ER Excitment

Yesterday was a bit cooler than the previous days and this morning is sunny with a wind. We need this prior to the warmer weather that is coming.

Lifestyle

I worked a 4 hour shift yesterday and happily came home. It was a good thing as the Spousal Unit wasn't feeling well. He had slept and was hot to the touch. He tried to eat but that didn't go well. We headed out to ER where we spent an exciting evening. One should go to the ER on a Friday night to get a dose of excitement.
We met a young man our kids grew up with. He was in pain and when we left at 1:30 a.m., he was still there waiting to see the doctor. The ER was full of people. Several were with police escorts and one of them escaped. The gamut of illnesses was great; broken hip, diabetes out of control, the flu (as the Spousal Unit had) and more.
The Spousal Unit was discharged with a temperature that was higher than I liked but he is sleeping quietly at the moment. I think he is over the worst. All the extra tests they do on him as he has had chemo showed he is doing well and improving.
I do have to say, I am tired but will survive.

Sewing

I did do a couple of hours of sewing and am ready to put a zipper or closure on the Cabbage Patch Doll jacket.

Once that is done, the hood can be attached. Both grey outfits need red shirts to brighten them up.  
Thank you to the person who told me about Liberty Jane website. I have it marked. But you made me look into the Friday free pattern of which I downloaded the free one yesterday.

Today

I work an 8 hour shift and I will be going to bed shortly after I get home. I will need a lot of sleep to get over this last lack of sleep.
Until Monday..................

Another Doll Pattern

Yesterday was warm and muggy. The high was 21.5C or 71F but everyone said it felt warmer than that. On the way home from work you could see the storms coming in. As we ate dinner it poured rained. No thunder or lightening though. Everything feels fresh again.

Lifestyle

The Spousal Unit spent the day resting. He was cold, aching, and grumpy when I got home. He had a bout of the flu which was over with at 4:30 a.m. I am sure he will spend another day resting to fully recover.
I spent the day at cash and in the notions. I emptied one cupboard to put as much out on the floor as possible. That led to straightening up 6 notion racks. In the end, 70% or more of what was in the cupboard was put out. A big accomplishment.

Sewing

I saw one beautiful piece of fabric a customer purchased. I am going to buy it for a friend and make it into a table cloth for her table ~ a house warming gift.
I also got another doll clothes pattern.  

I haven't opened the pattern, I am just looking at the pictures and thinking.

Knitting

The afghan didn't worked on last night. The lady who it goes to and I talked about it yesterday. I will do 2 rows of dark blue, finish up the light blue and then do dark blue to frame it. She is so happy to be getting it finished. Then it is back to knitting. Socks and a doll sweater are next.

Today

I work a full 8 hour shift and will be back in the notions. Velcro plus more cupboards. I am happy to be working my way through them and tidying up the areas they go into.
Until tomorrow......................

Another Doll Outfit Done

Yesterday seemed warmer though it was about the same temperature as the day before. The wind died down which made everything warm up. It was glorious outside.

Lifestyle

We headed out to grocery shop and was home in great time. The kitchen got cleaned up and laundry was done. The rest of the day was ours to do as we pleased.
The Spousal Unit spent some time watering the vegetable boxes. He seems to be counting the seeds that have come up.
I decided to crawl out of the rabbit hole searching for my great-great grandfather, David Stillman. I read a newsletter from a distant cousin and it was about David Stillman and that DNA puts us into the Dillman family tree. The question is why he went to New Brunswick. I may never know. The other bit of information gleaned was a distant cousin, Cory Stillman, played in the NHL and was on two teams that won the Stanley Cup.

Sewing

I spent some quality time at the sewing machine. The little jacket is finished.

I put black ribbing on instead of the fabric collar and it was so much easier to sew. After putting in the lining, I added a black ribbed band to the bottom. Next time I will shorten the band by 1" so it pulls in just a bit at the waist. The Velcro will be added later. I can now start the Cabbage Patch outfit of pants and a hoodie. There is no more of that fabric left. Onto the next pieces of left over fabric to make some tops for the pant outfits.
Next sewing for me is another pair of the Barb pants. The pattern is printed and I need to tape it together and compare the size I just made to the smaller size.

Knitting

I crocheted on the afghan for an hour before dinner and then in the evening. It is a long way around to complete a row.

It is as long as the couch but not as wide as I would like it. In theory, it needed two more panels but in reality that didn't happen. I am thinking now of a way to add to the sides and leave the length. It may not happen.
The pattern is unique but I won't be making one for us. I will knit us one as I prefer knitting to crocheting.

I am at the point of wanting it done and back to the person who it belongs to.

Today

I work an 8 hour shift. I am sure I will be sleeping on the couch tonight as I didn't sleep well last night. A long story.
Until tomorrow...................

A Fun Shopping Evening

Yesterday was a lovely day with a high of 21C or 69F. Perfect to be outside.

Lifestyle

The Spousal Unit puttered around outside in the yard and mowed the lawns in the afternoon. The miniature Wegila bush is loaded with buds and is just starting to bloom. We were excited about that. The new Wegila is leafing out nicely and we doubt if it will have any blooms this year.
I have been doing some genealogy the last couple of days. Going down the rabbit hole to find out information on my great great grandfather. We have some information on him through DNA but we don't know why he came to New Brunswick from Nova Scotia when others remained in Nova Scotia or went back to the USA after being released from the prison camp they were put into during some war. No information yet and this search is years old.

Sewing

Yesterday I did sew some on the doll's grey outfit. The pants and the hems on the jacket sleeves are done.

The jacket will get a ribbing collar and band around the bottom. Once that is done, the jacket can be lined and Velcro put on the front. Then on to the Cabbage Patch doll outfit in the same fabric.

I also started to cut out three more small bags for Grandson (1) and Daughter-in-Law (2). They are Christmas presents and are easy to make.

It was staff appreciation at the store last evening. We had supper and then could shop. I started early with my list in hand.

Notions were the first thing I picked up. Not a lot but some.

Then I added the green cotton to line another bag for Grandson and the ribbing for the doll clothes. After that was done, I added more fabric and notions for a new bag.

The outer fabric will be navy twill with the paisley in one corner, the lining and pockets. It will be lined with fusible fleece.

The pattern is one I got last fall and it took me a long time to find the fabric.

Last I got a piece of fleece so Daughter can make polo wraps for her horse.

Not shown is the trace a pattern pellon. I use it constantly but will be buying Swedish tracing paper next time to see how it works.

I did have to cut for staff as they were short a person and I had a lot of fun doing that. It was a constant teasing session all evening.

Knitting

I worked on the afghan after I got home and got 3/4 of a round done. It is coming a long and I will soon be changing colours to the darker blue. Next on the list is another pair of socks for Grandson.

Today

I am off work and will be shopping and sewing, and doing laundry. The afghan will be worked on also.

Until tomorrow.......................









Many Thoughts

Yesterday was a sunny day with a high of 18.2C or 64.7F. Today we are to get much the same with sunshine most of the day.

Lifestyle

I worked cash yesterday. Between customers, I put out/priced yarn, marked down (discontinued) items, put out more notions, and did some clean up. I was busy all day long as were all the other staff. The areas that got organized look amazing. 
The Spousal Unit continues to work outside and the yard is coming along nicely. He is doing amazingly well and is getting stronger. He is also happier that he can do more each day.
I have been thinking about a lot of things lately. This includes work, wardrobe, exercise, eating, home renovations, and more. It is mind boggling to put together a plan but it will come as I think through my thoughts.

Sewing

Wardrobe thoughts are going through my mind. What do I need in it? How big does my wardrobe have to be? Patterns, fabrics, and so on. It has been a real process to get to where I am now.
What I have planned for a navy and a black column remains. Each column will have 12 pieces in it. The tops should be in colours that go with each column. The navy column has white, purple, and turquoise in it. They will go with the black column. The black column will have red and another colour in it.
All the tops will be basic as I want to move them from work to home. There will be t-shirts and a few woven tops. The pants will be in stretch fabric or purchased jeans. I will buy a few capris as I wear them in the summer.
The accessories will be added as I find them. A bracelet, earrings, and shoes. Runners and one pair of good shoes. I will make a coat and knit mitts, a scarf and a toque for winter. Simple I hope.

Knitting

I am working on the afghan and have to rip back to the beginning of the row. I need to make an adjustment on the curve at each end. It is coming along though and I am trying to work an hour on it each night/day.
I did look at the yarn as I put it out yesterday. I found some cotton yarn I am going to buy to make some tea towels. They make excellent Christmas gifts. I looked at the sock yarn and saw a denim blue variegated yarn to knit a doll's sweater out of. Pricey but cute. There is a wool yarn that I am going to buy and do a swatch out of. If it works, I will use it for my next course -- Taming Your Tension. The knitting needles will be busy for the next several years.

Today

I don't work but am going in for Staff Appreciation this evening. I need a few things but hope to keep it to a minimum. I do hope to tape the pant pattern together and get it ready to trace. I also want to enjoy the outdoors.
Until tomorrow..........................

Two Projects Completed

Yesterday was a typical spring day with a high of 17C or 62F. There was a trace of rain during the day but I think we had more dew on the grass in the morning than rain. Today should be similar to yesterday.

Lifestyle

We went out to shop yesterday and got a few things we needed. At home, we did some house and yard work. It was a quiet day here.

Sewing

I finished up the pants. As these were a muslin I can wear, I did machine stitch the hems up using a hem stitch. With practice, I got it to look almost invisible.

I also started sewing the grey remnants into doll clothes. The first jacket is ready for the collar and lining.

There is a pair of pants to wear with it. I am hoping to make a red knit t-shirt for this outfit. These are fun to make when you are between projects.

Knitting

I finished the socks but they may be too long in the feet. I will keep them until winter for Jacob. He is growing rapidly.

I remembered two things when I was done the socks -- to decrease alternate rows for 6 rows and then decrease every row to 12 stitches at the toe. I had forgotten that when doing these and followed another pattern. But they will be fine for this winter.
Once done the socks, I did almost a full round of crocheting on the afghan. I will conquer it as the yarn is disappearing quickly. It is a long ways around.  
Today
I work an 8 hour shift and hope to work on the afghan tonight if I am not too tired.
Until tomorrow...................

Pants Too Big, Knitting Mistakes Corrected

Yesterday the weather was in the normal range for this time of the year. It was cloudy and sunny with a high of 20.4C or 68.7F. Perfect to be outside in the afternoon. Today is suppose to be cooler and then it is suppose to get warmer this coming week.

Lifestyle

The morning started out with laundry, a bit of housework, and then off to get plants from the garden center. The Spousal Unit is wanting to plant more in the garden. In the mix, he got 2 tomatoes, 2 peppers, cucumbers (2 for us and 4 for Daughter), watermelon seeds, and 2 rose bushes.
Not to be left out, I bought the last of the fairy gardens for this year. I saw an idea and hunted down what I wanted. It took quite a while to do that.

The one I saw was in a glass container and had only the archway, chair and table. When I found this container (by accident) I knew I could add a pond and the bench. I need one more solar powered light in that area and next year I will add a couple of pots of flowers.
We got a text from Son to watch the news in Edmonton last night and saw the new recycle center in Sherwood Park. Jacob, our grandson, told us all about it last night when we Skyped with the family. It is a pretty impressive site compared to what we have.

Sewing

When I tried on the Barb pants, they were too big so I adjusted the waist to fit me. I am going to hem them for work as they look okay. The goal is to hem the pants today. I do have to say they are comfortable to wear which is nice. My other pants fits horribly, are too big, and I spend a lot of time pulling them up. I printed out the pattern 2 sizes smaller and will print out the one size smaller pattern this week and make a decision on which one to use.

Knitting

Knitting yesterday was a fiasco. I sat outside and tried to fix all the mistakes I had made in the ribbing. That means dropping the stitches one at a time and redoing them correctly with a crochet hook. It took so long that last night I ended up using the Spousal Unit's work light to finish up.
But the story is longer. I lost one of the knitting needles between the cushions in the couch. That means we have to put up the foot part and hunt. If nothing can be found, we have to put the couch on its front and back to find it. After a good 20-30 minutes we had found the missing knitting needle along with a darning needle, a sewing needle, and end covers for needles to keep the stitches from coming off the needles. Still missing is the row counter. And, the motor for one half of the couch is working again.
And more. When I was done, I had more rows knit than necessary and am now ripping out the extra rows. It was a crazy afternoon/evening in the knitting department. I really want to finish these socks so I can start the next ones for Jacob (just the toes left to knit). He picked the wool for his favourite hockey team and I want to start them. He also has the wool for his favourite football team. I see socks being knit most of the summer.
Heather, I cast on 48 stitches on 3.25 mm needles for these socks. I do a knit 2, purl 2 ribbing so they stay up well on Jacob's legs. He absolutely loves these socks and the wool I use.

Today

I have to finish up the laundry, do some grocery shopping, unknit on the socks, and do a bit of sewing. It will be a busy but fun day.
Until tomorrow....................

A Perfect Waistband (In My Opinion)

Yesterday was cool with small showers all day. We wore our coats every time we went outside. Last evening, it accumulated into a storm that included lightening, thunder, and a good rainstorm. The Spousal Unit sat outside to watch it.

Lifestyle

Yesterday morning, we headed out to get pots for the cucumber and watermelon plants, mulch for the yard and to look at plastic trellis for under the front porch. We did buy a rose bush and 2 hostas that we needed but weren't on the list. A great outing for us.
We did do some planning yesterday and I have to say that we are not exactly on the same page. The Spousal Unit wants to forage ahead with the renovations and I want to stick with our plan of doing a room each month. Part of it is the fact he is feeling so much better and wants to do other things such as travel.
I worked from 5 to 9:15 pm and it was quiet after the storm started. Everyone left and went home from the stores in the strip mall. The parking lot was empty except for a few cars. I did get a big box of yarn put away after doing some reorganization in that area. Then I inventoried items that are going away until fall. Though I wasn't flat out busy after putting the yarn away, I was busy.

Sewing

I have the waist band on the Barb pants. It was an interesting method which I really liked. The waistband is sewn together to make side seams. Then I folded it in half hotdog wise and pinned the 2" wide elastic in place. I did a tiny seam at the raw edges and then sewed it onto the pants. Professional looking.

Next I have to try them on, adjust the fit in the hips, sew the new seams and hem the pants. After that is done, the pattern will be adjusted.

Knitting

I knit on our grandson's socks yesterday afternoon. It was dark in the house and I had my issues counting rows. Today I will take them outside to count the rows prior to working on them. The first sock is ready for the toes and the second sock needs 15 more rows (I think).

The Spousal Unit and I had to wind the skein of yarn into a ball prior to me knitting and we both love the feel of this yarn. I'm still thinking mitts for me from the rest of the yarn.

Today

I am off work and have no big plans. Some laundry, some housework, some sewing, and some thinking. It is time to think about travel, renovations, and taking care of ourselves.
Until tomorrow...........................

The Barb Pants

Yesterday started out warm and muggy. It got warmer and muggy all morning and at 2:30 p.m., it started to rain. We looked to the north and the sky was black. I saw a huge flash of lightening as we drove to get a few groceries. The storm moved away but we had loud rumblings of thunder until 9:30 p.m. Today is a repeat of yesterday though a bit cooler.

Lifestyle

I was home all day and did do some clean up and laundry. I also wandered outside to look at the yard and to talk about the next step. We need to head out to get a few materials and plants this weekend.
I spent some time getting ready for the accountant to come last evening. We do enjoy having him come as we can visit during the time he is here. He has me doing a few more things in preparation for next year as we have the rental property. The bullet journal is back out to start recording information on what he requested. It also has me jotting down ideas and numbers.
I finally got Stitcher's Guild to work. I shut down the computer and restarted it. It was slow to load but it finally came up and worked fine after that.

Sewing

I finally had to clean up the sewing room. I was avoiding going into that room. I dusted, rearranged and put away. I finally got everything into the closet in a rather messy fashion. I will deal with the closet later on. I found the cutting table. I moved some stuff under the table and the room was cooler. It seems as if I had the floor vent cover almost closed in that room.
I laid out the pants I found on the table and got out the colour cards to see what colours I can make tops out of. The colour of these pants is not fuchsia but magenta.

Of all the colours shown, I see wearing purple, turquoise, and other shades of pink. I have 4 more meters in the stash so will be making another pair of pants and a top from it. I have a lovely purple knit to make a couple of tops out of. I am okay with having a small column in this colour.
Feeling much better, I sewed up the pants. They are big in the hips and I had my usual issue with the waist band.
When I cut out the pattern I added an inch to the top of back waist narrowing it down 1/2" to at the side. The front I left as is. When trying on the pants, I had done right in the back, can leave the 1/2" off the side, and I need to remove 1" off the center front.

 The lines are the proof. I will cut the lines off, attach the waist band, take in the area at the hip and hem them. I will call it a day with these pants and then start work on the next pair. I will print out the next size smaller and work on getting them to fit. When that is done, I will cut out the navy and black fabric.

Knitting

I knit 5 or 6 rounds on Grandson's socks while waiting for the accountant. I will be knitting these during the day as I hate knitting on dark yarn at night. I just can't see the small stitches when I am knitting socks in a dark colour.

Today

I am at home until 5 p.m. and work until 9 p.m. I will do some sewing and some planning of meals. It is time to get back to eating properly again. I also want to do some BBQing and smoking on my days off.
Until tomorrow...............................

The Sewing Room is Hot

I can not access Stitcher's Guild this morning. Is anyone else having the same problem?


Yesterday another warm day with a high of 29C or 84F. The a/c got to work in the afternoon and turned off for the night. It is suppose to be cooler today but it is already warmer than this time yesterday. We wait and see.

Lifestyle

Before I headed out to work, the Spousal Unit and I planted a pot of flowers for the fairy garden. Around the edge of the back lawn is starting to look really neat. Next is to bust two clay flower pots and build the last fairy garden. I will buy a few items for it next week.
At work I worked on the bias tapes and between a co-worker and I it is done for this round. Instead of a huge box and several small boxes, everything is in smaller boxes and in one cupboard. Success. Next I put away stock and got almost all of it done between cutting for customers. A successful day in all.

Sewing

I went into my sewing room and it was hot even though the a/c was on. The blinds weren't shut which contributed to the warmth but I may need to change the room around so the cool air flows better. That means clean up which means I need time to work in there. Probably this weekend. It means a lot of work once again.

Knitting

I haven't picked up the afghan in the evening for two nights now. I have been reading and dozing in the evenings. Partly as I've been busy at work and partly because of the heat. This happens to me every year when we get the first hot spells.

Today

I am off work and plan on doing laundry, sew, and get ready for the accountant who arrives this evening. The Spousal Unit wants to get more plants for the garden so I will go with him and look at more fairy garden furniture.
Until tomorrow.....................

Driving Frustrations

Yesterday was cooler by 8C and I did run the a/c a bit. This morning is quite cool and the house is cool so the a/c will run only a short while this afternoon. It is suppose to hot again today and then cooler damper weather.

Lifestyle

I had to grocery shop yesterday morning and we also got some plants. After setting the plants out and putting away the groceries. I got ready for work.
On the way to work, the road I take was closed at a set of lights. A HUGE funeral procession was turning left at the lights and they stopped us from going forward. After about 100 cars following a group of riders on horseback, I turned around and headed home to go to work via the downtown route. All I could see was many, many cars coming in the funeral procession.
My trip though downtown was interesting. On the way to downtown, I saw two accidents just off the street. That jammed traffic on the main street. I forgot the street I take to head east was blocked due to a movie being filmed. That meant more traffic congestion. I arrived at work frazzled as it had taken me twice as long to get there.
The Spousal Unit has planted part of the vegetable boxes. He also planted some flower I had laid out in a tub. He is certainly puttering along in that area. We also worked on another area of the fairy garden in the evening.

Sewing

Nothing got done yesterday but a bit of ironing of some fabric.

Knitting

Heather, I am finishing the afghan for a friend. Her mom did all the center strips and got two or three put together before she passed away. I put the rest of the strips together and am doing the border. I am hoping to get it done this summer and will make it if I work on it during the evenings.

Today

I am working a full day. Nothing much will get done around here.

A Hot and Busy Day

Yesterday was the hottest day to date. It got up to 30.5C or 87F. Hot enough to turn the a/c on after lunch to keep the house cool. It did get turned off for the night. Today is a repeat of yesterday. We have all the windows and doors open this morning and are enjoying the cool air going through the house.

Lifestyle

The majority of yesterday was spent cleaning the house and doing laundry. It is nice to have a clean place once again. There were no other plans for the day as this was a priority.
The Spousal Unit watered the lawn with hopes that he doesn't have to do it again for 3 or 4 days. The soil here does hold the moisture which is nice.

Sewing

I spent some time finishing up the top/jacket in pink Ponte. It isn't as nice as I had hoped for but I did learn a few things for the next time. No front band is the main change as it did add bulk to the front especially in the corners. I will add a hook and eye closure to the jacket and will add a top of some sort and matching scarf to this outfit.

3

The lining is a great match which made me happy.

Before I make the top and scarf, I want to sew my pants. I need to get them off the sewing table and start on the next projects.
Knitting
I have spent several evenings on the afghan and finally got it on the floor to see how big it is. I have a lot of yarn to crochet so this is going to be one big afghan.

The next few rows will be the light blue yarn. If keep plugging away on it I will get it done before the end of summer.
Today
I have to grocery shop, fold a few clothes, and work this afternoon.
Until tomorrow...............................

Doll Clothes to Sew and Knit

Yesterday was warm at 25C or 78F but today is suppose to be hot. Yes hot with a high of 31C or 88F. I guess the a/c will be turned on mid morning.

Lifestyle

After doing a bit of laundry, we headed out to visit friends about a 55 minute drive from us. We had a fabulous day with them visiting, touring around and seeing the house they bought and are renovating. A perfect place for them.
This was the Spousal Units first trip and he held up very well. He was tired but didn't fall asleep on the way home or when relaxing in the evening. A sign he is getting stronger.

Sewing

Heather, the dolls I am looking at are American Dolls (expensive), Canadian dolls (somewhat cheaper) and one that Sears puts out in their stores in November. A friend bought the doll Sears sells and sewed some clothes for them. She said the clothes she made fit well. I am still deciding on which way I will go.
I hauled out some scraps from the vest I made for Daughter. I laid out the pattern pieces for a short jacket and pants for the 18" doll. I am still tracing the pattern pieces from the first pattern and thinking about variations for outfits.

I also cut out a hooded jacket and pants for a Cabbage Patch doll.

The small scraps went into the garbage can. To these grey outfits, I will add a red knit t-shirt to make a complete outfit. These are fun items to make when I have a few minutes to sew. Before I can sew them, I have to finish sewing up the pink Ponte outfit and my pants. There is an order to my madness.  

Knitting

I crocheted more on the afghan last night. One more evening and I will be changing back to the light blue/green yarn.
I have been looking at patterns for sweaters, hats, coats, etc. for the American dolls. A few sites are:

• Free Patterns - this site was recommended by a friend when she was knitting for her granddaughter's doll.
• Knit doll clothes - Ravelry An extensive collection of patterns.
• Knit Doll Clothes - Craftsy - be prepared to do a lot of searching as this site is a mix of all sizes and types of dolls.
• Debonair Designs - these are fabulous designs.
• 18" doll patterns with this sweater being my favourite.

I also look on Pinterest and Blue Ridge has a fabulous collection of doll clothes. 18" doll clothes is another great Pinterest site.
I have decided if I buy a pattern, I will have to knit it up several times and incorporate it into outfits I am sewing.
If you like to knit Barbie doll clothes, Stickatillbarbie is a fabulous site.

Today

I am off work and need to do housework and some sewing.
Until tomorrow....................

Finding A Few Sewing Items

Yesterday was another beautiful day with a cool morning and warm afternoon. Today is to be warm and tomorrow is suppose to be hot.

Lifestyle

As we were heading out to shop, I got a call asking if I would work so I agreed to a 4 hour afternoon shift. We did our shopping and I went to work.
While I was at work, the Spousal Unit planted the hydrangea in the front. Other than putting up lattice around the bottom of the porch, the front is done for this year.
The back yard is farther advanced than we thought. There is one area to finish and a bunch of clean up to do and we will be done landscaping for this year. We are looking at a gazebo for the cement patio so we can enjoy the outdoors.

Sewing

As I cut for customers, I was able to set aside a few things I needed for projects. I found a fat quarter to line the doll's jacket with. Two remnants were purchased along with some elastic. I am set up for a while now. Next purchase is staff appreciation evening.
I find I am enjoying making doll clothes. The 18" doll clothing if easy to make and I can trim them up nicely. I am also thinking of making a wardrobe for a Cabbage Patch doll that I own. I will sell the clothing at a Christmas craft bazaar this fall.
The pants I cut out for myself will be sewn next. I look forward to working on them now that I have the elastic for the waistband.

Knitting

I got one round of the darker blue yarn crocheted on the afghan last night and it is looking nice. The next round has been started and once it is done, I will go back to the lighter blue for several rows.

Today

I have to do a bit of laundry and we are then heading out to visit friends and look at the house they bought. We look forward to our visit with them.
Until tomorrow..................

A Fairy Garden Is Being Built

Yesterday was a lovely warm day with a high of 19.5C or 67F. The low was almost freezing which was a surprise. Today is suppose to have a high similar to yesterday. Then we are to see warmer temperatures.

Lifestyle

I worked a four hour shift Thursday night and yesterday morning and got a lot of  overstock buttons put away. There is still a part of a big box left to go that arrived Wednesday. I am sure they will be waiting for me next week.
After I got home, we headed out to the garden center to get the fairy garden. It was an expensive trip but I have one area tentatively set up. This can change over the next few days. I started off with the house, which is solar powered. A gnome reading a book, mushrooms, and fence finished that section.

Next it was a gnome on a swing and another in a hammock in a small juniper. I may have to figure this one out.

The gnome on the swing is hidden.
Then a welcome sign and a pot of flowers.

I don't have a picture of the whole thing as you can barely see it. I may have to squish it closer together.
Elliott sat on me last night and was so content and happy. I took his picture and he sure doesn't look that. He is a hard cat to photograph as he always looks angry.

He was purring and totally relaxed in this picture. Almost asleep and looking mad. He wasn't that way at all.

Sewing

I spent a bit of time looking for lining for the doll's jacket/top. I found a piece of broadcloth in cream and a cotton in a pink print. I need to look in the box of linings. That means emptying half of the closet out to get to them. I did a quick sweep of the store and only saw broadcloth that fit the bill.

Knitting

The second row of border is crocheted on the afghan. I have started a new colour but the yarn is thinner than the other yarn used. Thinking on it.

I love the contrast and may do two or three rows of half double crochet and then go back to the lighter blue. The light blue is a double crochet.

Today

I am off work and need to shop, do laundry, clean and sew. I wonder if I will get to the sewing. It remains to be seen.
Until tomorrow...............

Tiny Sewing

The last couple of days have seen normal temperatures in our area. We are experiencing sunshine, clouds and a cooler breeze and it is enjoyable. Everyone seems to want to be outside enjoying the lovely weather.

Lifestyle

The Spousal Unit is doing a fantastic job of the back yard. He works until his legs say no more and then rests. He is getting stronger as time passes and is able to do more each week. Shoveling and wheel barrowing dirt was the hardest job so far. Planting seeds and seedlings will be easy.
I have done a few small jobs in the house; folding laundry and keeping areas clean. The next big clean is this weekend. Yes!! I love the house being clean and tidy.
We did go to our favourite gardening center and got some seeds, onions, and grape tomato plants. Daughter is excited as we picked up one for her.

Sewing

I spent a bit of time yesterday morning pinning the pattern pieces onto the Ponte and when I got out of the sewing room, all the pieces were cut out.

I have to work out the crotch length on this pattern and then fix it on the pattern. Trial #1 is ready to sew.
I laid out the pattern pieces for the doll outfit.

I am making this outfit. Just have to get out the lining for the top.

I am not making the under top at this time though I am sure it will be made as a part of the outfit. I need to make a black and white crepe scarf to go with it. The lace may go around the neck but I am not sure if it will work with the scarf. I only have this one piece of lace in my stash. The buttons will be silver unless I find something else equally as cute.
As I didn't have to work until 5 p.m., I got the doll pants made.

They turned out too cute. The Ponte is so nice to sew and I am looking forward to sewing up the top and my pants.

Knitting

I have the last side to crochet on the afghan and row one will be done. Next row will be the same colour with no increases in it. Then it will be decision time.
Next on the list is to wind the skein of yarn to finish Grandson's socks. I would love to get them done soon as I have two more pairs to knit for him.

Today

I work the morning and then don't go back to work until Tuesday afternoon.
Until tomorrow................................ 

A Trial Layout

Yesterday was cooler with more clouds and less sunshine. The high got to 17.5C or 63.5F. We have to remind ourselves it just about the middle of April and we can still have weather like we had yesterday.

Lifestyle

Yesterday was busy. We were out early to grocery shop, get an attachment for a hose, and purchase dirt for the back yard. The Spousal Unit requested the dirt to arrive today but it arrived yesterday shortly after noon. The place we bought it from wasn't that busy and the guy was excited to do deliveries.

About half of the dirt is gone from this pile as the gate had to be shut for the night. The vegetable boxes are 75% filled.

The grass is slowly growing in from Jill using the back yard last winter and the Spousal Unit not being able to do the clean up until March.
The mulch is around the edge of the lawn but we need a lot more of it to finish up.

We need to add an huge umbrella at the patio furniture area so we can sit out there in the summer. I would love a gazebo but it may not work for us. As long as I can add misters to the umbrella I will be happy.
While the Spousal Unit was working outside, I was inside doing housework. I cleaned up the kitchen, dining area, and bathroom. Also a big load of laundry got done. Yesterday was cleaning day so I can sew on my next days off. I am so thankful I have everything well organized as it makes cleaning the house quite easy to do.

Sewing

The fuchsia Ponte was washed and dried and I did a trial layout and all seems to be fitting on the fabric nicely. Right down to the doll clothes. And it looks like a bit of fabric left over.

Knitting

I finally got back to crocheting the afghan. The last strip was attached and half of the first round was done. I will be finishing up that round and then doing another colour for a couple of rounds and back to the first colour for several rounds. I will then lay it out and decide on how I will do the border. Will I do a lot of the first colour and just a few rows of the second colour as I have less of it.

Today

I work 8 hours and hope I can crochet again tonight and finish up the round. Of course I will walk the back yard to admire the work the Spousal Unit does today.
Until tomorrow...........................

Looking At the Wardrobe Plan

Yesterday was another lovely day with a high of 21C or 70F. We are having a long stretch of lovely weather and it could go for another week or so.

Lifestyle

The Spousal Unit got the mulch between the cement and the lawn and it really defines that space. He also mowed the lawns again. Next on his list is dirt and more mulch. He enjoys working outdoors so much that he is mentally and physically much stronger than a month ago.

Sewing

I have almost traced the top pattern for the doll. A few more lines and then the pieces can be rough cut. The fabric will be washed and then I can cut. Looking forward to that.
I have been looking at the navy column for work. It is very casual and not much has been done.

Have

2 pairs of navy jeans (worn on Monday and Fridays)
Navy top with lace inserts
Red top with lace on the front

To Make With Fabric On Hand

Navy t-shirt
White t-shirt
Red t-shirt
Navy chambray top
Navy denim (stretch) leggings or Barb Pants
Light blue plaid for a shirt

To Buy

Navy Ponte for pants
I am adding some fuchsia pants to the mix as I want to TNT the Barb pattern. I can wear the navy and white t-shirts with them. I can look for pink for a top to wear with them and the navy pants.
Right now I am waiting until staff appreciation day to buy the remaining fabric. I do hope that I can get some sewing done in the meantime.

Today

I am off work and need to buy groceries and a few outside items. Housework and laundry and number one on the list so I can sew this weekend. It will be an intense cleaning day for me.
Until tomorrow...................

An Amazing Amount of Work

Yesterday was another lovely sunny day with a high of 21.6C or 71F. Though the temperature is to be similar today, there is suppose to be a few clouds.

Lifestyle

With the morning free, I did a bit of housework. Mainly swept floors and I see that Elliott is busy shedding and the dust bunnies have multiplied.
The Spousal Unit worked outside all day and napped in the late afternoon. He has got an amazing amount of work done.

The peach tree is in the ground and the leaves should come out soon. Though it looks like a branch, it is a good healthy tree.

The raised garden boxes are now ready for dirt. While I was at work, the back and sides of each box were finished. The rocks were put in so we won't have to buy a lot of dirt we will never see or use.

Next on the list is putting a mix of red and black mulch between the lawn and cement.

There is still a lot of work to be done in that small backyard but it is coming along nicely. We need more gravel and mulch and the Spousal Unit wants to put in 6 to 8 rose bushes. There are a lot of weeds to pull also but that will come with time.

Sewing

I rough cut out the Barb pants pattern yesterday and then traced a pair of pants for an 18" doll. I am now tracing a top to be sewn out of the same fuchsia Ponte as my pants. It will be fun to use up scraps of the fabric and make doll clothes.

Today

I am working a full 8 hour shift. I will be cashing out and then home to relax. I have Tuesday off.
Until tomorrow........................

Back Yard Progress

Yesterday was another sunny spring day. Not as warm as the previous day but it did get to 20C or 68.5F. Today is to be sunny and warm again.

Lifestyle

The Spousal Unit has been busy in the back yard. The raised vegetable boxes are ready for soil. He hauled all the rock from around the edge of the grass and put into the bottom of the boxes. 

This is the yard when we looked at the house. The previous owners let their dogs totally destroy the lawn and it was gone when we moved in. Since then, we have removed the apple trees and replanted the lawn. Now the Spousal Unit has removed the rock at the edge of the cement. When it is done, I will show pictures. It is a work in progress.

I did stand outside and admire the work last night while dinner cooked on the BBQ. That was the extent of my energy.

Sewing

I did get the pants pattern traced and need to trace a couple of pieces of doll clothing to make from the scraps. Pants and a jacket.

The chambray fabric is going to be made up in McCalls 7306.

I won't be doing the sleeves as shown but putting in a short sleeve. I am adding the small silver buttons to the placket.

Today

I work today but I am hoping to trace the doll pattern so I can start pinning the pieces onto the fabric.

Until tomorrow....................