Lobster Napkins Done

Yesterday temperature wasn't too bad at 3C. It was the wind that was brutal. It started to blow Thursday evening and blew all day yesterday. This morning, the wind is still blowing and it is -4C. It has snowed a tiny bit. 

Lifestyle

Yesterday morning I made buns and they were the best yet. We had them for dinner last night with family and will have the last two with dinner tonight.

Health

Though I've had a lot of aches and pains from the weather, I've been feeling good. No gastro issues which has been great. On Wednesday I ate a sausage and one of seasonings (bet it was onion powder) caused me to have an attack. I'm trying to get back to everything being calm again while cursing myself for not thinking that most sausages have seasonings and fillers. Am back to eating what I know is in the food I consume. 

Sewing

I had a great run in the sewing room yesterday. The machine hummed along working perfectly and I cranked out 6 napkins. All 8 of them are done now for a total of 1.7 meters sewn in the past few days. 

Six of the 8 napkins

All that is left of this fabric is the two bags I have cut out. 
Next is pajama pants for grandson. I got his outer leg measurement last night so am ready to start. 

Knitting

The white outfit is ready to block so I took a preblocked picture. 

I started another sweater that has a faux cable down the fronts and the raglan sleeves. I'm using up Downton Abbey Mary yarn (weight is 3) for this project. It is more burgundy than showing in the picture and has a lovely silver sparkle to it. 

Late night pictures are horrible to get the proper color. I am sure this will be set aside as we are to get the test pattern this weekend. I may do it is dusty rose as it is going to look more like a coat dress with a matching hat. 

Today

I have to go out and get a roll of burlap and some cat food. I am not sure what I will be doing today as I had a bad night's sleep and I may just rest today. 
Until the next time..............................

And It Snowed

After three days of sunshine, we got rain yesterday morning which turned into snow. It snowed most of the day then turned back to rain. This morning it is cloudy and windy. Temperature is 2C. 

Lifestyle

On Wednesday I headed out the door in good time to WW. I lost .7 lb which surprised me. I had a lot of pain with the storms coming in and usually gain. I did keep my eating in check though it wasn't perfect. 
After the meeting, I headed into Bedford to shop and got some items but not others. I did pick up icicle lights for the garage. They were put up in the afternoon. Outside decorations are done. 
Yesterday afternoon, both of us headed outside to clear the driveway. It was 45 minutes of heavy wet snow. We got it done just as it started to rain. 

Sewing

I did a couple of hours of sewing on the napkins yesterday afternoon. The goal was to baste a scant 3/8" from the edge that I turn under. It was done but not after a lot of muttering and cursing.
My machine sounded louder than normal when stitching on Tuesday. I thought the timing may be out and wondered if I should shut down the sewing room and take the machine in for servicing. One more try, I thought. It was noisy and then the bobbin ran out of thread. Filled the bobbin and it became nasty. The thread was sticking to itself. It wouldn't unwind nicely and was tight. In the end, I unwound the bobbin thread and refilled it from the new spool. The machine is purring along. I had bought a bum spool of thread. My first ever. 
All 6 napkins have been basted and 3 have the edges turned under. A couple of days and they will be done. Next up pajama pants and tea towels. I'm ready now to take them on. 

Knitting

I finished the doll's sweater last night and sewed the buttons on yesterday morning. I started the hat and was merrily knitting away and I had to unknit 5 rows. I had missed a row of picot stitch. The hat will be done by tonight. Not sure what I will knit while waiting for the next test pattern. Will have to dig in the yarn stash for an idea. 

Today

Making buns to day for dinner at family's tonight. Will do some housework and sewing so I can keep moving forward with getting the list done.
Until the next time.............................

Outdoor Decorating Almost Done

Yesterday was a beautiful warm day. The high got to 12C and this morning's temperature was 6C. We are starting to cool off for a change in weather tonight. 

Lifestyle

We headed out in good time to get groceries. With the nice weather we wanted to finish up the Christmas lights. That was done before lunch. It was so much nicer doing it in warmer, calmer weather than the day before. 

We have only 1 50ft string of lights for the front door. But, when we were putting things away after the flood, I found a box that had 2 50ft strings of mini lights in it. I got them all up and was thrilled with the results. The flower pot and lamp are on one side and the snow shovel will be on the other side of the door. 
There is one battery pack of lights left (yellow) that I may use in the house. I'm working on an idea right now. 

Sewing

I got 2 napkins sewn (lobster fabric) yesterday afternoon. Four are now done and 6 left to go. I also have to sew up grandson's pajama pants and I may test a doll's dress before I shut down the machines and take them in for servicing. 

Knitting

I started the Picot sweater yesterday and got 20 rows knit. I quite like the pattern and will be knitting it several more times in the next year. This one is white and is going to be paired with a blue and white skirt. 
I will be testing another pattern next week. It is a coat and matching hat. Lots of detail on this one so I will be reading the pattern carefully and watching less YouTube videos while knitting. 

Today

I'm off to WW today as tomorrow is suppose to be nasty (snow and rain). I have a few things to buy and would love to be home by noon or shortly there after. I am hoping to sew 2 more napkins and will knit this evening. 
Until the next time.............................

Knitting UFOs Completed

The temperature dropped until it was 3C at noon. There was a cold wind blowing in also. The temperature remained static for most of the day (as did the wind). Today it is 3C with little or no wind. The sun is  suppose to shine and it is to get to 9C.

Lifestyle

I vacuumed the floors and washed them. When I was almost finished I looked down a stretch of the hardwood and you could see circular scratch marks on the floor. The previous owners Roomba scratched the floor while it was cleaning. At least their dog didn't make all the scratch marks on the floor. 
While the Spousal Unit was out trimming the rose bushes and covering them with burlap, I hauled the ladder out and started to put up the Christmas lights. I got the 2 strings up around the garage door. With the wind blowing and the temperature dropping, we both got chilled to the bone. I did put the tub with the artificial flowers in it on the front porch. 

Sewing

I did go down and look at the napkins I need to hem. I was so cold that I went back upstairs, grabbed the hot water bottle and went to bed to warm up. 

Knitting

I finished the doll shoes. They fit the doll but I found out they are for American Girl dolls not the Gotz dolls. As I call them the trial and error shoes, I had a chuckled at that. 

I found the Gotz sized shoes. My next attempt at this will be boots which are Gotz size. When done the shoes, I had finished up all the knitting UFOs. 
I cast on a hat for an outfit I made some time ago. It is a sweater, mitts, and scarf and needed a hat. It is a nice pattern and I was done by bedtime. Pictures to come with it on the doll. 

Today

The list isn't too long but time consuming. Groceries, outside lights, napkins, and starting a new knitting project. I will be busy. 
Until the next time..............................

Working Through November's List

The daytime temperature was cool with a high of 4C. As night settled in, the temperature rose and this morning it was 10C. We had rain during the night so a storm has gone through. 

Lifestyle

Laundry was done and the kitchen was cleaned. It was a busy morning in our house. I was pleased with the results and it is keeping me going to finish the upstairs this week. 
As it was cool outside, we didn't do the Christmas lights. Maybe today it will happen. I'd like to get them up so I don't have to worry about them if it turns cold. 

Sewing

I finished the dolly drawers yesterday afternoon. They fit small on Jennie. 

I don't like how the inside seams pull up but that may have more to do with the fit on the doll than the pattern. I have used up all the broadcloth I own but I have some lighter weight fabric to try another pair. 
Quite by accident I found a video on seam finishes using your sewing machine and I learned more about my machine. I am impressed at what I learned and a bit upset we didn't learn more about these features when I bought the machine. The people sold the machines, offered support, but really didn't know all the tricks to the machines they had in stock. On my own, I will go through a series of lessons to learn more. 

Knitting

I pulled out the doll's crocheted shoes and worked on them. I got the first shoe done and it fits okay. 

After finishing it, I decided that I will put the two soles together using a single crochet rather than a slip stitch. Why? I crochet a bit tighter than the designer. 

The second shoe presented a bit of a problem. When putting the two soles together, I didn't realize you needed to think right foot/left foot. I had two right footed shoes. I struggled to get the red yarn around the sole. Once that was done (it isn't pretty), I had no issues and am ready to do the last two rows with the strap. No buttons or other decorations will adorn these shoes as they are test shoes. I did learn a lot and will try a pair of boots next. 

Today

I need to vacuum and wash floors. I'd like to do the Christmas lights and the flower pot. Sewing this afternoon will be napkins. I have 8 left to hem and want to finish them up this week. Next week is for grandson's pajama pants. The second shoe will be finished and the UFOs will be done. I hope to start a doll's hat - an easy knit. 
Until the next time...............................

A Rest Day That Was Productive

Yesterday was a cold blustery day. It ended up also being a sunny day. This morning is cool at -2C but it is suppose to get to 6-7C. 

Lifestyle

I got the living room cleaned up and the floor ready to wash. I had to quit as was in pain from my knee. I hobbled around getting it done. After I did the stairs, the Spousal Unit took the vacuum cleaner and did the dining area for me. It was a rest day for me. We either have a storm coming in or my thyroid is making me ache. 

Sewing

I didn't sew yesterday as I knew I would make mistakes with the pain I was having. I did go down and look at the dolly drawers but didn't attempt anything. 

Knitting

While I did a bit of stretching and applied a lot of heat to my sore body, I knit. It was going to be a day to finish some UFOs. Grandson's socks were completed and I laugh every time I make his socks. The legs look so skinny in ribbing compared to the feet. These socks stay up without us worrying about his circulation. 

I did hobble down stairs to get the pattern to do the toes and finally watched the class I have on sock making. 
Once the socks were done, I hobbled down stairs again, put the yarn and needles away, picked up more yarn and needles to complete a hat I started ages ago (like last winter). It is now done and ready to go into the tub to be donated or sold. 

One would never think I ran out of yarn at the golden yellow color and that I had to buy yarn to finish it. 
I have the crocheted shoes to finish up and my UFOs are done. I have to say, that with the pain I had, I did well at completing projects. 

Today

I hope to work on laundry, wash some floors, sew some and work on the crocheted shoes. I'll also do some stretching to help ease the pain. 
Until the next time...........................

A Productive Day

Yesterday was cool and the high during the day got to 3C. The temperature got to 9C during the night and it rained. This morning the wind is blowing, the temperature is dropping, and it is cold out there. 0C and it feels like -7C.

Lifestyle

Yesterday morning we went for a drive. Up to Coldbrook and got apples. We came home, did some business in town and was home by noon. A productive morning out of the house. 

Sewing

I traced grandson's pajama bottoms adding 5" to the length. I didn't cut them out yet as I want to measure to make sure they are long enough. 
I also cut out dolly drawers. I had a good run at them and only had to zig zag one seam where I missed with the serger. The waistband can now be added. They are really cute and shouldn't take too long to finish. 

Knitting

I knit on grandson's sock last night and am almost done the foot on it. I could be starting the toes sometime tonight. It will be great to have them done. Two more UFOs and I'm caught up on my projects. Then I can start new projects for the dolls. 

Today

A day to do housework, laundry, sewing and knitting. A perfect day to work inside.
Until the next time............................

Discouraged - Not Enough Fabric For A Project

Though yesterday was cool, it was brighter than Wednesday. The wind blew cold though. Today is warmer and is suppose to get to 9C. 

Lifestyle

After a bad night's sleep, I was tired yesterday. After cleaning more of the couch, I stopped and rested. My energy was gone. 
I did put away the items I had bought at Ikea. They are for Christmas. 

These cute little lamps are battery operated and are to be on the Christmas tree. But they are perfect for dolls to hold. Mine will be on the tree this year but will be out for props for the dolls. 

I also got this lantern for the dining room. I loved it when I saw it displayed in Ikea. 

Sewing

Before lunch, I worked on the new doll. I wet her hair and brushed it out. Though she had never been played with, she had a few rats at the ends of her hair from it being in a few different hairstyles (mom's doing). While it dried, I put a few outfits on her. She is slimmer bodied than the other two dolls so I know she is newer. I ended up waiting for her hair to dry and took this picture of her. 

After playing with her, I decided to work on a bag using scraps of fabric. It didn't work out as the fabric scraps were too small. I folded it up and put it away and walked out of the sewing room discouraged. I need to think of something to sew from the fabric I have. 

Knitting

I got grandson's first sock ready to start the toe. I set up the second sock and am ready to knit the foot on it. Once done, I will switch colors to do the toes. It will be nice to have these socks done and out of the way. Only 2 small UFOs to do after that. Then I can start knitting new items. 

Today

 After yesterday's day, I will get more housework done, do some sewing while I am thinking or I may scrap it all and go shopping. Who knows at this time. 
Until the next time.........................

Rambling Thoughts Or Am I Crazy?

Yesterday was damp, cool, and windy. It actually felt cold outside and I wore my winter coat. It got to 4C. The temperature is the same this morning and it has rained during the night.

Lifestyle

Yesterday I was gone from just before 9 a.m. until just after 5:30 p.m. It was a long day and I'm sore this morning. I need to do some stretching today to help ease out the soreness. 
One of my goals for the day was to find out about getting my sewing machine and serger serviced. I found the store I was looking for and will be taking the machines in next month for servicing. 
While in the store, I looked around and saw some cute fabric, presser feet, and thread. Oh my, I had to refrain from buying anything. 
I did up Ikea, did grocery shopping, and a few other stores along the way. I even got turned around a couple of times. All in shopping outside of familiar territory. I yelled at google maps, took ramps off and got myself back to where I wanted to go via the route I wanted to go. 
I picked up the doll at 5:00 p.m. to find out she has never been played with. I scored well and she will be a perfect model for me. 

Sewing

I had some time during the day to think about sewing and the sewing room. After seeing some lovely fabrics, I need to do more stash sewing in 2020. Though my goal is to sew 50 meters next year, I'm aiming  for 75 meters or better. I'm putting together a plan for 2020 and here are some of my thoughts as I come to the end of sewing for 2019.

• Sew bigger items. I still want to make more reading pillows, an apron, shopping bags, and several other big yardage items. 
• Organize the stash so I can put projects together for the  year. 
• Sew up the doll's stash by making lots of simple items that can be sold via craft fairs or on Etsy. Continue to use the stash for test patterns. 

There is more rolling around in my brain and I'm working hard at figuring it out. I reflect, I plan, I add, I subtract and I will get a plan for 2020.

Knitting

Knitting down the stash continues into 2020. I'm doing well in that area as I've bought very little yarn this year to put into the stash. Most of what I bought has been knit up. 

• I have 8-9 test knits left for the Downton Abbey yarn and it will be gone. 
• Sports weight yarn is plentiful but I have lots of doll patterns to knit that weight yarn. 
• Sock yarn is slowly been used. Most of it is expensive yarn. It is the yarn I have the biggest issue knitting.
• Worsted weight yarn can be used up quickly for hats and scarves. 

I knit most nights and use up a lot of yarn in a year. With the focus mainly on the stash, I'm looking forward to seeing the bins get empty. 

2020

• Will all the yarn and fabric stashes be gone by Dec. 31, 2020? No they won't. I'm hoping I will have a huge dent in both. 
• Will I buy fabric during the year? Probably as I will need some to finish projects and some for a treat. I'm hoping it will be less than 10 meters. 
• Will I buy yarn during the year? Probably so I can knit up doll clothes for sale. My goal will be to knit the skein up before I buy more. 
• Will I buy notions and trims? Notions yes but trims should be minimal. I need to use up what I have. That means planning. 
• Will I buy doll clothes pattern? A few to make outfits. I am making a plan to keep it to a minimum and to use patterns I have. 

Goal planning is important to use up the stash. I have to keep my goals in mind for both yearly and monthly. It helps me focus on what I have and keeps me from buying what I really don't need at this time. 

Until the next time....................................

The Reusable Bag is Done

Yesterday was a dull grey day. The temperature got to 6C which was nice. Overnight was 2C and we are to get rain/snow tonight. 

Lifestyle

We headed out to do a few things yesterday. The first stop was the library to deliver the Christmas reading pillow. They were so excited to receive it. The children have been asking if there will be another pillow draw. I'm thrilled to donate and thrilled that January's pillow is made. 
Christmas decorating has begun here. The neighbor across the street put up a lot yesterday. It looked neat last night but I couldn't get a picture. We will do ours this weekend and it is minimal compared to what others do. 
Elliott is on a diet (8 days now) and we are all adjusting to his requests. That includes himself. He is getting later at demanding food in the morning. He's resigned to a few pieces of kibble during the day and his main eat first thing in the morning and last thing at night. We are getting use to no caving to his demands. He has a couple of pounds to loose and it will not be pretty getting them off. 

Sewing

I finished the reusable grocery bag yesterday. It went together nicely and looks neat. 

I'm down to 2 gifts left to make and then I will do piping until I shut down the sewing room for the big clean. The mess is starting to bug me and I'm finding it hard not to stop and clean it up. I will shove through by sweeping the floor. 

Knitting

I tried the sweater set on Lily. She is slimmer and taller than American Girl dolls. It doesn't need to be any adaptions done to it except make the sleeves a bit longer. 

If/when I make it again, I will do one extra cable repeat on the sleeves. 
I continue to knit on grandson's socks. Around and around and I'm making headway. I will stop at 9 1/4" and then knit on the other sock. Toes and done. I have 2 UFOs left -- a hat and doll shoes. The goal is to have them done by Dec. 31 or earlier. 

Today

I am off to the city to Weight Watchers, find the store where I can get my sewing machines serviced, do some shopping, and pick up my new to me doll. I'll be home later than normal (6 p.m.) so will be driving in the dark which I don't like to do. 
Until the next time............................

A Project Tossed

Yesterday started out cool (-5C) and cloudy. It warmed up to 4C and it rained about 3/4". Today is suppose to be warmer at 7C and there will be showers. 

Lifestyle

I decided to make buns yesterday and by noon they were cool enough for the Spousal Unit to have one for lunch. While the dough was rising, I took the lint brush to the couch and removed the cat hair from one part. I covered that part with a blanket. 

Sewing

I am over half done the reusable grocery bag. I made piping for the handles and sewed up the outer fabric. I went back to the simple pattern with a seam up the back and it went together beautifully. 
I am in the process of buying a used American Girl doll. She caught my eye as she has blue eyes, brown hair, and freckles. I am hoping to pick her up Thursday morning. She will be a model for me as I trudge through the doll's fabric sewing it up. 

Picture is from the listing. 

Knitting

I  got pictures of the sweater and hat. 

This designer has wonderful patterns. I call this one a winner. 

The hat is fabulous and I can see knitting it for other outfits. And a bonus -- the pattern fits the Gotz dolls. If I make another one for them, I will add one more cable repeat to the sleeves. 
With the test done, it was time to finish the UFOs. I got out the doll's sweater I was working on and it was hard going. Stitches fell off the needles (too slippery) so I decided to ravel it out and use the yarn for another project. Did not happen. After 30 minutes of frustration and a bunch of knots, I tossed the yarn into the trash. A first for me. I got out grandson's socks and knit 10 rounds on one of them while I sulked. I will replace the yarn and make another project. 

Today

 I have to be out and about for a bit but hope to do more cleaning on the couch. This afternoon, I hope to finish the bag and this evening knit on the socks. I'm working towards a clean slate for December 24. 
Until the next time....................................

A Very Productive Day

Yesterday was another cool day with lots of sunshine and very little wind. Today it is suppose to warm up and rain. It is -5C this morning and cloudy. 

Lifestyle

I made a list of jobs that needed doing and flew at it yesterday morning. I was done before I knew it and it felt good knowing those little jobs are done. 
Grandson didn't come yesterday as he had a project to do for school. We missed him but understand that he needs to get other school work done also. 
We talked about putting up outside Christmas decorations and the neighbors must have heard us. They all started. The Spousal Unit brought in one pot to thaw so I can stick the artificial flowers in that I use at Christmas. We will do the lights next Monday. We also talked about yard decorations but scrapped the idea as we have no place to store them. So, we stick with lights, flower pot, and maybe something else that can go on the front steps. I need to figure out a way to hold the wreath on the front door so it doesn't blow off. I'm thinking a second hook at the bottom that I can slip the wreath into so both the top and bottom are secure. 

Sewing

I spent a good 45 minutes taking the Christmas reading pillow apart and adding the handle. I'm happy with the result. That was part of the to do list in the morning. 

My second trip to the sewing room was to only look for fabric to make a reusable cloth bag. I moved a bit of fabric and found the left over fabric from this bag. 

The print will be the outside of the bag and the plaidish looking fabric the lining. If I have some yellow fabric left over, I will do some piping on the handles and the button closure. I was so excited that I cut out the pieces and am now ready to start putting it together. That fabric is gone from the stash leaving me a very happy person.

Knitting

The test pattern sweater is finished and it is another lovely pattern from this tester. 

I started the hat later in the afternoon and by the time I started dinner the ribbing was done. 

By bedtime, the hat was done. Photo shoot this morning. 

Today

I'm planning on making buns this morning and while they are rising, I'm cleaning the couch. Elliott has shed a lot of hair on it. When I get his favorite spot done, I will put a blanket on it so he can shed on it. This afternoon, I would like to sew the bag and this evening knit on the UFO sweater. 
Until the next time............................

A Pillow Without A Handle - OOPS

Yesterday was a cool, sunny day with a high of about 6C. The wind blew making it feel cooler. This morning, it is -6C and calm. The sun is shining so it seems like we could have another nice day. Rain is coming.

Lifestyle

Yesterday I cleaned the dining area. Furniture moved, dusted, and floors scrubbed. I need to clean some silver but it has to wait a day or two. 
I also did 2 loads of laundry so am caught up in that area. 

Sewing

I spent the afternoon in the sewing room. The goal was to finish the Christmas reading pillow. I did accomplish that with a minor mistake. 

I have no carrying handle so will have to go back and make one. That means taking the top seam out and redoing it. A minor mistake but a mistake non the less. 

I chose a red zipper and a bit of me wishes I had chosen a lime green one. It's okay as the children won't even notice it. 

Sewing For The Dolls

I am thinking of how I can use up the doll's fabric stash. I don't want all the clothes hanging around here so I need to think of a way to sell them. My target will be little girls, their mom's and grandmas. As I am targeting this group, the clothes can't be expensive. So, I'm thinking of simple outfits; pull on skirts, reversible tops, basic dress, easy cardigans with matching hats, and pajamas. I'm looking at $5-10.00 price range. I'm not thinking big profit only getting the fabric/yarn gone. There are a few pieces of fabric I will not sew for sale as they are for my dolls. They will be more complicated patterns. 

I hadn't planned on buying any patterns but will be buying one -- a reversible top with a cute and simple skirt pattern. Both are easy to sew patterns so I can make them up quickly once I get the hang of the patterns. The skirt pattern I have is an easy to make pattern and the pajama pattern isn't that hard either. If I'm careful, I won't have to buy any fabrics or trims. I want to use up what I have and then buy selectively. 

I will keep you posted on my progress. 

Knitting

I finished knitting the doll's sweater and have started to sew it together. I hope to finish it today. It is a cute pattern and time consuming to make. I will put it into the sale bin as it turned out to be a nice knit. 

Today

I need to fix the pillow, get ready to tutor grandson, and finish up the sweater so I can do a photo shoot. A busy day but a fun one. 
Until the next time...............................

Frustration Over Book Work

Yesterday was a lovely day with a high of 12C. No rain, warmish winds. This morning it is -4C and, at the moment, it is snowing. It is suppose to be cool for 2 days and the warmer and wet. 

Lifestyle

I did a bit of housework and one load of laundry yesterday morning. I sat down to do October's budget in the spreadsheet and didn't finish it until 3:15 p.m. For the life of me, I couldn't get it to balance. I printed off the bank statement a second time, started over, and got it to balance. I put it away mentally exhausted and frustrated as I couldn't figure out why it took so long. 

Sewing

I put away what I had bought the other day, got grandson's flannel upstairs ready to launder, and left the room. 

Knitting

I worked on the doll's sweater and am now on the scarf part. It is coming along and may be done Sunday evening. I do like the pattern as it is different. 

Today

I really need to do more laundry and housework this morning and the sew on the Christmas pillow this afternoon. Knitting tonight. 
Until the next time....................................

One Reading Pillow Done, Another One Started

Our weather has everything from 1.5-2" of rain with a high of 17C on Tuesday to -6C with snow flurries on Wednesday to sunny and 1C yesterday. This morning it is 4C with shower or rain today. And the high is to get to 10C. 

Lifestyle

We have pretty much stayed at home with the crazy weather. I've done work on the family tree but put it to bed for a few days. I have a lot more to do so need to take breaks from it. 

Health

I headed into Sackville to get weighed and am down another .7 lb. I'm happy that I'm getting the weight I put back on off again. Goals are being set weekly now as we learned a lot about the new programs and got a lovely planner to use. First small goal is to get a 10 lb. charm. 

Sewing

I finished the reading pillow and was miffed. The pocket and back are on upside down. Wasn't noticeable until I was done. 

It is for the library for January's draw. 
I started December's pillow and here is the fabric. 

The quilting is being done in lime green thread (1 spool will get partly used up). The pocket lining and handle will be in a lime green Christmas fabric. The pillow forms I buy are a lot cheaper than the ones I bought in BC and everything else comes from the stash. A big win all the way around. 

Knitting

I cast on and have knit about half of the second sleeve. It is going faster as I know the pattern and what to expect. I'd love to finish it and start on the scarf tonight. No pictures yet. 

Today

I want to do a tiny bit of housework, the budget and then sew in the afternoon. Tonight will be knitting. 
Until the next time...........................

The Beginning of A Pillow

Yesterday's weather was sunny and cloudy. There was a north wind, sun, and clouds. Not a bad day. This morning, the wind is blowing, it is 10C and we are to have rain. We are actually under a rain warning. The temperature is to get to 16C today. 

Lifestyle

We stayed home yesterday as it was Remembrance Day. As there are a lot of military in the province, most business close for the day. I spent the morning scrubbing the bathroom and doing some laundry. 
Later in the afternoon, I did a bit of genealogy. I went back and looked at messages I have received from people and found out there is a letter attached to my 2nd great grandmother on another family tree. I downloaded it and read it. From that, I was able to find her marriage date. My 2nd great grandfather had changed his name as he supposedly was a deserter from the army. Not sure if that was true. I had heard that name attached to him but didn't think much of it until I read the letter and found it's the name he used when he got married. A great score. 

Health

My IBS is getting better. Eating small portions and eliminating foods that are irritants have been the key. The latest food I've eliminated is peaches. I've lost about 6 lbs since I started back at WW. I'm happy with the results both with my gut health and weight loss. 

Sewing

I spent the afternoon in the sewing room working on a pillow. I wanted to use the embroidery component of the sewing machine. 
I finished cross hatching the front and then set up the embroidery. The time stitching out was over 30 minutes. The result is lovely. 

I laid out how it may look and the embroidery is upside down. I'm sitting on it as I'm thinking the blue may be too bright/much. I have several options

• The grey at the top could be the pocket with the embroidery inserted into it. 
• I could embroider the design again onto the grey fabric using grey thread.
• The blue could be the smaller size part of the pocket and the polar bear print or the grey could be the larger part. 

Nothing is cut so I have lots of options. Need to play and make a decision. Photos are wonderful to help see the final idea. 

Knitting

I knit up a storm on the test pattern and am ready to start the other front. 

I love this pattern and will be using a grey plaid skirt in the stash to showcase the pattern when done. 

Today

I have to do a bit of shopping, some housework, and then sew. In the evening I will knit the front of the sweater. A day to be busy as the weather indicates it will be an inside day. 

Until the next time................................

And It Snowed..................

We've had some interesting weather here. All expected though. Friday a snowstorm came raging in and it left our area white. 

There was about 2" on the ground. Saturday it melted in the sun and more disappeared yesterday. It is warm this morning at 8C and we are to have it warmer and could rain or snow tonight. 

Lifestyle

The Spousal Unit is much better as we had some communication from the family that left us laughing. There will be some grieving but he's on the road to feeling better. He will miss his brother though. 
On Saturday, daughter-in-law and I went shopping. We were doing some Christmas buying plus groceries. I started to hurt part way through the morning and by the time we got home, I was a sore mess. I hurt from the waist down. It was gone by yesterday morning. Not sure if it was from the storm coming in tonight or if my thyroid had fun attacking my body. I spent two hours stretching before it felt better. 
Yesterday was quiet with our grandson coming over for his English lesson. We are slugging through worksheets with lots of learning. 

Sewing

I finished the test pattern. It is cute and fits well. There are really no issues with it. 

I'm removing the clasp and putting snaps and buttons on the front. I want it to fit closer to the doll's body. 
The sewing room is tidy and ready for the next project. I need to make another reading pillow for the library. 

Knitting. 

I laid the doll's sweater I am trying to finish to one side as I got another pattern to test. This one has baby and regular cables. I've knit the body to the underarms and have almost knit one of the backs. This time, I printed out the instructions and it really helps to follow the pattern. As I knit each row, I stroke off the stitches I knit. No mistakes at all. The only issue I have -- Elliott lays on top of the instructions as well as the yarn. 

Today

Housework, sewing and knitting. It is a stay at home day as there are no stores open here. 
Until the next time...................................

A Knitting Disaster

Though yesterday started out warm, the temperature fell all day and the cold wind blew. By 9 p.m., it was 6C and this morning it is -1C. Showers are expected today and snow on the weekend. The snow shouldn't last as it warms up some. 

Lifestyle

We are moving through grieving for the Spousal Unit's brother. I'm just sad but the Spousal Unit is having a wide range of emotions ranging from anger to deep sadness. He does come out of it and that helps him see the fun things he and his brother did. 
I got a book from the library on family names in Newfoundland and have been looking up family names and some information on them. I've also been looking up more on the internet for an hour on days I can. 
The lady at the library told us about the reading pillow I made. One little girl was so excited to win it. I have to make another one for them for a Christmas draw. I have the fabric but need to buy some fusible fleece. 

Sewing

I started the doll's vest yesterday afternoon. It is really cute but I'm hoping it's going to fit. 

I am ready to start the back. 
Daughter and I talked about piping for her shirts. I want to make a box full and send it to her. I'm using pieces of what she sent to me and what I have in the stash. Some pieces we chose included the left over bit from I used for piping on her lunch bag. 

There is enough for 1-2 shirts.
I made her a trial piece that she loved. More piping will be made from that. It goes great with a piece of satin she sent me and that piece will be piping also.

And the last piece is this purple I found in the Halloween tub. She gets part of it as I need part for a project. 

I am hoping to make these fabrics into piping between projects. A bit at a time as I need to keep sewing other items. 

Knitting

Knitting was a disaster last night. I started on the doll's sweater to get it finished. One of the needles slipped of while doing the sleeve and I had to rip all out -- 35 rows. As the design has a lot of lacy bits in it, it was easier to rip it out. I started again and did 6 rows. At that point, I picked up grandson's socks and knit a few rows on one of them. 

Unless I have a pattern to test, these are the two projects I will be working on until they are done. The goal is to start 2020 having no unfinished knitting projects. 

Today

I head out to WW this morning and will be doing some shopping afterwards. I doubt if I will sew but I will knit. 

Until the next time...............................

Projects Finished

Yesterday started out sunny and then got cloudy. The temperature rose all day and at midnight it was 14C. It is starting to cool off now (12C at 7 a.m.) and will be 0C by tomorrow morning. A 1/2" of rain fell during the night. 

Lifestyle

We headed out yesterday for a drive and got apples from our favorite store in Coldbrook. It was good to be out and doing something rather than sit at home and mope. 

Sewing

I did quite a bit of sewing yesterday. I finished up everything for daughter. I can do mitered corner hems in my sleep. She had sent me 2 meters of home decor fabric and I got a lot of items for her. 

There are 2 cushion covers, table runner, table topper and 2 place mats. I had to piece the table runner to get it long enough but it looks okay. It was boxed up and shipped. 
The bonus - the cutting table has nothing on it. A first for quite a while. Next on the list is a test pattern for a vest. 

Knitting

It was a good day with knitting. I finished the scarf and will be boxing it up for the future. 

I have most of one ball (50 gr) of this yarn left but will think about it later on. I'm not sure what I can make from it unless I do something for the dolls. Next up is to finish a doll's sweater I started months ago. 

Today

After doing some housework, I will be working on the test pattern (vest). I do have to go out for a bit but will do it in the late afternoon. I will be working on the doll's sweater tonight to try and get it done. It is one of two UFO's that need to be finished. 

Until the next time........................................

A Black Cloud On A Sunny Day

Though the sun has been shining and the beautiful fall weather prevails, we are in for a storm this weekend. 

Lifestyle

The past three days have been tough ones for us. It has us thinking a lot. The climax of it all was being notified that the Spousal Unit's older brother passed during the night (yesterday). What we knew was he had diabetes and Parkinson's disease. What we didn't know was he had dementia and had it before we left to live here. His death was a shock due to the lack of knowledge. Son let us know the most important information from the family. The Spousal Unit's sister filled us in with other bits and pieces. We knew more than she did. 
We sat and talked last night going over life. There were some happy events and some sad ones. I'm sure we will be doing it again as we go through the stages of grieving. 
We went to the doctor yesterday and the Spousal Unit is being referred to a specialist for skin cancer. The doctor was not happy to see the growths on his face and neck. I'm sure there will be chemo and maybe radiation. I'm worried but am also upset as the doctor said the Spousal Unit should be seeing him every 3 months in the past year. What was omitted - he forgot to tell us that. We thought seeing the hematologist was our direct line for his main health issue. On the up side, the Spousal Unit's blood work for his blood cancer is excellent. No signs of it rearing its ugly head.
I, on the other hand, have to live for the next 3 months on the same medication. I'm not happy with my thyroid numbers. What I'm hoping is that the numbers will improve by the next blood work. If not, I'm heading back early for more bloodwork. 

Sewing

I spent some quiet time in the sewing room reflecting on life and almost finished the table runner I've been working on. I need to sew down the hem today. I also figured out how to use the last piece of fabric to make 2 placemats. I want them done and gone. 

Knitting

While we talked last night, I knit. No mistakes that I can see. It kept my hands busy while we talked. 

Today

I'm not sure what we are doing. We will probably go for a drive. I know the Spousal Unit is upset as he told me he is the oldest living members of the family now. I think that kind of scared him. He is also worried about one sibling interfering with the family and we need to set that to rest. The one thing is, we will get through this. 
Until the next time...................................

Sewing and Thinking About The Sewing Room

Another lovely fall day with lots of sunshine. The high got to 11C. This morning it is 2C with frost. We will probably see sunshine and clouds today. 

Lifestyle

I did a bit of housework and headed out to do a bit of grocery shopping. Grandson came over for his hourly lesson in the afternoon. We are working on English and I'm trying to give him tricks to help him get a better understanding of English grammar and short story evaluation. 

Sewing

I worked on daughter's home decor fabric yesterday. The table topper was finished and the table runner was cut out and started. There seems to be enough fabric to make 2 placemats for her. What I tossed is minimal -- tiny strip, ends and selvage. A good use of fabric. 

The Sewing Room

I'm thinking about 2020 and while I was sewing yesterday, I thought about the sewing room. I really had a good look at it and have acknowledged what I've known since we bought the house -- It is a HUGE room. 
I love this room not only for its size but for how we got it finished. Once in a while I think it is too big for me. Most of the time, I think it is fine and only needs to have its organization tweaked. 
I love the fact I have an area for a desk where I can do course work. I need a new desk and will get it in January. I want to have light on it and a peg board above it. I also love that I have a comfortable chair in the room. I don't use it much but the Spousal Unit comes in and sits in it and visits with me. 
The tweaking is where I need to focus in the future. The areas that need the most care are where I have the fabrics and notions stashed. 
The fabrics are stored on a shelving unit and I I want that unit out of the room. It is the place where I want my ironing board, pressing tools, and a couple of peg boards to hold items I use daily (rulers, scissors, etc.). I've been busy sewing down the stash but I feel like I've not gained a lot of empty shelf space. I got fabric given to me to make piping and it fills the one empty space I had on the craft fabric shelf. A bit depressing. The bottom shelf that houses interfacing has an empty space showing. Thank goodness. 
The closet holds notions/trims and the doll's fabric. It is pretty full. I'm not worrying about the doll's fabric as it is in tubs and stacked. It is everything else that is stored in there. I am buying less but it seems as if the tubs are still full. I feel like a hoarder when I open the doors. I need to make some decisions or have it better organized. Maybe both. 
I will be coming back to reread these thoughts so I can move forward in 2020. I'm going to make monthly plans so I can get the stash down to where I want it, the room set up to how I vision it, and feel less stressed in it. 

Knitting

I have been, once again, knitting and unknitting the scarf. I am making dumb mistakes at the center increases and they are noticeable. There isn't too many more inches to knit before I bind off. 

Today

We are off to the doctor's this morning and then I need to fold laundry when we get home. I'd like to have a sewing marathon with the home decor fabric and see if I can have it almost finished by Wednesday. Knitting tonight. 
Until the next time................................