Piping Made

 Yesterday was a cool day with a high of 16.8C. There was some sunshine and some clouds. This morning it is 12.5C and cloudy. We are to have showers. 

Lifestyle

I got the laundry and budget done yesterday. At noon I announced to the Spousal Unit we can't go shopping until Oct. 1 as I had balanced the books for Sept. 

As a load of laundry was done, I got up and made the bed load by load. It was nice to have the bed made by the time the last load was dried. That was mid afternoon. It was also good to move around and not sit for 4 hours straight doing numbers. 

We were out with our grandson last night. We picked him up, took him home, had dinner and watched an episode of Clarkson's Farm (humorous as usual). It was a nice evening away from home. 

There were 41 new cases of the virus reported yesterday. We will be cautiously moving into Phase 5 of the reopening plan on Oct. 4. Masks and gathering sizes will still be in place as will a few other things. There will be mandatory vaccinations of people in health and education. I feel that we are not really opening up much more than we are right now. I'm okay with that. 

Sewing

I did a couple of hours of sewing yesterday and cut .5 meters of fabric into 5.9 meters of piping. I really enjoyed making it as it is easy to make and fun to see how the fabric looks as piping. 

The first piece I made was pink fairy frost. There was .2 meter of the fabric and it turned into 2.3 meters of piping. 

The second piece of fabric was .3 meter and I got 3.6 meters of piping from it. This fabric is old as daughter bought it about 2002 from a shop that was closing down in Dawson Creek. 

Though not a lot of fabric, it is 2 more pieces off the stash shelf. 

Knitting

I worked on the socks in the afternoon and evening and have the heel flaps done. I'm ready to turn the heel.

Today

I am tired as I had a bad IBS attack last night. I'm not sure how much I'll get done. If I have the energy, I will work in our bedroom. If not, I will nap before lunch. I'd like to make piping this afternoon and knit tonight. We wait and see if any of it happens. The given is -- I'll be in bed early tonight. 

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

Shopping Bag Almost Completed

Yesterday was dull and grey with showers. The high got to 18.5C and a 1/4" of rain fell. This morning it is still wet and 13C. We are to have showers today with rain tonight. 

Lifestyle

We had a busy morning yesterday. We headed out and got apples first. The Honey Crisp apples are almost ready to be on the shelves so we had to buy Sweet Tango to tide us over. 

The car got its oil change next. It certainly didn't take that long to do and we were on our way to get groceries. Once that was done, we headed down to the quilt shop where we ate our lunch. We were home by 1 p.m.

There were 32 new cases of the virus and 1 death reported yesterday. There were also 28 recoveries giving us 205 active cases. 

Sewing

The stop at the quilt shop was short and sweet. I got daughter 3 pieces of fabric for shirts. It was busy in the store with 10 cars in the parking lot and about 18 people inside. 

I spent a bit of time in the sewing room and just have a bit of hand sewing to do on the shopping bag. That will take all of 10 minutes to do. 

I am pleased with how it turned out and someone will enjoy it.

I will now clean up the cutting table and get ready to make piping for 2 days. Brain dead sewing for me. It will allow me to tackle the fabrics set aside for it so I can ship several bags to daughter in October. 

I will also get out the fabrics for the puppy's quilt/blanket. I haven't got it exactly designed in my head but I know it will be 6" squares and will fit onto a meter of fleece for the backing. 

Knitting

I knit 32 rows on the socks (16 rows on each sock) and am ready to start the heel flap. 

I am enjoying the pattern as it isn't difficult. I am reading both the pattern and the graph when I'm knitting on the socks but often know what to do when I finish a round. 

The Spousal Unit and I were talking about the yarn stash. I've bought very little yarn this year and am knitting up what I have. I hope to continue knitting it up as I do have some nice yarn in the stash. I know I will have to buy some for projects which is okay. 

Today

It is finish the bedroom day (laundry) and do the budget. This afternoon, I will sew piping and will knit tonight. We have to pick up grandson, be at their house for dinner and this evening. I can knit at their house. 

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

Another Sewing Project Started

 Yesterday was another lovely fall day with sunshine and a high of 18.3C. This morning it is 16C and cloudy. We are to have showers during the day and periods of rain tonight. The high is to get to 21C.

Lifestyle

I was out to pick up my prescription and have them fill the Spousal Unit's prescription mid morning. When I arrived home, I was exhausted. No energy at all. I've been sleeping poorly as our bedroom is too warm. Once I get tired, I get cranky and have no energy. Even last night's sleep was iffy as it was warm and the window was open. I love a cool bedroom and am waiting for cooler nights. 

The Spousal Unit picked beans last night. We had half for dinner and they were tender and very flavorful. The rest went to family so they can enjoy them too. There are more to pick in a few days. 

There were 83 new cases of the virus and 1 death reported yesterday for the past 3 days. There are 11 people in the hospital with 1 in the ICU. 

Sewing

I spent some time in the sewing room and started a grocery bag out of 100% linen from drapery material I had bought in Kamloops. I got the bag and handles made and am ready to start the lining. It is cut out ready to be sewn.

I enjoy making these bags on occasion as I can make them quickly and easily. This bag used up 1.5 meters of fabric and interfacing. I have enough interfacing for one more bag and about 1 meter of the lining left. 

I'm starting to think about October's sewing list. I want to have it done by Thursday (end of the month). I did tally up my totals to date.

For September:

• I sewed up 6.8 meters of fabric.
  
• I bought 1.2 meters of fabric. I have sewn up 1/2 of that fabric already. 

Year to date:

• I have sewn 53.15 meters
• I have donated 28.2 meters.
• I have bought 15 meters. Of that total I have 2.1 meters on the stash shelf.
  

Knitting

I did 16 rows of knitting on the 2nd sock yesterday. I noticed I knit slowly as I was tired. I didn't make any mistakes as I was really focusing on what I was doing.

I have knit a total of 58 rows on each sock and need to look at the other socks and decide if I need to do one more pattern repeat (16 rows) or if this is enough. 

Today

We are off to New Minas to have the oil changed in the car, do some shopping and have lunch out. On the way home we have to stop at the quilt shop for daughter. Once home, I hope to work on the shopping bag. Tonight I will knit on the socks. 

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

Two Projects Completed

 Yesterday was wet. It rained more on than off until late in the afternoon. The high got to 21.6C (humidex was 29C) and we had 3/4" of rain. This morning it is 13C and it looks like we had a shower during the night. It is suppose to be sunny and 20C today. 

Lifestyle

Other than do the usual clean up, I didn't do any big jobs yesterday. Resting was important as I feel better today. Tired from not sleeping well but I'm not as sore or achy. 

Sewing

I was down to the sewing room before lunch and finished the quilting. After lunch I cut out the binding and finished the quilt about 2:30 pm. There are some issues with it but I'm pleased with the results. 

I'm sure the cat won't notice it isn't quite square. 

With the quilt done, I will tidy up the fabric from it and begin a shopping bag. I want it done by the end of the month so I can start the next dog's blanket on Oct. 1.

Knitting

I steamed blocked the doll's outfit, put on the buttons and did the pictures. I went through all the buttons I have to find ones that worked with the yarn.

I also had to use ribbon for another outfit as I had none in these colors. 

I am happy this test pattern is done and off the needles. 

I did 16 rows (1 pattern) on the socks last night. I did enjoy knitting on them once again. 

I may have to knit these again as I'm quite liking the pattern. 

Today

I'm going to finish the bedroom and do a bit of work in the living room. I want to start a shopping bag and knit tonight. I do have to go out and get my medication today as I will be out tomorrow. 

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

Tomatoes Are Done (As Was I)

 Though there were clouds, there was no rain. The high got to 24.5C with a humidex of 31C. This morning it is 20C with a humidex of 27C. The deck is wet (rain?) and it is muggy ugly outside. We are to have periods of rain or drizzle and 19C. We wait and see on the high temperature. 

Lifestyle

I put housework on hold and did tomatoes. I blanched, cut up and cooked enough to make about 16 cups for us. Those were put into containers and froze. Next up were the Roma tomatoes. They were blanched, cut up, cooked, and put through the the sieve for applesauce (no seeds in the tomato sauce), cooked down and froze in 2 big tubs for family. There was about 12 cups of that. Tomatoes were done about 2 p.m. as was I. The kitchen was clean when I was done.

The Spousal Unit has pulled all the tomatoes out of the gardening boxes. The ones left were not ripening properly. It is good to see them gone for this year. I did look out a couple of times while walking about after stretching and the Spousal Unit was doing a great job. 

My legs were tired and sore after being on them for hours. I stretched a lot but nothing worked. They were tired. This morning they are much better after a night of resting. Though I'm improving, the sciatic nerve is still acting up a bit. It will come and I need to keep moving and stretching to keep it strong.

Sewing

I spent some time in the sewing room working on the cat's quilt. It is now quilted ready for binding. 

The binding will be the print fabric as I have lots of it. I will almost be sad when this quilt is done as I have enjoyed the process of designing, sewing, and quilting it. It is, what a friend called, a happy quilt. 

I proof read the pattern yesterday morning while eating breakfast and found quite a few mistakes. Another person found a few more. 

Knitting

I was so tired last night that I didn't knit at all. It would have been a disaster. 

Today

It is rest day -- no housework at all. The plan is to work on the binding on the quilt, finish the knit test pattern, and rest. The only obligation I have is to make dinner. 

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

A Busy Day

 Yesterday was another warm day with a high of 25.6C with a humidex of 30C. This morning it is cloudy and 19C. We are to have a high of 23C with drizzle or showers. 

Lifestyle

As we were to be out at 4:30 pm to see grandson play soccer, I changed our plans on what to do in the house. I did clean up in the dining area and swept a lot of floors. I also started to make a chicken stock that needs finishing today. Son came for a visit and we chatted with him for 45 minutes. The morning went by quickly.

We were to watch grandson's game and it was warm. Though the team didn't play that well, we saw grandson and another student do a few great moves. What those boys have learned is showing up in their games. 

There were 34 new cases of the virus reported yesterday. 56% of those cases are under investigation. 

Sewing

I swept the sewing room floor and put away everything for doll sewing. I spent quite a bit of time fixing a top for daughter-in-law but it is done and returned to her. The pinning and basting of a large insert took most of the time. The sewing was the easy part. 

There is another colonial pattern out to test by the same designer as the one I finished. I have downloaded the pattern and will proof read it. I won't be sewing it at the moment as I need to finish the cat's quilt. I had hoped it would be October's test pattern. I will sew it next month as I have all the materials for the pattern. 

Knitting

I didn't knit last night as it was late when we got everything done. 

Today

It is a busy day doing chicken stock, tomatoes, laundry, and whatever else I find to do. I hope to sew and want to finish up the knitting project. We have grandson for dinner tonight. 

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

Sewing Test Pattern Completed

Yesterday was actually hot with a high of 26 and a humidex of 30C. The sun shone and it was warm to be outside. This morning it is 16C which is warm for us. We are to have another lovely day with a high of 24C.

Lifestyle

I started the morning out by running the clean cycle on the washing machine when I got up. By the time I started housework, it was done and ready for a load of laundry. I continued to work in our bedroom and got the furniture cleaned. Once it was done, I washed the windows and frames and the ceiling fan. The floor was dry mopped, along with the bathroom, hall, and kitchen. I was done. It was a good morning's work for me.

The Spousal Unit went to mow the lawn yesterday and the mower quit after 10 minutes. When the repair man arrived, it worked like a charm for me. I went out after a bit and started to mow and it quit. I phoned and kept mowing and starting the machine when it quit. The fellow arrived and we need a new starting coil. Back to the shop it goes today. 

 My sciatic nerve is healing though it does get tired. When I did the stretching exercises yesterday, there was very little pain. Just tiredness and some numbness in my lower leg. I am trying to do more each day to strengthen it. 

There were 41 new cases and 1 new death reported yesterday. There were 20 recoveries and we have 147 cases in the province. 

Sewing

I spent just over 2 hours in the sewing room and finished the test pattern. My hands were cramping up as I had to clamp small pieces very tightly to keep them in place while I pinned. The end result is better than I expected. 

I'm now ready to sweep the floor, put away dolly sewing and quilt the cat's quilt. This was a fun pattern and I enjoyed the time I spent on it. I'm ready for the next test which will be from the same designer. 

The cat's quilt will be my focus for the next few days as I need to get it done and onto the last pet quilt for Christmas gifts. 

Knitting

The shawl was done last night and I may loose playing yarn chicken on the purse. I did knit about 45 rows last night even with cramping hands. This pattern was way too much and the time line was way too short. I may just skip testing next month as I'm tired of the pressure put on testers. 

I am looking forward to getting back to knitting socks. They have been patiently waiting for me to finish the test pattern. 

Today

The goal is to finish the bedroom (bedding and floors), clean off the dining table, and do quilt after I clean the sewing room. We are out late this afternoon to grandson's soccer game which we are excited to go to. I may or may not knit tonight. 

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

More Done On Both Test Patterns

 Yesterday was a sunny and warmer day with a high of 24.5C. There was a humidex of 28C. This morning it is 13C and we will have sun and clouds and a high of 24C. 

Lifestyle

We headed out to shop yesterday morning and were home at noon. With the store getting crowded, we were happy to leave. We are okay for groceries until Tuesday when I'll run in and get a few items after the car is serviced. 

I spent the afternoon running up and down the stairs (inside and out) helping the Spousal Unit with the lawn mower. It worked well for a time and then started to quit when we put it into self propel. After trying out different scenarios, I called the shop and they are picking it up today to fix. 

I was exhausted last night as my sciatic nerve really flared up doing the stairs so often. I sat on the bed doing stretching exercises and cried. But, it helped immensely as I had very little pain after they were done and slept for 6 hours before getting up to the bathroom. While in pain, I did get the kitchen cleaned up and the garbage out ready for pick up today. I'm trying to establish some good evening habits even if they are done in pain.

There were 19 new cases of the virus reported yesterday. There were 29 recoveries which is good. It seems as if we may be moving into Phase 5 on Oct. 4 but with a mask mandate. 

Sewing

I didn't get as much done as I had hoped on the test pattern due to the lawn mower. I got the fichu made and on the doll. I also did the lacing up the front.

I'm really pleased with the look. I cut out the apron and got it hemmed. It is ready to gather and put on the waistband/ties. Once done, it is just the hat left to make. 

Knitting

I am 20 rows short of finishing the shawl. I didn't knit as much last night but I did knit. I may have enough yarn to knit the purse. 

Today

The goal is to work in our bedroom dusting and cleaning. I have to work on the test patterns in hopes that I can get them both almost done today. 

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

A Rushed Morning

 Yesterday was another lovely fall day. The sun shone and the high got to 23C. This morning it is 12C and it is to be another warm and sunny day. The high is to get to 23C.

Lifestyle

I have been trying to get our proof of vaccination cards printed for 5 days. Every time I print them, our name becomes 5 boxes with ? marks in them. I finally took a picture of the cards and printed them. I also got them onto my phone. What a lot of work.

While folding laundry, the phone rang and it was the doctor's office. We were late for our appointment. I thought it was today had it in the phone for Thursday. We rushed around, got ready and went. We got in and we both had great blood work and blood pressure. Our doctor wants us to wear our masks all this winter and told us masks will be mandatory in his office for along time to come as it could be in a lot of other places. 

When home, I finished folding laundry and did a small load of laundry. That was it for house work but I did do some. The small load of laundry still needs folding as I had to sew. 

With my hip and leg feeling much better, I am going to be tackling a room a week to get this place cleaned up. I will also be maintaining those rooms I clean as I don't want to get behind again for a long time. It has also shown me that doing a room a week, I can purge items from the room as I do the deep cleaning and maintain the rest of the house. 

The room I'm starting in is our bedroom. The last time I did a deep clean of the room, I purged and put as many items on the shelves in the closets as I could. I've kept those closets clean and am happy with the results. Now to keep the room clean on a regular basis. Setting aside a week will help me do that and I may be able to do both bedrooms in a week when I'm in maintenance mode. 

There were 25 new cases of the virus reported yesterday. With a number of cases being under investigation daily, I've started assuming there is community spread and am monitoring exposure sites when I need to shop. 

Sewing

I got the jacket done yesterday and I really like the how it is sewn together. Lined and without a seam showing. The jacket went together well and I was done after a couple of hours of sewing. 

Though I'm not a fan of tan, I quite like this combination. Next is the cap, apron, and fichu. 

I have enough of both fabrics left to make another skirt and a vest for the next pattern. I will be sneaking back to get more of the skirt fabric to make an outfit using this combination. 

I've had the print for 4 years and it will be perfect for the dolls. Christmas outfit I'm thinking. 

Knitting

I'm still knitting on the scarf of the test pattern. I have 140 of the 180 rows knit. I'm tired of the pattern even if it is nice. I'm behind on knitting Xmas gifts. Grrrr...............

Today

We are heading out this morning to New Minas to shop as per our plan. This afternoon I want to sew on the test pattern and tonight I'd like to finish the scarf. 

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

Test Pattern Progress

Yesterday it was lovely and sunny. The high got to 20C. This morning the temperature was 7C. At 4:30 am, there was thick fog and by 6:30 am, it had cleared away. It is to be another nice day. 

Lifestyle

My hip/leg wasn't too sore yesterday morning so I hustled around and did a few things. A load of laundry, some bathroom cleaning, and tidying up the kitchen. I was done in good time and then did the budget for August. I did a couple of stupid mistakes - number reversals. It is done to where I needed to be. 

While I was cleaning the kitchen, the Spousal Unit decided to monitor Elliott out on the deck. It could have turned into a 6 hour job as someone decided it was nap time in the warm sunshine. 

Elliott has really improved and is feeling better. He is still on medication for a while yet. I put the pills into chicken flavored pill poppers and he eats them out of my hand, gets his treat, and then has his meal. I'm thrilled that he is being so good about taking his medication. 

The Spousal Unit pulled out and bagged up all the grape tomato plants. They are done for the year and now he can dig the box up ready for next year. He is watching the beans as there are some about 3" long on the plants. We covered them and the Roma tomato plants last night as there was a risk of frost. 

There were 55 new cases of the virus reported for Friday to today. There were 88 recoveries in that time period. There are 8 people in the hospital with 0 of them in ICU. There is community spread also. 

Sewing

I spent 2.5 hours in the sewing room and left when my hip/leg started to get sore from sitting so long in one position. I got the top cut out and the outer layer sewn. 

It wasn't too hard to do but I have to remove the lace from one side and put another piece on so the points match. 

I'm quite in love with this pattern as it is well designed and really nice to sew. I did hand baste the sleeve cap pieces in place before inserting the sleeves. 

The lining is ready for the sleeves to be inserted. There is a peplum to add to the bottom.

There will be another Keepers Dolly Dud's pattern out to test in the near future. It is another Colonial era outfit and I will be testing it. 

Knitting

I knit and knit and have 110 rows knit on the shawl. I'm tired of it already and have many more rows to go though I'm over halfway done. 

Today

My focus today is to do some work in our bedroom, more on the budget (pay bills), sew on the doll's pattern, and knit on the shawl. 

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

Petticoat Completed

Yesterday started off with a good rain and then it cleared up and was sunny and windy all day. The high got to 19.9C. This morning it was 7C and clear.

Lifestyle

I got all the ripe grape tomatoes put through the blender and into bags to use in chili and stews this winter. The kitchen was cleaned up and I was happy to have that job over with. Carrots are to be done towards the end of the week.

My hip/leg was better yesterday. It was a bit sore now and again but much better than it has been. Even my back wasn't too sore. It gets tired and sore at the end of the day which is to be expected. 

My IBS has flared up some and my sleep habits have been poor due to the flare ups. I'm not sure if it is food or unconsciously worrying about the 4th wave. I've been much better about not trying to fix the world but I still think I'm worrying hoping we are doing our part. I did have a nap yesterday afternoon for half an hour as I was tired from being up during the night. 

I have to get back to cleaning the house now my leg/hip/back is improving. I've been keeping the kitchen clean even if it means being in a lot of pain doing it. I do feel a bit overwhelmed as I haven't been able to do a lot. But I will add a bit to the list every day.

Sewing

I worked on the test petticoat (skirt) and it was an easy sew. A bit time consuming but easy. It is completed and fits the doll well. I may have to move the snap for a fatter doll. 

I laid out the top fabric to press and then will start it. It is a cream and beige diagonal stripe which will add some texture to the outfit. 

Knitting

I started the shawl and it is almost 200 rows in length. One person has completed the test and I'm sure she must have knit 8 hours a day. I just can't do that. At this time, I have over 40 rows knit on the shawl and it has been time consuming.

Today

It is budget day and that will keep me busy until noon. Sewing this afternoon and knitting tonight. 

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

A New Test Pattern

Yesterday was warm and humid. The high got to 25.4C with a humidex of 33. This morning it is 14C and we had rain during the night. It is suppose to get to 19C and we could see periods of rain today.

Lifestyle

I got the kitchen cleaned up again yesterday. I even cleaned the oven as I want to keep it clean. Next week, I will run the steam clean cycle on it. As I cleaned the kitchen, I did a lot of laundry. The blankets used to cover the tomatoes and beans were done along with a load of clothes. 

The Spousal Unit picked tomatoes yesterday after we delivered about 30 lbs to our neighbors. We got 2 quarts of salsa in return. 

We worked hard on what we can control and I'm pleased with how we felt better mentally. We will continue to try and move forward on this front. 

Sewing

I headed down to the sewing room and worked on the test pattern. I got the petticoat cut out and the back seams finished with a Hong Kong finish. It won't take long to finish the skirt. The top will take longer as there are more pieces to cut and sew. 

The photo makes me think that light weight wool and linen was used and the top is lined with cotton.

I bought twice the amount of fabric needed for the skirt so will be using the rest for another historical outfit. I have blue fabric that looks awesome with it. 

I was over to visit with our neighbor. She has been quilting like crazy since her sister left and we shared projects. Her quilt is an art statement and lovely. I hope I can take a picture of it when she's done. I showed her the cat's quilt and she loved it. Called it a fun quilt for a spoiled cat. 

Knitting

The jumpsuit is done to blocking and buttons. I will never, ever knit it again. I will cast on the shawl next and get it done as fast as possible. I am so done with this test pattern that I won't see the end of it fast enough. 

Today

I am going to put all of the small ripe tomatoes into the blender and freeze them for sauces this winter. There has to be 10 lbs to do. I also want to finish the test pattern petticoat today and work on the test pattern shawl tonight. 

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

My Circle Of Control

 Yesterday was a nice day with a high of 22.8C. We had no moisture. This morning it was 18C when we got up and it feels humid outside. It is suppose to get to about 22C with a humidex of 29C today. Showers could happen today and are suppose to happen tonight. 

Lifestyle

We had a discussion yesterday about our mental health. We are now focusing on what we can control and trying to let everything else be just news. It is hard to do but we are trying.  We do talk to each other to remind ourselves we can't control what is happening outside of our own lives. 

I've reverted us back to this to help us move forward.

After getting the meat repackaged and into the freezer, we headed out for a while in the morning. It was a break from the house for us. 

I was tired (mentally) yesterday and had a nap in the afternoon. The Spousal Unit slept away the evening due to mental and physical fatigue. My hip is getting better though it still has spells of numbing pain. There is less pain this morning but we wait and see what happens today. I'm hoping that the nerve is healing. 

There were 18 new cases of the virus and 29 recoveries reported yesterday. The state of emergency has been extended to Oct. 3. We have 73.2% of the overall population has been double vaccinated. We are slowly getting to the 75% target. 

Sewing

One of the places we went to was the quilt shop. I haven't been in there for a long time. I did buy fabric for a test pattern that I want to start today. I stepped outside my comfort zone and bought beige. A bit scary but appropriate for this project. Once this project is done, I will return to the cat's quilt. 

Knitting

I am on the last back piece of the jumpsuit. I will be happy to see this project done though I still have the shawl and purse to make. I will be knitting like crazy this weekend to get a lot of it done. I'm missing knitting on the socks. 

Today

I have laundry and housework to do this morning. I want to cut out the skirt of the test pattern and get it sewn this afternoon and knit tonight. I'm behind due to resting my sore back/hip/leg. 

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

Mental and Physical Fatigue

The weather has turned to fall as the temperatures have been in the low 20C range. The nights can be cool but they can be warmer depending on the weather system at the time. Yesterday was dampish with a high of 21C. This morning, it is 13C and we could see a shower or two during the day. 

Lifestyle

Wednesday was a write off. After getting our hair cut, we came home and sank into our chairs with little to no energy. Was it because of Elliott? Or the large number of cases on Tuesday? Or a mild case of depression? We aren't sure but we realize it was mental exhaustion.

Yesterday I was to the city to get groceries. The Spousal Unit was home alone and it was good for both of us. I was tired when we got home and rested. The Spousal Unit had watered the lawn and was tired also. This was physical exhaustion though there was some mental exhaustion also. 

I am trying to take our minds off what is happening by talking about a lot of other things and finding good stories to read. I'm also trying to move us forward to doing more things here so we can be more productive during the day and spend less time reading the news. 

Though my leg is feeling better, it painful when tired. I'm stretching it a lot and putting heat on it. The pain is more around my knee with a bit up in my thigh. Not like it was. 

There were 6 new cases reported on Wednesday. Yesterday there were 34 new cases yesterday. Most of these are in a defined unvaccinated group/community in the northern health zone. There are signs of community spread in the province. 

Sewing

I haven't been in the sewing room much the last 2 days. I was too tired to quilt or sew. 

There is a new pattern to test and it is from the designer I like. I will try to test it as it is one I've been waiting for for a long time. Yes, months of waiting. 

Knitting

I have been knitting and am on the bodice of the jumpsuit. I'm not sure about the combination of stitches. The legs have one pattern, the bodice another. Over the past year I've noticed that the patterns being published are for intermediate knitters with very few for beginning knitters. There are no simple basic patterns for wardrobe builders which is sad. 

Today

I will be busy in the kitchen today. This afternoon will be spent out and I will knit tonight. I am going to be looking for fabric for the test pattern I want to sew, either from the stash or the quilt shop. 

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

Quilting The Cat's Quilt

 Yesterday was another lovely fall day with a high of 21C. This morning it was 7C and partly cloudy. We are to get to 20C today with the possibility of showers tonight. 

Lifestyle

Elliott is much better. He greeted me this morning asking for his breakfast. He came with me to the couch to get his medication and seems to know he has to have it first. He is sassy and happy. 

The Spousal Unit watered the lawns yesterday to dampen the over seeding. He was really tired when done. I did some housework and was tired. Part of the reason is that we are both tired of the pandemic and its restrictions. We know they are for ours and others safety. We are both having knee pain which is tiring. And, we are staying home a lot with our day trip to Truro cancelled due to the 4th wave. 

There were 66 new cases of the virus reported yesterday. 61 of them are in the northern health zone in a community outside of Truro. The rest are in the Halifax area. There are 4 people in the hospital, 3 of them in Truro. We have 173 active cases in the province. There was a briefing yesterday and we are not moving into phase 5 of the reopening plan today. We have 72.2% of the entire population double vaccinated. The spike in cases, community spread, and the cases in other Atlantic provinces are the reasons we haven't fully opened. We have at least 2.5 weeks more of Phase 4. We wait and see after that. It is better to be careful than to be reckless. 

Sewing

I spent 2 hours in the sewing room quilting the cat's quilt. I did a row of stitching on each side of the seam allowances.

It isn't perfect but I am happy with it so far. 

Every beginning and ending thread has been knotted and buried. Next up is the black border. 

Knitting

The second leg was finished and both legs are joined and I'm knitting merrily away to the eyelet row. Not many rows left to go. I won't have the complete test done in 2 days but I should have the jumpsuit done by then. 

Today

We head out soon for hair cuts, home to do a few small things like uncover the vegetable boxes, quilt and knit. Another day at home. 

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

Elliott is Recovering

 Yesterday was another lovely day with a high of 21C. This is my favorite weather -- cooler and sunny. This morning it was 13C and we are to have a high of 19C. 

Lifestyle

Elliott was to the vet just after 8 a.m. and it was busy. They took Elliott and called me 2 hours later to confirm he had a bladder infection and that his bladder was full. He was tended to and we picked him up at 2 p.m. He was not a happy boy and ignored us in his dopey state. 

He had his medication, medicated food and used his litter box several times. He is feeling much better this morning. 

I did get all the appliances shined up as I needed something to do. They do look nice when done. I will be working in the kitchen today to do a bit more. 

There were 74 new cases reported over the weekend with a total of 125 active cases. There is a community cluster in one region and community spread in another. There are also cases of the virus in the school. We have a briefing today to find out what will be happening. 

Sewing

I did get the cat's quilt sandwiched. I used the cutting table and clipped the backing down on three sides and taped the 4th. I laid the batting on top and clipped it down. The top was smoothed on. 

I pinned down the top in preparation to quilt it. 

This is such an easy way to sandwich a quilt and I didn't have to get down onto the floor. Hurrah!!

Knitting

I did a lot of knitting after Elliott came home as I had to monitor him. I am over half done the 2nd leg. Knowing the pattern is great as I only had to check once in a while to make sure I was doing it correctly. I am also at the same stage as another tester so am not feeling too badly about being a slow knitter. And, no one has finished it yet. 

Today

I am going to work in the kitchen this morning as I can keep an eye on Elliott. I want to start quilting the cat's quilt and will knit later this afternoon and evening. It is a stay at home day for us. 

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

A Not So Happy Elliott

 Yesterday was a sunny blustery day. The high got to 24.3C. It was a lovely fall day. This morning it was 14C and the sun is shining. There is fog and and clouds around. We are to see 21C today.

Lifestyle

My hip was sore yesterday as I helped set up chop saw. I did not blow a gasket but commanded the situation and it got done. No arguing or fighting.

Once that job was done, I cleaned the fridge but did not get the appliances cleaned on the outside. My leg/hip was sore enough I wasn't up to bending on it. I did do some stretching exercises which help in the long run. 

Elliott decided he was going outside onto the deck. He had an enjoyable time outside.

This morning he is wandering around, crying and has a bladder issue. We are waiting to call the vet and take him in for medication. The happy boy we had yesterday is not too happy today.

Sewing

I spent the afternoon in the sewing room working on the cat's quilt. I got the borders on it before quitting for the day. At that point my hip/leg was really sore. But, I was happy with what I had gotten done. I spent a lot of time measuring to make sure the borders were exactly the same size top/bottom and the sides.

After a brief discussion with daughter, we decided the yellow thread was perfect for quilting this quilt. 

The backing is the print and the yellow will blend in nicely. It will show up only on the black squares. I have to say, this cat is really spoiled. 

Knitting

I knit on the test pattern yesterday and have the first leg done and the 2nd one started. 

I have cast off and decreased for the crotch after this picture was taken. 

Today

I am waiting to call the vet to take Elliott in. Once he's in I will go to the grocery store for a couple of things, home to launder mats, and be ready to pick him up once he is medicated and happier. I will try to quilt and knit when I can. 

Cat Quilt Begun

 Yesterday was sunny with a high of 19C. This morning it was 12C when I got up. The sun is shining and it is to get to 24C. 

Lifestyle

I cleaned the kitchen to the best of my ability as my hip decided to flare up and hurt. Just the appliances need shining and the fridge cleaned. 

The Spousal Unit worked outside on the landscaping project. He got it done and, with the help of our neighbor, the edging is planned. Once done, he decided to bring the chop saw down from the shed to the garage alone. When he went to push the wheelbarrow up onto the driveway, it tipped over knocking him down. I went out to check on him and blew a gasket. 

He forgot to get me to help him move a big and awkward item. He dumped sod out of the wheelbarrow out onto the lawn and he got his leg bruised. I helped him get things done right and by the time we were done I was hurting to the point of crying and he was hurting and angry. It wasn't the best ending to an afternoon. 

My hip/leg is much better today after putting heat on it all night and taking Advil. I will survive but can't lift for a few days until the inflammation is gone. 

We had a lovely dinner with family last night and watched another episode of Clarkson Farm. It is a show we all enjoy and laugh over. 

Sewing

I worked on the cat's quilt yesterday and got the squares sewn together. I pressed all the seams open and took the time to match the seams. I am impressed with how it looks. 

I played around with borders for a bit before we went out and have decided on a 1" finished border in black and a 4.5" border in the yellow/grey/black print. The backing and binding will be the print as I started out with 5 meters of it and want to use it up as fast as possible.

The quilt will be about 30 x 36" when done. Quilting will be straight lines 1/4" each side of the seams. Very simple as this is for a cat. 

Knitting

I knit a few rows on the test pattern during the day but none in the evening. I was doing more pain control than knitting. 

Today

I need to clean the appliances and grunge out the fridge. Laundry needs folding and then I will work on the cat's quilt. Tonight I hope to knit on the test pattern. 

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

Project Completed, Project Started

 Yesterday was a better day weather wise. There was one good rain just before lunch and after that the weather settled down. The high got to 24.2C with a humidex of 33C. This morning it was 14C and dropped to 13C. It is sunny and lovely outside.

Lifestyle

I was out grocery shopping early and got what we needed. We were out mid morning to vote and headed to New Minas as I needed 2 skeins of yarn. We got home just before lunch and the heavy shower. 

The Spousal Unit spent the afternoon doing some digging and weed eating. He was tired due to the humidity. He is eager to do some landscaping preparation. Too much time spent inside the last couple of days. 

There were 11 new cases of the virus reported yesterday for a total of 78 cases in the province. One person is in the hospital. I wonder if we will be mandated masks again as the number of active cases under investigation rises.

Sewing

I finished hand sewing the binding on the dog's blanket. It is now done and folded to be wrapped for Christmas.

I am happy it is done. 

I swept the sewing room floor and am now ready to start the cat's quilt. Progress is being made on Christmas presents. 

Knitting

The yarn purchased for the test pattern is a sock yarn that knits up to gauge on 3.25 mm needles. 

I have wanted to knit this colorway and am moving away from self striping yarn. The yarn will make wonderful socks that will show the pattern much better than striping yarn. 

I got a bunch done on the test pattern yesterday.

The second sock got 16 rows done on it. The pattern is showing up not too badly with this yarn.

Today

I am going to do some housework, start on the cat's quilt and knit. It is a stay at home day for us. 

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