KIM'S KREATIONS

Do You HuHot?

2012-02-02T15:16:00.001-06:00

Several years ago a group of friends were planning a dinner out. They wanted to go to HuHot Mongolian Grill. Another friend and I didn't really want to go there, so we grumbled about it together, but decided to go with the flow. (I can be flexible like that really.)

So....we went and I LOVED it!! So much so that I convinced Bud to try it, and he loves it too! But, we don't like the price and try not to go out so much.

Another thing I love is:

Yes, PINTEREST!

Well the two came together the day I pinned this recipe.

Sesame Noodles
Adapted from: The Pioneer Woman

1 16oz. package linguine pasta, cooked and drained
1/3 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sugar
5 cloves of garlic, minced
3 tablespoons rice vinegar
3 tablespoons sesame oil
1 teaspoon hot chili sauce
4 tablespoons canola oil

5 green onions, sliced thin

In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, chili sauce, and canola oil. Taste and adjust to your liking. Pour over cooked noodles and toss being sure to coat evenly. Garnish with green onions. Enjoy!

We add other things like we would at HuHot--shrimp, crabmeat, sausage, water chestnuts, etc.

The sauce tastes like what I use at HuHot--the first basic recipe. You can always adjust it to meet your tastes.

So, I have killed two birds with one stone--actually using something I pinned on Pinterest & having something to make when we're hungry for HuHot.

Try it--You'll like it!!

Fun Times!

2012-01-29T19:14:00.000-06:00

Trilby, Tasha, Kathy, and I traveled to Des Moines Saturday morning. We spent some time shopping, had a nice leisurely lunch at....

Then we checked into the Drury Inn where we met Bud's two sisters, nieces, cousin, and friends from Pomeroy. We dressed to go out then met for drinks and snacks before heading out. Here is the "senior" table with the birthday girl.

We then headed to the Blue Moon. I for one, had never seen these fish bowls.

I would never drink out of one that they pass around! Ick!

We had about 20 people in our party.

The dueling pianos were fantastic! They could play about anything, and we had a great time!

After escorting several girls back to the motel we had pizza and visited for a while(really we were entertained by several girls who will remain nameless). We got to bet about 2:00 a.m. Waaaaay too late for me! After a breakfast together this morning everyone went their separate ways. Our carload stopped at Tanger Outlet Mall in Williamsburg where I was picked up.

Next up was the Hawkeye Wrestling Meet. We used Travis' tickets since he was at work. It was Clara's first Hawkeye Wrestling Meet!

I am EXHAUSTED!! I had a good time, now I just need to recover!

A Blue Baby Blanket

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

Travis had several blankets as a baby. He wasn't particularly attached to any, but this blue one was well used. You can see that the satin sashing is coming off.

Chance got Travis' other blanket, so it is only fair that Colby gets one too. I took off all the satin, washed the blanket again, and put on new satin. I wrapped Colby in it on Sunday, and it soooo reminded me of Travis. (Colby really looks like his daddy!) Gee, I thought I was 21 again!

Colby has really filled out and shared some great smiles with us on Sunday!

Baptism

2012-01-23T21:47:00.002-06:00

Colby was baptized on Sunday.

Trilby and Clint were his sponsors.

He wore his daddy's baptismal outfit. (With some white tights and long sleeves to keep him warm!)

It was a cold icy day. Took us quite a while to get to church. We ran into black ice on the interstate, where we saw several vehicles in the ditch!

But we wouldn't have missed it for the world!!

A Late Christmas Gift

2012-01-21T07:14:00.001-06:00

I got quite pressed for time and didn't get all of my gifts done before Christmas, so I'm still finishing one or two. Here is a table runner I made for my friend and colleague.

The photos aren't great because I used my iPad to take them, and I'm not a good photographer! Anyway, Liv is an associate in my classroom. While I had my boot on and was supposed to be resting my foot she kept me supplied in coffee which was way down the hall!

I practiced making swirls in the bulbs. So this was a combination Christmas gift and thank you gift.

This was a cheater top, so I just had to sandwich it together and quilt it. I got it at a quilt store in Des Moines several years ago, but I can't remember who it's by.

I used a fancy stitch on my machine for the border. I hope Liv will enjoy it in her own home someday.
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What Is It? X 2

2012-01-16T21:26:00.001-06:00

As it happens, Tasha and Trina both had their ultrasounds scheduled for today--one at 3:00 and one at 4:00. Both were finding out what they were having, so we planned to meet for supper for the announcements.

Let's start with Trina since she is due first. Our informal poll was 7 for a boy and 6 for a girl.
She gave us each an envelope with a card inside. The front of the card looked like this:

The second page was this:

And the last page was this:

Yes, Grayson is getting a little brother!

The informal poll for Tasha was 9 for a girl and 4 for a boy. She gave me a card to read out loud and small gift bag.

This is what the card said:

This is what was in the bag:

Do you know what she's having?????

Yes, Clara will have to share her princess status with a little sister!!!

We couldn't be happier for them both! Congratulations Trina and Tanner and Tasha and Kyle!
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A Little Sunday Sewing

2012-01-15T22:31:00.001-06:00

Today I was lucky enough to spend the day sewing. I finished a gift which I had been working on for a while. I'll share that another day. I gave my machine a thorough cleaning. And then instead of moving on to finish Trina's quilt I sewed something quick for myself.

When I put out my snowman decorations I knew I needed a couple more snowish runners. So I looked at a few snowman runners on the Internet to get some ideas. I ended up with this:

I used fabric from my stash. In fact the blue plaid homespun was once my skirt!

Put together a couple of snowmen faces.

A little polka dot fabric and free motion quilting and I have a new runner!

Now to get Trina's quilt done!
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Quilt Labels

2012-01-10T21:26:00.001-06:00

I have been thinking a lot about labeling the quilts I make. A label on your quilt serves not only as a record of who and when, but as an identification of the item if it is ever stolen or lost. A label can also contain care instructions for cleaning. I hope that my quilts are loved and handed down to the next generation, so they will become pieces of my quilting history. But I couldn't decide how to label them.

I have read a lot about labels and knew I wanted to personalize mine. I do like some of the preprinted ones, and I may order some of those to put on taggie blankets, purses, etc. I enjoyed the blogpost about labeling quilts on Chasing Cottons.

I have labeled all of the t-shirt quilts that I did for Christmas like this:

My machine has several styles of the alphabet, so I used that.

I also used it for Colby's quilt and several others.

I am a symmetrical person, so the fact that the lines of writing aren't all centered and lined up nicely drives me nuts! It is hard to just how much room the letters will use. I am working on it.

How do you label your quilts?

2012-01-09T22:12:00.001-06:00

Sweet Baby Boy

2012-01-04T21:38:00.000-06:00

There's nothing like a sweet cuddly baby sound asleep!

We were lucky enough to spend some time getting acquainted with Colby this past weekend.

I think he liked it so much he's coming back this weekend!

T-Shirt Quilt #3

2012-01-02T19:46:00.000-06:00

Well, Trilby had already graduated before I decided I would make t-shirt quilts for them, so we hadn't saved all of her t-shirts.

Since she was in 7th grade when we moved, she went to Pomeroy for half of her schooling and had some of those shirts, so I decided to incorporate those.

I free motion quilted the sashing around the outside.

I straight line quilted around each square, and I used a creative stitch along each edge of the inside sashing.

I had to give this to Trilby for Christmas unquilted. :( When I could see that I wasn't going to get it all done I decided to let go of a couple of things and this was one of them.

While I finished the quilt top in 2011, I didn't complete the whole thing, so should it be a 2011 finish or the first 2012 finish?

Now, just one more t-shirt quilt yet to quilt!

A House for the Princess!

2012-01-01T22:12:00.000-06:00

Clara's dad, Kyle, has mentioned several times the little cloth house his grandmother made that went over a card table. He talked of all the fun times he and his siblings had with that little house. It was even at the visitation for his grandmother who was a quilter and sewer. This had me thinking about my kids playing with blankets over the table and all the fun they had too. So I made Clara a little house for Christmas.

It was a big hit Christmas Day! Here you can see Chance sticking out of it!

I used a pattern, but I did adapt it some.

The playhouse really does fit better than it appears in the photo, but there were little ones inside pulling on the fabric and having a great time! In researching these I found an etsy that gave me lots of ideas. You can check it out here. Now, if I could find enough customers to pay me that much for the playhouses I might be able to consider retiring in a few years!! I have a lot of ideas for some of the other grandkids, so stay tuned.

And I'm counting this as #12 in '11!!!

#11 in 11 DONE!!

2012-01-01T00:00:00.000-06:00

This quilt was a gift for Travis for Christmas, so I couldn't show it earlier either.

It is HUGE!! I didn't really pay attention to size, I just used shirts that I knew he would like.

Since he graduated in 1997 I guess it is long overdue!

On this one I made all of the squares the same size except the middle ones. This was much easier than Tasha's which I made the size of the print on each t-shirt.

Travis had a lot of t-shirts and jerseys to choose from, so I put a few on the back.

I started quilting this myself with clear thread. My machine began to give me problems, and I was stressed, so I got someone to finish it for me. She, however, used gray thread. You really can't tell the difference unless I point it out.

And that is 11 in '11, but I do have one more completed project to post tomorrow. It was made in '11, so it should count!

Chance's "Big Boy" Quilt

2011-12-30T08:57:00.000-06:00

Since Chance is now a big brother he will soon be going into a "Big Boy Bed"! His parents wanted him to have a quilt for his bed, so this was his big Christmas gift this year.

The fabric is Wanna Be a Cowboy by Samantha Walker for Riley Blake.

The pattern is Simply Authentic from Piece N Quilt. You can find it here.

It measures approximately 80" x 90".

I didn't follow the layout direction exactly, but changed it up to feature the fabrics I wanted to have show. I could only get a small amount of the real cowboyish fabric and I wanted it to all show when placed on the bed.

I straight line quilted it which evidently I have problems even with straight lines. You wouldn't think that would be so difficult, but I have a guide on my machine and it often moves on me. :(

Chance immediately laid down and wrapped up in it! I can't wait to see it on his bed.

I couldn't share this one until after Christmas as I didn't want his parents to see it either.

This is #10 for my 11 in '11 Challenge.

Colby's Baby Quilt

2011-12-28T20:23:00.002-06:00

Our latest grandson, Colby, needed a quilt from Nana and this is what he got!

I laid it out on the hospital bed because I forgot to take a photo of it at home!

The pattern is "Baby Lattice Quilt" from Moda Bakeshop. You can find it here.

I straight line quilted it, and used the Case IH fabric for the squares, cream Kona cotton for the sashing, and IH fabric for the back too.

I think this little farm boy likes it!
And this is #9 in my 11 in '11 Challenge. You can see the other seven under the tab at the top.

More Christmas Fun!

2011-12-27T09:24:00.001-06:00

Traditionally we take pictures of each family at Christmas.

Trilby, Mike, Payton, Cael, and Nate

Nate was being held against his will & Cael declared on Christmas Day that he doesn't smile in pictures! Payton.....well he's just cool now that he's 11!

Travis, Kerry, Chance, & Colby

Chance really had some red little checks going on!

Tasha, Kyle, & Clara (aka Princess)

They will be a family of four next Christmas.

Trina, Tanner, and Grayson

Grayson was wearing his new slippers that Santa brought him.

They will be a family of four next Christmas.

And we had our turn by the fireplace with the grandkids, but oh my it is hard to get everyone to look at the camera!

Cael was thrilled to get his first BB Gun, although you wouldn't know it by his face! This is when he declared that he doesn't smile for pictures.

Payton was thrilled to get a blah, blah, blah gun.(I forget what it is). Yes, we are a family of rednecks!

The cousins had a good time together.

They love Grandpa's train that runs under the tree.

Stay tuned for a sewing post tomorrow. I was trying for 11 in '11, and I made it, but I couldn't show many things because they were Christmas gifts.

The Season Continued!

2011-12-26T09:38:00.000-06:00

Here's hoping you had a Very Merry Christmas!

We certainly did. We traveled to Travis and Kerry's for Christmas Eve Mass and supper.

(Since I was so busy sewing I am sharing some Christmas decorations that I never got around to sharing.)

The Willow Tree Navtivity was new last year. I took a photo of my ceramic one, but iphoto is not cooperating today!

ALL kids, grandchildren, Mom, and my sister were here yesterday. That was a grand total of 12 adults and 7 kids. It was great fun and just a little noisy!

This Santa greets you as you come in the front door...along with my quilt and the antique candy machine.

My collection of Christmas tins sit on the shelf in the foyer. Among them are some antique ones, collector items, and just plain old tins! I can't fit them all up there though.

The girls requested that we not do our traditional meal, so we had ham sandwiches, potatoes, and a ton of appetizers. They said they did this so I wouldn't be so stressed, but really we (Bud & I) didn't like it.

There is something to be said for the togetherness of a sit down meal, along with helping the little ones practice their manners, and letting me enjoy using my Christmas dishes!

Next year it's back to our regular sit down meal with real dishes.

I love decorating for Christmas! It does take me longer now than it used to though.

I have nine decorated trees, and several other small ones with just lights. So every room has a tree except one bathroom I just didn't get one into this year.

This Hawkeye tree was our newest addition in our family room downstairs.

With a Hawkeye Santa of course!

A Hawkeye tree skirt is on my to do list.

I was so busy sewing that this is my second set of poinsettias on top of the hutch since the first ones died for lack of attention! (And there's another Santa.)

This Santa on the left sits on a shelf at the top of the stairs.

The one on the right is my tallest one, and he stands in the corner of the living room.

This Santa stands by the fireplace.

This one sits by the fireplace, and is a favorite of the kids because when you push the button he snores "like Grandpa"!

These two have antique quilts as coats and they sit on a bench with some quilts.

The last of our kids left this morning with one tired and grumpy grandson(and maybe a sleep deprived son-in-law). Now it's time to clean, and decide what to do for the rest of the day.

Stay tuned for some "catch up" posts all week since I can finally show you what I have been sewing!

Meet Our New Grandson!

2011-12-14T22:36:00.000-06:00

Meet our new grandson:

Colby Bruce

7lbs. 8 ozs.

20 1/2"

Born 12-12-11

Chance, the proud big brother!

The Happy Family

We went to the hospital as soon as we could get out of school on Monday, so we could meet him and cuddle! He is another redhead! Chance loved him that night, even giving him some impromptu kisses, but I hear maybe tonight he was saying, "No baby, no baby!!" :) We're thrilled that he is part of our family and everyone is doing well.

Little Girl Sewing!

2011-12-10T23:40:00.001-06:00

I've been playing around in my craft room off and on, well, whenever I need a break from what I HAVE to do!

First I started with this little skirt I made out of a pair of jeans Tasha wanted patched for Clara.

I guess she might not be so quick to leave things like that with me again!

Next I gathered some materials.

And I ended up with this:

And finally, I took a pair of women's knee high socks.

Cut them up.

Put a hem and some elastic in the top and got.........leggings!

Put them all together and I got this outfit.

Now I just need a little girl to wear it! Hopefully Clara stops over soon to model it and take it home!

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Relaxin'

2011-12-04T21:20:00.001-06:00

After a busy weekend there's nothing like sitting by the fire with the Christmas lights on!

I love Christmas decorations!

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Sewing With a Grandson

2011-12-01T22:54:00.001-06:00

Several weeks ago I spent the day sewing with my oldest grandson, Payton, who is 11. Payton is crazy for anything International Harvester or Case IH--I think its interchangeable.

Several years ago I made him a quilt for his bed.

The next year I made him a lap robe to snuggle up with while he watches TV.

Now they have a new house and he wants curtains for his bedroom. He is in 4-H, so I volunteered to teach him to make some out of IH fabric of course!

First he had to cut a straight line.

I had him use my trusty old Kenmore. He wanted to use my Baby Lock or my serger, but I told him that would have to wait until he was more experienced!LOL

Sewing straight seams can be challenging!

He learned the value of pressing.

We had to quit before they were finished, but they will soon be hanging in his room and will make it to the county fair next summer.

He enjoyed sewing with me, and I'm sure we will have many other projects together!

Christmas Decorating in Progress

2011-11-28T22:07:00.001-06:00

We're working on our Christmas decorations. How about you?

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Shopping/Thanksgiving/ Birthdays

2011-11-22T22:27:00.000-06:00

We started the weekend by shopping at Tanger. Truth be told I only went so that I could have pizza with everyone! Tasha, Trina, and Trilby along with Clara went early in the day, and then Trilby, Kerry, and I went that evening while Bud, Travis, and Chance went to Scheel's. I did get a good buy on body lotion at a store I like.

That means I was there a year ago! I don't like to shop, so I try to stock up or have my personal shopper(Trilby) buy it for me!

Saturday Trilby, Trina, Tasha, and I went on our traditional shopping trip to Des Moines. We go every year when the big craft show is at the fairgrounds. I forgot my camera, so no photos. I admit we had the waiter take one at Cheesecake Factory but it wasn't very flattering of either Trilby or me! We had a great time and returned home tired and shopped out!
Sunday we celebrated Payton's birthday which was Nov. 12th, and Bud's birthday which was Nov. 22nd along with celebrating Thanksgiving. We began doing this several years ago to make it easier for everyone to celebrate with both sides of the family. Travis, Kerry, and Chance couldn't be with us because Travis had to work. :(

Trina spent the night because it was so late when we got home. Payton spent the night since he and Bud had been at Travis' hunting. This is how they helped get ready for dinner!

Grayson picked up the slack for his mother!

Clara and Grayson spent time learning to play together. They have each been known to have some bully tendencies!!LOL

And then we ate dinner together. Ham, smoked pork loin, California blend vegetable casserole, green bean casserole, broccoli/cauliflower salad, party potatoes & gravy, sweet potato casserole, cinnamon bread, buns, cherry pie, and pumpkin dessert was all on the menu. I get full just thinking about all of that food!

Clara enjoyed her cinnamon bread!

The three oldest grandsons played and watched tv in the basement, so we didn't see much of them all afternoon! The biggest boys were glued to the NASCAR race, while the females visited and discussed Black Friday ads.

Grayson chilled with the ipad, blankie, and roo!

It's always nice to be together, and it doesn't happen nearly enough!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Texas Motor Speedway

2011-11-14T21:21:00.001-06:00

WARNING: LONG POST-LOTS OF PHOTOS!

Several weeks ago we had a mini vacation. On Thursday afternoon we flew to Dallas, TX. My cousin, Mark, and his wife, Lori picked us up at the airport. After a nice supper we spent the night at their house. Friday morning my brother, Dean, and sister-in-law, Gay picked us up. We did a couple of touristy things that I had insisted on. Our first stop was Southfork.

What is Southfork, you ask? Well, at least several of my kids asked! Southfork is the home of JR and Sue Ellen Ewing among other fictional characters on my favorite tv show---Dallas! I have to say it was disappointing. The home wasn't all that grand, and come to find out none of the show was filmed inside!

A new series is being filmed, and I WILL be watching!

From there we went to the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. This is formerly known as the Dallas Book Depository. The museum chronicles the assassination and legacy of President John F. Kennedy.

In this photo you can see the window on the right that is always left open halfway--just as it was the day of the shooting. It was very interesting.

Next off was a great meal at Pappadeaux's Seafood Kitchen. We started with some appetizers--

Alligator on the left, and frog legs on the right. I have to say I preferred the alligator, and the frog legs did NOT taste like chicken to me! The rest of my meal was FANTASTIC--right down to the cheesecake for dessert!

Then we were off to the real reason we were in Dallas--The Texas Motor Speedway! We camped in the infield in my brother's camper. There were four campers in our group.

This shows part of my brother's fifth wheel where we stayed, my cousin's RV, a friend's RV, and there was another Rv on the other side of us. There were about 100 acres of campers. (I didn't come up with this number, but it may be wrong..just sayin.)

My cousin has this fancy "thing" (not sure what to call it!) that he built that they watch the races from.

Yup, that there's Bud up there watching the race on Saturday. They have seats and a TV up there too. You will notice headphones on them as they watch the race. Well, they can listen in to the drivers' conversations as they race. I can't imagine how boring it would be to watch the race without them!

Underneath is the cooking area complete with a grill, cupboards, and a serving area. Cynthia and Randy made some great food--chicken wings, ribs, tenderloins, fries, etc.

Friday night was the NASCAR Truck Series race, Saturday was the NASCAR Nationwide Race, and Sunday was the big one--the NASCAR Sprint Cup Race.

Sunday Dean, Gay, Bud, and I went to the CAT tent where we had breakfast and lunch and met Jeff Burton.

He had an autograph session, so we got our hats signed. (We were given a hat as we entered the tent.) We were also lucky enough to be chosen to have our photo taken with him. Then we spent some time at the merchandise area. Finally, it was time for the race! Mark and I sat in the stands for about half of the race. This was our view--

Thanks to Dean, Bud, however, was able to be in the pits for the Sprint Cup Race. He was in HEAVEN!!

He was this close to the drivers, their crew, their cars, and the track:

Even with that, the best way to watch a race may be this:

At the race track, headphones on, watching the TV on the side of the RV!!

Bud really just sat there for a short time when he came up for food. He finished the race in the pits, then proceeded to the garage.

As you can imagine there was some socializing at the campground! Kevin Black, brother of Clint Black, performed just around the corner from us. Bud and I listened to him for a while Saturday night. He was very good! Trace Adkins had a concert before the race, and then he sang the National Anthem. There were many campsites with very elaborate grills, big TVs, and stripper poles! Our last night there we had a good time reliving old memories. I guess we do that more when we get older!

Mark, Randy, Bud, Dean--Randy and Mark are my cousins that are the same age. Bud, Mark, and I were in the same class for about 5 years. Dean is my younger brother. We all grew up in NW Iowa, but now Dean and Randy are in Dalhart, TX, Mark is in The Colony, TX, and we are in SE Iowa.

We spent the last night back at Mark and Lori's. After lunch on Monday we flew home. I have MANY more pictures of cars, drivers, the garage, and the track! I had a good time seeing relatives, and it was an experience. Bud can now check it off his bucket list!

Thanks Dean & Gay, Mark & Lori, and Randy & Cynthia for a great weekend!

Happy Birthday, Payton!!

2011-11-12T07:22:00.001-06:00

Our very first grandson, Payton, turns 11 today. It's hard to believe he is that old already!

Payton is a Case IH lover. His whole room is decorated in IH stuff, including a pair of curtains he and I are working on. He is a farmboy through and through. Spending time with his animals and being outdoors are his favorite things to do. He loves to go hunting, fishing, and camping with Grandpa. Payton is a big softie and a wonderful big brother too.

Happy Birthday, Payton! We love you!

A Hawkeye Tutu

2011-11-09T21:49:00.001-06:00

I had an order for a black and gold tutu for a newborn. This is what I ended up with:

I'm sure it will be much cuter on the baby, but there was no newborn baby in sight!!

The yellow tulle is sparkly, so I have sparkles EVERYWHERE in my sewing room! You can see it better in this picture.

When I make things for people I often fell guilty about the price I have to charge, but if I don't then I'm basically doing it for free. As it is I probably only made $8 for my time. If anyone has any suggestions for me regarding this problem, I'd love to hear them.

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A Huge Change!

2011-11-02T07:00:00.001-05:00

Once upon a time we lived in a big farm house that we had rented for 18 years. We loved that house...well, most of it. Bud and Travis probably loved the outbuildings and pasture more than the house. I loved the HUGE country kitchen. We had many parties, holidays, and celebrations in that house. Don't get me wrong, it had it's issues. I hated the heat bills in the winter most of all.

One day after the land changed hands ( and several of us felt cheated out of the opportunity to purchase, but that's another story), Bud QUICKLY decided we were moving. When I say quickly, I mean he decided on Thursday that we would be out by Monday!! Trilby was already married, Travis and Tasha were in college, and Trina was just a few short weeks away from graduating from high school. Technically that Monday we became homeless! We packed up with LOTS of help from family, moved Trina to Kalona to her adopted grandparents' home, and Bud and I moved in with Trilby, Mike, and Payton. We then began to look at acreages to buy. We had looked at a house about a month before, but we decided it was just too small. Then it sold. I always liked the little Cape Cod style home, but it was just too small. After six weeks, and the first sale falling through we were the proud owners of the little Cape Cod style house.

It had a lot of appeal--hardwood floors throughout, (after we tore up all of the shag carpet!), it was on pavement, room for the cattle, etc.! It was three bedrooms, one bath, dining room, living room, small kitchen, with a basement. All of the rooms were SMALL!! The first thing we did was to add a 1/2 bath upstairs in what was, well, we're not sure what it was. It is about the size of a large closet, but the former owners used it as a small office. The downstairs bathroom was remodeled...I just couldn't live with the pink plastic tile! We moved cupboards around in the kitchen and tiled the floor too. There is always a project.

After eight years of cramped holidays, and an ever growing family we decided to add on. Well, actually the plan was in my head since the day we bought it! But, the only way we could afford everything we wanted was to do most of the work ourselves. And we were raised to do things ourselves if we could. So, we set out to adding on. A friend drew up what I had in my head, and we went from there. We did everything except pouring the basement, setting the rafters, shingling the roof, and mudding & taping the walls downstairs. It was a LOT of work, ~~A LOT~~
several arguments, and MANY late nights (often in the cold!). Thank goodness for our relatives who helped. Our house now looks like this:

The two dormers on the left are the original ones. The door is approximately where the north window once was. We still have three bedrooms, but ours more than doubled in size with a huge closet added. The dining room is now the foyer, the living room is now the dining room, and we have a large family room. The kitchen was remodeled, but the old cupboards remain, and it is still the same small size(another project for another year). We have a sunroom and huge wrap around porch that we love.

Then we started finishing the basement about a year ago, but that's another story for another day because it still isn't completely finished!

We come home tired and lazy now and can't imagine how we did all of that work while still working full time. But it was well worth it!

What things have you done for yourself instead of hiring someone else to do it?

Grandchild #9 is on the Way!!

2011-10-30T22:50:00.000-05:00

Yes, Clara is going to be a big sister in May!! That will make nine grandchildren. Tasha is feeling good, but tired.

So, that means we have three grandchildren currently on the way! One in December and two in May. I've added the baby tickers to the sidebar.

We've known for several weeks, but Tasha didn't want us to tell until last Friday. We learned about both girls several weeks ago. We were camping and they came out with their families. Most of us were inside because it was cold. Bud, Trina, and Tanner came inside and told me Bud had gotten a parking ticket. I was a little POed because the campground was fairly empty, so it seemed pretty picky to give him a ticket and not just talk to him. Anyway, Trina handed me this in an orange envelope.

It certainly looked official to me! Until I got to the bottom part, I was fuming that we were going to have to pay that ticket!! This was on the back:

After I read it I asked which one was pregnant, assuming it was Trina. They responded in unison, "Both". I really thought they were toying with me. But they convinced me that they were both pregnant. We couldn't be happier! Who doesn't love more grandchildren??!!!!

I did tell them that 10 was a nice round number, so only time will tell if we are done at 9, or if we make it to 10!

I've got to get some quilts made!!!

Some Sewing!

2011-10-29T08:56:00.002-05:00

I have been sewing, but some of it is TOP SECRET (Christmas is coming, ya know!), and much of it is small. My friend just became a grandma for the first time, so I made her a taggie blanket.

I hope Aspen drools all over the blanket!!!
And I've made a few more iPad cases.

I have two more ordered that I have to make, then I hope I'm done. I don't mind making them, but I'm ready to work on something else. Or, maybe I should say, I'm ready to finish something else since I have other stuff started and not finished! I hate unfinished projects!!

I'm off to sew today!

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A Little Halloween Sewing

2011-10-23T19:41:00.000-05:00

I've been doing a little Halloween sewing lately. I started with this sweatshirt for Clara;

And here she is all smiles as she wears it.

If you noticed the difference in the neckline it's because her chubby little head wouldn't go through with the fru-fru around the neckline. I had to put rick rack on and movie it lower.

I couldn't leave out the two little boys.

And I put a pumpkin on the back of theirs.

And here is Grayson wearing his.

It's not a great photo, but his daddy used his phone to send me the pic when they got it.

I love a quick creative challenge and finish!

News!

2011-10-20T22:34:00.002-05:00

I am happy to announce that we are expecting our eighth grandchild in May!! Grayson is going to be a big brother! We are soooo excited. Travis and Kerry's little one, due in December,
will have a playmate.

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Fall is Here to Stay!

2011-10-17T17:00:00.000-05:00

Since we are forecast for some quite chilly weather this week, I thought I would share what's in my yard before it's gone.

The scarecrow stands guard over the mums on my porch.

The Knock Out roses are still going strong even though I quite deadheading them.

I read that I shouldn't deadhead after the end of August.

I love, love, love mums in the fall! And I've even managed to grow some.

The burning bush is a brilliant shade of red.

The fall clematis is just done blooming.

The echinacea have deep brown heads. These will look great against the white snow.

And the sedum has gorgeous wine colored blooms.

Some impatiens are still looking good too.

Even the plants are hanging in there.

And a wreath of fall colors greets you at the door.

A Beautiful Day for Hawkeye Football

2011-10-16T21:41:00.000-05:00

The Hawks played Northwestern on Saturday. It was black and gold day, so even sections wore gold and odd sections wore black. We're odd, so we wore black.(Yes, I know that opens up a whole can of worms...just don't go there!) Anyway, it looked great with the black and gold stripes around the stadium. We did the same thing once last year.

The neatest thing was the card trick during the National Anthem and just after it. During the National Anthem we held up cards which then made designs of red, white, and blue stars and stripes. It was very cool!

Just after that we flipped the cards to honor America's Farmers. I was very disappointed in the Northwestern marching band because they refused to hold up their cards for the ANF support. It doesn't matter if you are from Iowa or Illinois, we all depend on farmers.

The video shows how it looked, but seeing this does not show how cool it really was to be there and see it!

We are very proud to say #5 Tanner Miller is a former MP student! He had an excellent game!

And the best part of all----Iowa 41 Northwestern 31

Birds

2011-10-11T21:40:00.001-05:00

I came across this photo and it made me chuckle. Not because the poor girl is obviously scared to death, but because of the memory it jogs.

When we were young Mom used to belong to a card club. That meant Dad had to "baby-sit" with us. Being the softy that he was, we could usually talk him into letting us stay up late and/or watch something we shouldn't. (My favorite was watching Hazel while the other two had to go to bed!). Anyway, one night we convinced him to let us watch this VERY scary movie.

My sister, Kathy, and I were perched on the edge of the couch which was folded out into a bed. It was similar to this:

Anyway, we were scared to death, perched on the edge of the couch, covering our heads with our arms(so the birds wouldn't get us), and the couch flipped up and spilled us both onto the floor. OMG we
thought we were goners! I know Dad certainly got a laugh out of it!

I know the older I get the more things bring up memories or make me think of people.

What kind of things jog your memory?
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A Fall Weekend

2011-10-09T21:14:00.001-05:00

What a beautiful fall weekend! The weather could not have been more perfect. We camped on the Mississippi with my sister.

Friday night we went in to Muscatine and ate at the Button Factory.

We had excellent food! It is a great historical building.

Saturday we headed out for Le Claire for the Apple Festival Days. We enjoyed going through the shops where we only made a couple of small purchases--some fabric, a quilt pattern, and popcorn. After that we ate lunch at The Filling Station in Davenport while we watched the Hawks lose to Penn State.

The colors were spectacular although it is hard to tell from my poor pictures!

It was a great relaxing weekend, and as usual the time to go home always comes too soon.

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Auto Correct

2011-10-06T16:49:00.001-05:00

While I like the auto correct feature on my iPad and my phone, I do get irritated with it! My personal email begins with our last name all in lower
case letters, but auto correct feels I should capitalize it EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. It could at least learn that! I really have to be a careful proofreader before I send things off.

How do you feel about auto correct?

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A Taggie Blanket

2011-10-05T22:07:00.001-05:00

I whipped up a cute little taggie blanket tonight.

The first time I saw one of this I thought it was just dumb! Although they vary in size, this one is about 20" x 20". The ribbons sticking out the sides are of varying lengths and textures.

Every grandchild that has had one has loved it! I hope the little girl this is going to enjoys it too.
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Thinkin' Pink (and Brown)

2011-10-01T20:46:00.001-05:00

I'm loving this pink and brown quilt that I made for our nephew's baby due in November.

I really had it done in time for the shower, but at the last minute I remembered I hadn't put a label on it.

And I have vowed to label all of my quilts.

I backed it with more pink and brown polka dots.

I straight line quilted the middle, fancy stitched the inside border, and meandered the outside borders.

Now it's washed and crinkly and ready to be sent.

I loved making this pattern, and working with some pink!

iPad Cases

2011-09-25T21:34:00.000-05:00

Earlier this year I made myself an iPad case.

You can read about it here.

Anyway, this summer when we went to Chicago, my SIL, Gay, admired the case, so I gave it to her. That has left me without one since then. I've been playing around with different fabrics and patterns trying to decide what I want.

This is what I have so far.

This one, made with Hawkeye fabric has a button tab closure and a pocket in front. It fits the iPad rather snuggly.

I just love the Dick and Jane fabric this one is made out of !

It also has a front pocket, but it has a tab closure. It is a little larger and would fit an iPad that is already in a case that many people have.
I have some other fabric and another pattern to try before I decide which one I am keeping for myself.

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2011-09-23T22:30:00.001-05:00

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Mennonite Cheese Sandwiches

2011-09-20T16:45:00.001-05:00

The area of Iowa that we live in has the largest Amish settlement west of the Mississippi. We also have a large Mennonite community. We are not Amish (obviously), nor are we Mennonite, but one of the first foods we were introduced to was the Mennonite Cheese Sandwiches--or at least that is what we call them!

They were served with chili at the soup supper at t he elementary school t hat my kids attended. I still make them from time to time.

Ok - here is a version of the sandwiches (1/8 recipe - so should serve 22)
(from Jill)

1.75 lbs American cheddar (or use the bag of pre-shredded)
Scant 1/2 pickle relish
Scant 1/8 cup of sugar
Scant 1/4 cup pimento
4 hard boiled eggs
2 1/2 c salad dressing (miracle whip or mayo - depending on if you like it
sweeter)

Some recipes call for a little less
dressing or more eggs - just depends on
how you like it.

A dish of chili and a Mennonite Cheese Sandwich just might need to be on the menu this week! YUM!

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A Quilty Finish

2011-09-14T22:34:00.001-05:00

I completed my 1600 Jelly Roll quilt that I first shared here in June. I've actually had it done for a while, but hadn't washed and dried it until tonight.

I used a jelly roll of Strawberry Lemonade by Me and My Sister by Moda.
It measures 48" x 63".

I quilted it with a crosshatch design.
I love the way it looks after it's washed and dried.

I originally thought I would put it in the camper since it is so summery. But someone mentioned it looked kind of girly, so I might keep it as a gift for a little girl someday.

What would you do?
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Weekend Fun!

2011-09-12T21:59:00.001-05:00

What a beautiful weekend we had camping at the Res. The weather was perfect!

Usually the water coming through the gates and down the river looks like this:

But this week they have dammed it up so they could fix the bottom.

They expected to haul 15,000 carp out east where people like to eat them, but estimated that they only took 1500 carp. Other good fish were thrown back in.

It was interesting to see the bottom. It has been about 30 years since they had worked on this area.

Bud smoked a pork loin stuffed with kielbasa.

Yummmmm!

Add an ear of corn and some grilled potatoes and I didn't even need the salad!

Clara, unlike her mother, LOVED the sweetcorn!

How did we ever raise a child who doesn't like sweet corn????? At Clara's age Tasha would just throw it on the floor, and she's never liked it.

Grayson was busy practicing his putting with the best "golf" ball he could find.

We enjoyed s'mores around the campfire before everyone left.

Sunday was back to reality!

George!

2011-09-10T13:55:00.001-05:00

Our newest grandchild expected in December is a boy! Seems very clear on this ultrasound!

Grandpa Bud taught Chance to say "George", so now he's on a campaign to name the baby George. After all, Chance can already say it! Travis and Kerry aren't buying it. Maybe one George Juilfs in the family was enough!

I'm getting very anxious for December...hoping for another redhead! That will make--6 grandsons and 1 granddaughter.

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Whine/Wine

2011-09-09T07:25:00.002-05:00

Some days are just whiney days. Maybe I should have wine /whine after school instead of coffee with the girls!

(I really think it's the steroids I'm on for poison ivy & cellulitis AGAIN!)

What makes you whine?

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Weekend Cooking

2011-09-05T17:18:00.000-05:00

Fall is in the air!

Chili is in the crockpot.

One pan of enchiladas in the freezer.

One pan--gone!

They were yummy!!

Quilting and Football????

2011-09-03T13:11:00.000-05:00

Putting binding on a quilt while I watch the Iowa Hawkeyes demolish Tennessee Tech! Yup, we sold our tickets for today's opening game, so we have to catch it on TV. I don't usually like to sit in the heat of the opener and Bud felt like he had too much work to do plus it was Tennessee Tech:( It was a good choice as it has rained off and on through the game.

Quilting AND football=Good Saturday fun!!!

Get Out the Glasses!

2011-09-02T18:25:00.001-05:00

Get out the glasses, we're going to make some apple pie!!
Not a slice of pie, but the drink.

Really I don't imbibe in alcohol much, but a friend gave us some apple pie for me to taste, and I really liked it! It's a homemade drink, so I made some of my own. Last year when we went to Texas for a wedding I took some along. Anyway, I left a bottle there and some relatives decided they really liked it(Cynthia). They have requested the recipe so here it is.

1gallon apple cider
1/2 gallon apple juice
5 cups sugar
4 cinnamon sticks
2 whole cloves

Dissolve sugar in boiling liquid. Simmer 30 minutes. Chill overnight and strain. Add 1fifth ever clear(180 proof)

ENJOY!!! But be careful--it sneaks up on you!!!

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2011-09-01T20:15:00.001-05:00

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Happy Birthday, Chance!!

2011-08-29T07:09:00.000-05:00

Two years ago today our grandson, Chance, was born.

Then

Now

We celebrated yesterday with lunch, and of course cake and ice cream.

One gift we gave him was a little tool set which included a little drill.

He was very busy "fixing" everything!

Who would have guessed he would be so full of energy and spunk!

Happy Birthday, Chance!!

4-H Fun!

2011-08-27T06:32:00.000-05:00

For years we had four kids in 4-H!

If you are/have been involved with 4-H you will realize what a job we had in store for us at fair time!!! Of course Bud was always in charge of making sure the kids did what they needed to with the animals--breaking cattle, feeding & watering, grooming, and bathing them. He was also in charge of any woodworking projects. I was in charge of cooking, sewing, personal development, and almost anything that didn't fall under animals or woodworking. It was stressful, but we have good memories.

We feel that our kids benefitted a great deal from 4-H. They learned many domestic skills, but more importantly they learned to be good public speakers, they gained confidence, they learned to take criticism(from the judges), they learned to evaluate something they had done and figure out how to improve it, and they learned that life isn't fair. We are so glad that we encouraged our children to be involved in 4-H and not let them quit when their friends did(in middle school). And really the EASY thing for us as parents would have been to let them quit.

We are lucky enough now that our grandchildren are getting old enough to be involved in 4-H. This was Payton's first year in 4-H. One thing he did was called, "Pride of Iowa". He had to show how t o make something that was made of food grown in Iowa, but he didn't have to talk. He was judged on a variety of things, including the way he presented himself and his food.

He did a great job!
Cael and Payton were in the celebrity cattle show. Cael was partnered with a Iraq War Vet.

They won the show!

Grayson came to watch his cousins show their cattle.

Grandpa is trying to teach him about cattle!

It was Kids Day at the fair, so free activities were provided.

Cael just might be taking up more than his share of the sandbox!

We found a shady place to have our picnic lunch and relax.(It was about 115 heat index!). The boys horses around while we visited.

I love watching the grandchildren interact!

I suspect we will be watching our grandchildren in 4-H for many years to come!

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Food For Thought!

2011-08-24T22:16:00.001-05:00

SO TRUE!!!!!!
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Planning Ahead

2011-08-23T21:03:00.001-05:00

When all four of my kids were still home and everyone was involved in activities I used to plan our menus for a month, and I often cooked ahead for the week. It made mealtime and grocery shopping so much easier. With just the two of us I don't do that anymore.

From time to time I do throw some casseroles in the freezer. We officially go back to school tomorrow, so it's back to a routine again! Typically we are both EXHAUSTED in the evening during the first week of school. That's when we look at each other and decide we will get something from someplace or go somewhere for supper. This year I decided to try to be prepared for that, so today I cooked.

I now have four suppers in the freezer ready for those nights when we're too tired to cook.

Spaghetti is one of Bud's favorites. I can stick this in the oven, or we can just take out as much as we want and nuke it. A slice of garlic bread and we're good to go.

Sheperd's Pie is always tasty. I'll throw a little cheese on top and bake it. Add salad or a fruit. YUM!

Taco soup is always good. We like to garnish it with cheese, sour cream, and Doritoes. I can put this in the crockpot or just heat up what we want.

Tater Tot Casserole is ready to go. I bake mine a bit then add the tater tots at the end. Actually I don't usually put peas and corn in my tater tot casserole, but I mixed up and put the mashed potatoes on the tater Tot mixture, and this is the shepherd's pie mixture! LOL Oh well, it will still be good.

With the occasional grilled chicken breast or hot dog we should be good for supper and lunches for the first week of school.

Planning ahead is good for three things:
1. Saves time
2. Saves money
3. Saves calories

I'd love to hear your ideas for freezer friendly meals.
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Chi Town!

2011-08-22T09:12:00.002-05:00

In July I spent a few days in Chicago with Mom, my sister, my sister-in-law, two aunts, and a cousin.

We were there to celebrate Mom's 70th birthday which was last year, and my aunt's 75th which is coming up.

Mom and Aunt Ruth had already spent some time in Iowa, Aunt Corrine and my SIL, Gay, flew in so we could ride together. Our first stop was IKEA.

Most of us had never been to IKEA. A lot of my co-workers love it, so I thought we should check it out. Who knew they sold fabric???!!!!

I'm thinking these may end up as backing for some kid quilts!

I also bought this toy for our toy box. It reminds me of one my kids used to have, except of course, there are more plastic parts.

Once we got checked into our motel we went down the street to check out the martini bar, Knickerbockers.

My sister and I tried to keep the ladies occupied while we went back to meet up with our cousin, Alyssa, who was flying in from AZ to surprise her mom. Thank goodness for Gay who did a good job herding them after a flurry of texts! Aunt Corrine was very surprised!

Navy Pier was our highlight of the evening. The fireworks were great! The Chicago skyline was beautiful after dark.

We spent the next VERY hot and humid day touring on this:

Its a great way to see a city unless it is your tour guide's second day of work,, he doesn't know much, and he keeps using "frickin"!!!!! ( Right, Gay?)

We toured downtown, China Town....

and Little Italy.

That evening we went to the Cadillac Theatre to see....

The theatre was very ornate and beautiful, and the musical was excellent! I think everyone enjoyed it.

We also had an Architectural tour on the river.

Wouldn't you know it rained from the time we pulled out until we pulled back into the dock!!!!

Some of us were brave enough to step out on the Skydeck at Willis (Sears) Tower, some of us.....not so much!

Of course there was some shopping on the Magnificent Mile!

It was the first time I've stood in line just to get INTO a store. Wouldn't you know it was for food!--

One of Oprah's Favorite Things, 2010!

Of course we had to eat! Gay had a list, so Chicago style deep dish pizza was on it. As were Italian beef sandwiches, and of course Chicago style hot dogs!

We, of course, had all three! Yummmmm.

We dropped Alyssa at the airport and headed back to Iowa for the night. The Texans(Mom, Gay, Aunt Ruth, &Aunt Corrine) left brit and early the next day. I know I had a great time.

Now, off to plan next year's trip!

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Iowa State Fair

2011-08-16T08:06:00.001-05:00

Last week we took a road trip to Des Moines.
First stop--DES Moines Science Center to view the Body Worlds exhibit. I've wanted to see it for a long time, so I was thrilled to be able to go. Body Worlds is a traveling exhibition of preserved human bodies and body parts that are prepared using a technique called plastination to reveal inner anatomical structures. SO COOL! I'd love to show you a picture, but I couldn't get one to copy. Google it for more info and pics.

Next stop--Iowa State Fair. My highlight of the fair is trying a new food. This year it was red velvet funnel cake.

YUM! I'll be having one again next year!

A strawberry smoothies is a must!
And a pork chop on a stick was so delicious I gobbled it down without a picture.

I spent a lot of time looking at the quilts while Bud did his thing.
It's hard to understand why some quilts get the ribbons they are awarded. I'd like to know what the judges were thinking.

These are t-shirt quilts like I've put off making for my kids. I've really got to get those done!

Some quilts were very "artsy". What a lot of work!

Love the candy corn quilt!

To end our day we saw a fantastic concert by The Oak Ridge Boys!

They performed for almost two hours on a free stage. We last saw them in Cedar Rapids at their Christmas Concert, but we used to see them on the grandstand back in the 80s. They were as good as ever!

There's nothing like the Iowa Stat Fair!
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Flowers and Ladybugs

2011-08-09T08:28:00.001-05:00

I made a cute little hat for Clara, but it was too small. :(

It has the cutest little ladybugs and flowers.

And it is reversible.

I'm going to have to find another little girl with a smaller head to wear it!

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S'Mores Bars

2011-08-04T18:29:00.001-05:00

Who doesn't like S'Mores?? These bars are the next best thing!!

S'Mors Bars

11 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 ½ cups flour
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup mini marshmallows
3 regular sized Hershey’s bars, broken into pieces
1-2 packages graham crackers, broken into squares

Directions:
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Line baking pans with parchment paper. I used one 11x17 pan and one 9x13 pan but you can really use any sized pans you want.

Lay out graham crackers side by side on the pans as close as possible (they should be touching). I used 16 graham cracker squares on one pan and 10 squares on another.

You may have to add or remove graham crackers according to how much dough you have. If you want your cookies thicker you will use more dough and less graham crackers.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, sea salt and cinnamon to combine. Set aside.

In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream butter with white and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla and mix until combined.

Add the flour mixture to the butter mixer and combine on low speed.

Fold in the chocolate chips and marshmallows. Chill dough in refrigerator for 1 hour to overnight.

Place tablespoons of dough on graham crackers about 1 – 1 ½ inches apart. Press down slightly with fingertips.

Bake for 5 minutes then remove from oven to press Hershey’s bar pieces on to the top. You can place as many pieces or as little as you want depending how much chocolate flavor you want.

Bake for 5 – 7 more minutes or until dough is beginning to turn golden brown at the edges.

Remove to a wire rack to cool. For clean cutting make sure cookies are completely cool and cut with a sharp knife.

They are very yummy, but next time I'm leaving out the cinnamon.(We don't put cinnamon on our S'Mores!)
I got this recipe here: http://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/2011/06/smores-cookies.html

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Happy Birthday, Tasha!

2011-08-03T07:42:00.001-05:00

Thirty years ago today our little red-headed daughter was born.

Happy Birthday, Tasha!

(only one of my kids is under 30! How did that happen???)
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Rest and Relaxation

2011-08-01T15:17:00.001-05:00

We were able to spend the weekend camping at the reservoir. We had a beautiful view.

Bud did a little fishing.

I did a little reading.

And I did some sewing, but I can't share it yet as it's a gift. The campground was very quiet and it was a nice relaxing weekend.
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Have Purse Will Travel!

2011-07-28T15:27:00.001-05:00

I spent some time in Chicago last week, but, more on that when I get some batteries and can download photos! As the time for the trip was approaching and our temps were in the upper 90s with heat indices of110-115 I knew I'd be HOT in Chicago. Soooo, I made myself a small purse with a side spot for a water bottle.

I made a long strap so it could go across my body for carrying ease. I used fabric I had in my stash--some vintage(the brown with flowers) and some new(the polka dots).

I put three pockets inside--one for my epi-pen, one for my phone, and one for my water bottle. It also had plenty of room for my sightseeing pamphlets and coin purse. I lined the water bottle pocket with insul-brite which helped keep it cool.

Not only did it save me from dying of thirst, it saved me some cash since I just refilled the water bottle along the way, and it saved my back since I wasn't carrying my heavy purse. Now I need to plan another trip so I get my money's worth put of it!!
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What If We Treated Doctors The Way We Treat Teachers?

2011-07-26T21:25:00.001-05:00

I came across this while reading blogs today. I don't remember which one, but thank you for posting this.

Food for thought-----
"What If We Treated Doctors The Way We Treat Teachers? A good friend and colleague who is now in Chicago first gifted me with this parable. It's been in my thoughts lately as my wife pursues her medical degree. In fact, she and I have talked about this at length, and when making comparisons between how physicians and teachers are treated, she is just as astounded. Parallels are occasionally noted between medical training and education, especially the capstone clinical experiences present in both professions. Let us pretend that physicians of all specialties were held to similar measures of accountability and enveloped with the same kinds of discourses that we see in education reform debates. What might that look like, and how would the general public, in addition to doctors, feel about that? It would not take a skilled social scientist to observe that, despite exceptional achievements in treating disease and diagnostic technologies, for example, the medical profession is failing. It has failed in its tasks to disseminate good information about health, quash misconceptions, fight corporations and health lobbies that keep people sick, and prevent high rates of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, particularly in low-income populations. What do we do about this? Well, I have a few proposals listed in no particular order:

a.. We must begin to hold all physicians accountable, regardless of specialization, to certain quantifiable measures of health, namely cholesterol levels, blood pressure, weight, and BMI. All patients assigned to a physician must meet specific annual minimum standards of health. Bad doctors will be those who do not meet their patients' annual minimums, and they may be subject to certain penalties if the health scores of their patients do not improve in a reasonable amount of time.

a.. It will be mandatory for the Department of Health and Human Services, as well as all of the major governing bodies in medicine, to set a goal for reaching universal health and well-being in the United States. That is, a target year will be identified in which every person will achieve the ideal values in cholesterol, blood pressure, and BMI. Future targets may include assessments of mental health. A specific interval of time will also be determined to assess all patients for these values. Although pharmaceuticals may be used to stabilize or improve health outcomes, the patient must not be on any medications at the time of assessment unless approved by an official of the administrative body of the national health assessments.

a.. Quantifiable variables will be utilized to evaluate all practices and hospitals. All of this information will be made public. Additionally, medical schools will be evaluated based on the quantifiable health of patients in the care of their graduates. Medical schools will subsequently be ranked based on the health outcomes of their graduates' patients regardless of specialty. Given more advanced statistical models, these numbers could ultimately be used to assess the impact of pre-medical programs at the undergraduate level.

a.. In certain high needs areas, such as family practice, emergency medicine, or in practices in low income areas, alternative routes to being licensed will be provided. Moreover, data will determine what skills are necessary to impart in the curriculum of such programs. For instance, if a certain community prevails in specific medical conditions over others, then time will not be wasted covering rare conditions so that alternative programs can operate expeditiously.

a.. Barriers to participation will be lowered in certain instances, in the form of direct subsidies or significant tax exemptions, for the opening of small hospitals or short-term care centers by private organizations or motivated members of the community.

a.. Any hospital or practice is subject to a turnaround plan if minimum health requirements are not met. Should the facility not meet those requirements of minimum annual health, the entire staff will be terminated and reconstituted with more competent practitioners. Moreover, staff may be required to enroll in continuing medical education in advanced and remedial level re-licensing courses, including basic physics, chemistry, and biology.

a.. In addition to in- or out-of-network information and basic demographics, an online data warehouse will be established that will provide all health data and outcomes for every licensed physician in the United States, regardless of specialty. The individual physician's education, license information, and health outcomes of patients will be listed. Should in-network physicians be deemed unfit for local health care consumers, the Federal government, with matching funds by health providers, will offer subsidies for consumers to see other practitioners.

a.. Finally, a certain percentage of any and all physicians' patients will be assigned to them, care of those who qualify will be fully covered by providers. This will ensure adequate racial, income, and overall demographic diversity of clientele. The annual minimum health outcome data of these patients will also be included in the physician's overall quality.

Did I miss any? What if we indeed held doctors and other professionals to the same bloat and condescension that we currently hold teachers? I can predict some of the responses that physicians might make: "We can't control what our patients do or eat outside of our offices to maintain minimum levels of health. Also, these variables -- BMI, cholesterol, blood pressure -- are limited and don't adequately measure a healthy person. And one other thing, you can't expect us to be evaluated based on all patients equally, regardless of family history, poverty, and other complications."

Hmmmmmmm.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Catch Up Time!

2011-07-17T08:38:00.000-05:00

Time flies when you're having fun.......or when you are busy, busy, busy!! The past couple of weeks we have been working hard in our basement which we have been trying to finish since last October. We are bound and determined to complete it this month so we can move on to something else! I will share photos when we are done. I have to admit that my help is sporadic as I work, rest my feet, work, rest my feet, work....you get the picture! Bud has done the bulk of the work without much help.

I've also spent time going to physical therapy for my foot that I had surgery on, and for the heel of my other foot which has tendonitis from heel spurs. (I'm falling apart, I tell ya!) I've been wearing a boot some on the heel foot now. I'm now told that I won't be 100% healed for a year!!!! I'm still supposed to be on reduced activity. But, the heel is what is really slowing me down because of pain. I go back to the doc Monday so we'll see what he has to say.

Bud and I spent a couple of days in Des Moines. He was at a conference and I visited fabric stores and craft stores. We had a nice supper and saw a movie, so we did have a little relaxing time.

And, my mom and aunt are here from Texas to help paint Trilby's new house. I was lucky enough to spend some time helping with that too. In the heat, no less!!

Mom really did do a little more than sit in the chair in front of the fan with the dogs......she sat in the air conditioned camper with Grayson so Tanner could paint!!! Tough jobs, but someone had to do them. (she really has been a lot of help)

One Saturday while Bud and Travis worked at Trilby''s house, I had lunch with these three and their moms.

It's always nice to spend time with the kids and grandkids!

4th of July Fun!

2011-07-05T07:54:00.000-05:00

We spent the weekend camping with my sister, Kathy, and three of our grandsons. Kathy's two grandchildren visited for the day on Saturday, and Tasha, Kyle, and Clara came out several times.
There was a lot of fishing going on.

Grandpa needed a little help with the boys fishing, so Kathy went to help. He had lost his patience, not to mention, sinkers, hooks, bobbers, string, fish, etc. etc!! He tells me fishing with a 4 year old, 8 year old, and 10 year old kept him quite busy enough that he didn't really have time to fish!

We took the little ones to the playground where they had a great time...

well, the boys did anyway!

Dakota took a little snooze!

There was a little baseball....

Clara enjoyed the outdoors.

Bud smoked some great ribs that were so yummy I didn't even get a picture of them!

Of course the boys wouldn't let us get by without visiting our usual ice cream shop....which I also didn't get pictures of!

We were so busy my sewing stuff never came out of the corner!

I can't resist this last photo, so if a little bare butt bothers you....move on!

With two little country boys who are just potty trained, and the timber so close we saw a lot of this!

The raccoons visited us each night, but only got a treat one night when Bud forgot to put the garbage away! And the deer were close, watching us sit by the campfire another night.

We love this camping spot, but alas, so do others, and we can't get it again until September!!

"The worst day fishing, is better than the best day at work!"

says Bud!!

Happy First Birthday, Clara!

2011-06-28T05:00:00.002-05:00

Clara joined our family one year ago today!

She is such a happy little girl! She always has a smile on her face!

I decided she needed a special outfit to celebrate her birthday. After all, a girl only turns one once!

So, I made her a pretty pink tutu and a onsie to match.

She had a great time at her party. She enjoyed the people, loved her cake, and had a great time opening her presents!

Happy Birthday, Clara!

The tutu will be passed down to the next granddaughter for her first birthday.

Wonder when that will be????

Future Trouble??? Or Not???

2011-06-23T18:00:00.001-05:00

I love watching my grandchildren interact, especially now that there are several the same age. Can you tell how thrilled the oldest were to sit for this picture??

We were recently at Travis and Kerry's and Chance and Grayson had the opportunity to play together. (Clara wasn't able to be there.)

Chance doesn't look too happy with Grayson in this photo!

Now what are they up to???

Whose idea was this????

“It's funny that those things your kids did that got on your nerves seem so cute when your grandchildren do them.”

Ranch Roasted Potatoes

2011-06-22T19:48:00.000-05:00

I'm always on the lookout for new to us recipes and came across a good one this week. We, unlike our children and grandchildren, are not huge ranch dressing lovers, but we did like this recipe. As usual, I changed it up a bit based on what I had. (Kerry, you should try these!)

Ranch Roasted Potatoes

12 oz. red potatoes, washed and quartered ( I didn't use red potatoes)
1 packet Ranch Dressing Dry Mix
non fat, olive oil cooking spray(I used butter flavored)
1 tsp. salt

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. In a large bowl add potatoes and spray lightly with the cooking spray. Then, add in the ranch mix and salt, and toss well to coat each potato piece evenly. Spray a baking sheet with non stick cooking spray and spread out potatoes evenly on sheet. Bake in oven until potatoes are cooked through, and edges start to turn very dark brown, approximately 20-25 minutes. Serve immediately.

Entire recipe makes 4 servings
Serving size is 1/4 of recipe, approx 1/2 cup
Each serving=2 Points +
Per Serving: 78 calories; 1 g fat; 18g carbohydrates; 1.75g protein; 1.5g fiber

I found the recipe HERE.

1600 Jelly Roll Quilt

2011-06-20T18:00:00.001-05:00

For Trina and anyone else who thought I was talking about food in this post---Jelly Rolls are collections of 2.5" x 44" strips of fabric. Jelly Rolls typically include 40 strips of fabric but can vary.

A year ago I purchased a jelly roll of Strawberry Lemonade by Me and My Sisters for Moda. You can read about it here. I loved the cheery fabric, but couldn't really decide what to do with it.

While reading some blogs the other day I happened upon this Jelly Roll 1600 Quilt in someone's post. I knew right away that was what I wanted to do with this jelly roll. It was quick and easy.

I'm home alone with no quilt holder, so I have to show you this quilt top in two photos.

Take a look at the video showing how to make it HERE.

Now, to get it quilted!

A Well Loved Ladybug!

2011-06-19T14:57:00.001-05:00

Two years ago I gave Nate a new quilt for Christmas. He was two at the time and had taken over a quilt of Cael's. He loved the flannel back of that quilt, so I decided to make him a NEW quilt of his own.

Well, Nate LOVES that quilt. He calls it his Ladybug because one
of the fabric looks like little ladybugs. I used all flannels and tied it rather than quilting it. Well, between all the lovin' Nate has given it and all of the washings his babysitter gives it(daily), it had started to come apart.

I've repaired it several times. The first time I carefully hand stitched the few places that had come apart keeping the integrity of the quilt.The last time I used a decorative stitch on my machine and stitched over several seams, and hand stitched a few other places. It still looked pretty good...well worn, but good. This time I decided to forget what it looked like and just make it sturdy so it will last, so I machine stitched over MANY seams and around the binding. It isn't what I would choose for it to look like, but I don't think Nate will have to go through the trauma of spending any more nights without "ladybug" while I fix it.

It is nice to know that it is so well loved!

Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Jelly Roll Fun!

2011-06-16T06:01:00.001-05:00

I'm working on a quilt just for fun using a jelly roll.

I've had the jelly roll for quite a while without knowing what I was going to do with it. The other day while reading some blogs It hit me!

I'm left with a pile of these as I trim for pressing.
Now what to do with those?????

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Happy Belated Birthday, Cael!

2011-06-14T16:32:00.002-05:00

What happened to my post?????

I had a post here wishing our grandson, Cael, a belated Happy Birthday and it disappeared!!!

Cael turned 8 on June 13th. He is quite the techno geek! You will most often find him with his DS or my iPad in his hand. He also loves anything Lego. I was lucky enough to be in the room when Cael was born. I was very excited to be there right from the beginning!!

Cael also loves to talk and is a wonderful reader!

Happy Birthday, Cael!!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Rhubarb Coffee Cake--YUM!!

2011-06-12T14:41:00.002-05:00

We have always had rhubarb around, and even though I didn't think I liked it, it was free food, so I had to find recipes the kids would eat. I don't remember where this coffee cake recipe came from, but it has become one of our favorites. I even make it in the winter using frozen rhubarb.

Rhubarb Coffee Cake
Cream together: 1 1/2 cups sugar & 1/2 cup shortening

Add & beat: 1egg.
Pinch of salt
1 cup sour milk or buttermilk (I use a cup of milk with a
tablespoon of vinegar)
2 cups flour
1 tsp soda
1 tsp vanilla

Fold in two cups rhubarb:

Bake at 350 40-45 minutes in a 9 x 13 pan. After the first 20 min it will look like this:

Sprinkle with cinnamon and brown sugar:

Finish baking for 20-25 minutes more.

Moist. Sweet. Sour. Yum.
If you want other rhubarb recipes see previous post here.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Clara is Outnumbered!

2011-06-09T22:00:00.001-05:00

Poor Clara is outnumbered. Yes, she is the only granddaughter with six boy cousins. Here she is with the two boys closest to her age.

They took her toys from her! See that pink car in Chance's hand? That belongs to Clara.

Doesn't really bother her much though, so maybe she's happy being the only princess.

Read The Shirt!!

2011-06-06T14:22:00.001-05:00

That's right, Chance is going to be a big brother! Travis and Kerry told us a week ago, and told us to keep quit until they could tell the rest of our family at a get together on Saturday. That was HARD!! December 19th is the due date. I'm going to hope for a red-headed granddaughter, but we'll love whatever we get! And that will make seven grandchildren. We are thrilled!

-Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:Nutmeg Ave,Kalona,United States

Sewing Time!!

2011-06-03T11:13:00.000-05:00

I've had the chance to sew the last few days. I managed to figure out how to sit at the machine and cutting table with my foot up! How's that for desperation?! I worked on some blocks for the block of the month club, which I've gotten behind on. I'll show those another day. Then I needed a quick finish so I whipped up a drink cozie.

Then I made a couple of purses.

They are loosely based on this pattern.

One is smaller than the other. It is very similar to the one I made for Tasha. You can see it here.

Always have to have some pockets inside.

The second one is a little bigger and a little more fru-fru.

And of course, pockets on the inside of this one too!

I'm not sure what I'm going to do with them, except that I have had several people that have asked about buying one. I am also thinking about opening an etsy shop, but then I'm afraid I'd sew that stuff rather than just things I want to sew for family and friends. What do you think?

Head, Shoulders, Ankle, Toes, Ankle, Toes!

2011-06-01T21:21:00.002-05:00

(Warning: Possible gross photo!)

We've had quite the interesting past few weeks at our house. It all started on May 19th when I went in for hammer toe surgery. Yes, thanks to my grandfather, mother, and aunt, I inherited hammer toes. Anyway, the best plan was that I would have the surgery on May 12th and be back at school at least half time for the last week and a half of the school year. BUT, my GP wouldn't release me for general anesthesia(even though that isn't what I was having), because she said I had a cold. (It was allergies.). Long story short, there was a LOT of miscommunication between medical professionals, and I was put off a week. I came out of surgery with this:

This is my foot five days after surgery. Yes, that is a pin sticking out of my toe! It will be there for a month! I have two boots to wear--a soft one for bed, and a sturdy one for walking. I'm still having a hard time having my foot down for very long before it starts swelling. I did manage to go to school to spend a few hours yesterday and today. It's going to be a looong summer!

AND on top of it all, our plan was for me to at least have the pin out and be somewhat recuperated before Bud had surgery on his ankle. Welllll, that didn't work out so well either as they moved it from June16th to May 27th to May 25th!!! I was hardly walking yet when I had to take him to the hospital where he unexpectedly spent the night, and then go back to get him the next day! We had sweet rides to the door when we left!!!

I was very embarrassed, and hoped like heck, no one I knew saw us!!! The funny thing was that the college kid who pushed Bud out looked at us both and said, "Now, which one of you is driving?". We're both on the mend, nothing serious is wrong, we're just inconvenienced.

Now that school is over, I'm hoping to be able to spend a little time sewing here and there if I can keep my foot down, then I have science class four days next week, reading class two days the next week, and language camp every morning the last week of June. And there goes June!

Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:H Ave,Kalona,United States

iPad Case

2011-05-24T22:30:00.002-05:00

You know I was thrilled to get this for my birthday, and I've been carrying it in my purse so I always have my calendar with me. Anyway, I noticed that sometimes my cover gets caught on something in my purse, so the iPad turns on. I knew then I needed a case to protect it, so I went first to the computer to search for a pattern, but didn't find one that was quite right. So, with iPad in hand, I headed to the sewing room. This is what I came up with.

I had made one a year ago for a friend, but that pattern didn't have anything for a closure, so I added that.

I used scraps and straight line quilting.

And now my iPad is happy when it's in my purse!

And Happy 36th Anniversary Bud!!

Ice Cream Sandwich Dessert

2011-05-23T15:00:00.001-05:00

Are you looking for an easy peasy, but YUMMY dessert?? Well this is it!

Ingredients:

19 ice cream sandwiches(I use 24-2 boxes)

1 12 ounce carton frozen whipped topping, thawed

1 jar (11 3/4 oz.) hot fudge ice cream topping

1 cup salted peanuts

Place half of ice cream sandwiches in bottom of 13 x 9 inch pan.

Spread with half of the whipped topping. Spoon fudge topping by teaspoonfuls onto whipped topping. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup peanuts. Repeat layers with remaining ice cream sandwhiches, whipped topping, and peanuts(pan will be full).

Cover and freeze for up to 2 months. Remove from the freezer 20 minutes before serving. Cut into squares. Yield: 12-15 servings.

I often don't follow the recipe, so if you think this looks a little different.....it is. First, I used Dream Whip instead of Cool Whip because I didn't plan ahead and thaw the Cool Whip. I also put some carmel ice cream topping on top just to empty the bottle.

YUMMO!

Catch Up Time!

2011-05-22T14:10:00.000-05:00

Wow! Where has the month gone???? I am going to try to post each day this week to kind of "catch up". I actually have a few posts started, but none completed, so I'll work on finishing and posting those.

What have I been doing you ask? Well, yard work has consumed a large amount of my free time in between school, meetings, and working in the basement.

Let's go back to Easter first!

We had dinner here on Easter Sunday, and all of the kids were here. That rarely happens, but it makes me very happy when it does!

Chance got a pinwheel in his basket and is doing his best to make the darn thing work!

Grayson did a great job finding eggs for his basket!

Clara was a cute little flower!

Nate couldn't leave his Momma, as usual.

Payton and Cael had to work for their baskets by completing a scavenger hunt. Here Cael has found his, but it's too high for him. Help was on the way.

Here Payton finds clue #2 on his way to find his basket.

Another great day!

Finally.......Spring!

2011-05-02T16:00:00.002-05:00

Signs of Spring.......

*The temperatures are a tad bit warmer.

* The sun is peeking out now and then.

*I had to refill my bird feeder for the goldfinches.

*The tulips are looking great!

*The hostas are on their way.

*And (my favorite) phlox is looking gorgeous!

*Bud's baby magnolia tree is looking good!

And the last sign of spring around here is that.....

I spent five hours working outside Saturday, mulching, raking,

pulling weeds, etc. My muscles were so sore I could hardly sleep that night!!

Happens every year, so you'd think I'd learn.

I love spring and flowers, but it sure takes a lot of work.

Kalona Quilt Show

2011-05-01T08:00:00.001-05:00

This past weekend was the annual Kalona Quilt Show. I ran down to see the quilts with a friend right after school. Most of the quilts are hanging so we walked through a maze.

Kalona is home to the largest Amish settlement west of the Mississippi. (If you want to know more go here.) The Amish are known for their hand quilting skills, and many of these quilts were made by Amish women. There was not one machine quilted quilt in the place!

There were small quilts such as this one which measures 35" x 35". But each flower, leaf, and heart was handturned!! What a lot of work for such a small quilt, but it is gorgeous!

There were antique quilts such as this one:

An 1850's quilt, all handturned, pieced, and quilted. I can't imagine the hours and hours this quilt took to make! Oh, and the price????

Yes, that would be thirteen THOUSAND, seven hundred fifty dollars!

It was fun to see the quilts and the exquisite hand work that was done.

Counting Down

2011-04-29T19:06:00.000-05:00

22 days to Summer Vacation!

I don't usually count down the days at the end of the year, but this year has been a difficult one, both professionally(challenging class, too many IEP meetings, etc.) and

personally(family illness, jury duty, family deaths)!

I can't wait to see June 2nd. I have a few days of break then it's back to the books as I have science class for a week the second week in June. Two days of a reading conference in June, a week of language camp to help with in June, then two days of class in August. Whew! I'm going to be busy, but a different busy with more free time thrown in.

My motto to finish the year is the following:

I will not yell in class.

I will not throw things.

I will not get mad.

Because I am the teacher, I am the teacher, I am the teacher!

Not Much Sewing Here!

2011-04-21T17:00:00.001-05:00

Life has been so busy lately that I haven't had time to sew at all. My sewing room door has been covered with plastic the past week as the basement walls get finished, so I haven't even been allowed in. And, I've had parent teacher conferences which takes a lot of time. So, I'll leave you with photos of the grandkids who have been around some lately......

Payton, 10

Cael, 7

Nate, 4

Chance, 18 mos.

Grayson, 14 mos.

Clara, 9 1/2 mos.

We just can't get enough of them!

Happy Birthday to Me!

2011-04-19T17:00:00.001-05:00

I celebrated my birthday in February. It was quite uneventful. We did have supper out one night.
But, I got a FANTASTIC birthday present from Bud......

That pretty pink cover is the cover for my new.......

iPad2!! I have wanted an iPad since I first read about them, and Bud listened to me for a year and knew how much I'd love one for my birthday. I haven't had a lot of time to learn all about it, but I'm working on it.

What a great birthday present!

Party Hardy!!

2011-04-17T20:34:00.000-05:00

Saturday evening we celebrated the upcoming marriage of a friend with a bachelorette party. Here is the bride-to-be, Susie.

She had an interesting drink container, but this being a family blog, I can't show it!

We started out with drinks and appetizers.

Then we moved on to dinner at a very nice restaurant.

The food was great, but the company was better!

Now, we're looking forward to the wedding reception!

Weekend Work

2011-04-12T17:00:00.000-05:00

Along with the grandkids, a few adult kids showed up this weekend too. They came to help work on the basement. We have been in the process of finishing the basement since October. It has gone slowly, and Bud is getting REALLY tired of it. I haven't taken many photos along the way, but I'll try to give you an idea what it looks like.

Our house was built in 1947, back when a basement was just a place to store canned goods, junk, and hang out in case of a storm. The floor was perfectly tilted toward the drain, as it should have been. The ceiling are fairly low too. We then put on an addition in 2008/2009. This addition included a room in the basement with taller ceilings made to finish. Along the way heat runs have been put in helter skelter. We moved a few, but couldn't move some. Hence, we are working with low ceilings and sloping floors!

This is part of the new room. The TV will be hung between the two closets. Cael set up shop trying to SELL us sodas from our fridege. (It didn't work.)

This is the same room from the other end. We plan to have the toys and play area at this end along with the treadmill and a table and chairs.

This is the kitchen area just off the new room.

They were busy hanging cabinets today. And there's a sneak peek at the new bathroom/laundry room.

This room which is currently the "catch all" room, will become my sewing room. To the left of this room is my current sewing room which will just be storage when we are done.

The stairs are causing us some serious debate! The basement floor is tiled, and the kitchen floor which the stairs connect to at the top is tiled. So, I'd like to tile them so everything is matchy, matchy. But, Bud feels like the stairs have too much give and the grout would eventually crack. The second choice is to put oak stair treads with tile around the outside and along the top edge. But, Bud thinks the depth of the step will be a little off so he should take them apart and basically rebuild them. The kids think we should put linoleum or laminate flooring. Any suggestions or advice would be greatly appreciated!!

Thanks for the help, Tasha, Kyle, Trina, & Tanner!

A Busy Weekend!

2011-04-10T21:21:00.000-05:00

WARNING: Photo heavy post!

Our weekend started off Friday night by picking up two grandsons. They go to school in a neighboring school district and can ride the bus to Tasha's so Bud picked them up there. Payton had asked to come and spend some time so we asked Cael to come too. Ice cream is always on the menu.

Clara stopped by to have some too!

Grandpa is known for feeding all of the grandkids their first ice cream. They expect it when they come.

Saturday Grayson wanted to stay, so we met them in IC and brought him home with us. It was nice enough to swing on the porch and show us how he can walk now!

And Clara stopped by to play on the porch too.

Spaghetti was on the menu this weekend.

At one point Payton was lose with the camera!

And a good time was had by all!

Some big kids were here too. Find out why soon.

A Wallhanging for the Borrowers

2011-04-06T17:00:00.001-05:00

Are you familiar with the children's chapter book, "The Borrowers? I'll give you a short summary in case you're not. A teeny tiny family lives in the floorboards of a normal family's home. They are very creative about what they use for furniture, etc. For example, a cardboard matchbox is a bed. Anyway, it's a cute little story and many of my fourth graders love it. What does this have to do with anything??? Well, you'll get it in a minute.

I purchased this kit on clearance at the Fons & Porter Quilt Shop when I was there this summer.

I should have looked at the pattern and fabric more closely.

It is VERY small.

The fabric is dated.

It's done.

And that's the best thing I can say about it!

I'm sure it would look nice between the floorboards in the home of the Borrowers!

A Late Birthday Present

2011-04-04T17:00:00.001-05:00

My niece, Brittany, and I share a birthday on February 24th. Since we were both focussing on her Dad, (my brother-in-law) before he passed away, we didn't do our usual birthday dinner out. I also didn't have time to make her a gift. She told me she would like a purse that had room for her Nook, a baby bottle, and a checkbook.

Again, I had a pattern that I hadn't used yet, and it seemed to be the perfect size.

Not only do Brittany and I share a birthday, but we share a favorite color....purple!

I changed the pattern to include the pockets for the Nook, bottle, and checkbook.

I hope she likes the purse!

Happy Belated Birthday, Brittany!

Spring Table Topper

2011-04-03T18:38:00.000-05:00

I've had this pattern since last summer, but it just hasn't been on the list until now.

I wanted a table runner that had Easter/Spring colors in it to replace my blue/white one.

So I made the Scrappy Stars table runner on the right.

I just dug through my fabric and made a truly scrappy table runner.

(Why do I always see mistakes when I look at photos when I thought it looked fine before?)

It looks nice on the table with a dish of Easter Eggs.

I'll count this as finish #5 for my 11 in '11 challenge. You can see my other projects here.

A Few Small Projects

2011-04-02T11:51:00.000-05:00

Last weekend I did have the opportunity to do a little sewing in between working on report cards. (Which I should be doing now!) I went into the sewing room to finish a purse I had started for my niece and to work on catching up on my squares for Piecemakers' Club, but I didn't have everything I needed to finish the purse. So, I got sidetracked digging through the fabric to get rid of some, and I came across two placemats that had raveled along one edge, but still had some good use to it. I ended up making these two pillows.

Then I finished up a cover for a high chair that had been sitting around. It will go into the camper in the hopes that some babies come to visit us while we camp this year! Next, I repaired a vest I had decorated for a friend a few years ago. Some of the letters were coming off. And then I made three taggie blankets for three new babies.

Not sure what a taggie blanket is???? Well, the first time I saw one my daughter had made it, and I thought it looked crazy! But, babies LOVE them! It's just a small blanket with tags sticking out all around. The tags are different lengths and textures. Babies love to chew, suck, and drool over them!

And finally, I made a small wallhanging, but I'm not quite done with it, so no picture yet. I'm going to finish up report cards today and hope to sew this afternoon. But, its a beautiful day out so the yard is beckoning me. What are you up to today?

Winter's Last Hurrah?

2011-03-29T07:38:00.000-05:00

Woke up to this today:

Now let's hope that's the end of it! My crocus are ready to bloom, the tulips are up and the iris are close behind. Good-bye winter!

Saying Goodbye

2011-03-24T21:23:00.000-05:00

After a hard fought battle, my brother-in-law, Dale, is finally at peace. He and my sister were high school sweethearts. He played football with Bud in high school, so we have known and loved Dale for most of our lives. He was the epitome of kindness. Our families enjoyed many good times together, camping, boating, fishing, hunting, celebrating, and working. Our kids grew up together even after both families moved away from our hometown.

We are so grateful that the benefit we held on Feb.19th was so successful. It allowed Kath to stay home and take care of Dale the past six weeks. We are also so very impressed with the care given by Hospice. I hope none of you are ever in the situation to need Hospice, but if you are do not hesitate to use their services. They were fantastic.

Dale put up a good fight against esophageal cancer, having surgery, radiation, chemo and more chemo. He went from a robust 285lbs. to about 150lbs. He never lost his sense of humor even at the end he was teasing Kath. But God had other plans for him. We will miss Dale every day, but we are comforted in knowing that he is no longer suffering.

2011-03-13T22:29:00.002-05:00

A Letter to Cancer
by Linda Ellis, © 2003
(With a few changes made by me)

I have tried to teach my children
not to detest, insult, berate,
but I cannot follow my own advice
when I am so filled with hate.

You are slowly stealing my brother-in-law
and though some say this is God’s will,
those words will never stop me
from despising you, still.

Yes, I hate you, cancer
like I’ve hated nothing before,
I’ve cried so much, my eyes are dry
for tears…there are no more.

If only I could fight you,
my anger alone could win the bout;
I would crush you down to ashes
until “surrender!” you would shout.

And if you were a mighty tree,
I would destroy you limb by limb
until you swore to put an end to
all the pain you’re causing him.

What gives you the right? What gives you the power?
Just who do you think you are?
You have no feelings or compassion
for all the many lives you scar.

If I were a scientist, I’d focus
on finding the key to your demise;
just like those cowards on 9-11,
you attack with heartless surprise.

You personify evil;
you are wicked and cruel.
You thrive on others’ sorrow…
like cars run on fuel.

You are forever my enemy,
my nemeses, my foe,
but before you take my best friend,
there’s something you should know…

He hasn’t relinquished his dignity;
his inner strength shall persevere
and you’ll never have the satisfaction
of realizing his fear.

Because if you had a face,
he would look you straight in the eye
and say to you what he’s said to me…
that he’s not afraid to die.

You may have chosen his last day
and though he may be near it,
your power has its limitations
because you’ll never break his spirit!

Evening of Fun!

2011-03-08T21:16:00.000-06:00

What better way to spend an evening than to see your grandson performing at school? Payton's class had a wax museum featuring famous Americans. Payton was Buffalo Bill. (Well, minus the mustache and goatee I made him which got wet getting a drink of water!)

Lucky for Payton that Grandpa kept that suede fringed jacket!

After the wax museum the fourth graders sang All American songs.

A trip to McDonald's for ice cream was in order after the performance, but the camera batteries had run out by then. And a good time was had by all!

Sunday Clara stopped by to see us. Tasha and Kyle happened to be with her! :)

Grandpa taught her how to eat cheese balls.

Yum! Yum!

A Little Retirement Party

2011-03-05T07:25:00.000-06:00

I got out the drink glasses,

a few bottles of champagne, wine, and apple pie...

invited some good friends and colleagues...

.(sorry, I missed the other side of the room and the men in the sunroom!)

and one retiring friend.....

and you get a little party to celebrate!

Congratulations on your retirement Phyllis......I'm going to miss you. :(

Blues

2011-03-03T21:50:00.000-06:00

No, not "the blues", but Bonnie Blues by Marcus Fabrics, which is what I used for my newest table runner.

I've had a couple of charm packs of this sitting around and when I decided I needed something to go with my snowman decorations last weekend, I pulled them out.

I love all the different shades of blue alongside the white.

I backed it in navy and put white binding on it to pull out the white. Wow! The photo certainly shows my mistakes. Remember that I am just learning to do meandering!

I like the way it looks on the table and it ties in with the snowman theme.

Another finish!

Catch Up!

2011-02-27T08:20:00.001-06:00

We were so busy preparing for my BIL's benefit that I forgot to post birthday wishes for our grandson, Nate!! We had originally planned to celebrate Nate's birthday and my birthday on the 20th, but when the benefit was scheduled that changed things.

We haphazardly celebrated Nate's birthday at Grayson's birthday party. (Sorry Nate!)

Nate turned four on February 17th. He is quite shy and REALLY doesn't cooperate when we get out the camera. But, he loves Cuddles, so he was happy to pose with her!

Another thing he loves is the buns at Texas Roadhouse! We always take the boys to the Sportshow to look at the boats, campers, fishing/hunting gear, see the presentations, and fish in the trout pool.

The boys had a great time, as always!

I just have to post a few photos of Grayson and his birthday cake. He didn't hesitate to dig in!

Since this is turning out to be a grandchildren post I would be remiss in not including the other two!

Two of our redheads together! Chance was "helping" Aunt Tasha prepare for the benefit.

Clara was enjoying herself at Grayson's birthday party.

Until next time.....

Happy Valentine's Day(Yes,over a week late!!)

2011-02-23T21:51:00.000-06:00

Yes, Valentine's Day was over a week ago, I know. BUT, I went to bed feeling a little queasy the night before and got up in the night with the flu. So, I stayed home from school and certainly didn't feel like going out for supper to celebrate. Bud was sweet enough to bring me flowers.

We managed to go out for supper this past Monday night. Better late than never!

I was in a Valentine Swap and I received a beautiful handmade Valentine.

The ribbon flowers are exquisite.

Thanks, Laurie!

I hope your Valentine's Day was everything you wanted it to be!

2011-02-20T20:52:00.003-06:00

For Dale's Benefit

2011-02-16T19:00:00.001-06:00

As some of you know, my brother-in-law found out he had esophageal cancer in December of 2009. He then had radiation and chemotherapy which was followed by an esophajectomy. After surgery more chemo followed. Through it all he continued to hold down his full time job even if that meant coming home each day for a nap and being exhausted at the end of every day. Unfortunately he had to relinquish his job the end of January. So his family, our family, and some of his friends and co-workers have quickly put together a benefit to raise money to help with medical and living expenses now that they are without Dale's income. You can check out the blog I developed for more information. http://daleholtapp.blogspot.com/

This has been a hard year and a half and we have some hard times ahead too. If you are a praying person please keep my sister, brother-in-law, niece, and nephew in your prayers.

“To us, family means putting your arms around each other and being there.” Former First Lady, Barbara Bush