re'New! - To Begin Again

Gettin' there....

2012-02-22T14:18:00.000-06:00

I think I've got the Newcomb about there!

Now I just need to find some time to sit down and thread and sley the thing, so I can get weaving.

I probably won't find the free time (and focus) to do this yet this week. I'm helping with a lunch counter at a bull sale this weekend, so I have set up, grocery shopping, pie baking, and serving and cleanup to do now thru Saturday.

Then Saturday night is a Holiday/Winter supper get together thing for my work. Hope I'll have time for a nap Saturday afternoon :)

Also found out I have an issue with my blood pressure. My body is not liking this night shift business. Squeezing in a visit to the doctor tomorrow. (and probably skipping work)

Contributing to the stress levels is this...

Yup, that's my work area.

Embarrassing, isn't it? It's the 'dumping ground' for my kids stuff they don't have room for in their respective dorm rooms, my non essential kitchen items, decorative items that I'm not unpacking until I get some more remodeling done, and this...

lots and lots and lots of 'rug materials'....

And that's only one of the piles :) sigh...

I have my carpenter on speed dial for the day it gets organized a little. He needs to come and frame in the walls down here.

And then I want to weave. (and ride horse, too) HA HA HA...

When I do weave, it's pretty much procrastination!

At least it's in a positive direction - or that's what I keep telling myself.

Just keepin' it real. JULIE

Can't help laughing

2012-02-11T00:51:00.003-06:00

This picture just cracks me up!!!!

I think I've gone off the deep end :)

Procrastination can be good, right?

2012-02-04T14:31:00.001-06:00

Today I told myself I was going to either do housework, or get busy on the remodel project in the entry.

Instead I find myself procrastinating and doing things like this....

During the night, I attached the handles and sewed up the sides.

Today I spent a crazy amount of time trying to find a toggle button that I KNEW I had around here somewhere.

Never did find it, but did find one I didn't know I had! LOL

I used said toggle button and a hair stretchy to make a closure just inside the top of the bag...

This is the first try for me of sewing the side seams and turning the bag. I didn't bother making gussets on the bottom corners, I don't think it needs it on this bag.

All recycled again. Material from a donated source for the woven body, donated fringy trim from another source, and handles salvaged from a thrift store purse.

Check this out...

2012-02-04T13:08:00.001-06:00

I have never seen this much hoarfrost!

The fog is still with us and there is no wind, so it just keeps building.

Buzz was checking out the tree and got frost dropped all over her head. What a cutie :)

I like how the girls 'stand out' in the pictures, their colors don't blend into the background today!

Hey mom, whatcha doin???? My girls follow me everywhere!

How much more do you think it's gonna grow?

Hoarfrost

2012-02-03T20:41:00.000-06:00

Heavy fog for more than 24 hours and still going strong.
No break at all today.

Just enough snow/moisture and just the right temp and we've got some amazing hoarfrost.

If I wasn't such a lazy pile, I would have put on a coat and shoes and gone and got some pictures of the trees and such.

Instead I stepped out the front door and called it good.

Fridays have come to be my lost day. I wake up noonish or there about. Do nothing. Can't get anything started. Except for a nap around 6 PM.

Hope tomorrow will bring a little more gumption.

Finally a finished project...

2012-01-30T12:07:00.002-06:00

I tied off the fringe on this rug last night. I was going for the random look with the stripes. (I'm too lazy to plan it all out ahead...I think it turned out ok)

I took the pup to the vet today to have a lumpy bump and a scaly scab get looked at. No real diagnosis. Just watch it. Kinda hate when that is what to do. I did ask about his teeth being all full of tarter already. It was suggested I brush his teeth. That should be fun! LOL

I also spent a bit of time on the Newcomb Loom. I'm making progress! I have the harnesses on, kinda. Two of the cords must have been cut at some time and were too short. I tried to find sash cord, but no luck yet. The local hardware store didn't have any. The big stores in big town didn't have it. And when I asked all I got was a blank stare. Most people who work at these places are on the youngish side. Haven't ever seen one of those old windows with the weights inside, I guess. I'll have to take a look online and see if I can find a source. I tied two of the harnesses on with some parachute cord I had around, but I can tell it's gonna stretch.

Next to figure out is treadles and lamms. I've only ever worked on my Union 2 harness before, so this is uncharted territory for me!

Definately have the winter blues going. I give up way to easy and have a hard time starting anything. I've always had a bit of a struggle this time of year, but this night shift thing has really magnified it, I think. We are having beautiful weather this winter. Thank goodness- not sure what would happen if we had a repeat of last year.

Denim rugs are on the docket. I want to use up this warp and denim is always popular.

This is the longest I have ever worked on the same warping. Ever. It has been close to a year since I wound this on. Wow. It used to be I could weave up a beam full of warp in a week!

This thing called work sure does get in the way at times :)

All for now. JULIE

For the pets...

2012-01-18T14:33:00.001-06:00

I'm back! Kinda anyway. I believe I'm experiencing a little bit of winter blues. Actually, worse than normal.

Think that working the night shift is exacerbating the issue. Wow, hows that for a big word? :)

I've been going to work, sleeping, going to work, sleeping... ok you get the picture.

Good news - I think? No more overtime. Until further notice that is.

Maybe now I can find some time and energy to do some fun things?

On my 3 nights a week I'm not at work, but awake, I try to make myself do something instead of going to sleep. (I sleep during the day, too, anyway, so better to stay awake at night and do something productive right?) Otherwise I would sleep all weekend.

Last weekend I got busy and did this.

I sewed together 19 ( at last count) pet beds. Another acquisition of materials from a donation. They were already cut, so all I had to do was sew them together.

The plan is to donate these to the local pet shelter in honor / memory of Aunt Betty/ Uncle John, Cousin Amy and Aunt Nancy, and their pets, past and present. Boots, Dante, Shadow, Monte, etc. Merry Christmas you guys! Little late, but I got it done :)

Speaking of pets...

My daughter posted a photo on facebook of a puppy wearing a knitted hat that had some kind of ears on them. She thought Cooper needed one. Since I don't knit, I did my own version. But I had to 'one up' the ensemble!

Here's my boy in his hood and leg warmers!

I am so weird...

Obviously the leg warmers won't stay put without some sort of garters or something. They were mostly for grins and giggles, anyway! I do believe he'd keep the hood on, tho!

From his outfit, you probably deduced correctly that it is finally winter here. It's cold, snowy and windy. A shock to the system since we had an unseasonably warm December.

Not bad tho, compared to last year. That's what I keep reminding myself!

All for now, must ready myself for work.

Oh yes... Sharon? Do you have a website or source for one of those SADD lights you use?

I think I could use one... This vampire lifestyle is killing me.

Julie

What I'm doing instead of what I should be doing.

2012-01-07T01:01:00.001-06:00

I've recently decided that if I'm spinning my wheels on what I should be getting done, I should just do SOMETHING.

I've got so many big projects that need to be tackled, that I don't know where to start. Overwhelmed, I think.

I'd been starting to basically do nothing from the indecision!

I had all these things I want to try, but said that is something to do after I get this other thing done.

ENOUGH!

So I'm doing some fun little things, hoping it'll get me back into living the creative life :)

Here's the first thing I will show you - NO, this isn't an original idea. Have you discovered Pinterest? Oh Lordy, I have...

Made a little bitty purse out of an old Readers Digest. Kinda cute, in an impractical way! Hint: If you wanna try this, make sure the book you are using isn't old and dried out. Mine cracked down by the spine while I was messing around making the thing. Obviously this type of purse is a conversation starter, not a workhorse bag anyway, but it should be able to hold a package of tissues at least...

I'll have to go back to the Junque Shop called Fritz's and be a little more choosey on books...

Went there last weekend with a couple of friends. Came home with more than I should have. Some of my finds are....

For my daughter~ A Revere Ware large skillet for $4. Needed a bit of a scrub, but hey! Also got her a cute little 6 bottle wine rack. She is graduating college this spring and is thinking domestically. These are the pans she has requested for graduation and she is aware what they cost new. She's fine with used if it's what she wants :) I'll keep looking for more pieces.

This was a "just because" purchase for a dollar. It spoke to me! Remember the old hair dryers that had the cap? That's what was in this cool case. Biggify to see the handle. It's cracked and I am cogitating and digging thru my stash to figure out a replacement for this handle. Maybe it will end up adding a bit of western flair if I find the right thing. When the right thing shows up I'm sure I'll show you.

Also brought home some (lots of, actually) random items that will probably show up at a later date in a project here or there.

And this.

Here's my gamble for the day. This machine came in a very nice cabinet. This is on it's way to my sewing machine guy. He will take a look at it and see if it's in good enough shape to replace the cords. They are a bit, shall we say, iffy? :)

I'm hoping this machine is as nice inside as it is outside. From the surface condition, and the awesome condition of the cabinet it came in, it appears that it was hardly used. Ever. Cross your fingers for me! I got the cabinet and machine for $35. My mother had a machine like this cleaned, conditioned and rewired last year and her cost was $130. If I can get this baby running for that, I will be happy! My old Fleetwood is on it's last legs...

All total, I spent about $85 for the day. Cheaper than a bad habit, and twice as fun to go shopping at Fritz's!

All for now - going to go do SOMETHING!

JULIE

Weaving, gifted

2011-12-27T13:02:00.004-06:00

I just remembered!

I had said I'd put up a picture of the weaving gift I'd done the other night.

Made a simple, plain weave scarf for my sister.

I used some yarn that I picked up at a rummage sale awhile back, so not really recycled, but close!

This yarn was chosen for the color :)

I started it and finished it in one night.

Sigh. Back to work tonite.

Short week due to the holiday so only 4 twelve hour shifts.

I've got to pump myself up a bit. I woke up at 8:30 this morning. It's gonna be a long day ;)

All for now, JULIE

What I Did on Christmas Day

2011-12-26T16:58:00.000-06:00

Since I was alone and a little bit bored, I finally got myself to finish up this coat hanger.
It's from a piece of window trim and some old door knobs. It only took me 1/2 an hour, tops. Why has it taken me a year to get done?

Also made some of these stockings, just because. They still don't have hanging loops~ my sewing machine decided to be difficult, and when she gets like that, it's best to just walk away :)

I'll probably send a set of 5 north to my brother and his family in Canada. My parents tend to drive up on a whim, so it's best to have everything gathered that I want sent up. I don't seem to think far enough in advance to plan for mailing/shipping time to get gifts there before Christmas. Good thing they don't get too hung up on dates, I don't think I'll be able to change that at my age.

It's been good having a break from work, but my sleeping schedule is messed up. If I'm awake before noon, I drag. I take a short nap, and then I'm up till 4 am again. Sigh. It's probably best that the holidays are over and I can get on a regular schedule. Just go to work, sleep, go to work, sleep, etc. Makes for a dull life, but I guess it is what it is at this point. One daughter is heading back to college tomorrow, she's got work hours scheduled. The other daughter is still recovering from wisdom tooth surgery and I'm not sure when she'll head back~ probably before the weekend so she can party on New Years with friends...

The son is putting in hours at work over his break. He also had his wisdom teeth removed, so has had this week off. Pretty sure he'll be around until he can get back into his dorm the second week of January.

Weather is still great here. Warm by South Dakota standards, no snow as the bits we've gotten pretty much melted. It's a bit windy here, but that's ok as long as there isn't snow!

All for now~ JULIE

Busted!

2011-12-23T15:10:00.000-06:00

Somebody was on the table last night...

Darn kitty!

Guess that is why I covered the cookies before I went to bed at 3 AM!

And, no, I'm not going overboard and burning the midnight oil to get ready for Christmas.

I've apparently adjusted to the night shift work schedule.

It's hard to be productive in the dark,

but I make myself do something since I'm awake while the rest of the world is asleep!

Can't believe it's December 23. Where did fall go? I'm not feeling like it's Christmas at all.

Also last night I decided to decorate a tree.

Thought it might help me get in the mood.

I used to do ALOT of baking, decorating, gift making, etc...

I'm going "easy" in my old age.

I decorated my 'barn' or 'stable' tree.
Just lights, some rope with bandana bows and stuffed barnyard animals.
Also goose eggs from my days at the goose farm.
Someday I'll find the perfect star to put on top.

Still need to go find a creche to put under the tree and that's about it for decorating.

I've got a pic of some weaving I did last weekend in the wee hours of the morning, but it's a gift...
Better not put it here until it's been gifted!

A late dinner here tomorrow ( aka noon meal - that's what we call it here, evening meal is supper! )
open the few gifts that are being exchanged and probably candlelight services in the evening.

Other than that?

Rest.
I don't go back to work til Tuesday afternoon :)

Resting includes doing things around the house, my choice, my pace.
That's 'rest' to me :)

2011-12-07T12:07:00.001-06:00

This is where I went on vacation...

National anthem by Trace Adkins....

National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas!

The trip was WAY too short, but I had a good time.

Now it's back to the old grind.

Back to South Dakota weather, which I have to admit is pretty darn good for December, but much colder than Vegas!

If you ever have thought about going to see this rodeo, do.

Awesome show!

...

2011-11-29T13:30:00.001-06:00

Great sunset pic by my daughter, Leah!

Take this as a hint what my trip will include :)

Kinda.

Excited!

2011-11-28T09:09:00.001-06:00

Waited 25 years for an automatic water.

Buckets and hoses, winter and summer.

After much procrastination and trying to figure it all out, we've got it done!

Today the girls are figuring it out. From Flutter's stance, you can tell she's a little apprehensive, but she knows where the water is!

All set in regards for the girls and my vacation. Hay and water are all taken care of. :0)

Update on my weird life

2011-11-26T17:43:00.001-06:00

So, yes, I said I'd hope to be more regular with my posts. Still working on that!

Since I last posted, I have become a night shift worker. Not liking that. Not a night person. Can't seem to sleep during the day. Most definately a morning person!

My work schedule is thus... I punch in at 3:15 PM and work until 4 AM the next morning. That's Monday thru Thursday, folks. Then I go on Friday and work "only" until 2 AM. That is, at least, until the mandatory overtime is repealed. It's looking like it could be soon. I've come to find most night shift employees aren't interested in overtime work. They don't tend to "bust a**" either like the day shift. Or that's what they tell me LOL.

It's a bit frustrating.

Of course timing is always not good. I had scheduled a craft fair that fell on my first weekend after the change. It was our local that I help organize, so no getting out of it~

Here's a picture of my booth.

Nothing much fancy. Mostly I just went and found all my "stuff" that I don't take to most of my shows. I'm a little short on rug inventory~ no denim! Weird tho, what do you think I sold????

I sold dog sweaters. Makes me chuckle. Throw away sweaters that I hacked the arms off of. Some of them I didn't even have trimmed to shape or with leg holes yet. I sold them as "green" and "adjustable" and cut them to shape while the customer waited.

You never can tell what is gonna sell on any given day!

This past week I had a short work week. Only 2 shifts. I'm enjoying the break! I'm trying to do "get ready for winter" stuff. An auto waterer is going in. Hope to have that done this weekend if the electrician can make it tomorrow! Yard pickup of all the tools and odd bits and pieces that are strewn about.

Put a bale of hay out for the girls~ we got a bit of snow today and it's blustery and cold. Made arrangements for Cooper to stay at the vet's dogtel this coming weekend...

I'm going on vacation!

I must get my preparations complete by Monday 3 PM. After that I won't have time to pack or otherwise. Unfortunately I will be working til 4 AM on Thursday morning and have to drive to the airport 4 hours away. My flight is at 1:30ish. So no sleep for me til I get on the plane. That's the only thing I'm not looking forward to!

If I don't manage to get another post in before then, I will be back on the flip side. Hope I get some good pics!

Tired always,
JULIE

Kinda Embarrassing....

2011-10-30T17:46:00.001-05:00

You know how it feels when you haven't been to church for awhile? It's hard to darken the door. You are kinda embarrassed, kinda ashamed, kinda, I don't know. You feel a little guilty you haven't taken the time to do something you really should be doing.

Not that that is the only reason to go, because I should, but because of this guilt thing built into me by my upbringing I feel like "less than" when I'm not "perfect".

What's that got to do with this post?

That's kinda the feeling I'm having right now.

It's been forever since I took the time to sit down and put my thoughts out there. Not that I haven't wanted to, or thought about doing it, or even longed to craft a post.

It's the breaking the ice of my absence here that is hard :)

What is it that has kept me away? Hard to say~

I am working that mandatory overtime thing yet. Fifty eight hours a week.

I've been tying up loose ends in regards to my "full time" employment. Physical, background check, proof I'm an American citizen and can legally work. Can you believe the company that did the verification actually called me regarding my 'self employment'? They wanted the name and number of my accountant or bookkeeper so they could verify I was self employed. Ummmm... self employed in my world means I do everything! Whatever!

I've managed to get pretty darn close to finishing THE FENCE.

I've got ends yet to do. I'll have to cut some cross rails to size and slip them in an end post. That will take some thought and precision. Kinda scared to do it since I'm so tired all the time. Think I'll make a mistake and waste the darn things!

Another view in the other direction. That's DeeDee in exhile in the background. She is still in drylot. I have been moving the fence panels a bit each day so she gets to graze a little bit in addition to her ration of hay. She is cleaning up some rough spots~ two birds with one stone, ya know... It's frozen a couple times here, but I think the grass is still not cured enough for her to be on full time, so it's twice daily feeding for me. 4:30 am feedings stink. You see the light pole, but no light on it yet. It's a little bit dark so I shine my car headlights that direction and take her her hay as I leave for work.

Today has been very unproductive. I MUST pay bills yet today, I attended a fall dinner at my church, and I've done chores. Not enough when I do nothing the rest of the week. I did do my laundry yesterday afternoon. Even folded it. LOL

I'm missing the creative activities. I just pulled this out of the bag from when I went to the Fiber Fair.

I got myself a super simple drop spindle. I'm not thinking I'm going to be doing bunches of spinning or anything. It's interesting, but I don't have the burning desire to do it, so I'll leave well enough alone. Enough to do already! What I got it for was to be able to ply some of the scavenged yarns that I've gotten from old sweaters. Some of the nicer yarns are pretty dang fine, and being as I'm more of a "rustic" type of girl I wanted to make them bulkier. I'm doing some very fine light green yarn with some angora white. The resulting yarn is much stronger and I really like the color. Eventually I'll make this into a scarf.

This is a slow process at this point. I'm all thumbs yet!

So the bill paying process is calling me. All for now and hope to be present here again sooner than later!

Ta! JULIE

Baby's got new shoes...

2011-10-03T18:10:00.000-05:00

Isn't it interesting how a person (me) has no problem whatsoever paying for specialty shoes for DeeDee, but balks at buying myself a new pair of work shoes?

Last week I found a very sore horse in the pasture.

Poor Dee ~ she foundered. First time in her 20 years. Grass founder of all things. My wonder farrier said he's had oodles of horses he's worked on this fall with the same problem.

It's all got to do with this summer's growing conditions and the weather this fall.

She got clogs! They basically protect the sore sole and take the pressure off. She is already moving alot better!

Thankfully, I caught it early and with a dose of banamine, a weeks worth of bute, and these special shoes, she should be just fine.

The hardest part about her treatment?

Someone is now on a diet :)

More green grass at this point would make her feet worse. So she is now in dry lot conditions with just a small amount of grass hay twice a day.

She could stand to lose a few anyway. She's plenty prosperous!

Of course she thinks she's starving to death....

All for now~ JULIE

Bit by bit

2011-09-26T19:32:00.002-05:00

Bit by bit I am making progress.

I just have to keep reminding myself of that when I get discouraged!

Here's how far I've gotten with the new loom...

Man o man was this loom taken apart! Way more dismantled than it would have needed to be.

But then some things that probably should have been removed weren't...

Obviously the previous owners were inexperienced :)

Got myself a Newcomb! It's a 4 harness, but #3 & 4 have never been installed.

This is a big girl. Bigger footprint than my union. Wider weaving width, too. I've got the basics under control, but may need to do some more research when it's time to put on the harnesses and the ratchet to tighten up / advance the weaving. It's not obvious yet to me how it all goes together. Maybe as I get farther into it, it will be more clear. I do have a book with it, but the pictures aren't the same as the loom. Typical.

Reason this is as far as I've gotten?

I'm still trying to finish up outside projects before snow flies.

Got started on this tonite.

I'm putting up some split rail... it's pretty easy, the posts aren't that long so not very deep holes to dig. Problem is I'm doing it all manual. A shovel and a twisty post hole digger with only one handle. It's what I've got!

Here's the line up of parts for this section of the fence. Too bad I've got two more sections after this to do. I'm gonna have to pick up the pace - will need to dig more than 3 holes a night to get done in time!

Unfortunately work is taking up alot of my time. We are now in Mandatory Overtime. I've averaged about 55 hours a week since I started back in March. Makes me tired just thinking about it.

Hey! Good news. I think.

I am in the process of becoming a permanent employee. Problem is I have to go to night shift to do it. :(

Not looking forward to that - I'm a morning person.

All for now~ JULIE

Bonus Items

2011-09-18T19:51:00.003-05:00

A couple weeks ago I mentioned that I had found a loom that I was pretty sure I was gonna get myself.

Well, this weekend I went and got it.

I might as well start at the beginning :)

Last Monday at work, I figuratively "hit a wall". I was toast.

Then and there, I knew I needed to take some days off. I had already planned on not working Saturday, but at that moment I went and requested Friday off, also. I made it thru the rest of the week, barely, as I also learned that my old dog ( the one I lost in the divorce) had to be put down ... but that's a different story for another time. Much to deal with with that situation.

That meant 3 day weekend. Haven't had two days off in a row in awhile, much less three :)

Unfortunately, that doesn't mean I can make myself rest ~ by now I'm sure you can tell I don't "do nothing" very well.

On Friday I messed around at home doing laundry and a bit of cleaning. I resisted the urge to start messing with new fence, LOL.

In the afternoon I took off on my planned route. Being me, I didn't have just one thing to be accomplished, I had several. As it turns out, I made 6 different stops along the way, putting on over 400 miles.

First stop (Watertown) was dropping off a sewing machine for my friend at the repair shop... then having time to kill before my appointment with the loom lady -

Stop two (Clear Lake) was at a high school friend to see her, her family and her mom. Her mom is actually my ex's aunt, but she feels like mine, too. She has been ill and since I was in the area, I made sure to stop. It was nice seeing my high school friend, too. She is one of the very few I am still in contact with - probably always will be :)

Then off to get my loom! (Dell Rapids) It was 8 PM when I got to the rural farmhouse- Loaded up pieces and parts to Newcomb Loom! Four Harness, Six treadle, sectional beam. I'll be posting a pic or two when I get it put back together.

There was also a box of accessories that went with, that I didn't really look at at the time... This is what I found.

Leclerc tension box. Frasier Cutter AND a Rigby Cutter!!!!

Also, some weaving and warping books.

A spool tree and warping hooks and some shuttles were also there. A nice set up!

Being that it was now after my bedtime and I was fading fast, I took off for Dakota State College (Madison) . I was going to spend the night at my daughters apartment. Also saw the son, who was staying over, too.

Left first thing in the morning for the next stop at South Dakota State College (Brookings) to see child number 3. She had a team event that I took in and then saw her very nice apartment she is sharing with 3 other girls. Had dinner with her and her sis who had come up to visit, and then took off for points north.

At that point I was back at my first stop (Watertown) . I picked up the finished sewing machine, plus another one, and then made my way to the North Country Fiber Fair. I watched a sheep dog demo, looked briefly at the vendor booths, and bought a fun tool that I am going to be using with my salvaged yarn. More on that another day...

Then the last chore - Walmart for supplies. That is always fun- not... but needed.

I drove into home (Britton) at about 8:30 just before full dark, unloaded my treasures from the truck, and went to bed.

Totally exhausted.

Today I've puttered about in my basement, making room for my new loom. I've got all the pieces down there, but quickly decided the brain power isn't up to snuff to tackle that today.

That's why you're going to have to wait on pictures of the loom!

All for now from a tired, but excited,

Julie

Writing myself a note...

2011-09-08T20:38:00.003-05:00

I've got a haircut tomorrow.

Thought I'd better write a note for myself seeing as how I never know what day it is.

It's not unusual for me to go thru a day, thinking constantly that I have this "thing" that I have to do right after work. But then I get distracted and totally space that "thing" off!

Must mean I'm tired or have too many things on my mind right? Not that I'm totally dumb... HAHA

But then there is the "forget to read my notes" problem I have!

I've figured out a nifty little trick....

Can't lose this note, and it's under my nose all day long.

Whatever it takes, right?

Julie

Hard tellin

2011-09-07T19:34:00.001-05:00

Hard tellin' where the next bit of weaving material will come from in my world...

A couple of months ago at work, I was asked by one of my coworkers if I could sew new covers for pillows. They had gotten a new camper and wanted new matching pillows for the new place.

They also asked if I'd weave them a rug from the same material...

Well, I ended up suggesting a black denim rug - I had one in the size they needed and thought it would work for them, and sewed them up the pillows.

Of course, I took the finished products into work for them :)

Now, yesterday, another coworker came to me and asked me if I was interested in some 'pillow trim'.

She said they had been cleaning out her mothers place and thought since I was "crafty" I might be able to put this to use. Tell you the truth, I wasn't sure exactly what she meant by pillow trim. So I said I'd take a look.

Check out what I brought home ~ and she wouldn't take a penny for it...

There is this chunky trim... 2 black and 1 tan. Whole bolts of the stuff!

And thereis this taupey colored chenille type fringy stuff. Another whole bolt~

And this... There are miles of this stuff! Probably not quite, but there is oodles of this. A full spool and a partial.

I've already got ideas cookin' in the ole brain for the stuff on the spools.

Now I need to find the time and energy to try it out :)

Like I said. Hard tellin' where I'll find the next inspiration!

All for now, it's my bedtime :)
Julie

That chore is done

2011-09-04T19:03:00.002-05:00

Today I forced myself to finish painting the trim on my house. The man boy did get the body of the thing painted before he went back off to college, but it was up to me to finish.

Remember this? Guess it looks a little better now :)

It feels like I've got nothing done this summer, but when I am honest with myself...

The painting is done, and there is a lawn!

Any ideas for me? I think my front door could be a different color than white, but what color?

Or maybe some kind of decoration/treatment/ ??? to make the door not look so .... little?

And I need to plant something ~ man is it bare looking!

I do still have to get my split rail fence put up. It's lying in a pile in the side yard. If only I was going to be home tomorrow, I might actually feel the urge to start.

Instead I'm going to the State Fair. Mostly to pick up the county 4-H exhibits, but while I'm there I'll take a quick look around. Miss the days when I could spend the entire week there...

Still working mega hours... I sure needed this holiday. I got two days away! I'll only have a five day week this week, instead of 6! Too bad I didn't do much resting :)

Somebody take a moment and have some fun for me this holiday weekend, k?

...

2011-08-26T19:43:00.001-05:00

Touching base here. Boy does time fly the older you get. I remember when I was a kid and people saying that. I know what they mean, now!

Well, both my girls have come and gone, and tomorrow the boy is gone, too.

Sad sigh.

Trying to look on the bright side~ I can clean the house and it might stay that way a bit longer!

Less laundry....

Smaller grocery store bills !!!!!

Hmmm... what else? Hard to think of the positives when the negatives are staring you in the face!

Good news~ The house is painted, except for the trim around the windows and doors. I'm going to try and get that done asap ~ Wish I had a younger body. I've been working ALOT. Last week 60 hours and this week will be 58. Looks like this situation will last a bit longer, too.

Not signing up for any craft fairs at this point. They can't compete with a 'for sure' overtime check.

I have spoken for a loom. Decided I'm gonna buy it. Now I just need to find the time and energy to drive the 3+(one way) hours to go get it. Details will be forthcoming when it actually gets here :)

All for now. I am going to go crawl in bed, turn on a movie and doze off. The alarm is set for 4 AM.

Julie

Still Here....

2011-08-08T20:02:00.000-05:00

Haven't fallen off the face of the earth, as far as I can tell.

I've spent some time fighting with my computer and blogger. Seem to have that situation on an even keel for the time being....

I've got the shed back upright ~ which means that there will be a storm soon to blow it back over.

Poor thing is getting a bit rumpled!

No weaving, or sewing, or crafting.

I've been doing a little painting, the outside of the house kind. I should be out there right now. The weather is gorgeous.

I had a rummage sale, got rid of loads. Didn't make much money, but how would I when I priced everything a dollar or less?

Working, working. You know? I could get so much done if this thing called work didn't get in my way!

The other morning as I was getting ready for work, the son came home from his shift. He was so dirty I had to take a picture. Remember, this is at about 4:10 AM!!!

He is such a goofoff... It's hard to get a picture~ Thing is, I haven't been able to break him of his habit of coming all the way into the house with his work shoes on, and hanging on the door frames with his greasy dirty body. I've decided to do a really good clean when he goes back to college. It's hopeless otherwise!

My girls will be home soon. The closest one that's within the state's borders, will be home this weekend.

The girly in New Mexico won't be home for another two weeks or so.

It's their birthday today, and I can't wait to see them. Too bad they both will only be around a couple days before they have to get to school :(

I'm a little bummed out. Summer is almost over. Winter is coming and there is so much I didn't get to do. At least the fun stuff. It seemed this summer it was either cold and rainy, or hot and humid, or extremely buggy. The conditions for getting projects done so I could go have fun just didn't happen much. Just the last few days have been nice~ And here I am stuck at work for 10 1/2 hours getting too dang tired to do anything much when I get home.

Sigh.

We had a little excitement here the other night. A high speed chase coming out of North Dakota crashed in the slough just a mile northeast of here. Manhunt! Never did find the guy. He stole another car (the fourth) just down the road from me, but blew the transmission on it a few miles down the road.

Shaking my head...

They woulda just had to let him sit it out overnight in the slough.

The mosquitoes woulda taken care of him.

Wild Night

2011-07-27T21:52:00.002-05:00

Last night it got alittle intense here.

I was at a meeting intown....

4-H Leaders if thatmakes any difference :)

A bit of a storm blewup.

We could hear therain, (hail or really big drops?)

Phones startedringing. Spouses saying "stay there, don't go out in this" etc

We took a lookoutside.

Wowzers.

Just a little bit ofrotation in those clouds! Or maybe I should clarify, LOTS of rotation!

About that time, Iwent to look out the other side of the building.

Saw lots of rain,wind that was swaying the trees and then...

The trees laid down.

And I, a 46 year oldstorm lover who had never taken cover unless I was at an event where theorganizers of said event required it...

Headed for the womensbathroom ( the storm shelter in the community room)

About then the sirensstarted blowing.

And then theystopped, and all the lights went out.

And there we sat.

I got a text from mysister who lives 60 miles away - watching all the weather alerts on tv.

The others weregetting calls from home.

We hung out there agood 45 minutes waiting for the rain and wind to let up.

I, and a couple othergirls who live close by, decided to head out to check in at home.

The other womenstayed because their homes were in the direction the storm was going.

Here are a few pics Ilifted from some facebook friends from in town.

These are pics from today during cleanup. The whole town looks like this!

On the way home I drove thru, and yes, I know you're not supposed to drive thru water~ But I was kinda committed before I even realized I was in water!

In town there was generalized flooding, and on the way home there was water running over the road in two places on the way home. My little car did not like it!

It was still raining when I got home, but I got busy sopping up water in my entry ~ the wind was from that direction and pushed the rain right in around the door. Also had a little leakage around a window on that side of the house.

Guess ya gotta expect that when the wind was reported at 80 to 90 mph!

Reports of 3-5 inches, but not sure how in the heck you can get an accurate measure, when the rain is coming horizontally :)

When the rain let up, I went outside to check things out. It was still dark and menacing ~ sheet lightning and a brisk breeze. It was not quite all the way dark, but I couldn't see the horses. Called them numerous times, but nobody came. I wanted so bad to walk out and look for them!

But it was dark, it was WET, and it was still electrical. Since there was nothing I could do at home, I got in my truck and went to the neighbors, I could hear them calling for their animals. They had sheds, fences and equipment tossed about and the animals were scattered. Unfortunately they lost some infant piglets, and they still were missing a few 4 leggeds when I left for home to continue calling.

I finally gave up and went to bed.

I didn't sleep very well.

At 3 am, I got up and looked out yet again, and I caught a shadow of a large animal where the horses usually loaf. So I felt better that at least there was someone out there. I'd envisioned fried horses (lightening)

I had work to get to this morning, and was able to count all 5 heads before I left for work with directions to the son to do a quick once over for injuries when the sun came up. After work I came home to see what the damage was.

I don't have trees yet, so my place doesn't look that hard hit.

The horses are all ok. Sigh of relief.

My fence panel catch pen was all askew. Easy fix.

A pile of wood was scattered about. Easy fix.

But my NEW solar fencer...

May be a casualty of the storm.

The direct lightening strike to my fence may be the reason the horses were afraid to come back home! Neighbor stopped to tell me he'd had to get cows outa my pasture. He had cows and calves everywhere. His herd appeared to have stampeded and scattered. He thinks the lightening may have had something to do with that, too.

So, yeah.

It was a wild night....

ps. One of my friends from the meeting drove by their hay field on the way home. She couldn't believe it when she saw a large round bale burning in the field. In the rain. Yup. Lightening.

Rummaging....

2011-07-22T21:04:00.000-05:00

Do you like rummage sales? (yard sales, garage sales, etc?)

I do. I'm not rabid about it, but I enjoy the hunt for things I would like, but won't pay retail for. Plus, that's pretty much the only way I've been able to get "new" stuff for awhile. You know that dang thing called a budget?

So, tomorrow I'm having my own rummage sale. I've been meaning to have one for a couple years now.

Meant to have one before I moved. Didn't work that way, because of a sudden early push from the new homeowner/ landlord. Only had 6 weeks to build a foundation and move a house and move all my accumulated stuff of 20 years.

Yeah, didn't happen.

So I've had these boxes downstairs for a good 20 some months now. Didn't quite remember what all was in them, but knew I wasn't ready to just give them away. There was some nice stuff in there.

Wedding gifts of leaded crystal. Antiques that I had weeded out. Sports equipment. Electronic type stuff that we "had to have" at the time.

I wasn't the 'shopper' in the family.

It was an issue. :)

I can't believe what all I've found in those boxes. Believe it or not, so far nothing has even remotely interested me in bringing it back into the fold.

I just wish I had a little more time and organization to put more out.

Guess I'll have a head start on my next sale!

I just wish I could go to the other 4 sales that are in town tomorrow ... LOL

Almost wishin' for snow. Almost.

2011-07-17T18:13:00.002-05:00

The heat index is 113 degrees. Wow.

Miserable!

I've been out several times today with fresh cool water for the girls and to give them a new dose of fly spray. Helps for a bit at least.

Poor girls are sweating just standing there fighting the bugs.

It's too dang hot to cook, too.

I'd planned to put some chicken on the grill. Nope, not gonna do it!

This is probably going to be the extent of supper.

And maybe some ice cream :)

It would be so nice if it would cool down a bit here. I've put in my order for days of 72 degrees, sunny and a light breeze.

Wish it worked that way?

There's a tornado watch across the border in North Dakota - 12 miles away. I can see the big clouds. Want. No. Rain. But a cool breeze would be great~

Unfortunately, I think the weather man is saying it'll be this way til Wednesday :(

In a fog....

2011-07-16T17:32:00.001-05:00

Looks foggy here, doesn't it? :)

It's so ding dang humid and hot here, I can't go outside with the camera without it fogging up.

Leaving it outside to dry would be iffy. I don't think it would dry out!

Unusual for South Dakota. The weatherman this morning said "welcome to Georgia"... It feels like it!

I thought I'd put up a picture of the horses sweating from fighting flies and mosquitoes. It's warm, it's humid and this morning, very calm. Ick!

A breeze has come up making it a little more tolerable, but I'm spending my day inside.

I started it outside chasing the dang neighbor calves outa my pasture. I really need to get my electric fencer hooked up and snapping. I was totally soaked by the wet grass and bug spray and sweat by the time I came in. So not liking it! :)

Working inside on a presentation today for work. This past week I was put in charge of a project at work to improve a work area. Me and two summer college temps. ACK!

I don't get how they ask temporary employees to do these things!

I figure I'm going to give it my best shot. Maybe it'll help get me a permanent position with the company...

Maybe it's a test?

Yup.

A temp.

That's how they do things these days. That way when they lay off, they can say they didn't lay off employees of theirs, right?

OH WELL. It's a job with a living wage.

I'll take it.

I'm also taking any oportunity for any of their training opportunities.

I brought home a workbook --

Elementary Blueprint Reading for Machinists.

Let's see if I can get thru the book and past the quizzes. If so, it may put me in the running for a machinists position. Machinists are in short supply around here...

If you know of any out of work machinists that would like to experience South Dakota's fun weather and awesome living, send 'em this way! Bonus for nice, normal, sane single men ~ LOL!

I might know of someone who would have a room for rent :)

Soggy

2011-07-10T20:01:00.000-05:00

My ponies, that is...

The weather this summer has been less than ideal.

Spring was cold and wet well into the time we usually are getting warmer.

Then overnight ~

It was HOT and HUMID

That's the recipe for a bumper crop of

MOSQUITOES AND HORSE FLIES.

Miserable for man and beast.

So why are the girls standing out in the rain today?

Shed is upside down, again.

It went over on Friday while I was at the local 4-H Horse Show. 4 miles away and just a few sprinkles, while here a big blow and a DUMP of rain.

Today severe weather ~ T-storms and tornadoes and lots of wet.

Another weekend shot all to heck~

Not a bit of paint on the house, or organizing done.

Spent time at family reunion activities and did some laundry in prep for the coming work week.

Something's gotta change! I've got materials for fence coming soon.

The clock is ticking and the boy will be going back to college before I know it!

Three Day Weekend...

2011-07-03T16:21:00.000-05:00

I'm filling my three days with chores, it seems like.

I did spend a bit of time last evening at the lake with fellow coworkers~ Good food and laughs.

Tried to sleep in this morning and then up and doing laundry, mowing my lawn, trying to do a little cleaning, etc.

Haven't painted on the house much lately - or should I say, dear son hasn't painted on the house lately.

Here's where it's sitting now....

Front is done except for the trim work.

Garage door side needs a second coat on the top part and trimwork.

Now if only we could find the time and energy to get the rest of it done :)

On the road again.

2011-06-24T18:29:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow's plan includes a trip to a neighboring town to try and sell some weaving!

Summertime is such a busy time ~

Lawns to be mown...

Fences to be fixed and built...

Pasture weeds to be sprayed...

Houses to be painted...

etc. etc. etc.

I wonder why I can't find the time to do the things I 'want' to do?

I haven't been weaving much. What time I can carve out I have been doing some organizing of weft materials and also trying to prepare for a rummage sale. I'm a little overwhelmed with the STUFF in my life ~ hard to be creative under those conditions!

Hoping for good weather tomorrow ~ You know? I had to pick from 3 different 125th celebrations that I could have gone to within the area. Next week there's a couple more I could go to.

You can easily tell when the area was settled.

Rehab

2011-06-18T18:41:00.001-05:00

Not that I really have any extra time or energy to rehab a loom.... I brought one home last weekend.

It has some funky hot pink and neon green warp on it. Can you tell this loom was in a barn? The warp is gonna come off soon and going in the garbage!

It's a six harness, six treadle jack loom. I can't find any ID on the loom as to who made it.

This loom had been in the basement, but got wet. Since then it's been in the barn... Looks like some critter chewed on it slightly in places. It's got some water marks and the wood is dry. The back and front beams need to be reglued and it needs a good cleaning and oiling.

The worst of the damage is in the treadles. I think I'll probably have someone make me 6 new ones and replace them completely.

I made the 100 mile one way trip to look at a rug loom. Maybe I'm spoiled from the sturdiness of my Union, but this doesn't seem to be strong enough to weave a tight rug on! Not to mention there won't be much of a shed that I can tell.

I think this loom is headed for making tablerunners and scarves if I can get it functional.

I think the price for the loom was fair ~ $25, but when you drive a gas hog pickup 200 miles you're already in the $100 range! Still, not too bad :)

Who knows when I'll get around to cleaning this up. Lack of motivation is a problem here these days.

So much to do, it's hard to get started.

Drapes

2011-06-14T18:16:00.000-05:00

Would you believe this rug is made from some discarded drapery?

Broke a rule with this one...

I've been told not to use curtains that have the rubber lining.

I do.

On a regular basis.

They make a nice sturdy rug! The stripes in this curtain made a cool honeycomb type pattern....

A matching set

2011-06-12T11:22:00.000-05:00

These two runner rugs are a matching pair. At least in color and materials - they do measure a little differently, so maybe they are more of a matched set? Technicalities :)

I paired two different twin size bed coverlets. Not sure the vintage~ somewhere in the 60's or 70's. I remember having this style of bedspread when I was a kid. I wasn't sure I wanted a solid blue of this color, it seemed too "sweet" of a blue for my taste, and the tan was a little boring.

I think the stripe look turned out great! These are nice sturdy rugs without being to thick.

I spent a little time trying to sort weft materials last night. I am overwhelmed right now with the piles. I can't see what I have or find what I think I have, so I purchased some clear trash bags and am sorting it out that way. Should keep everything clean but still be able to see what I have without opening every single bag!

I found two more of this style of bedspreads so I think I'll work them up the same way when the colorway is right.

It's a cool breezy damp day here. 'Twould be good for a nap, but I'm going to try and avoid that :)

Back finally....

2011-06-11T17:48:00.000-05:00

I hope this fix lasts! I spent a little bit purging and sorting and saving to a jump drive any and all files and pics I wanted to save in preparation for a complete reboot and restart. Lo and behold, it seems to be working right now. I'm not holding my breath tho....

So, better late than never! A report for the Fort Sisseton craft fair from last weekend!

I got to take a different route to the festival this year... well, had to, I guess I should say. My regular road was flooded and closed. Isn't the panoram pretty?

Beautiful weather this year!

It was so nice Abe Lincoln and his wife decided to enjoy it with us! LOL

My booth this year ~ I got a prime corner spot right on the thru lane between the parade grounds and the reenactment camp. I'm thinking I'll see if I can pay for and reserve that spot for next year!

All weekend there were random gun volleys and cannon shots. I got personal enjoyment and a couple of good chuckles from watching people that are obviously nervous souls get startled by these random BOOMS! sorry, can't help it

On Sunday I decided to treat myself to an Indian Taco. Got me wondering, is this a regional thing or are Indian Tacos nation wide?

Fry bread, taco meat, lettuce, cheese tomato.

Unfortunately this one wasn't worth the $8 it cost. IMO Not enough meat or tomatoes and way too much lettuce. The fry bread was good, made me wish I had just gotten that. Oh well!

I spent as much time as I dared at the Prairie Fiber Arts tent~ I covet a triangle loom. This shawl is going to be pretty!

Anyhoo, a successful weekend overall. The full weekend in between two full weeks of work made for a tired girl by end of day yesterday!

All for now, cross your fingers that this computer is happy again!

Julie

PS... I've got pics of some new rugs that I finished on the eve of the festival. Pics in the next few days!

computer issues...

2011-06-06T19:25:00.000-05:00

I'll keep this short tonite. Wanted to show pics of my weekend at the festival, but I am currently in "safe mode" on my computer.

Dang thing.

Um, yeah.

2011-06-01T02:48:00.000-05:00

it's 2:46 am.

why am I up?

woke briefly, and then my brain did one of those...

omg things

realized that i thought yesterday was Monday.

it was really Tuesday for those of you as confused as I was.

I missed a haircut and 4-H horse practice.

sigh.

dang it, i hate when I prove that I'm blond.

A little breezy!

2011-05-31T18:47:00.000-05:00

My sorry little horse shelter...

Ass over teakettle this morning~

My neighbors had theirs go over, too....

They saw it happen.

Theirs was full of sheep with a donkey standing behind out of the wind.

They said it flipped up and over the donkey... No injuries!!

I always wonder when this happens where my horses were when theirs goes... Wish I could talk horse!

I'm going to have to see if I can borrow a towrope or chain so I can get this back upright.

Can you tell I've done this before? :)

Thunder boomers

2011-05-30T20:34:00.000-05:00

I sit here alone at home, listening to it thunder and rain.

So much for great weather for the holiday weekend. It's rained every day and now it's doing the severe storm type of thing... Sigh.

I'm feeling a little down tonite. My other daughter left today for points south (New Mexico) where she is doing an internship for college.

Oh to be young again to do those fun and exciting things.

I'm afraid I'm in a rut.

Stalled out.

Worn out.

Basically ~ A Funk...

There is this craft show this coming weekend. I spent the afternoon finding my "stuff" for that. Since the last fair I moved all my stuff from the store. It has been stashed here and there... I'm still missing a tote with my hangers and other assorted accessories.

Not sure quite where to look again, so I'm hoping tomorrow fresh eyes will find it.

I did weave 3 rugs today, so I guess there is that!

It is 4-H Horse Show practice season. Once a week I help whatever 4-H'ers that want it with their horses.

Maybe this will improve my attitude. I hope.

So anyhoo, I best be off to bed. The weekend is over and my early morning wake up call is scheduled for tomorrow. I need to try to sleep. Hoping to get a few more things done this week without overdoing it. With the craft fair, I will be having 12 straight days of no day off... I should probably conserve my energy where I can.

Rhubarb.... Yum!

2011-05-28T22:34:00.000-05:00

Sour cream rhubarb pie! Yummy!

Yup, a little dark in spots.

Can't wait to get a new oven. No likey the one I have.

It bakes hot and fast~

And then I made these...

Rhubarb bars.... Even more so YUM.

I made TWO pans of these :)

Do you see it? Ha!

One is pretty much gone already :)

I am trying out this rhubarb - I am going to get some from this patch to transplant here at my new place.

This is some nice red rhubarb, the last plants I had were more green.

I'm excited to get some of this going here at home.

Quiet day here today except for a couple of rummage sales.

I took a nap!

I have a three day weekend starting today~

I needed it, so glad it's here!

Julie

Wow!

2011-05-22T20:35:00.000-05:00

So vivid it looks like you could grab hold...

And if you look close, there is a 2nd beside it~

Sunday morning Denim

2011-05-22T10:15:00.000-05:00

Denim mini rugs.

I call 'em mini's because they are only 18 inches wide.

I've got quite a bit of this warp left on the loom and plenty of denim strips ready,

so more of these are in the plan.

Lately I've been not been feeling like doing much.

I go to work, come home, eat supper, get ready for the next days work...

and go to sleep.

Kinda got the lonelies hanging around....

I mean, what's the point of all if you don't have someone to share it with?

Sweet Blue

2011-05-18T18:47:00.000-05:00

I think this is a sweet pretty blue for this rug.

It's actually a light blue and white print on this manufacturers waste material.

I think the multicolored blue and natural warp really adds that extra little punch to give this rug some life!

Finished, I think

2011-05-17T19:24:00.000-05:00

Finally got around to putting the handle on this tote.

I've had the belt all picked out for awhile, but wasn't sure about the logistics of the thing.

It was best to put it down and let my brain "cogitate" on the solution.

I'm gonna keep 'cogitating' on whether this one needs some kind of closure system or not...

That last detail is usually the hardest to figure out on these bags!

This bag ended up having a kind of western theme feeling.

I kinda like it~

Too bad I'm not a purse kinda girl :)

Star rug

2011-05-16T21:02:00.000-05:00

The stars are hidden, but we know they are there!

A cute little blue rug made from a flannel bedsheet.

The white areas are provided by the stars that were on the sheet.

Nice spring day here~

Was down for a nap after work, until the slave driver son drug me outside to scrape the window trim on the house. He is saying we start painting tomorrow.

Is it naughty to hope for rain? :)

The young have ALOT more energy and stamina than me...

Julie

I'm out of practice

2011-05-15T18:19:00.000-05:00

At writing on this blog dealy thing here...

But here goes~

It was a productive Sunday - so much for day of rest.

I did a pile of laundry, did some cleaning, and picked up trash in the pasture where the big hales were fed this winter.

Leah and I saddled a mare and she rode for awhile.

I finished tying fringe on some rugs.

Here's a picture of one. I'll tease and show the others in the next few days :)

This is a rug made from some more of that textile manufacture waste that comes my way on a regular basis. Somehow I managed to get a pattern done without running out before I finished.

This naughty little pup spent the day out exploring. He found wonderful things ~ including something that smelled like rotting dead thing.

He is going to get a bath even tho I didn't plan on having to do that in my freshly cleaned bathroom. The little stinker.... Literally....

The new week starts - I've been car pooling with my son in the mornings. He is working for the summer at the same place I am. He is eventually going to be working nights if and when they get that shift going.

It's nice having a driver in the mornings.

Of course he drives my car~ that way he doesn't have to use his own gas!

All for now- JULIE

All work and no play....

2011-05-09T20:31:00.000-05:00

makes Julie a dull girl.

Or at least I feel that way!

Granted, I am still feeling puny because of this dang cold, but...

I tied a couple of rugs tonite as I watched Antique Roadshow, but now I am off to bed.

I'm hoping for pics for ya'll in a day or so, just so I can prove I'm doing something with my life :) LOL

The weekend was a short one. I worked a six hour shift on Saturday, took about a 4 hour nap, went out to supper with my kids for my birthday. YUP Another year older... watched a movie, or should I say nodded thru a movie.

Sunday brought a sinus headache that kept me in bed til 3.

Not a very productive weekend unless you count sleeping as productive :)

Now that I think of it, I did disc up the yard and throw out some grass seed on Saturday. It promptly rained hard and washed all the seed into puddles.

I'll have some nice thick spots! HA

Not much of a gardener I'm finding.

I'm coddling myself trying to shorten this dang cold, so I'm trying not to push myself.

Hard to do.

So I guess I'll take myself off to bed now and hope for the health fairy to visit me in the night!

JULIE

I'm alive

2011-05-05T20:42:00.000-05:00

But barely :)

Still fighting that dang cold. The first couple of hours at work are a bugger, but I power thru and get in a groove. Tired by the end of the day tho...

One of my girls is home from school! She caught her "pony" tonite - it was so nice out! No wind, warm and springy --- nice, so you just know it's not gonna last~

We had to see if Cooper liked riding ~ Not so much... He's a little wimp!

We took a stroll out in the pasture to check out the "pond".

Can't believe Leah got DeeDee to walk into the water! She doesn't like it ~ This horse snorts and rumbles in concern when she's getting a bath and the puddle with bubbles comes towards her :) She trusts Leah and will go pretty much anywhere she asks her to.

We found this den on a hillside. Couldn't find tracks to identify what kind of critter dug this. Pretty good sized hole, so I'm guessing something like a badger, or maybe a fox?

Now that Leah is home for a few weeks, maybe she'll get me out to mess with the horses some... Here's hoping anyway!

I took the time to photo the finished scarf from this past weekend~ Here it is...

Click to biggify....

Yup! Again I used recycled yarn. A purple wool sweater and a silvery acrylic blend sweater added a bit of sparkle. This wove up quite quickly as it is loosely woven. I think I'll be adding this silver in bits to more scarves, it adds a little life and I've got quite a bit of it!

All for tonite~ It's past my bedtime!

Julie

Didn't make it.

2011-05-03T20:14:00.000-05:00

Nope, Monday morning came and went without me going to work. I got up, got dressed and then realized I was being downright dumb.

I called my boss's work phone and left a message that I was sick and was going back to bed.

I did. And I woke up 5 hours later.

I called and got an antibiotic - and went back to bed. Spent a second day in bed. How odd is that?

Pretty odd for me :)

Feeling somewhat better today. Worked a full day and actually got alot done - Started to drag after dinner but no prob Bob...

It's 8:12. It's light outside. My son just left the house to go for a run.

And I'm going to bed.

Goodnight, all.

JULIE

Weaving weekend

2011-05-01T19:24:00.000-05:00

My shortened version anyway! The event was from Friday afternoon thru Sunday midday, but I was only able to take in Saturday.

The venue was a youth camp used by girls scouts and 4-Hers and others. It was a cold blustery wet day.

Here's the main lodge where we gathered for the spinning circle, meals, etc. Some knitting classes were in another building and there were several dorms open and in use, also.

The majority of projects were knitting and spinning, but there was this homemade loom in use and also a triangle shawl loom. Plus my structo where I wove this...

It's a simple scarf woven from recycled yarn. I've come to the conclusion, I really need to look into getting a different reed for my Structo Loom. It came with a 15 per and it is too dang fine for these specialty yarns I'm using. I'll be looking into that soon, I hope.

Knitters and Spinners! I actually sat at a wheel and plied some of my scavenged yarn that I thought was too fine for my use. It would be nice if I had a wheel to be able to do that on. I've got more yarn that I would like to do that with!

I had been developing a head cold that morning and by afternoon, I thought a walk would help clear out my head so I went for a walk by the lake.

I found this cute little building down by the water. I think it was the pump house at one time, but long since abandoned for that use. I'm a sucker for rock buildings. I wish I could pick it up and move it to my house :)

Oops! Had to backtrack when the trail disappeared. Wash out - Never did find a beach. Lake is so full there isn't any left to find.

Another spinner - but she's a weaver, too. I had a nice time visiting with like minded individuals, but I decided my cold was rapidly worsening and decided to head for home. Glad I did because the forcasted snow showed up with the gale force winds. On the way home I have to drive a road that is water on both sides. Wind had the waves crashing over the road and mixed with snow it was a little nerve wracking!

By the time I got home, this cold had morphed into a chest cold. Heavy cough and achy achy achy. Son helped me unload and I crawled into bed and I've pretty much spent the day there. Hoping this is short lived. I don't want to call in sick tomorrow for work...

All for now,

JULIE

One of those days.

2011-04-28T18:47:00.000-05:00

Nothing awful.

Nothing tragic.

Nothing.

Feeling kinda blah.

Guess that's what prompted the baking of these...

It's been awhile since I baked.

Don't need the calories, but needed the comfort food fix, I guess.

I'm glad I signed up for the weaving weekend - at least the middle day, that is - I need a day...

Can't wait.

photo evidence

2011-04-23T20:52:00.000-05:00

I've mention here in passing the wet conditions around here abouts...

A facebook friend posted photos today he took while up on a plane ride. Thought I'd share.

Here's just one...

That's the town I live by - that cluster up in the top right corner?

And, no, we don't live by lakes. These are fields, roads, and homes that are covered in water.

And there's no place for it to go except up thru evaporation. We're kinda flat around here.

This is a common occurance... My cousin posted this picture. I think this was the 3rd incident with different equipment and in different places that day.

Here's a picture of a county highway. Believe it or not, this was paved. So wet that there is no base anymore.

These are not isolated areas.

It's everywhere. Town southwest of here about 20 miles has no roads that are safe to get to it. You can get there on ONE road- driving thru water...

We need it to stop raining and snowing.

A productive day,

2011-04-23T19:10:00.000-05:00

with very little effort! :)

Slept in this morning, Yay!

Delivered paper/cardboard to the recycling truck.

Started calling around looking for some hay to buy for my "hay burners".

Wasn't having much luck and was getting kind of worried ~ but then, I got a "sure I've got some and can I deliver it this afternoon? " Horses are happy again....

Sold a car! My son posted the old school car on craigslist this morning and it's already gone! Woohoo!

And my new glasses came in the mail today! No more seeing around a big old scratch~ lol!

Tonite I hope to warp my structo loom with a scarf project for next weekend, and I'm in the middle of making potato salad for a casual Easter dinner that is here tomorrow.

The house could use a quick sweep and hide, and that's about it for today.

Oh, and I even took a nap.

All for now~ JULIE

Gorilla hands

2011-04-20T20:26:00.000-05:00

The day turned into a pleasant springtime, sunny, fluffy clouds kind of day. Surprising since it started out with heavy snow coming down almost horizontally this morning on my way to work... Like my private lake? :)

Surprise, surprise - the horses have stayed in the fence the last two days. I'm guessing it's that I moved the fence so the hay is inside with them. Unfortunately the hay is almost gone. Hope the grass comes quickly!

Trying to decide what yarn to use on my next scarf. Need to get that warped up for next weekends Weaving Weekend. I'm leaning toward the purpley stuff.

So, back to the title of this blog post.

I was all set to show you the state of my hands. They are a bit worse for wear - Tiling and Grouting are tough on the hands, and working in what is basically a machine shop helping build fan clutches gets a little dirty, too.

So I took a picture - and then when the photos came up full screen size first thing I thought was. "holy cow" my hands look like gorilla hands. Not black, mind you, but all wrinkly and weird looking, you know?

I think I'll spare you the image! :)

I've been moisterizing, moisterizing, moisterizing. Not working. I've got cracks, and scrapes, and wrinkles. No black fingernails yet, but it's gonna happen working with heavy metal parts.

Good think I'm not a hand model!

I'm looking forward to tomorrow afternoon. It will be the start of 3 days off. Can't remember the last time I had that! I plan on sleeping. A bunch.

And I might weave a little, too :)

All for now~ JULIE

Ugghh.

2011-04-17T16:47:00.000-05:00

It appears winter has returned to our part of the country. Friday it snowed heavily enough they called school early. It was terribly windy and icy, so good reason to send kids home.

And it's snowing again, tonight.

Well, good news tho, I'm done with the ceramic tile project at my friends'. Good thing - I'm a tired girl :)

I spent a quiet day today. My boy was home for the weekend so we went out to lunch/dinner - whatever all of you call it - and ate buffet. Didn't have to cook that way.

Wove one denim rug. My arms and hands hurt! Too much heavy lifting at work and tiling/grouting at night, I guess.

A couple of the horses went for a morning jaunt this morning. I got a phone call about 9 am that they were visiting again. Went and got them, and then beefed up the electric fence.

Can't wait for permanent fence. I've put it off because I have an auto waterer I want to install- Don't want to build a fence to take it down again. Can't do that till it dries up some. Won't do that until it stops the dang snowing!

From the newspaper, I know it's the 3rd snowiest winter we've had since records were kept. Over 80 inches this year. We have major road and flooding problems in the area - but so far I'm ok except for general mud. Could be worse I guess.

Yet still tonite I must fold my laundry and pack a lunch for tomorrow. Hoping for an early bedtime - I could probably go now and fall asleep :)

Can't believe it's almost summer time for college kids. My son will be home for the summer in two weeks.... I'm thinking it's gonna be nice to have someone in the house - except he's going to be working the opposite shift that I am - but maybe that's a good thing :)

All for now - JULIE

Weaving stars tonite

2011-04-13T20:00:00.000-05:00

Tonite I found myself weaving some stars.

A flannel bedsheet woven into a narrow rug warp. I'm liking it :)

I took a day off from work-

I needed to go to the eye doctor.

It had been 5 years.

I used to go every year, or at minimum every 2 years.

I needed a prescription to give to work to get safety glasses ordered.

I ordered everyday glasses and even allowed myself the luxury of new prescription sunglasses.

You can't imagine the sense of relief I have that I can actually do this without having an anxiety attack over how I would pay for it.

I've worked for a month and this is the first "extra" I've allowed myself.

It is hard to let go when you've tight fisted it for so long!

I also did a few other random errands and even had lunch with my sister and a cousin from North Dakota who called unexpectedly while he was in town.

Amazing how a day like today can wear a person out just like a full 10 hour shift at work.

I didn't feel like washing dishes or cleaning house,

so I played among the stars, instead :)

Julie

In the scheme of things

2011-04-12T19:21:00.000-05:00

My rugs and weaving aren't that important...

My worries aren't that worrisome....

My problems aren't that problematic...

My aches and pains are forgettable...

In the scheme of things, I am the luckiest mother / parent in the world.

My neighbors across the road are living a parents nightmare - a 14 year old daughter suddenly gone.

A sudden illness seems to have caused an unknown diabetic condition to rear it's ugly head.

And now a sweet friendly neighbor girl who loved to come visit my horses is gone.

I can't imagine the pain...

.

Wonder where I've been?

2011-04-10T16:48:00.000-05:00

Hidyho everyone!

Trying to be upbeat here today. It's raining. And that's not a good thing in these parts...

Gloomy, wet, raw and blustery out there-

But I got to see babies today!

A local 4-H Club had a Baby Animal Day as a fundraiser today. And it was just 3 houses down from me.

So I had to go :)

They had baby ducks and chicks...

A baby calf (with a cast on his broken leg...)

Lambs of several different colors and ages.

Bunnies.

Kid goats - My Favorite!

There were also some adult geese and a pig there, too.

Fun for the 4-H kids and the town kids that don't get to see animals up close, much less babies!

Other than that, it's a 'get things done day'. I'm doing laundry, washing dishes, paying bills (nope, still haven't gotten that done!) and other assorted stuff that doesn't get done during the week. Also did some cooking and prep work for sack lunches for the week. It's nearly impossible to get a lunch built at 4 am :) - so I need to have all the parts ready and packed the night before.

Yesterday I went to my Fibre Arts guild monthly meeting. I don't knit or spin, so that is always interesting to watch and listen- End of this month there will be a weaving weekend that I'm going to attend- well, at least the Saturday part... Can't wait! I do need to get a scarf put on my structo so I can take that along to work on while there!

This past week flew by. My evenings were taken up with meetings and helping a friend put in ceramic tile in their bathroom. I'm hoping my evening this week I'll be able to stay home and do some of MY stuff!

All for now~ Julie

FlutterbyTotebag

2011-04-03T19:15:00.000-05:00

This bag has been hanging around waiting on handles for more than a few months. Waiting on me to find the right handles... Found 'em! A repurposed belt with decorative punched holes and brass look spots. Then I came across this flutterby (that's what my girls called butterflies when they were little) belt buckle. It's the same color as the spots on the handles- that's why it 'fits' on this bag :)

I also did a little bit of work in my entryway. I've been lagging on the finishing in there. All that is left is the type of thing that is going to take some creativity and piddling to make it all work.... It's gotta get done! I'm feeling the urge to start on my kitchen / dining area and I'm not letting myself start until my entry is finished ... I'm NOT!

Tired already tonite. Silly me forgot to turn off my alarm clock last night when I went to bed. The only morning I could sleep in and my alarm rings at 4 am... Duh... I did manage to go back to sleep after I moved to the couch and turned on the tv, but that is hard on my neck. Better than nothing, tho~

My take up beam on my loom is slowly filling up, so it won't be long before I'll have some small rugs to show off. Realized it's the first week of the month. That is always busy with meetings- have 2 this week and I really should do my bills and paperwork and get that done. Why is it so hard to just do it? Once I get started it's fine, but the starting is the problem for me.

Work is going well, but I am not looking forward to 4 am again in the morning...

All for now~

Julie

What else????

2011-04-01T18:13:00.000-05:00

As from my previous post, you know I lost my Mr Pudgy.

It was totally unexpected! He hadn't been sick, or slowing down, or anything! Hard to believe....

I came home from work and while I was on the phone I went into the living room and there he was lying on the blanket on the chair. Sigh. At least it was quick and he wasn't sick or feeble. Good way to go I guess.

So tonite I came home, and right away, before I even got in the drive I knew something was wrong.

No horses in sight.

Really?

Found them down the road "talking" to the neighbors' stud.

Fun.

Did I mention I have all mares? This could be a long spring.

So after 10 long hours at work today - 50 hours this week, I was slogging around in the mud and snow fixing fence.

And I work tomorrow, bright and early at 5 AM!

Not sure I wanna come home tomorrow to see what there is to find....

Goodbye, Pudgy...

2011-03-31T18:24:00.000-05:00

Not a slacker - not really :)

2011-03-28T19:05:00.000-05:00

You all probably think I've been slacking - being as I haven't been showing any finished projects lately...

Not so! Just haven't had anything finished ~ I've been working on stuff, just nothing to show until today.

Finished up a tote bag tonite. Green body and a tan and green woven belt for handles. I added some other metal belt parts to fancy it up a bit and cover the sew points.

I've been weaving a bit here and there between sewing denim strips.

When I don't feel like weaving, I make myself sew - lol.

The other day I noticed my loom has an ouchie...

One of the outside pegs on this warp has broken off. Must have been cracked or something, I guess. It gave way while I wasn't there. At this point the tension is ok, but it could become a problem. I tried to think of a way to prop up the warp so the edges don't keep slipping off, but nothing is coming to mind.

Any of you weavers out there have an idea as a temp fix until this warp is woven off?

There are a couple other pegs on the outside edges that haven't impacted my weaving yet, but I've got in the plans to do a max width series of rugs, so I'll need to fix these pegs before then anyway. So a little downtime is in order I suppose so I can get this remedied.

All for now -

Julie

Sigh...

2011-03-24T20:57:00.000-05:00

Tired tonite.

Well, we did get snow - and wind.
It was a trial to get to work yesterday morning at 4:30 am. But I did it! Also interesting to get home 11 hours later. Not sure how much snow we got, but it was alot. And it was heavy. And it is still a mess out there.

I had to run the snowblower... Through mud. That was fun! (sarcasm intended)

So the job seems to be going well. The 10 hour day seems to pass way faster than my 8 hour at the call center.
Learned to drive a forklift! Actually driving isn't that bad. It's the putting cages full of heavy metal parts up on shelves 4 high that is kinda scary and nerve wracking, but if I take my time I can get it done.

Getting comfortable with the new coworkers. I have to watch that I don't get to talking too much. Work is pretty much my social life - being alone so much can make a person hungry for conversation. Supervisors don't think a person can work and talk at the same time :)

Anyhoo... tonite I put in a move (Twister) and sewed denim strips. And then I ripped some more strips.

And now it is past my bedtime.

Goodnight everybody. Time to hit the hay so I can get up at the buttcrack of dawn...

Julie

Oddness...

2011-03-22T17:52:00.000-05:00

As I sit here listening to the thunder, it's hard to not think that it is spring...

But then I go outside.

It's not rain.
It's not snow.

Hail? It's been coming down mixed in with rain for dang near 2 hours.

These two aren't impressed. I guess they aren't welcome in the shed?

From the weather report, we could get anywhere from 8 to 18 inches of snow tonite and tomorrow.

I hope they are wrong :)

Sunday rambling

2011-03-20T14:19:00.000-05:00

My poor neglected loom....

New job kicked my butt this week. 55 hours. The paycheck will be nice.

Imagine what my feet feel like. I went from sitting on my behind all day everyday, to on my feet for 10+ hours a day at work. Hope the feet get used to it!

Trying to take it easy today. I was thinking it was later than it was, but I guess when you wake up at 4 (apparently my inner alarm clock has already adjusted itself...) the day is gonna be long!

Today I went thru a laundry basket of clothing that I had purged from my closet and drawers and sent them off to a womens shelter. I found a wool sweater and that made me think of my stash I picked up to harvest yarn from for scarves. I went and dug those out and found a couple that were knitted with finer yarns and decided to do some felting!

These felted nicely. Now I've got some felted wool. Not sure what I'll do with it yet. Just playing at this point, I guess :)

I also worked at finishing up a judging kit I'm making for the 4-H judging schools.

I'm behind. It was supposed to be done on the 15th.

Do you know how hard it is to make mistakes on purpose? It's hard!

I picked up these banks at a dollar store for a quarter a piece - glad I found something to do with them.

It's starting to feel like spring. It's been melting like crazy, but there is still alot of snow around.

It always looks so dirty this time of year. It's amazing what shows up under the snow -- I'll give it a couple of dry days before I start picking up the accumulated dog poo.

Sounds fun, doesn't it?

All for now.... Julie

Playing and Experimenting

2011-03-15T20:24:00.000-05:00

I've been playing/experimenting with these bags lately.

Using dog, cat and horse food bags to make these totes.

These two are nice big ones!

After fighting with the machine tension while sewing on these things, I've started to add denim as a stabilizer in my seams. There are strips of denim sewn into the seams on the bottom of the bags and also a kind of binding around the top. I don't try to be too fussy on this, as these are meant to be working bags.

Last touch is handles - and I've used old web belts on these two. Sometimes I use some more denim. I think they are gonna make nice sturdy bags to carry some future rugs around...

My shoulder is sore tonite from all the jean ripping I did last night. Tonight I limited myself to getting the strip sewing started and the set up all ready for tomorrow night.

Unless I don't have the energy to go down there...

tomorrow is the first full day at work. Start time 5 AM. We are working overtime hours, so long days. 10.5 hours each day. I may be a little tired and sore for the foreseeable future :)

Sooo... Early to bed, early to rise ~ Julie

2011-03-14T20:53:00.000-05:00

It wasn't very long ago... maybe a month - that I had gotten all the denim jeans and other assorted pants all rough ripped out and into piles to start stripping out.

I think they reproduce or something downstairs while I'm not looking :)

Bags and piles of blue jeans, colored jeans and corduroys...

.... and these boxes hiding under the table, too!

I hadn't even finished the stripping out of the last batch of jeans I did!

Gonna need them, tho! After this past weekend at the craft fair, I now only have on hand 4 denim rugs. Sometime I should go back and see how many blue jean rugs I made last year. Hmmm....

My entire stock of merchandise. Noticeably smaller when I packed up from the show!

Good thing I don't have another show entered for the near future. I'm pretty sure I'll sign up for the Fort Sisseton weekend again, but doubt any before then. Unless something interesting shows up that I want to try :) I can change my mind if I want to!

I will now have a bit more latitude in choosing how often I go selling rugs. Started the new job today - and the pay scale being significantly increased helps with the cash flow ~ hallelujah~

I'll be working some overtime - but it's a good thing. Overtime pay, ya know. I had a shorter day today and tomorrow. Eight am this morning and 7 tomorrow - and then it'll be 5 am. Good thing I'm a morning person.

When I got home this afternoon, I took care of the outside stuff, and then went down to try and tackle the piles of jeans that need to be stripped out. I ripped on those dang things for over 3 hours and didn't even get 1/2 done. I am quite full of blue dust - Need them tho -

I've got denim rugs to make....

Typical day in South Dakota

2011-03-11T18:42:00.000-06:00

It's been a looooonnnnnggg winter in South Dakota.

Record snowfall -- record low temps --- like I said. Long winter.

Today was making up for a beautiful day. I think I saw the thermometer setting at 42 degrees! It was sunny and pleasant.

It was a little breezy, but hey! This IS South Dakota - ya gotta expect that!

So after my last day at the call center -- insert little happy dance -- I did some errands uptown and went to the local winter show.

You know how it is... you get to talking, you see someone you hadn't seen in a while, and before you know it, it's 4:30 and you've got a heck of alot less time left in the day to do the packing for tomorrow's craft fair.

So I leave the gymnasium and find this.

Actually not this right out of the gym, but you get the picture :) Poor little Buzz's behind is sticking out in the wind and wet.

We now have a full blown blizzard going on. 42 and sunny, to rain, then freezing rain, and now snow coming down violently within 2 hours...

Nice.

We may be a little late for the craft show tomorrow....

Sigh....

Julie

Hello....

2011-03-09T18:54:00.000-06:00

my name is Polly!

I am a polydactyl, cat... Thus, my name!

A polydactyl cat is a cat with a congenital physical anomaly called polydactyly (or polydactylism, also known as hyperdactyly), a type of cat body type genetic mutation, that caused the cat to be born with more than the usual number of toes on one or more of its paws. Cats with this genetically inherited trait are most commonly found along the East coast of the United States and in South West England.
Nicknames for polydactyl cats include "boxing cats", "mitten cats", "mitten foot cats", "Vermont snowshoe cats","thumb cats", "six-finger cats", "Boston Thumb Cats", "Cardi-cats", "Hemingway cats", and "double-pawed cats".

Well, this little girl was born in my the barn at my old house in the middle of the continent... not the east coast. Polly has, if I remember correctly, 23 toes. Her feet are huge!

You can somewhat see her front feet, here.

I wish I could get a good picture of her back feet. Six toes on each where the normal cat would have 4. Her front feet have the "thumbs" plus extra partial toes with claws.

She is a fun cat to have around, but she is the typical "scaredy cat" -- she goes into hiding when there is someone other than the family in the house.

I have been getting ready - in a fashion- for a craft fair this weekend. It's a two dayer, so I have to figure out some extra issues.... like who's going to take care of animals.

We have had another round of snow - yesterday I had to drive to the big town 60 miles away to have a pre-employment physical and orientation. It was not nice going, and even worse coming home in the dark. While I was there I got my drivers license renewed because my birthday is coming up and it was going to expire. It was a long day and late when we got home. The usual 1 hour drive was close to two hours - slippery and snowy roads with poor visibility because of everything being white!

If nothing crazy comes up from the pee test I took (and there shouldn't be), I will be starting a new job on Monday. I'm having a hard time believing something bad isn't going to happen and this new deal will fall thru. I've become somewhat pessimistic these last few years with all the negative stuff that has happened to me. I am trying to think positively!

The last few days at my current job will be bittersweet - I've made some great friends there, but I am excited about this new job opportunity and looking forward to the financial part of my life being just a bit easier.

So if my posts are a little spotty in the next week or two, don't give up on me! I'll just be getting used to some new routines!

~Julie~

The greatest joy...

2011-03-06T18:01:00.000-06:00

Today I went over to my friends house. I was there to help her go thru her late husbands clothing to decide what could become rugs.

There was conversation, and gossip, and tears and laughter. I came home with bags of memory rug material...

And also this - Kay gave this to me (I can't believe it... this is SO my style!)

translated by google...

The greatest joy one may have

it is that made for other fond.

to Inger

from Mother and Father

Christmas 1974

How cool is that?

And if you speak Norwegian, please, correct me if I messed up! :)

Slow night

2011-03-03T21:58:00.000-06:00

Finally a slow night for me this week.

Or, now that I say that, I realize after work I shoveled snow away from gates so hay could be put into the horses and I ran the snowblower and cleaned up some drifts that were built earlier this week.

I made supper - pork chops buried in mustardy scalloped corn - Yummy.

And then I made some cheerios munch - cheerios, peanuts and raisins all covered like caramal popcorn.

Another yummy!

I've been browsing online and on facebook. I came across this picture --- and it made me smile!

It was my girl's last year in 4-H. We were waiting for the driving classes to start and we met this fun little girl.

It was her first year in 4-H!

I remember her pony's name was Button and Deedee was fascinated with her.

Button's girl was quite the talker - I remember having a great time visiting with her about her pony and how she liked 4-H.

Doesn't Leah look like she's having fun and relaxed? I think this may have been the reason she did so well when it was her turn to show. She was relaxed, she was smiling, and she was having fun.

She finished the day with the Grand Champion Pleasure Driving buckle.

But the best part of the day?

Making a new friend and encouraging the excitement she had found with her pony....

All for now, Julie

2011-03-01T21:18:00.001-06:00

So what does stylish mean? On the surface, it seems to be linked alot to clothing and outward appearances. Obviously, that meaning doesn't apply to me! I yearn for nice things, but don't think the $ costs make it worth the effort - and I don't always think to check the mirror when I'm busy with something that has grabbed my attention.

As I think of it, I pretty much think the 'style' that really draws me, is the one of a kind, the unique, the genuine. Maybe that is what people might see in me... someone who has decided after all this time, that that is where I may find happy. By being me - which is one of a kind and unique, and my pursuit of the genuine me.

So here is what comes with the award:

There were 4 things I need to do - ack! Homework!!!

1. Thank and link back to the person who sent you this award.

So I was nominated from two different directions.
In Stitches Sharon!

Two Guys and a Loom Kent and Chris!

2. Share 7 things about yourself
In no particular order...

In 1984, I was a queen. SD State Limousin Queen, that is! (that is a kind of cow)

I've been a 4-H leader for 23 years. Half my life. Literally

I've had 2 major surgeries - and because of this dear phobia of mine, I refused to be put under. I stayed awake with a spinal and even asked my doctor if I could watch the monitor when I had my ACL replaced. I hope I don't squeamish anyone out with this one. I was able to say goodbye (again, literally) to my uterus during my hysterectomy.... Sorry, probably TMI!

Luv my ponies! I even went so far as to go to college for them. I have a Riding Master certificate in training with a minor in leatherwork from Meredith Manor School of Horsemanship.

I managed to have 3 children in 26 months. There were twins involved.

I used to show calves. Here are some mementos from when my brother and I won Grand and Reserve at the "largest steer show in North America" Ak-sar-ben (that's Nebraska backwards)... And if you look closely, that IS the tanned hide from my steer "Flash".

and last, but not least....

I know how to tell if a baby goose is a boy or a girl.

It is a very messy job.

I used to work for the largest goose producer in North America.

3. Award 15 recently discovered great bloggers

This is a toughy! I lurk at a few, am a regular at some, but I really have to limit my time on the 'puter... But here goes. I'm going to not re-nominate Sharon or the guys, even tho they deserve it - and try to spread the love a little bit :)
Kathleen Taylor's Dakota Dreams She's an author, and yarn smith extraordinare. Her mystery novels are a scream - Loved them when I found them. I'm not a knitter, tho, so I can't truly appreciate her knitting how to books...

Quiltville I love her use of every little bit of scrap in her quilts!

Heart of a Cowgirl

No Negatives This one is kind of a given... my daughter's blog. She just started it and between a busy college load, an athletic team and work, she's kinda busy. But I can be a proud mom and show her off, can't I???

4. Contact these bloggers and tell them about the award -- ok, I did that!

My last thought to leave with you...

Find. Your. Own. Style.

It'll be beautiful!

Just me, JULIE

O. M. Gee

2011-02-28T17:37:00.000-06:00

Cool, Cool, everyone! There is this stylish blogger thing that has been thrust upon me :)

Don't have time right now, to take care of the details - tomorrow! tomorrow! I promise...

So obviously - one thing I've learned from this fun little dealio is... I need to sign my name onto the blog!

Just so we are all clear

My name is <<<<< JULIE >>>>>

Oh lord, this is embarrassing LOL!!!!

I need to figure out a signature, methinks! hahaha!

I have gotten More EXCELLANTE' news about the job situation!!!

I'm not not not gonna say any more until it's a done deal - don't want to jinx it...

From the frozen tundra that is South Dakota, where winter never ends ---

the ever so humbled,

JULIE

Answers

2011-02-25T14:23:00.000-06:00

But first -another rug...

Still 18 inches wide.

This one I made longer - I didn't measure it yet, been kinda busy!

Made this one out of a blue bed sheet, mixed with some off white manufacture waste material. There was a comforter / pillow / curtain making company here in the area. They used to sell the leftovers/seconds/ etc. I get these rolls of material on a semi regular basis when someone does some cleaning out! Nice long pieces usually.

I put both colors on one shuttle together and as I wove them, I twisted and flipped the strips. I like this look and it uses up some of the lighter fabrics that I seem to have an abundance of. Lighter is not always good for rugs :)

OK, so to answer some questions that have been left in my comments - and sorry if i miss some - I'm a little scattered today!

Etsy? Nope, not yet. Trying to get it all figured out in regards to shipping, payment, etc. All those little details that get pushed to the end of the day when a person is too tired to focus. Actually, I would rather have my own website! If you see something you would like, private message me and we can get it figured out -- it may take a bit because I can only get to the post office on Friday afternoons ...

Website? I think I may have found where to add a page to my blog! I'm going to try and get that figured out soon...

Towels making a mess? Um, yeah, I guess it does make a mess - I ripped those, too. But in the scheme of things, what's a little bit more fuzz? Oy - PLEASE don't show up unannounced for a tour of my house lol lol lol! I'll need about 17 days notice - OK????

Fixing the unintended stripe in my warp -- yup! did it already. You'll just have to wait til the next batch of rugs to come off the loom - and that may be awhile! I just rearranged a couple of the warp strings and we're good to go.

Do I hemstitch. Um. No. Don't know how - I'm assuming you meant on the loom. I do a hemmed end on some rugs. But not the hemstitch like some use for scarves, blankets, etc. I'm not sure it would work on this high of tension????

Facebook - there's a link on the blog over there to the right. By the nice little pictures of my wonderful followers! :) Sorry to say, the pictures of my rugs on facebook is a little out of date. That's on my to do list....

Busy weekend - I'm in charge of a lunch at a local bull sale - the church ladies are doing it, I just get to do the planning and heavy lifting. I've got 30 pies coming along with enough workers- I hope. Sunday will be a take it easy day.

Heard some encouraging news yesterday about the job situation. Keep your fingers crossed that all proceeds positively!

Have a good weekend, everybody!

Denim mini's

2011-02-23T20:31:00.000-06:00

There's a new size of denim rugs in town!

Introducing... Denim mini's!

Same great recycled blue jeans rugs -

Just a smaller size!

The mini's are 18 inches wide and assorted lengths.

Hemmed and fringed options, too...

I spent this evening moving the last of my rugs out of the store uptown.

No more retail space available.

It's time to pull up my big girl panties and figure out a new plan!

Made it fer miself...

2011-02-22T18:23:00.001-06:00

I made myself a bathmat.

You know how those dang towels get all ratty and tear when you're drying your back? Oh, you don't? It had been awhile since I got new towels - my kids got me some for Christmas. Well, I used a couple of those old towels...

And yes, I've put some in my rag towel stash, but I really needed something for in front of my bathtub instead of laying down another towel that would just need to get washed, too.

This width works well for this spot! A standard size rug of mine would be too wide to fit without messin' with the toilet rug, so here it is.

And it matches perfectly...

Always something new.

2011-02-20T11:15:00.001-06:00

I got a request awhile back for some table runners that were a little wider than my normal norm. :)

After a bit of pondering, I realized I should probably go ahead and make rugs, too, of that size. I'd had some requests for smaller rugs for campers.

So, new size for me! With that comes some experimenting. After the many rugs I've made, I can tell pretty close if I was going to have "enough" of a material to make a decent size rug, or not.

So I got started on these table runners - and made this one first -

I was feeling pretty proud of myself thinking - wow these are gonna be pretty!

But then I started in on the second, matching runner - and realized I was going to be woefully short of the natural colored material.

Plan B -

I saved back enough strips to make the end stripe, and then got busy doing a double strip of denim and a single 1/3 strip of natural. I like this look, too. Susan? What do you think? I don't have any more of this natural colored linen, but I can scare up more of a white/off white material for the next try. Do you like the end bar stripe look, or do you like the mixture? Or do you have a different idea I can try? Blocks of color? Asymmetrical color blocks? Like I said - there is ALOT of this warp on the loom - we've got options, baby!

Another odd thing happened. I hadn't noticed when I was warping and weaving, but after I took the pics and brought them up on the computer screen I saw this...

I've got an unintentional warp stripe running down each rug. It blends in when the weft is random, but on the solid parts, it sticks out like a sore thumb. I think I'm going to cut off the rug I've left on there and rearrange a few threads and get that outa there. Random is the look I was going for, but that random stripe is awkward :)

Today I'm fighting a weather induced migraine. We've got a doozy of a storm coming - terribly windy with a chance of much snow. The last week or so has been a wonderful break from the snowstorms we've been plagued with this winter. It helped with the attitude- hope this one doesn't send everyone back to Crabbyville!

Anyhoo! Susan - send me your thoughts on the runners and we'll go from there.
Everyone else - have a good Sunday...

Takin' it off...

2011-02-19T14:48:00.000-06:00

So Sharon asked when I take a group of rugs off the loom...

This is when -- I wove one more rug after this picture and then cut off. The roll of finished rugs gets big enough that it is in the way of the beater/reed.

I usually leave the last rug on the loom, using that rug to wrap onto the take up beam. That way I don't have to lash on all over again-- saves time and warp.

PS.... Heads up Susan! I'm going to tie fringe on a couple of examples for you to look at...Maybe pictures later today.

The last one... finally!

2011-02-17T17:57:00.000-06:00

TR218

25"x13"

This runner ... Didn't quite turn out the way I had envisioned it.

I used three different yellows - you can see them better in the picture than in person.

Well, that is the last of that bunch of runners. Never fear, there will be more at some point!

I'm working on a blue warp now that is a new size for me. Could be runners, could be rugs. Depends on where you decide to use them!

I've got a good start, but it'll be a little bit before I have enough to cut off the loom.

Can't wait to get them off to get a good feel for this new size!

Are you tired of these yet???

2011-02-16T18:49:00.000-06:00

TR217

25"x13"

A runner made from some abandoned decorator fabric.

Not enough for a curtain or upholstery, but enough for a cute little table runner!

Not done yet...

2011-02-15T18:13:00.000-06:00

showing you the runners that I finished up the other day! :)

TR216

29"x13"

This tablerunner is made out of some fabric that I tend to call burlap.

It's not a true burlap in that it is not scratchy and smelly!

I found a bolt of this stuff at a junque shop and I assume it was probably originally for use in maybe furniture making? Like under upholstery/over stuffing - or maybe on the underside of the furniture piece.

Not sure exactly, but who knows - that's the nature of using found and secondhand materials!

Sigh... today was one of those days at work that makes me wish I could weave all day everyday and be able to support myself. Today ranked up at the top of the "worst day at work, EVER" days.

And I used to work at a goose processing plant.

Yup, worse than that.

And yet another one!

2011-02-14T21:23:00.000-06:00

I told you to brace yourselves! This is TR215 ~ 26"x13"

The end bars were the little bit that was left over from a yellow gold plaid tablecloth that matched the solid yellow gold in the body of this runner. I don't know why exactly I like this color, but I do. Maybe that it's close to the color of a dun or palomino horse? :)

Are Mondays as difficult for you as they are for me? They always d...r...a...g.

When the workday was finally over, I came home, watered the ponies and headed to my work area.

Blues and natural warping has commenced to be woven. I have a rug and one special wish request table runner done. Tomorrow I will do the 2nd of the matching runners and then get down to business on rugs. It's gonna be a long haul of blue rugs. Mostly denim, but other blue materials as I find them in my stash.

I'll try to mix it up a bit for you guys. These denim rugs can get monotonous.

A different feel...

2011-02-14T07:07:00.000-06:00

TR214

31"x13"

Same warp, completely different feel.

It all depends on how the warp and the weft play together.

Valentines Day sure makes a person yearn for someone to "play with".

I don't wish to be everything to everyone, but I would like to be something to someone.

Working Weekend

2011-02-13T18:51:00.000-06:00

What am I talking about? I work every weekend :)

I try to do 2 hours a night during the week, and 10 hours each weekend on weaving and production.

That's a part time job. I'm not feeling quite so stressed and tired since I quit my other part time job being a janitor. Only thing I miss is the paycheck, as small as it was. (By the way, I also have a full time day job...)

Working with denim.

Here is my "mix tub". I've got boxes of strips all ripped up, and I take handfulls out periodically and add to this tub and mix. It helps to keep the rugs from getting big chunks of one color in the rugs. If I had a huge tub, or a clean floor, I would mix them all at once. This'll work, tho!

I try to have my set up so I have to get up and down at a minimum. Tub right next to me, a bucket to put strings and trim in, a catch box behind and a finish box on my left. When I'm sewing the bucket is right by the mix bucket, and gets moved to where you see it when I'm trimming and clipping apart. Plus a tv and vcr. I went thru 3 movies today.

And here's a box of strips ready to weave with. This is a pretty good size box and I've got it filled pretty compactly. Another box about 1/2 full is also done as of tonite.

Would you believe I haven't even started ripping up the jeans from last weekends rough rip frenzy? These are all strips that were left over from the last time I did blue jean rugs. I ran out of warp before I ran out of jeans!

I'm working these days in my lower level/basement. It's not a true basement, only a little ways into the ground and unfinished.

If there wasn't so much snow, I'd have a view! The weather here has seen a welcome change. It was 36 degrees or a little more yesterday and almost that today. Only 65+ degrees warmer than it was on Tuesday :)

It's hard to enjoy it, tho. Because I know these warmer days are fleeting...

and another....

2011-02-13T06:10:00.000-06:00

yellow gold table runner.

TR213

35"x 13"

For some reason I'm thinking this was a popular color for awhile.

I've got four different versions of this runner now from tableclothes that came my way. There may even be more of this yellow still in the stash that will get woven on a different warping.

And just because, here's another

TR212

20"x13"

Don't usually do things like this, I had a bit of yellow left on a shuttle and a bit of the curtain strips from another runner, and decided they went together. We'll see if it appeals to anyone...and if not, at some point it may become a small bag/purse.

I'm up early today. Not sure what it is about Sunday's. I wake up about 4 AM and can't get back to sleep. It is a lonely time - no one on facebook, no one you dare to call, and even the dog is still asleep.

I guess I could get dressed and go down and start sewing denim strips.

I did that for about 5 hours yesterday.

And I didn't even make a dent.

Resisting

2011-02-12T11:40:00.000-06:00

I'm resisting the urge to show you all the finished runners at once.

If I do that, I won't have weaving pictures to show you again for awhile... LOL!

So here is the next installment of table runners --

You've seen this one before, but now it's trimmed and named and tagged.

Please meet TR210.

39"x13", plus fringe.

And since that really ISN'T a new one for you to see, next up...

TR211

35"x13"

This runner was originally a vintage curtain panel, not the usual tablecloth.

Fun browns, golds, oranges and cream colors in this one!

I've been up since 6 this morning. Normal weekday wakey wakey time. I didn't set an alarm, but I guess I'm trained. I've finished up tying fringe, measuring and marking, records, etc on these runners. I also have added into the pile the rest of the runners I have in stock, and replaced some worn tags and such.

No more retail store -

I'm gonna have to figure out a place to store these things in between craft shows and fairs.

not easy being green

2011-02-10T17:33:00.000-06:00

Kermit is wonderful, isn't he?

I am loving these tablerunners that I've finished. Any green these days is welcomed since the rest of the world seems to be white around here :)

I found some of the kitchen utensils that are my collection, just to make sure I've picked the right one to keep. Glad I did, because I would have saved wrong! I think the runners on the left are the best match and I had thought it would be the one on the right. I even get to pick from two different sizes, or maybe I'll keep both!

There are times that I get people that really think it's neat that I weave "green". You know - the recycling angle? And yes, that is a focus of mine!

But mostly I just agree with Kermit.

Being green can be beautiful, too!

Another

2011-02-09T18:42:00.000-06:00

I told you to prepare yourself!

Another table runner, this time in rust.

I still haven't gotten the fringe trimmed down and figured out his number and tag.

I'll do that later when I have a couple more runners tied...

Prepare yourself.

2011-02-08T17:55:00.000-06:00

Here come a line up of table runners.

Here's the first to be finished. I got home from my meeting last night and tied fringe on this one.

Another green runner.   This one is 13inches wide and 28 inches long, plus the fringe.

I'm trying to figure out a numbering system that really works. This is the second year of doing table runners, so all of these will be 200's. This one is TR207.   The number tells me TR for tablerunner ( duh ) - and it's the 7th finished runner of the year!

I am assuming I won't make over 99 runners this year.   I guess I'll cross that bridge if I come to it!

On the docket tonite is some fringe tying, some organizing of weft materials, and some warp designing for the next dressing of the loom.

I may not get "finished" with anything, but I'll get started on several things :)

Sun = Warm?

2011-02-07T17:15:00.000-06:00

Not so!

The sun is nice, but sure doesn't help the temp very much :) I don't think the thermometer saw the positive side of zero today. Supposed to be -25 by morning again. Sigh.

Looks like the horses were up looking for a drink, so I am on my way out to run the hose for them. Have I mentioned I wish I had my auto waterer?

Looks like I should wade over and brush the snow off the tank, too while I'm out there.

Last night I got the last of the placemat warp woven off.

I think I counted 13 or 14 different runners on this batch. Now to get them tied and trimmed and put into inventory!

Next up - a blue themed warp at a new width for me. Eighteen inches wide. I'm gonna take a big bite and put on 100 wraps, I think.

We'll see how it goes.

New old projects

2011-02-06T17:24:00.000-06:00

Since I'm losing my retail space, I'm starting to do some catchup on picture of my "stuff" so I can put it on my facebook page.

I got a little lazy about getting pictures of new rugs toward the end of last year. No extra time, and selling quickly made me get sloppy about getting them put in my "rugs for sale" album. So anyhoo, I did inventory and will try to get my pictures up to date on what is on hand.

I'm also gathering up the random items that have been at the store.

I brought these quilted girls home the other day.

These were made from a vintage quilt top that hadn't been finished. I tried to figure out a way to finish it up, but there just wasn't enough to make it work, and I had this idea come to me.

They are approximately 7 inches wide by 9 inches long. These are all I have on hand, but I still have some quilt blocks left over somewhere, so they may not be the last!

Randomness

2011-02-05T16:50:00.000-06:00

The town I live in is the county seat. We have a really cool courthouse. Pretty, isn't it?

The township road to my house. Golf course on the right. A visit from the blade would be nice. Can you tell we got more snow last night?

The ponies hiding behind a snowbank...

And a pile of denim. This was my day! I found every last dang blasted pair of jeans, cords, and dress pants in this place and ripped the waste parts out.

And then I had to go to the dump.

I had a full pickup load of trash to take to the dumpsters. But there is a nice big empty space where I had all boxes and bags of jeans.

Now my hands hurt.

When the pile is this big it's kind of intimidating.

It's the only way to go, tho.

You just can't think of the whole process at once. Step by step and it seems like a doable thing.

Kinda like a lifetime :)

On the fence....

2011-02-04T18:56:00.000-06:00

• ON THE FENCE (adjective)
The adjective ON THE FENCE has 1 sense:

1. characterized by indecision

• ON THE FENCE (adjective)

Sense 1

Meaning:

Characterized by indecision

Synonyms:

on the fence; undecided

Context examples:

some who had been on the fence came out in favor of the plan / too many voters still declare they are undecided

Similar:

indecisive (characterized by lack of decision and firmness)

Today I was on the fence. Literally! Yup - that is the top wire of the fence that is "keeping the horses in".

I am also indecisive. That happens alot lately.

That comes from having WAY to many "irons in the fire"...

This afternoon I did some snowblowing.

And some digging - I found my water meter... I probably should put a flag on it or something...

The horses patiently waited while we dug out bales and replenished their Hay Buffet. Actually the turds tried to sneak out of the gate while I wasn't looking...

I am doing laundry.

I need to do some paperwork.

Blue jeans need to be ripped.

I have a warp that could be woven off this weekend if I'd just get my behind down there.

I could be doing some of the many remodeling/repair projects in this house.

I've got a scarf on my structo loom that hasn't been touched in weeks.

Some miscellaneous craft projects started.

And I should probably cook something so I have meals to eat instead of eating random things.

What to do, what to do?

Not sure yet, but I'm sure I'll do "something"!

Is that decisive enough for ya?

Whinin' Peepee A**

2011-02-03T18:30:00.000-06:00

I'm starting to sound like one, even to myself.

OK, this isn't fun anymore.

Actually it lost it's luster about 2 months ago :)

From what I understand, I really need to get this thing dug out?

Started the snowblower again tonite to get rid of the big drift that developed today. But I broke a shear pin again. Got it taken apart and fixed but by then I was out of daylight. Oh for a barn where I could have a place to fix, space for hay storage and shelter for my horses.

I have to see if I can find someone to come dig out the hay bales again.

I sure do miss brown winters...

Not all fun and games!

2011-01-31T17:44:00.000-06:00

After starting my day with a little bit of humorous play, I actually got some things accomplished.

It took me a bit to get going - I'm not used to this being home all day!

Some weaving got done - still doing tablerunners...

Some blue jeans got rough ripped - and yes that is a dvd player. A person needs some entertainment while doing this highly technical job, LOL.

And, no, I'm not even close to being done rough ripping.

Not even halfway thru the jeans I have on hand.

And I just got in from blowing away some pretty good sized drifts. And I mean, BLOWING away. I just had to throw it up in the air and it was gone. As you can tell, the wind is still blowing so my guess is that this drift will be there to greet me in the morning again! Ugh... It's supposed to be -25 by morning.

It's good to be inside and warm.

If only I had someone to share the evening with.

Snow day and a little fun!

2011-01-31T09:19:00.000-06:00

So today we are having a snow and wind event, AGAIN.

I busted my way out to work, and turned around and came back home again after checking in there. Why did I go in to work? Once on this road you are committed and by then I was almost there- From the amount of snow and wind I knew I best get home. Glad I came when I did. Not even an hour later and it was hard to tell anyone had come thru and there were a couple of hood high drifts already to bust thru.

I really should be weaving, BUT, I felt the need-

Time for a Fashion Show!

Cooper modeling the latest in recycled sweater couture. This is a nice warm sweater that he rocks!

.... this one may be a bit small.

Cooper expressing his feminine side....

This sweater would be good for casual Friday's at work...hmm?

Geometric!

Classic!

And that is all, folks. There were more sweaters in the pile, but someone must have sent over the wrong size. Too small!

And then I thought maybe the cats would enjoy the added warmth and got in touch with Harry to have him try them on...

Not impressed.

This won't come undone....

2011-01-29T20:17:00.000-06:00

like housework, laundry, snow removal, cooking, etc etc etc! :)

I think that is why I like making things. Once it's done, it's done.

I finished putting the binding on tonite and it's finished!

Kinda pretty to be covering up with a comforter, isn't it? But that is what I'm gonna do - good chance that in the warmer seasons I'll have a place to hang it in the room, but I built it to be a warm blanket. Those don't have to be ugly, do they?

I also like that I used stash materials. It's weird that it seems like my box of fabrics isn't really a whole lot smaller, I even used stash material pieces for the back side! I'm sure I'll do another stash busting quilt again in the future.

But not right away... I need to get busy weaving!

An old picture today....

2011-01-27T19:07:00.000-06:00

My sweet little Buzz... Photo by daughter Leah from last winter.

I've had two sets of twins in my life. My human daughters Leah and Lexi.

And my dear sweet Buzz and her little sissy who didn't survive her trip into this world. Buzz has always been a tuff little bug. Her "real" name is Docs Honeybug Bueno. This was gonna be the name for either a boy or girl pony and barn name would be Honey for a girl and Buzz for a boy.

It didn't take long to figure out that "Buzz" was the perfect fit for her!

Well, here it is Wednesday

2011-01-26T20:38:00.000-06:00

and I want to say something. I just don't know what it is yet... :)

I would show you a picture, but I don't have anything to show.

I actually didn't run the snowblower today. That's interesting, right?

I got my red-white-blue quilt quilted Monday night. Trimmed it tonite, but don't feel like figuring out the binding.

Wove two runners - same color, different sizes.

Cut some more strips for more runners.

It's warmed up a bit...

It's been a long day. I didn't sleep well last night. Lots of rolling and turning. I'd wake up all tangled up in my sheets with my nightgown wrapped up around me, too.

By 4 AM I was awake for good. I just got up and decided to start the day.

Not sure exactly what my sleep problems stem from.

Actually, to be truthful, I think I do know.

I'm just not sure how to fix it.

Playing hooky

2011-01-24T17:18:00.000-06:00

Well, not really...

After arising at 5:45 this morning and spending a strong hour running my snowblower, I was able to go to work. I was a little late, but I wasn't about to go in to work all sweaty and exhaust/gasoline smelly.

In that hour I managed to clear out the "northern" 1/3 of my drive where the drifts were the smallest. The last few days we've had high winds from the south, southwest. That means the drifts grew from the south edge out. It was a little warmer that it has been - hooboy! it was 20 some degrees out! - and with the wind the drifts were HARD. As in, this big old girl could walk, and stomp, all I wanted all over this big old drift in my drive.

Anyhoo, I got to work all whipped and noodley from the exercize and got to work.

And then we noticed. The wind was now coming out of the north. And it was snowing. I figured I'd make it til noon and see what the situation was as to whether I'd stay home for the afternoon. By 11 I had decided I better 'git' while the 'gittin' was good. Headed for home and glad I did as the drifts were now building from the north.

So I ate some lunch - and then spent the afternoon working on getting some snow moved.

I'm still not done - I'd like to clear the area to the gate you see in the background. But I just couldn't do it! This dang drift... It was a good 20 feet across and 30+ feet long and at the south end a good 4 feet deep. And hard enough I had to use the spade to break off pieces before I could use the snowblower to move that outa there.

Ugh...

My front yard is full of snow and the road is drifted over. This snow is a good 5 feet deep if not more. I can't find my water meter! :)

The sun peeked out for just a bit this evening - almost didn't know what was going on! Hadn't seen a nice sunny day for so long - So I grabbed these photos.

Quilt night tonite. Hoping to get my quilt onto the long arm quilting machine and get it quilted. I just want to get something finished that will STAY finished.

Last Saturday I went to a Winter Show. I actually had a good day- one of my stronger days lately. Sold 7 rugs, 4 of which were denim. I am down to only 6 blue denims on hand, so I desperately need to do those next.