is raising her grandchildren on her own.

Congratulations to you both!

Please send me a mailing address and these will go book rate, so Lee, you may not see this until after December or January.

Thank you both for participating and please, I have another giveaway, spread the word!

This-n-That Creations

2011-11-23T13:25:00.000-08:00

It is never easy saying good-bye to old friends and to me it is harder to say good-bye to good quilting shops whether they are on line or in our neighborhoods. It breaks my heart! That is how it seems to have been this year as I have heard of 2 shops closing.

I do not revel in someones closing their shop and I do not know why Linda and Sandy have decided to close theirs, but I know they haven't posted on their blog since June of this year, but I know their decision did not just happen over night.

If you have enough stash to last the rest of your life, you probably don't need to stop by http://www.this-n-thatfabrics.com/ to check out their fabulous buys. Fat Quarters for $1.20 each, end of the bolt sales and fabric at less than $6 a yard in many areas. If you want to indulge yourself, stop by.

Just stop by tell them I sent you and wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors.

Fat Quarters

2011-11-23T13:13:00.000-08:00

As everyone is rushing busy around for dinner tomorrow and shopping on Black Friday, I thought I would share this smile with you.

My husband is not a fan of my quilting...well, maybe the stacks I have around is more aptly put, however, today he came home and told me, I saw a license plate frame you might want to post about on your blog.
Okay, I thought a bit curious because he doesn't much like blogging or understand it either.

I told him, I would bite, what was it. 'Fat Quarters Are Not A Bodypart.' I was shocked and a bit amused when I asked what would he know about Fat Quarters....he laughed and said, 'All I know is they are something you cut up for your quilts.' Oh man and all these years I thought he never paid attention. I hugged him so tight!

He didn't stop there or skip a beat, he said, 'speaking of fat quarters, our local town hooker (not talking rugs here) has put on some acreage or at least a hind quarter of her own.' Now, that was funny!

Happiest Thanksgiving Everyone!

Hows That Working For You?

2011-11-23T06:30:00.001-08:00

Why is it that people who know you are struggling a bit want to send you hundreds of 'putting it into perspective,' videos, feel good stories, etc.? Is it supposed to make me feel better or worse? Do they think I am wallowing and need to pull myself up by my boot straps? What is it?

Let me help everyone: I know there are people out there worse off than we are, I have a son who is homeless do you think I am blind, unfeeling and uncaring as well? I know there are children that are sick and dying and I myself lost a child who was 18 months old many years ago, do you think I am ignorant of these facts?

There are people starving in third world countries....okay and that is supposed to make me feel better about the children that are starving right here in the United States how?

I lost my job a few weeks ago, I posted about it, I may have whined a bit, but trust me, I am not sitting around in self pity, if I was, I wouldn't have one quilt almost finished and another cut out for homeless people in my area to stay warm instead of freezing to death.

There are people who attend and stop by our church asking for food and clothing...I gave my last $15 on Sunday to help meet their needs, am I complaining? No! Because that money can be stretched out to help more than one person.

I am on a small prayer team and have been for many years, my list of prayer requests for people has not stopped growing, it has increased, so I realize there are other people out there struggling. I do look around and open my eyes and see people worse off than I am and that is why I have literally given the coat off my back to someone in need....I had 2 and can only wear 1 at a time.

I have albums full of pictures, cards and quilts that I have made and given to those in need. I have been blessed to have people help me with fabrics, thread, mailing costs, etc. to get these quilts out from Virginia Tech Tragedy to earthquake victims in Japan, I work hard to reach out to others in need.

Why do you think I want your garbage? I had a woman call me the other day and offer me fabric and when I went to look at it, it was nasty, dirty, smelly and had mold on it. I told her it wasn't what I was looking for and perhaps it needed to be disposed of. Lets just say she wasn't happy with me and thought I was extremely selfish and rude.

Was I? I am a quilter, not your garbage chick! Offering me that is like offering a homeless person your hamburger after you have taken a few bites of it. Oh, the dude must not be to hungry he refused my half eaten hamburger that I slobbered all over. Really?? You really think it is okay to offer someone food that has been eaten on? G R O S S!!

I am not exaggerating! I assisted at our local soup kitchen that feeds homeless youth and I watched as the cook stood by a boiling pot of macaroni using a strainer to scoop out maggots. Why? Because people donate their old food to the kitchen and they don't want it to go to waste. I had to turn away, I was crying and gagging to think this is how we think today.

Oh, you don't want my trash? Then you must not really be hurting? What happened to compassion, caring and helping someone out? I am not saying bring these people to your house, buy them alcohol, hand them money, but does it hurt to hand the bell ringer a cup of hot chocolate on a cold wet day? Does it hurt for your child to have a birthday party and in lieu of gifts ask for pet food for the local animal shelter?

If we can't and won't use food in our pantry because it is bad, why would we even think the soup kitchen could use it? Have you ever thought to randomly pick up a few coats, hats, outfits in various sizes and drop off at a local school and tell them, I know there are children that could use these?

All I am saying is when someone is hurting and depressed or going through major life changing issues, send them a hug, tell them you are praying for them, love on them, send them a card to let them know you are thinking of them, but don't send them something showing them others are worse off....they know it and many times behind the pain they are feeling, they are actually reaching out to help others.

Are You?

****Please feel free to repost this to your blog if you feel you need to by leaving a link to my blog and listing me as the author, thanks!****

Piano Practice

2011-11-22T18:07:00.000-08:00

She isn't allowed to look at her music this year when she has her recital, so she leans back to play. She is amazing and I am so proud of her. She will have her recital one day and the following day she will play for the music teachers in the area.

In January she has piano olympics and adjudications. She is amazing & we were blessed to get the piano for a reasonable price.

Vacuum Cleaner Needed..,Hello Oreck, Silver King, Dirt Devil

2011-11-20T13:24:00.000-08:00

I am reaching out and calling all vacuum cleaner companies for a vacuum cleaner product review in exchange, I get a new vacuum cleaner.

I have contacted Shark vacuum's, but they never responded to me. I used to own a wonderful Silver King vacuum, but they are really very expensive even if you were a prior customer. I had an old stick from a friend that was great on the rugs we have, however it gave out this year. My Dirt Devil upright after 5 years of faithful service, has finally given up the valient fight.

I am seriously tired of purchasing cheap garbage that is being put out as a vacuum cleaner. I want one that meets my high standards, the Silver King standards at a lessor price...will pick up hair, cat hair, quilt thread and strings and still work!

I want one that doesn't require I spend $8-12 for a flimsy filter and the belts stay intact for longer than a few months.

Most importantly with my fibromyagia, I want one that is light weight and easy to carry up and down my stairs, cleans area rugs, carpeting and bare wood and vinyl flooring.

Is it possible? Hello Oreck, Silver King, Dirt Devil, Hoover, Dyson, ElectroLux, are you listening? The best form of advertising is word of mouth, so please contact me via Email so we can work something out and I can tell others what great products you have!

God's Grace

2011-11-20T07:01:00.001-08:00

I have really been working on doing my best to NOT interrupt my hubs when he is talking to me or saying something. For one, it is a bad, bad habit and two it is just rude. I don't know when I started it, but I have been asking God to please work on it for me.

The other thing I do is when I get up every morning, I pray and then I sit down and read my Bible and just try to absorb Gods word into my head and life. I am trying in everything to be the person that God wants me to be.

Two things come to mind lately that I feel I handled well and more Grace than I would have ever done in the past.

When I lost my job recently due to my hearing, I was devastated. Here I was finally making a good wage, I had retirement and benefits and was starting to help dig us out of the hole we were and still are in. I was sooooooooooooooooooooooooo close to paying off one of my credit cards and car loan. I lost my job due to my hearing and it is a long story I am not going into here, but I basically forced their hand to hire me under ADA/EEOC laws. I knew going in, I may not last, but I gave it my best shot. The Monday before I was called into the directors office and told I only needed one ear to hear and wow, I was so happy. Sadly, two days later 30 minutes prior to the end of shift, I was called back, told she was wrong and terminated. I thanked her, my voice broke, I re-composed myself and we chatted. She was amazing and told me to take my time, say my good-byes and don't rush. I waked back into the classroom where 4 of my training buddies were and broke down and cried, my trainer cried and one of my co-workers cried. I re-composed, wished them all the best of luck and I meant it, told them they would be great dispatchers, hugged them, gave a quilt to my trainer Donna and walked out holding my head high. I did not beg, plead, accuse them of misdoing nor did I rip my picture off the wall or any other way degrade who I am. For me that is significant as in the past I may not have held my head up, but I knew and know God has better plans for my family and for me.

The second incident occurred this week-end. We have a deck out our back door, it was poorly designed and causes water to leak into the basement and into the carport. We have tried Gacko deck, paint, covering it in plywood and plastic during winter, hubby has built walls up, added gutters and yet, the rain finds its way in. Last summer someone suggested he put down tar and I had a fit and I mean a huge fit. In no uncertain terms I told him I would rip that deck down board by board. It was already bad enough we have spent more money for him to try to fix it than it would have cost to hire a contractor to figure it out and repair it. Not to mention the railing is falling apart and well, you get the picture. This past week, he has been diligently painting the deck with a white coating. But oh, how he is sneaky. Last night I look out and there it is, the deck is coated in black tar. I was N O T happy. But I looked at him and said, you are good, you did it, you put Tar down on the deck & I walked away. No anger, no threats to tear it down, nothing.

Several hours later I told him I am changing. He asked how and I explained about keeping quiet more instead of becoming irrational. Man, he didn't skip a beat, 'no you haven't,' walked away. This puzzled me, so I said, 'really, I haven't at all.' He asked for an example. ' I haven't torn the deck down yet or gotten in your face have I about the tar?' He looked at me, smiled and said, 'I guess you are right.'

How do we change, can we change and will we change? It all depends on us and God and asking God to change us. I am not perfect, I still get upset at things, but I am praying more for grace and when we pray and ask God to change us, He makes it possible for us to stand in grace and more forward. God gives us the strength to hold our head up, look ahead and not down and remain upright.

Thats right, with Gods grace in all circumstances, we can hold our heads up high because we know He is with us. We know this battle has already been fought and won. He gave us grace so we could keep our dignity, resist the urge to rip someones head off their shoulders and remain strong in the knowledge that we are all new creatures in Him, the great I AM, Jehoval Jirah our provider.

So today, no matter what your circumstances are, hold your head up and walk tall. You are Gods creation and He loves you!

Koffee Klatch Friday 7 Things I am Thankful For

2011-11-19T22:22:00.001-08:00

As usual I am late with my Friday post and thankful to Vicky who allows no rule to be totally adhered to. You can follow or join this group at: http://vickijf.blogspot.com/2011/11/coffee-klatch-friday_18.html friday_18.html

So, we had to take 7 pics or post 7 things we are thankful for:

#1- Living in the state of Washington on the coast and the beauty that surrounds me and while there is lots of rain, if you look for the sun, it is also easy to see.

#2- My wonderful grandchildren and their awesome friends. This past summer our home was filled with laughter, music and running and lots of popsicles. There is nothing sweeter than the sound of 3 or 4 young children playing on our old piano and actually playing great tunes!

These are 2 of their friends that live in Missouri and came out to visit their aunt and uncle during the summer. It was so nice for our little man to actually have a 'guy' friend his age as opposed to hanging around the girls all summer!

#3- Having more than one pair of tennis shoes in my closet and while this may sound like a given to many of my female readers, I suffer from Fibromyalgia and Neuropathy in my feet, having more than one pair of tennis shoes is important as some days I change shoes 2-4 times due to my painful feet!

#4 - My grandchildrens art work and this particular picture is up for sale. At least a copy of it is and it will be framed!

I am sure I have more, but I am so exhausted right now, I cannot find them on my computer, but these are a beginning!

#5- I am thankful for my husband Jerry who has carried himself with love and dignity in spite of our trials and who made me feel I was okay when I lost my job. Instead of being upset or irritated, he told me it was okay, we would get through this.

#6- My best friend John for whom without him, I wouldn't have been able to accept the job offer. He also kept me grounded, made sure I stopped shaking my leg when I was upset, kept me distracted when he could, gave me a safe place to stay and kept groceries on the table.

#7-For living in the United States in spite of our problems, we are and will overcome.

Week-End Blog Hop

2011-11-19T21:53:00.000-08:00

If you go to my side bar on the right, you will see the link and button to the Lots of Lovin Weekend Blog Hop.
I hope you will join us, it is lots of fun and there are no rules!

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Giveaway

2011-11-19T16:11:00.001-08:00

Thats right, the Ranny is giving away not 1 but 2 books on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren. If you know someone raising their grandchildren (and who doesn't now a days?), leave a comment here and you will be entered to win a copy of this book by Elaine K. Williams.

As a grandparent raising 3 grandchildren I was approached by someone from BalBoa Press on receiving not 1 but 2 copies of this book to pass on. This book is written from Elaine's perspective as social worker/counselor and reflects this perspective.

If you know someone who would benefit from this book such as a new grandparent raising grandchildren, just leave me your name and Email address and I will enter you in a drawing that will end Wednesday November 23 at noon. I will notify the winner via Email and you can send me a snail mail address.

Please, let all grandparents you know to come and leave their name.

Christmas Dress Done...

2011-11-19T14:24:00.000-08:00

I made this little jumper for my youngest granddaughter and love the fact it only took about an hour to make it. I also made self covered buttons, so the buttons match the dress.

Now, I just hope it fits her as I do not have her here to try things on, I can only go by what size her parents say she wears.

Once hubby wakes up, I will finish tying the quilt off that I made yesterday. Tying it off with silk ribbon to make it look a bit nicer.

I sure hope all of you have been able to spend some time today crafting, quilting, painting or just relaxing.

Holiday Giveaway

2011-11-19T07:21:00.000-08:00

Just a quick reminder that this blog is having a great Holiday Giveaway, so come here, leave a comment, post on Twitter, Facebook your blog and have others come and follow me or let me know they found me via your post and you get extra entries.

I would really like to crank this party up and give lots of people chances to win, so please, the more you let others know, the better your chances are of winning because you will have more entries as well. Remember this is open to anyone international as well, so let those in other countries know.

With that said, I am wishing you all the best of luck!

Comfort Foods

2011-11-17T21:22:00.000-08:00

Tonight dinner was Tater Tot casserole only I used Cheddar Broccoli soup for the sauce instead of Cream of Celery and I shredded some medium Tillamook Cheddar cheese for the top.

There wasn't even a piece of a Tater Tot left when I went to clean up the kitchen, just the bottom of this pie plate.

It is always a great night when there are no left overs.

What was the perfect dessert to this was a wonderful gift we received tonight from our granddaughters piano teacher, home made applesauce with the perfect touch of sugar and cinnamon.

Hubby had placed these jars in the freezer, so when we were done with dinner and the kitchen was all clean, we had chilled homemade applesauce and I am so thankful she sent us over 7 jars. We truly have some of the most amazing neighbors!

Oil of Olay Regenerist

2011-11-17T10:13:00.000-08:00

**I have NOT been compensated by Oil of Olay or anyone else for this product review. The opinions expressed regarding this product are solely my own and no one elses and have stemmed from using the product for 10 weeks now**

I have always been blessed with good genetics and can only say I still have good genetics when I do look younger than my 56 years and that is according to many people who simply cannot believe I am as old as I am.

What has been my secret? For many years it was the simple regimen of washing my face daily with Ivory soap and applying a moisturizer and repeating the process in the evening ensuring my make-up was completely removed.

As I got older I began using Oil of Olay moisturizer exclusively. It worked, I loved it. However, over the last year or two I have noticed a dullness and fine lines on my skin and trust me, I am not going to get Botox to look better.

About 6 months ago I began using Oil of Olay Regenerist Detoxifyling Pore Scrub and I began to notice that my pores were actually getting smaller and soon, they were barely noticeable. I was however in the middle of a moisturizer jar and wasn't going to waste it to rush out and spend $$$ on Oil of Olay.

My next product I purchased was the Oil of Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Serum and it felt smooth as silk, a tiny bit goes a long way and it felt amazing on my face. I used it along with my facial washing and regular moisturizer and after about 6 weeks, i began to notice a difference. Wow! I was impressed.

My most recent purchase was Micro-Sculpting Cream that I use daily with the serum and I have seen a huge difference in the way my face looks and actually diminshed lines around my mouth and forehead. I am very happy with Oil of Olay and while it is a bit pricey, it costs far less than Botox and is less dangerous and you can still smile.

I would love to try their Regenerist Derma Pod eye system to see if it would help to alleviate the dark circles and puffiness I have under my eyes all the time as well as one of their nighttime creams as I believe they would really make a difference.

If you have a spare $20-$30 to spend on each product this might be worth it to you. You can find coupons once in awhile on their products and you can purchase them cheaper at Costco where you get more product for the price.

I have tried other products that claim to work and have not, however Oil of Olay does what is says it will do and for that, they get my thumbs up!

Cleaning Up...

2011-11-16T07:57:00.000-08:00

If I have listed your button on my blog, do not fear, it is still here, but I am trying to group them all nice and neatly at the bottom where there is lots of room and it looks so much nicer.

However, the problem is, they are willy nilly all over the bottom. Can someone suggest how I can get them all nice and neatly aligned so they don't look messy?

I really want people to look around and feel relaxed, not scattered all over the place.

Seeking Suggestions

2011-11-16T07:00:00.000-08:00

Hello there all my quilting bloggers. I have a question. I am making a quilt right now for a homeless person. However, the top is 100% cotton, the batting I have is Warm and Natural, but it is thin and I do not think it would be a good choice to keep someone warm who lives outside.

I was thinking of using a fleece backing, what suggestions would you wonderful people have for the middle?

I was even thinking maybe old Army surplus blankets, but hubs said because they are wool, if they got wet it would take a long time for them to dry and they could become smelly.

Thanks!

I Am Politically Incorrect via DNA

2011-11-15T06:41:00.000-08:00

So, let me just state here and now that political correctness is not and never has been on my agenda and I mean political correctness as in, I will fight for what is right. So many people give lip service to what they perceive as being unjust, but do nothing about it. I was born to act, it is in my DNA.

So, yes, I get on my blog and I make it known things that upset me, the unjustices I see in this world and I do what I can though I am only one person. Why? Because my great, great grandmother (she may have only been great) was Mary Ann Sorden Stuart, the single most important woman in the state of Delawares history because she fought for womens rights when we had none.

Grandma MASS, stood up to congress and is described this way: 'she dresses in black, weighs 250 pounds, is good-natured, and can talk ten hours a day, at a rate of 200 words a minute.' Now, I never knew my grandmother, but I am pretty sure her DNA is deeply embedded in me as I weigh just slightly less than she did, can talk 23 hours a day (we have to have time to eat don't we?) and a rate of over 300 words a minute. I do not wear black....hang on let me check....okay, so my closet has more black now than it used to.

My grandmother was strong, she was widowed and she hated the fact that while she was born into wealth and took with her upon her marriage her servants, that once she was married and widowed, she had no rights at all under law to sell her own land, purchase land, keep her paycheck (she was an attorney) and she began in 1869 the fight of her life and ours to fight for womens sufferage.

Tirelessly, grandmother worked to bring in the top women and men to town halls such as Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Thomas Garret and Belva Lockwood, grandmother spent her own money to rally the people, rally congress, travel to talk to congress to give women the right to vote. She knew that women would only be able to have rights if they could vote and she fought until her death in 1893 to see her plan in action.

While grandmother did see some of her efforts put forth such as in the 1870's when married women earned the right to make wills, own property and keep their own paychecks, she passed away prior to 1920 when womens suffrage was added to the United States Constitution.

So, you want to know why I fight for the causes I do? Why I write the letters I do? Why I stand up for those that have voices but have been knocked down so often they are afraid to use those voices? Because I am part of the legacy that knows that we can make a difference and should make a difference.

No, I will not give money to someone standing on the corner holding a sign that says, 'why lie, I need a beer,' or to the lady that I know has her own home and stands on the corner holding a sign that says, 'my grandchildren need milk and cereal,' as I know her grandchildren, one doesn't even live at home anymore and the other is embarrassed as they don't live with grandma. The man who stands on the corner I offered a job to and he told me to...well, we won't go there will we?

But I do believe that in the area where we live where mills are closing, where business and home owners do not care how our town looks and where the mayor is pleased he has kept status quo while the county boasts the highest unemployment rate in the state....homelessness is going to get worse and we as a people need to do something about it.

I am only one person, I can only sew so fast, but these people could use warm blankets, quilts, gloves, socks, rain gear, thermoses for hot coffee. Yes, I am only one person, yes, I just lost my job and I have a choice to sit around and whine and feel sorry for myself or reach out to someone else who may be far worse off than I am.
Which do you think I will choose? To help someone else.

I was thinking how can I do this? Rag quilts and not the ones you cut up and tie, but a genunine denim rag quilt, 2 pieces of denim with batting in between...these would be warm and provide some shelter from the cold. So, I am going to make one and see how it goes. I will need denim and plan to ask my church family to donate some of it. I am only one person but this is what my friends say about me:

'You would make an excellent mayor, the people will love you, the politicians will hate you.' If they do then I am doing my job the right way wouldn't I be? My favorite....Hell won't take me because the devil knows I will bowl him over like a steam roller and convert everyone.'

If I offend you, I am sorry, I never mean to offend, but if I make you think, I have done what I set out to do.

Is This Arrogance or Ignorance?

2011-11-14T19:30:00.000-08:00

I always find it interesting when God and I are aligned on the same path, or I am on the path He wants me to travel. I am talking about Project Bring Joseph Home my son who is homeless and how we are doing all we can to scrape the money together to purchase a place where he will feel at home and comfortable.

Yesterdays article in our local paper, the Aberdeen Daily World screamed:
'HOMELESS FUN
Dilemma: What to do with $1.4M COUNTY NEEDS TO SPEND IT OR IT MIGHT BE SWEPT UP BY STATE'
By: Steven Friederich The Daily World. November 13, 2011. www.THEDAILY WORLD.COM. Don't bother to read the story on line, you can't unless you are a subscriber. If you would like a copy of the article, let me know.

It talks about the County having an account that has only been tapped annually to pay $10,000 to help the point-in-time homeless count local social services groups do every January. Really, they charge $10,000 to count the homeless? I can do it for less than $500 and get a better count. That is outrageous, arrogant and stupid!

The money comes from a fund through the county auditors office, then it filters through the state and back to our county and these ignorant county commissioners are worried their money is going to be taken away. Fact is, it isn't their money, it belongs to the homeless, it is meant to help the homeless and here they are sitting on a positive amount of money that can positively help others and they won't spend a penny.

They are so arrogant during their meeting one of the commissioners stated, 'God knows there must be homeless people who need help.' Do these people live under a rock? I see them huddled at night in store frons staying warm and yet, they honestly aren't seeing these people or don't drive around at night.

The wonderful thing is, they have to use the money to help the homeless, they are locked in by the state to do so and can't use for anything else. However, these commissioners are worried because the money could be taken away because the state sees they are not doing anything with it. I say, give it to the state!

I have lived in Grays Harbor since 2007 and was an Americorps from 2007-2008 and during this time, we sat with the homeless people and asked what they thought was needed. They told our group way back when that there was some kind of committee made up to help them or at least that is what they were told and yet, nothing happens. All remains status quo because the haves in our area pretend there are no have nots!

There is also another find with over $348,000 in it to help low-income residents and help supplement the budges of local social services groups and they may, the money seems to go to the same organizations for homeless prevention and case management. However, in our area, which happens to be the highest in the state for unemployment, they better start acting and stop sitting around and do something!

Once again, last year they (the committee) crafted a 10-year homeless plan with goals of how to spend the grant funds of which have simply not yet been implemented...such as constructing lockers to help the homeless store their belongings, a gardening plan to grow and sell food.

As always in Grays Harbor it is smack talk. Talk about doing this, improving that, talk in my book is cheap, you either walk the talk or talk the trash and that is what is happening, they are talking trash because honestly, they do not care about the homeless.

So, in my opinion the money needs to go back to the state towards the budge deficit, because if it sits here, more homeless this winter will freeze while waiting for their 10 year plan.

Awhile Ago

2011-11-14T07:05:00.000-08:00

How long is awhile ago to you? I have a habit that drives my husband crazy and I will say blah, blah, blah happened a few days ago when in reality it could have been 6 months or more ago. If I say awhile ago, am I talking about a few minutes, a few days and then what is my definition of 'awhile?' It is funny how we define time with no definite time lines.

So, with that said...awhile ago (before school was out so mid to late May), there was a beautiful home with a large yard for sale up the street from us and I fell in love with it. The yard would have been perfect, the driveway wasn't shared, it had a huge basement with a canning kitchen and a cold cellar, a large kitchen and the owner knowing we were raising our grandchildren was willing to let us move in and they would finance.

However, what I hadn't seen in my exuberance, hubby did see. The bedrooms in the basement had 10' tall walls with tiny windows that were up at about 8' and the only heat in the basement would have been via the large fireplace. Right away hubby turned it down based on the fact if I fire would ever break out, no one would be able to: A- make it to the windows & B-make it out of the windows.

Then came the questions about wiring as our old home has Knob and Tube and it becomes brittle over the years and breaks and then becomes a fire hazard. I don't know if the owner really did not know about it or she was dancing around the issue, but as the owner and realtor and someone who knew all about everything in that house...hubby felt she was dancing around the issue.

After praying on both sides (the realtor is a Christian woman) and offers being lowered, we had to turn it down. Both of us agreed we could not put the kids in harms way in the basement. At that time, God told me, 'don't worry, I have other plans for you.'

The job offer came through, I worked for 8 weeks, earned by CBD in medical dispatch, was excited when they told me only one ear had to hear at 8000 Hrz at 25 Dcb or below and my left ear does. Devastated 2 days later when they gave me my letter of termination for hearing loss.

'Don't worry, I have other plans for you.' Saturday at church everyone was happy I was back home. Now, I don't believe they were happy I lost my job, but my pastor has always felt I belong in Grays Harbor.

Awhile ago I began reading and finished this morning the book of James and my eyes were opened to so much of Gods word in this small 5 chapter book. I know it was His perfect timing when I chose that book to read and I know it was His perfect timing when I took the job I had for just a few short months.

One thing I remember profoundly in James is to remember to rejoice in our trials because the battle has already been fought and won on the cross. This week as the devil has been sitting on my shoulder and whispering in my ear...'now what are your going to do?' or 'there goes that job.' I have taken to telling him to get behind me, leave me alone, this battle has been won and I end my conversation with, 'can I remind you satan of your future?'

Live for today (I am trying to remember this Jerry and John) and don't worry about tomorrow as it is already written and it may not show up.

Will we find another home? Yes, I am believing God will provide. Will I find another job? Yes, but it may be in an area other than emergency dispatch. 'Will we make it?' We always have and for that, I am so thankful to God. Go out and when you feel lifes walls caving in, remember, 'Awhile Ago, you read this amazing post!'

Holiday Giveaway - Ends November 30th

2011-11-13T12:44:00.000-08:00

Lets get this holiday party started with a Quilting Ranny giveaway. **Sorry, but the above quilt is not part of the giveaway...I gave it to my trainer Donna Kelley who was amazing!**

Lets start with the rules first and if they are not followed, you cannot win.

1- You must leave an Email or blog address in your comments so if you are the winner, I can contact you. If your comments show up as a no reply or anonymous, they will be toss out. To much time spent tracking anonymous people down.

2- There is one entry for each of the following: leaving a comment; posting on twitter or facebook. ***You can leave one comment a day on any post from today forward.**

3- Become a follower for 5 additional entries (if you are already a follower, I so appreciate you, but please do not stop following & then re-follow for the points...not fair to new followers & it isn't honest).

4-Blog about this on your blog and tell others: 5 entries for a blog post and 3 additional entries for someone mentioning they saw the giveaway on your blog for both of you. Send me the link to your post.

5-Follow me on Facebook @Jean Kester or Twitter @compassionquilt and let me know you did and you get 1 more entry.

Open internationally though I cannot guarantee delivery.

Starts now and ends at 11:30 PM MST on November 30th. Results and winners will be notified on December 1st and you have 48 hours to respond back to me or I will choose the next person in line. If you are going to be out of town, let me know and I will extend your response time.

First prize is a yard of this beautiful red and white Mary Englebreit Baskets of Flowers by Moda fabric and a Christmas Door Cover of a blue and white Christmas tree. **Winner is Ohio Outdoors**

Second prize are these 2 awesome quilting books: Irish Chain in A Day & Happy Endings all about making Irish Chain quilts and how to bind your quilts.
**Winner is Kathy**

Third prize are these 2 adorable decorate paper Christmas gift bags with handles. I just love Snowmen and they make me smile!
**Winner is Nannette G**

Forth but not last is this Design a Sweatshirt booklet with instructions and pattern designs on how to make a plain sweatshirt look pretty super! **Winner is Carrie at Farming on Faith**

As always, there will be hidden prizes for several lucky participants. If you are follower #275 or #300, you will get a thank you prize of my choosing.
*Stray Stitches wins a quilting pattern for sending the most people to visit**
*Busy as Can Be wins a fat quarter*
*Catskill Quilter wins a fat quarter*

There will also be several random winners at my choosing.

What are you waiting for? Post and leave comments!

Fabric Nirvana

2011-11-13T08:10:00.000-08:00

I went down to the basement last night and just looked at the fabric I want to use in the giveaway and while in the process found some nice pieces to place in my Zibbet shop. When I say nice pieces many of them were at least a yard and a half and 52" in width.

Then I decided on the pieces I will list later today to giveaway and walked over to my feeling neglected cutting table and began piecing together the quilt pieces that have been sitting there the last 9 weeks.

I felt peaceful. As I touched the pieces and prayed over them, I knew the recipient would enjoy this when it was all finished. I also know that during this difficult time for me mentally, I would go down to the basement and find a way to keep my mind busy.

Then, I went to all church prayer and was greeted by so many with smiles and hugs and they are truly so happy I am home, how can I not believe God has something great planned for me.

Fabric, aaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhh, just Nirvana!