Take A Few Minutes

After Friday being warm and humid, yesterday was cooler. This morning, it was 12C at 6 a.m. They are predicting rain later today. 

Lifestyle

With all the warm weather, we have been anxious about getting the plants for our garden. It has been a nightmare and finally we had to return an order that was incomplete in which I was charged full price. All is back to normal now. 
Daughter-in-law and I went to the city yesterday and it was an unusual trip. We did one store which we got our plants. It was a good experience. The next store was okay but the last store was something else. No social distancing to speak of. We got what we needed and headed home. We are good for 2+ months. We are so use to people social distancing that it is uncomfortable when we don't see it happening. A new normal for us. 
The Spousal Unit got all the grass mowed in one day and the weed eating is pretty much caught up. We can now focus on landscaping the front of the house. 
I've been puttering around in the house as I still am recovering from the pain I had. It is getting better so I am working on sticking with my diet, stretching lots, and not over doing it. 
Friday we had 0 cases of the virus reported and yesterday there were 2 cases and 1 death. A hardware store in the city has a potential case reported there. Here is hoping that we don't have an increase in numbers due to that. 

Sewing

I got the Spousal Unit's shirt ready for snaps. I'm pleased with the results of this shirt. It was a positive experience for me and has me enjoying sewing once again. 

I need to mark where the snaps go and apply them. It wasn't my most productive month as I only sewed 3.9 meters. But, I enjoyed every moment sewing after I got rid of the one outfit that caused me sadness.

Knitting

 I got a picture of Kit in the hat. Not the best photo but it done. 

I also finished up the skein by knitting a pair of slippers. 

I need to put ribbons on them when I make the pajamas. I'm thinking white bows. 
I also set up another doll's sweater to knit. I bought the pattern 4-5 years ago and it was too advanced for me. I decided to make it as a slow knit. I only do a maximum of 5 rows at a time; more often it is 2-3 rows. Each row has to be read carefully twice - once to read it and then to read while knitting it. 

I know it will be set aside to test knit other patterns but I'm fine with that. The goal is to knit the pattern without being frustrated. All of the test knitting I've done has helped me get to this point.

Today

I have budget to do, snaps on the shirt, and a bit more knitting. 
Until the next time.........................................

More Sewing On The Shirt

Yesterday was our warmest day with a temperature of 28C and a humidex of 33C. This morning it is 20C and humid (humidex 25C). They are saying a high of 25C with a humidex of 29C. 

Lifestyle

After 3 days of wondering what is going on with my computer, I shut the mouse off, then on and reset it. All is working properly again. The bluetooth mouse is 8-10 years old. I will replace it with the same type as I really like it as it won't last forever. 
I did some work around the house yesterday moving slowly but surely. I also moved around outside quite a bit and by evening I was tired but not exhausted from the pain. For me, it was a good day. 
Diet wise, I cut out 60% of the gluten I had been eating and some dairy. I need to work on lowering both to 80% and see if that will make a bigger difference. I had no chocolate and very little sugar. I also started on supplements and need to get a good multi vitamin. I am hoping this will continue to help me be more pain free and have less attacks on my body. Also the brain fog started to lift which is nice. 
There were 2 new cases of the virus reported yesterday. One in the central and one in the north health regions. 

Sewing

I did some sewing yesterday and it felt good to get back to the Spousal Unit's shirt. The seams were serged, sleeves set in and the side seams sewn. 

All of this didn't go without an incident. I sewed the back seams together and went down the sleeves. I had to rip it out and try again. 
I only have the cuffs to put on, hem it and the snaps. Maybe today and if not tomorrow I will be finished.

I laid out the doll's top and skirt pattern yesterday in preparation to trace it. A lot of pieces but it should be cute in the same fabric as the shirt. I'd like to trace it out on Sunday. 

Knitting

I hauled out a new set of tips and knit a doll's hat last night. I have to photograph Kit wearing it with her scarf. I'm not sure what I will knit next. There are no test patterns so I may knit one of the patterns I quite like. 

Today

It is a home day so some housework, sewing, and knitting. I really don't want to be outside if it continues to be as humid as it is. 

Exhausted To The Bone

Yesterday was warm and humid. The temperature was 26.7C with a humidex reading of 31C. It cooled off to 17C this morning and we will see it warmer today.

Lifestyle

The Spousal Unit finished weed eating the ditch and around the vegetable boxes and worked on the puzzle, I bombed out. 
After breakfast, I went to bed for an hour. I didn't sleep but I did relax. I was exhausted to the bone. When I got up, I was still very tired and dragged around the house all day. Nothing was accomplished as I couldn't do much of anything. I sat and looked at the wall. I did very little that wasn't absolutely necessary. My thyroid has been acting up once again. The aches, the pains, the tiredness is all part of the process. Yesterday my body refused to do anything but rest. Just like Elliott.

As I get my energy back after this episode, I will be working on my diet again. I find keeping my diet free or almost free of certain foods (nuts, sugar, gluten, dairy, and chocolate) helps with the pain and keeping my medication dosage stable. I need to start back on supplements again as I find them helpful. With less stress and more opportunities to be outside working, I hope to have a pain free spell this summer. I am also going to ask the doctor if I can be tested for Hashimoto's Disease as I have quite a few of the symptoms. 
There was one new case of the virus reported yesterday. Of the 19 active cases, only 3 are within the province; the rest in a long term care facility. We continue to be careful and don't go out to shop unless it is absolutely necessary. We try to go out during quiet times. The province is opening up businesses with policies in place. The best is being able to get our hair cut in the near future. A big Yes Yes Yes!! The other big yes is the optometrists are able to open and I can get my new glasses. 

Sewing

I didn't do any sewing yesterday. I was afraid that the exhaustion would lead to a disaster if I used the serger. I didn't look at drafting the surplice bodice as I had no interest or ability to focus on it. No use doing something only to be frustrated and then toss my ideas into the trash can. 

Knitting

I did get the pictures of the scarf taken. 

It is quite long so it wraps around Kit's neck twice perfectly. 

I changed the tips of my needles to knit slippers for the dolls and broke one of the rosewood tips. I am quite upset as I love the set. It really was a bad day for me to do anything but, in the end, I did knit slippers for the dolls. I have to make a pair of pajamas to go with them. It will be July's doll sewing. 

Today

I am going to do a few things around the house, try to do some sewing and pick a new pattern to knit. I am feeling better as the attack on my body is receding. I hope to feel better every day as I adjust my habits. 
Until the next time.....................................

Another Project Completed

Yesterday was quite warm. The high got to 24.4C and with the humidity it was 29C. Big black clouds rolled in and we thought rain. Nope, just wind. This morning it is cloudy, humid and 15C. It is suppose to get to 28C today.

Lifestyle

I got the windows washed, end tables wiped well, and some furniture cleaned in the living area. I didn't get it all done as time ran out and I'm trying to do a good job. I also laundered all the blankets on the couch. 
The Spousal Unit got half of the ditch weeded with the snipper. Actually if we include all of the ditch, it was about 1/3rd. We have the most ditch to keep weeded in this area as we are a corner lot. 
I noticed the dehumidifier was running yesterday so am running another dehumidifier to help. With less humidity, the house stays cooler with out the a/c running. 

Sewing

I played around in the sewing room and got the plackets and cuffs interfaced. I then sewed the plackets on to the sleeves taking my time and following the tutorial Ron Collins did back in 2010. I did a lot of hand basting, pressing and marking. I finished both of them and am pleased. Pictures today. 

Knitting

I got the buttons onto the sweater and gave it a shot of steam. Kit loves wearing it. The fit is perfect on her. 

And the back fits really well also. 

The scarf is finished and is 26" long. I only have a picture of it when I started. 

I'll show it on Kit tomorrow. 

Today

I was in to get a few items this morning and was out in record time. I would like to do more cleaning of the living room, sew and knit something new.  
Until the next time..................................

And Indoor/Outdoor Day

Yesterday was warm but not hot. The high got to 22C. Today is cloudy and we are suppose to see it get to 25C. The next two days are hot with warm nights. If the humidity is high all I can say is Yuck!

Lifestyle

We are getting ready to start landscaping so I got the dining area cleaned up yesterday. The bleach and soap mixture was evident by the smell in the house. 
We were in and out of the house during the day. It was time to kill weeds and talk about the yard. We keep on top of dandelions as there are a lot of them around here. We also need to over seed the lawn next spring. 
I looked out and the Spousal Unit was preparing the area beside the ramp on the shed. He got it done and left it to dry out more so some dirt can be moved to the front of the house. 
The Spousal Unit worked on the puzzle and got more pieces in. I put in 2 pieces when I looked at it. My contribution for the day. 
There was only one new case of the virus reported yesterday. Three days of 1 case. The numbers are looking good but we will be living with restrictions for quite a while. The libraries are talking with the chief medical officer about their policies for reopening. It will be nice to have them open again.

Sewing

I managed to get into the sewing room to cut out the sleeves, plackets, and cuffs of the Spousal Unit's shirt. I need to cut out the interfacing and then I can start to sew. I'm happy about that. 
There is about .5 meter of the shirt fabric left. I have it laid out on the cutting table so I can make a shirt/blouse and skirt from it. If there is any left over, I will use it to make a surplice top for the dolls. I am looking forward to drafting the pattern, something I've wanted to do for a long time. 
I looked through a bag of bits and pieces yesterday and found some broadcloth for muslins. I also found the AG bodice sloper pieces and some other pattern pieces. I'm ready to begin.
I need a desk for things that I do. I have decided I will buy a 4 ft folding table and use it. I can get some sort of storage items to hold my supplies. The corner desk will be the computer station and I will buy another office chair to sit in. I'm set to go when I can get out to get them. 

Knitting

I knit on the doll's scarf last night. I got to row 139 and found a mistake 8 rows back. Fixed it and am past row 139 by the time I stopped. 
The test sweater still needs buttons and I'm on the search for ones to go with it. I'm hoping to find some today. 

Today

The living room area will be cleaned today, sewing done, buttons found, and knitting tonight. I'm hoping to do a couple of loads of laundry. And I hope to take some pictures today as I've been lax about that. 
Until the next time..................................

Planning A Doll's Wardrobe

We had another lovely sunny day. Not too hot with a high of 17.5C. Today is to be another sunny day though tonight we could have showers. The high today is to be 22C.

Lifestyle

Yesterday I got busy and cleaned both the kitchen and bathroom. The floors got scrubbed with bleach and soap. 
We have had two of the upstairs smoke detectors chirping so I fixed them with new batteries. All is quiet again. 
The Spousal Unit dug up some dandelions yesterday as we get some in our lawn. It is a tedious job to say the least. 
We worked on the puzzle also and got more done. We stopped after an hour and admired our work. The sky and sea are going to drive us nuts. 

Sewing

I got the collar finished on the Spousal Unit's shirt. I am totally impressed with it as it is the best collar I've done. I'm not sure why but I think I know. Going slow, thinking about what I wanted to do, drawing stitching lines all helped with the process. 
I'm working on putting together a doll's wardrobe to use up some of the stash. I also want to use up the left over fabric from the shirt. 

The pattern choice is Simplicity 1086 for a blouse. 

From Simplicity website

You can see all the clothes from this pattern here. If there is enough of the check fabric left, I will use it in a skirt. The sunhat is McCalls 6451 which is OOP. (There are plenty of this pattern for sale on Etsy.) It and the capris will be made from chambray fabric and neither will have any trim so they can be worn with other items I plan on making.    

Knitting

The test sweater is done and ready for a shot of steam to block it. Then buttons. After that, I will photograph it. 
I started the scarf to go with the last sweater I knit. I got 60 rows knit last night and have 100 more rows to go. More if I have the yarn. 

Today

I need to do more housework and sew on the Spousal Unit's shirt. Knitting tonight. I'm getting ready to spend time outside doing landscaping as our blocks and rock arrived at 8 a.m. 
Until the next time.............................

Positive Time In The Sewing Room

Though yesterday was sunny, it was cooler and windier. The high got to 12C. This morning it was 0C and frosty. Today is suppose to get to 17C. It is the start of some hot weather. 

Lifestyle

My housework became putting cord onto the weed snipper. Easy you say. Wrong I say. The directions were horrible and when I wound the string on I had it completely wrong. I spent some time reading, thinking and playing and got it right. The Spousal Unit was a great help. He has not patience (and never has) with crappy directions. Anyways, the weed eating and lawn mowing is done. 

Sewing

I cleaned up the sewing room prior to lunch. The extra notions were put away, the fabric from the doll's jacket tossed into the garbage, and the floor swept. I got the collar pinned down and ready to cut out. 
After lunch, the collar was cut out, interfaced, and sewn. No major issues with it as I took my time. 

I pinned it onto the shirt and sewed it down. It is ready for clipping, trimming and finishing up. 
I found my Pattern Design course for drafting patterns for doll clothes. It is a mess and I started to look at the course again in hopes of getting it into order. Of course it got the creative juices flowing. And questions started to pop in my head. I have a plan of doing a surplice top for the doll's wardrobe using both the sloper and a basic bodice from a dress pattern. 
Fabricville is opening its doors on Tuesday. I will go the following week to get a few items. I need bees wax as I've totally used up what I had. I love to run my thread through it prior to hand sewing. I'm also going up to the quilt shop and try to get a 30 minute shopping slot. I need items from them also. I won't be shopping again for a month or two.  

Knitting

I'm coming down to the home stretch on the doll's sweater. I am starting the neck ribbing. I hope to have it soon so I can knit a scarf for Kit's wardrobe. 
I am hoping the store where I buy most of my yarn for doll clothes opens soon. I need to get 3-4 balls of yarn. I have done a fair amount of knitting during the pandemic and have used up some yarn I really like and need a couple more new colors. Pink and yellow to be specific and the Jeans yarn. I want to be set for the next several months as I knit all year round. 

Today

Housework, sewing and knitting. We have nothing to do outside today so I can focus on inside things. 
Until the next time.......................................

Outdoor Time

We have had lovely sunny days with temperatures between 26-28C. Thursday and Friday mornings were warmer but this morning was cooler. And today is to be cooler than it has been. 

Lifestyle

We have been busy outside getting ready to do projects. With the warm weather comes the urge to be outside doing things. We are slow but we get them done. 
With the shed done....

the Spousal Unit started to dig an edging for the other side of the shed's ramp. 

It will look similar to the side we did last year. 

Some of the rose bushes are doing well. 

One may have to be replaced but we wait and see on it. 
We went to a nursery yesterday looking for Roma tomatoes and I was the only ones in there. They had what we wanted.  In and out in 5 minutes. We came home from our mental health drive very happy. 
In the afternoon we planted onion seeds using what we had in the stash. They are in a warm humid environment so we hope that they sprout. 
We also worked on the puzzle in the afternoon. We got quite a bit done and then got into each others way. We quit at that point. We laughed and chuckled as we put in pieces that had been hiding in plain sight.

Sewing

I've taken a short leave of absence from testing doll clothes.  I am tossing the jacket and have another plan for the pattern later on. Instead of fabric ruffles, I am going to use lace. I want to make a dress to go with it. I love the pattern but the fabric caused me grief while I was upset about other matters. This all may be made worse by the fact I am tired which could mean a low thyroid. No blood tests yet so I endure until the labs reopen.
I do have some fabrics pulled for the doll's wardrobe I am making. 

Two tops, jeans and a skirt will be made out of these fabrics. I have children's leggings to make a t-shirt and leggings also. 
Look at these lovely embroidery designs. All I can say is wow.

Knitting

I have a second jacket done. It is lighter than the last one and a different style. 

I have to wait until the store reopens up so I can get more of the jeans yarn. I would love to knit a hat to go with this jacket and reknit the other one. 
I am doing well on the test sweater. The sleeves are now being knit with the body. The decreasing does a raglan sleeve. The yarn is expensive and is called Forever Blue Jeans. 

It isn't my favorite yarn as it has no merino wool and feels scratchy. It fits into my denim look doll's wardrobe. 

Today

I am going to do some housework, clean the sewing room, and knit. 
Until the next time.............................

Back Again

Since Saturday late afternoon, we have had lovely sunny weather. The highs have been between 17 - 20C. It has been fabulous. 

Lifestyle

We have been busy since I last wrote. I got to go grocery shopping not once but three times. We were able to extend our bubble to include our family. We had a lovely dinner with them on Sunday. Being with family again is wonderful. 
Yesterday the Spousal Unit and I cleaned out the shed. We did quite well and everything is looking good. We will put the snow blower at the end of the driveway, list it on Kijji and watch it go away. We do not need it; we need a second shovel so both of us can shovel snow and enjoy it the exercise. 
The number of cases reported in Nova Scotia has dropped considerable. The past couple of days it has been one per day. There are still deaths which is very sad as they are in a nursing home. We still are being vigilant and wearing masks and washing our hands when out and about. 

Sewing

I stopped sewing for 3 days. The fabric I'm using for the jacket is jinxed. There was a fatality when a Snowbird's plane crashed and the person who died was from Nova Scotia. I will finish the jacket and am happy to toss the scraps. 
I won't be sewing Christmas on the 23-25 this month as I want to finish the Spousal Unit's shirt after the jacket is done. Then it will be back to sewing the doll's wardrobe. I'm okay with this as the Christmas fabric is about half gone and I can work on it again starting in June.

Knitting

I finished a sweater and need to try it on the doll. It is quite nice. I have started another test pattern and have the sleeves done and am working on the body. A well written pattern. 

Today

We are going to lay out the first area that needs a bit of landscaping and I plan on sewing and knitting. I may do some housework if I can fit it in. 
Until the next time...............................

Sunshine And A Drive

Yesterday was a gorgeous sunny day with a high of 17C. Today it is 6C and raining. We are suppose to see it get to 10C today. 

Lifestyle

We headed out for a long drive yesterday morning. It was so good to get away from the house and yard. Traffic was light, we explored, and enjoyed ourselves. We felt recharged when we got home. 
We talked to a couple who walk our street. They are going to plant a few vegetables and asked where we got our boxes from, what soil to use, and where we got our plants. We also talked to our neighbor and did it with social distancing. 
There were 8 new cases of the virus and 4 deaths reported yesterday. Two family bubbles have been introduced and a few more restrictions lifted. There is still lots of physical distancing and sanitation being called for. 

Sewing

I worked on the doll's jacket yesterday and quit when I had an issue. I couldn't get it fixed so stopped before I ruined the pieces. I thought on it for a couple of hours and have a plan. 
The quilting shop I love to go to is opening on Tuesday. They have set their rules (masks, 5 in at a time, 30 minutes shopping, and use of hand sanitizer). I won't be going for a couple of weeks as I don't need anything at this time. The snaps I've ordered have been put into the mail. 

Knitting

I finished the body of the sweater I'm knitting and started on the sleeves. When done, I have another pattern to test. I'll do it in a denim colored yarn as it is a nice basic short sleeved sweater. 

Today

It is housework this morning, sewing in the afternoon, and knitting tonight. 
Until the next time.......................................

Lacking Energy

We had snow Wednesday morning. Big wet flakes that fell all morning. 

It cleared off in the afternoon and the wind blew. Yesterday was sunny and windy. We saw highs of about 14C on both days. Today is to be sunny and warm. 

Lifestyle

I'm having sleeping issues once again. It affects me during the day which is totally annoying. All of it has been caused by self inflicted stress. My cup started to be half empty rather than half full. I've slept part of two mornings in a row which is not helping at all. I need to turn this around by forcing myself back into my routine. 
We have a resident bird who sits in one of our trees every morning. He chirps at us when we talk to him and never leaves while we are outside. I spent a few minutes yesterday holding a conversation with him which was fun.  
I did our grocery shopping yesterday for the first time in 6 weeks. I was worried about doing it, but all went well. There were around 20 of us in the store at 7 a.m. The store is clean and well marked. Everyone was doing a great job of social distancing. It is hard to figure out where to stand while waiting to pay for your groceries, but staff are there to help. 
The number of new cases of the virus has been 2 a day for the past 2 days. The number of recovered is around 90%. We didn't see a rise in the numbers from the soft launch on May 1. With nice weather this long weekend, we may (or may not) see a rise in numbers. We are remaining diligent in social distancing and staying home. 

Sewing

 On Wednesday I started testing an 1850's coat. I got the front and back pieces cut out and sewn. I also did the shoulder seams and then 2 of us realized there was no reference to top stitching. Mine will not have top stitching. 

With the lack of energy, I only pinned down a couple of pieces and walked out of the sewing room yesterday.  
I went to change out the elastic on our masks and don't have enough 1/8" elastic. I worked on trying to get these masks to stay behind our ears and may have it fixed. I may buy a spool of it as I use it a lot for doll clothes.
I found snaps for doll clothes and order 4 packages of them. They could be here by the end of June. 

Knitting

I knit on Wednesday night and was making good progress. Last night, nothing. I'm getting close to dividing for the sleeves. 

Today

We are going out for a drive this morning. It is our mental wellness drive so we can survive staying at home for the long weekend. I hope to cut out more pieces for the jacket and knit tonight. We will see where my energy levels are at noon. I may do the "push me" so I sleep well tonight. That means doing something in the sewing room, no naps, and staying awake until bedtime. 
Until the next time.........................................

Another Mask Made

Yesterday was a rainy day. It rained, barely rained, and poured rain. This morning, it is snowing. We are having stay at home weather. 

Lifestyle

After a slow start, getting flyers to the neighbors, and a nap, I helped the Spousal Unit work on the puzzle. We got a bunch of areas completed by lunch time yesterday. 
We had, for the second day, only 1 new case. It is nice to see the very low numbers but it doesn't say we are safe. It means we need to continue with what we are doing. Almost 85% of the cases have been resolved which is wonderful. 

Sewing

I finished my mask. I cut the elastic 11" so I could use the ear saver. It worked. I also made a mask for the Spousal Unit. I found the scraps of horse fabric and have enough to make him two. 

I'll make another one for each of us next week. 

Knitting

I crocheted an ear saver for the Spousal Unit. It took 10 minutes to make. I also sewed the buttons on the doll's sweater and had to make a button hole as I missed it. It is really tight to get the button through. 

It is really cute with the hats even if both look the same when on. I may buy another skein of this yarn and remake the sweater at a later date. I can't get into the craft store to buy more at this time. 
I cast on and started knitting another sweater pattern. It is the lighter version of the jeans yarn. 

Today

It is an inside day so the usual will be happening. I do hope to lay out a pattern for a doll's jacket this afternoon. It is a test pattern and I need to get it sewn. 
Until the next time.............................

Face Mask and Ear Saver

This is late as we are having slow internet.

Yesterday was a lovely warm day. The high got to 17C and the wind was the right amount to keep you cooled off. This morning it is 5C and wet. 

Lifestyle

Yesterday was a yard working type of day. The Spousal Unit and I got the last vegetable box put together, and filled with dirt. The Spousal Unit fertilized them in preparation for the rain today. The lawn was mowed. The only mishap was the Spousal Unit closing the shed's door on two of his fingers. No bones were broken; just some bruising. I was there to get his fingers out quickly. 
We spent a bit of time talking to a friend through social distancing. She has been busy at home with a few necessary outings. 
We had one new case of the virus in the northern health region and one more death in long term care. We are doing well but this coming weekend will tell the tale of the soft opening on May 1. It will also tell if we will see more things opening if the numbers remain low. 

Sewing

I spent my inside time making myself a mask. I used a new pattern by Craft Passion.  I chose this pattern as it is similar to the one I made for daughter-in-law and I can add a filter to it. My filter will be industrial toweling. It also has a place to put a pipe cleaner into for the nose piece. 

The fabric was sold as a .25 meter piece and the hearts ran in the wrong direction. When I put them in the right direction, I got one half right side up and the other one upside down. I'll live with it. I'm ready to sew the ends in place and add elastic. 

The instructions for this pattern is long and ramble on in my opinion. I decided to watch the video. There is no talking and the written instructions are in a light colored font. But, I got it made with out any difficulties. I have enough fabric to make 3 more for myself. I need to dig into the stash to find fabric for the Spousal Unit's mask(s). 

Knitting

I finished the second hat and stitched it together. I'm almost ready to put buttons on the coat and take pictures. I found some scrap yarn and my crochet hooks. After three different tries with a larger hook each time, I made an ear saver to wear with my mask. 

The length is 5" long and consists of 2 rows. As it is quick, I counted the stitches as I crocheted. There is a video also. I didn't watch it. 

Today

It's a lazy day as I didn't sleep well. The goal is to finish the mask and start a second one. I'll knit this evening. 
Until the next time....................................

More Done On The Shirt

After the snow that arrived on Mother's Day we thought the weather would be wet. But the storm left, the skies started to clear up and it wasn't too bad. Until you felt the wind. It was cold. It got to 6C. This morning the sun is shining, and the temperature was 5C at 7 a.m. Up 2C since 6 a.m. 

Lifestyle

Yesterday was an inside day. We worked on the puzzle and got clumps of pieces put together. A couple of areas got done. We felt successful in what we did and I will be getting a couple of more puzzles for when we are housebound this coming winter. 
Dinner was delicious. Daughter-in-law uses this recipe and it is my favorite meal. I always love it for my birthday meal. 
There were 7 new cases of the virus and no deaths reported yesterday. We are still being cautious and hopeful. The curve has flattened and we must all play our part in keeping it flat. 

Sewing

I got the front bands on the shirt yesterday. I cut them out, interfaced them and got them on neatly. I find cutting out on the bias takes more time as I cut out each piece in a single layer. 

I am using Shirtailor interfacing by Pellon in the shirts I am making. I found it at the quilt shop I go to and it is a nice crisp interfacing for shirts. The fusible knit interfacing is soft and I liked it in shirts until I found this one. 

I am hoping this shirt isn't going to be a wrinkled mess after laundering. But I do like the fabric and how well it looks with all the bias. 
Another pattern has arrived to be tested and I'm excited to do it. More on it as it evolves. 

Knitting

I ripped out the last hat and started again. I could not get the pattern to work as the stitch numbers would not remain constant. I started again, counted after each increase row and when I started to decrease for the brim, put in markers. It worked and I'm working away on finishing it. I'll take pictures when I put the buttons on the jacket. 
This is a picture of the yarn I'm using - Lions Jeans in the color called Classic. 

They say the yarn is a worsted weight (4) but it knits like a sports weight (3). At least for me it does. 

Today

I am going to make a couple of masks for us, help outside to put the second box together, do some housework, and knit. With the sun shining, we want to get the second box done and both filled with dirt. 
Until the next time..................................

Snow On Mother's Day?!?

Let's face it, spring is slow at coming. Mother Nature decided we should have snow on Mother's Day. It started about 6:15 a.m. The wind is blowing and it is 1C. 

Lifestyle

I didn't get much housework done yesterday. Flowers arrived from daughter for Mother's Day and daughter-in-law brought dinner for tonight. With the stay at home in effect, I think I did very well. 

The Spousal Unit and I got the border done on the puzzle and some pieces put together. The border was harder due to the colors. I did about 1/4 of it.
I also cleaned up a shelving unit in the utility room ready to get some dry goods ahead when I go out to shop. We aren't hoarding but trying to get our stock back to where it was at the beginning of March. 
We had 3 new cases of the virus and 1 death yesterday. The numbers are continuing to be low but we still need to be cautious. 

Sewing

I did the pocket flaps on the shirt yesterday. I am taking my time and enjoying the process from cutting them out to finishing. 

Knitting

I finished the hat to go with the sweater and had enough yarn left to start a different hat pattern. That will be the end of that skein of yarn. Next up will be the lighter version of the jeans yarn. 

Today

I am not doing a lot of things today as it is Sunday and Mother's Day. As the weather is not "let's go for a drive" weather, I will sew, knit, and work on the puzzle. And cook the delicious dinner that is in the fridge. 
Until the next time..........................................

Preparing For The Future

Yesterday started out sunny, turned dark and grey with rain and then brightened up to sunny and windy for the rest of the day. Today it is damp out there. Better than the snow forecasted for Sunday. 

Lifestyle

The kitchen got a good cleaning and disinfecting yesterday. I swept the floor and called it a day. I need to finish sweeping other floors and wash them all at the same time. 
The Spousal Unit started to build one of the new garden boxes yesterday. I went out to help and it took us about half an hour to make. We had to undo some of it and redo it. The box is now ready for soil. This box and the next one are about 20" deep and  will be great for potatoes and carrots. 
There was only 1 new case of the virus and 2 deaths yesterday. We can't let our guard down as there will be more cases. About 70% of known cases have recovered. 
If all goes well, I will start grocery shopping again next week. We will be cautious to say the least and take advantage of the 7 a.m. senior's hour. We will do a few other stores but will be choosing early hours and quiet days. So, now I need to sew masks for us. 

Sewing

I cut out and sewed the pockets on the shirt. The pockets are cut on the bias, handled gently so they don't stretch and placed so they are even across the fronts of the shirt. Next up is the pocket flaps also cut on the bias. 
I did look at the chambray fabric I had in a bin for the dolls. I am hoping I have enough for 2 pairs of capris and 2 skirts. If not onto Plan B. That means going through the doll's stash. 

Knitting

I ripped back the coat and fixed the mistake. I was doing the increase count wrong. The coat is done ready for buttons. I started a hat to go with it. When done, I will have used up most of one ball of yarn. 

Today

The goal is to sweep floor and wash them with bleach and soap. I want to sew the flaps onto the pockets and start to cut out our masks. I'm using a new pattern for us. This evening it is knitting. I will try to take pictures today. 
Until the next time..................................

More Done On The Shirt

We have had sunshine and we've had rain in the past 48 hours. Today we have sunshine which is lovely. 

Lifestyle

We are coming to accept our new normal and have leveled out in what we do and how we feel mentally. With the nice weather, the Spousal Unit does outdoor jobs and on wet days he does puzzles. 
The house is clean and I am keeping it up fairly well. I need to do a few things each day and then I can focus on other things. 
The number of new cases is dropping to below 10 daily (wait and see today will be above 10 with my luck). We still have 3 weeks remaining of the "soft" launch of reopening the province. It's a day by day process but we are happy that we are safe and healthy. 
Elliott wants to be outside on the deck in the mornings but we are keeping him inside. He is due for his vaccines and can't go to the vet at this time. But he watches out the windows and loves it when they are open. He was sitting on his scratching post watching people out for walk in this picture. 

Sewing

I cut out the yokes and have them on the body of the shirt. 

I'm getting use to sewing wider seams and longer lengths. In actual fact, I enjoyed doing the bias yokes and getting them on near perfect. Sewing slow is becoming my new normal. 
I'm going to use the left over fabric for the doll's wardrobe. I'm thinking a blouse for the two dolls to go with chambray blue capris length pants. I have the pattern that I bought quite a long time ago and made a dress from it. I'm up to tackling this Keepers Dolly Duds pattern again.

Knitting

I started a coat yesterday for the doll's wardrobe. I did a lot of knitting and I have a mistake. I'm taking it apart so I can find my mistake. I counted the rows before I joined the body but something is not right. I have made this sweater twice before with no issues. 

Today

Housework til noon. I want to get the pockets and front bands on the shirt -- all cut on the bias. Then tackle the knitting tonight. 
Until the next time....................................

Starting A Western Shirt

Yesterday was grey, damp, and cool. We even had a small snow flurry late in the afternoon. This morning it is cool at 2C but the sun is shining. 

Lifestyle

I looked around the house and all was tidy so I headed down stairs to work on the puzzle with the Spousal Unit. We were nearing the end by lunch time and finished it in the afternoon. 

Though I helped, he did most of it. I was just his helper and did some parts I enjoyed and a few that were frustrating for both of us. 
There were 6 new cases of the virus and 3 more deaths reported yesterday. It seems as if all are in the Central Health region. But, we should continue to live as if there is the virus is still in all locations. Letting down our guard will allow it to resurface, which we don't want. 

Sewing

I started the Spousal Unit's shirt yesterday. It was a shock to lay out big pattern pieces and cut them out. It was funny to sew 5/8" seams. But it was nice to have something coming off the sewing machine that wasn't doll clothes or quilted items. 
The shoulder seams are sewn. I always have them on the outside of the shirt as they are covered with the yokes and the shoulder seams are not showing on the inside. 

The fabric is wrinkled as I'm wrestling with it. The two dark dots are pins on the right side of the fabric. I laid out the yokes and pockets. I'll be moving them around a bit so I can use the fabric efficiently. 

I always do the yokes, pockets, cuffs and plackets on the bias. It is a western shirt. 
I'm thinking more and more about the doll's wardrobe and am now going to expand to include the American Girl dolls. I'm starting to plan as I sew the shirt. 

Knitting

I am almost finished the second sweater. I'm casting off now. Just a few yarns ends to weave in and buttons to sew on. It was an easy knit the second time around. 

Today

A bit of housework, fold laundry, dig in the doll clothes bin and out for a drive. Knitting tonight. A bit of a deviation to our day as it is sunny. 
Until the next time..............................

Mary Laura Dress Completed

Yesterday was a damp day. The mist rolled in and it was dull for most of the day. The high got to 12C. This morning it was 5C at 6 a.m. and is to be another cloudy day. 

Lifestyle

I checked the house yesterday and all was clean so I swept the floors and said done. I went downstairs and worked on the puzzle with the Spousal Unit. We got a lot done before lunch. I also did a bit later in the afternoon. 
There were 14 new cases of the virus and 1 death yesterday. We cannot let our guard down yet is the message of the day. 

Sewing

I finished the Mary Laura dress and am pleased with it. I'm glad I took 4 days to sew it as I enjoyed the process and all the thinking I did. And the researching and looking at the picture of the dresses worn by Laura and Mary. Nellie is equally as proud to wear it. 

I rolled the hem on the hankie using the serger. I'm not sure how to fold it but I did my best. 

And I'm pleased with the buttonholes on the back. 

Knitting

I finished the second sleeve last night and am ready to sew it together. It is knitting up faster this time as I know what to do. 

Today

I'll do a bit of housework, work on the puzzle, start a shirt for the Spousal Unit, and knit on the doll's sweater. 
Until the next time..................................

A Huge Disappointment

Yesterday was a beautiful day. The sun shone, it got to 17C, and there was minimal wind. This morning it is 8C and we've had a shower of rain during the night. 

Lifestyle

I was outside yesterday to look at the yard, the shed, and to watch the Snowbirds fly by. We talked about the yard work we want to do and how to clean up the shed. 
Like most people in our community, we were excited to have the Snowbirds fly over our community in the afternoon. In our area, many people were outside to watch. We social distanced and talked. And waited. Our son texted as we heard a noise and told us the Snowbirds had crossed over south of us. They missed our community. Talk about disappointed. Talk about people looking deflated as much as we were. Something small like that makes your day and if it doesn't happen you can really feel it mentally and emotionally. 
The update on the virus didn't help much either. Eight new cases isn't bad but 6 deaths in the nursing home was. Three of the new cases was at the nursing home. Hopefully the spread in there will become zero soon. 

Sewing

I finished the dress to the button holes and buttons. It was a delight to sew to this stage. 

I have the tear away stabilizer ready to do the buttonholes today. I thought about how much work Ma did when making these dresses for Laura and Mary. And how proud the girls must have been to wear them. Job well done, Ma Ingalls. 

Knitting

I finished the first sleeve on the sweater last night. I'm liking this one much better. I really don't like the wool though. It is like most inexpensive wool; scratchy and rough to knit with. I'm spoiled and I am happy about that. It will be gone and, as it is discontinued, I won't have to knit it again. 

Today

I am going to do some housework, a bit of sewing and knitting. If the weather improves, we may go for a drive for our mental health. We missed it yesterday. 
Until the next time................................