Year End Thoughts

It is the end of 2022 and the temperatures yesterday was a lovely 7.5C. Today we are to see a high of 10C. 

Today is a day of reflection on 2022. It was a tough year with the Spousal Unit declining with Alzheimer's and passing in September. He is missed every day but we know he is at rest from what he was going through. I am grateful I had 51 years with him and do not regret looking after him while he was ill. I am also grateful to have family who have been supportive and loving while we went and still go through this time of adjustment. Without them, I don't know how I would have coped. 

I spent a lot of time adjusting to a new role -- caregiver of the Spousal Unit and our home. I was able to do it well and didn't screwed up too much. If I did, I fixed it and moved forward. I learned how to be vocal when necessary and how to make plans that kept us surviving. I learned what exhaustion was and how horrid you feel when you are burnt out. Feelings like anger, sadness, and loneliness were felt and still surface on some days. But a feeling of calmness is starting to be felt as I recover from the trauma I went through. 

It was a year where I could have lived in one continuous pity party but I am looking at things with a more positive light. One big thing I did was look after and harvest the garden. I'm pretty proud of myself that I learned from a master and could do it on my own. I planted garlic for 2023 and have plans to plant the garden this spring. It won't be as much as in past years. I survived Hurricane Fiona at family's house and then another storm Nov. 30/Dec 1 when the wind tipped the BBQ over. I am ready for when the snows come -- the snow shovel and salt are in the garage. 

I am learning how to cook for myself and am enjoying it. I'm trying new recipes and love some enough to have made them several times. Falling back on how we ate is still easy to do but I'm trying hard to break those habits. I want to eat healthy tasty food. With a new recipe book for cooking for one and lots of recipes on the internet, I will be doing more. 

I am learning to take care of myself. My big thing was to get physiotherapy for my knee and back. Best thing I have done. Next is to move more outside -- walking. I can do short distances but want to walk further. I am learning that certain foods cause me to have IBS attacks and am weaning myself from them. I have less attacks from stress as I'm working on having less of it in my life. Having a purpose to do something each day helps. Getting out of the house a couple of times a week also helps me from having feelings of sadness and depression. 

Financially I have made several decisions which I'm striving to meet. I need to keep them in forefront so I can meet those decisions through smart goal planning. A couple of surprises that have cropped up and they will be dealt with in the coming year when I can afford them. 

I was surprised at how much I sewed this year. In the end I met my goal of sewing 50 meters but I bought more fabric than I had wanted to. Most of the bought fabric was sewn. What remains is on the list to be sewn this coming year. The sewing room is a mess and I'm started to clean it when I had the time and energy. 

I knit less this year than I have ever done. I put it away for quite a while. When I picked it up in the fall, I knit more slowly as my muscles were not use to it. I knit 1057 grams of yarn which is 2 lbs. 5 oz. I am slowly working my way through the yarn stash. 

I worked on Less Is More in all parts of my life. I did the first sweep of the house in the fall. I stopped when I got it done. I got rid of a lot of useless paper and put what I'm not sure of into a box that will go in a year. I cut back on Christmas decorations, and set up the family room. 

Tomorrow we welcome in 2023 and I will let you know what I have planned for the new year.

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

Moving Forward

 The weather has been cool and there have been flurries but nothing exciting. Yesterday the high got to 06C. This morning it was -1C and we are to have a high of 7C. There is to be some sunshine which will be nice. 

Lifestyle

Life has been quiet with no excitement until yesterday. On Wednesday I took Son to the surgeon and he got a good report. His shoulder is stable and healing. We went out to have burritos for lunch (excellent) and drove part way home in snow flurries. 

Less exciting was doing the expenses for December. I did really well considering I bought a lot of gifts and food. I need to start the 2023 expense sheet in the next couple of days. I have to do a few things differently this coming year. Some planning needs to be done on my part. 

Yesterday morning, daughter-in-law and grandson came home from Edmonton. We were all happy to have them safely home after being gone for 2 weeks. Their 1 week holiday turned into 2 weeks after their return flight was cancelled.

Yesterday afternoon, I heard sirens coming up the main street in our subdivision. I looked out the window to see what it was and a red car with lights flashing turned down our street. I looked and saw black smoke billowing up into the sky behind a house 3 doors down from our friends. I grabbed my coat and literally ran across to our friends. A shed was on fire and the owner had got some/most of the items out. The first fire truck arrived and the firemen got to work. By the time they started spraying the shed, truck #2 arrived and shortly after that truck #3 from another community arrived. The fire was out when truck #3 arrived but it certainly made one realize how seriously they take fires in the area. Thanks to all the volunteer firemen who came and did their job so professionally. 

I was over to family's for dinner (Chinese food) and we opened our presents. Everyone enjoyed all the gifts I made and gave. I got an Instant Pot, cookbook for One Dish Kitchen, gift cards, and more. We laughed a lot, shed a few tears, and enjoyed ourselves. 

Sewing

I finished watching Day 2 and 3 of Cricut Kickoff 2023. Day 2's video was long and made me feel anxious as there is so much that can be bought for the Cricut. I had ordered mine and then thought I'd be amassing a lot of tools but when the show was over, the tools that come with the Cricut I bought are almost enough. I needed mats and a roller. Day 3 was about the soft ware Design Space which is free and there was a lot of great info in that video. 

I decided to use a gift card to buy the mats and roller. The roller and one mat were not available so I am going to get them from Amazon by Jan. 3. What I ordered has been shipped, as has the the Cricut. A new adventure begins in January. 

I spent some time writing down items I want to make this coming year -- embroidery, Cricut, sewing. I am making a long list in case I want to sell at craft bazaars in the fall. I'm not sure but doing trial runs will let me see if I want to. I have a lot of things I want to make for us. I don't want to be stuck just doing craft bazaar items. Some of the trial runs will be for family and that way I can do cost on them. My planner is going to get a workout this coming year. 

Decluttering the sewing room begins Jan. 1. I will be doing mine somewhat differently this year and it may take longer than 21 days. I'm on a mission to use up items I have been hoarding. If I'm wanting Less Is More, then I have to sew up what I have and buy less of what I have a lot of. The closet in the sewing room shows that I need to work on the Less is More concept. I'm moving forward on this in 2023. 

Knitting

I am down to just having to knit the collar on the doll's sweater/coat. I can probably finish it in an evening. 

Elliott and Little Boy (a friend's cat) gave me 3 balls of yarn for Christmas. It is the nicest cotton yarn I've ever seen. I want to make something for me from it. 

Thoughts

    We have had our first Christmas without the Spousal Unit. All tradition went out the window having it on Dec. 29. We had Chinese food which is not traditional. The only traditional thing was how the gifts were handed out. 

    I have been low on energy and have to push myself to get things done. Part is the short days of winter, part is emotional, and part is how I've been eating. I've started to eliminate sweets from my diet. I am hoping it will help me sleep better, want to move more, and be mentally happier. 

Today

I am going to do some more cleaning upstairs this morning and then try to do some cleaning in the sewing room. Tonight I will try to finish the doll's sweater. 

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

A Lazy Day -- I Was Lazy

 Yesterday was another decent day with a high of 0.2C. We had no snow but some wind. This morning it is -2C and we are to have a few flurries or rain showers and a high of 4C. 

Lifestyle

I was tired yesterday and didn't do as much as I had hoped to. I put away the Christmas gifts and tidied up the part of the kitchen. I did quite a bit of resting in between the jobs. I guess I could say I was lazy after several busy days. 

After lunch I went over to son's and ordered a TV for upstairs. I still need to buy a stand for it. I have a couple of ideas I'd like to pursue later on. One is new furniture and putting the TV and stand against the long wall with a couch(?) and chair(s) in the room. I am thinking on this to see if I want to do it or not. That will be late 2023 as I want to have the house painted first. 

The TV upstairs is so I am not watching movies off the iPad and trying to follow a pattern at the same time. This way my iPad will be free as I can use the apps on the TV. 

Sewing

When I put away all the sewing related Christmas presents I took out the flannel and zippers for the pillows. I also got out the pattern and fabric for the doll's stole. I'm ready to sew when I have done some cleaning in the room. 

I watched Cricut Kick Off Day 1 for the Cricut Maker. I watched several years before I found 2023. I registered but somehow couldn't find the link (which I did this morning in the Junk folder). It was unboxing and hooking up a Cricut Maker to your computer or hand held device. I learned quite a bit. 

I am still thinking about buying the Cricut Maker and decided to see what Boxing Day prices were. Not good until I stumbled across the sale at Costco. Excellent price (about half price) and free delivery so I am thinking of ordering one. I will be talking to my neighbour today about ideas. We bounce ideas off each other all the time. 

Knitting

I was knitting away merrily and saw I had made a mistake back before adding the sleeves. I had to unknit a good 8 rows to fix the mistake. I now have to figure out what row I am on and start again. It will be easier this time to figure out what I am suppose to be doing when decreasing the raglan sleeves. 

Today

I need to do more housework, visit my neighbour about the Cricut, and knit tonight. I don't think I need to be out to shop unless son needs something. 

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

We Had Christmas V.2

 Yesterday morning we woke to flurries and thought it might be a white Christmas. It wasn't. The high got to -0.4C which was cool. We had some sunshine and very little wind in the afternoon. At bedtime we were under a snow warning. This morning it is gone and we had little to no snow. It was -3C and we are to have a high of 0C with a few flurries. 

Lifestyle

I opened my gifts from daughter in the morning. I got an air fryer from her along with a lot of fun sewing things. Elliott enjoyed snooping through everything smelling the animals daughter has. 

Around noon, I went over to son's and we had lunch together and then got their in-law suite ready for friends who spent the night. While he did some planning I watched TV and then we watched videos on using the air fryer. I am ready to try cooking with this later this week. 

Christmas was saved this year even if it was only son, friends, and myself. We certainly missed daughter-in-law and grandson. We had pot roast, mashed potatoes, broccoli casserole, salad, buns, and apple pie. Though not what planned, it was Christmas dinner version 2. We will have Christmas dinner later on when family is home. 

Sewing

Daughter gave me lots of sewing related items for Christmas. First up I got 2 patterns for the dolls. I can't wait to sew them up for the dolls. 

I also got a pattern and a piece of "grunge" fabric. Another project to make. 

Along with new pins, I got more thread. 

(She gave me chocolate which I am going to share with others as they are new flavours.)

There was also 2 balls of yarn for knitting something nice. It is an acrylic, bamboo, cotton mix and very soft to the touch. 

Thoughts

    Christmas wasn't as difficult as I had thought it would be. We talked about the Spousal Unit and the wonderful memories we had over the years. The hardest part of Christmas was not having family at home so we could all celebrate together. Having to save Christmas also helped us move forward. 

    We broke records on Dec. 23. The high temperature and most rainfall. We were actually warmer than Florida that day. And probably the hot spot in Canada. We are now settling down to more normal temperatures until Jan. 1 when it is going to rain and be 11C. 

Today

My goal is to do some cleaning up so I can do a good cleaning during this week. Gifts, tubs, etc. will be put away. Area that seem messy will be tidied up. I am hoping to get ready to do a bit of set up in the sewing room this afternoon. Tonight I am watching a video on the Cricut Maker as I am hoping I can buy one in 2023. 

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

Merry Christmas

 Merry Christmas

Here is hoping everyone has a wonderful Christmas whether you celebrate or not. 

It is trying to snow here so we may have a little bit of white stuff on the ground today. We are breaking tradition and having a pot roast for dinner and not opening gifts. We will celebrate after Dec. 28.

And The Storm Arrived

 Yesterday was dull and grey most of the day. The wind came up and by late yesterday afternoon the storm hit. There were strong winds, over an inch of rain and a high of 14.5C sometime before midnight. This morning we are still having wind and it is 4C. The temperature is to drop to 2C during the day. 

Lifestyle

I had another busy day. Before breakfast, I had cooked, peeled and halved a dozen eggs for devilled eggs. The filling was put together later in the day ready to fill the eggs today. After breakfast, I went for my hair cut. The hair dresser and I had a good talk about many things. 

I was to the physiotherapist mid morning and I got a workout. First on the bike, then pulling 10 lbs of weights while walking and doing lunges. Finally on the balance box. I was able to balance for a few seconds without holding the wall. They noticed that I am equally distributing the weight better on both legs and hips. The long stretch was done and finally some knee exercises before having the electric currents and heat. The physiotherapist shorten the cane by one notch and told me I am using it correctly. I was tired when I left there. I have one exercise to add to the mix. The Bridge which gave me a leg cramp the first time I did it. But I will do it starting tonight. 

I got son to get the last item we need for dinner tonight and then I went to visit a friend for a bit. She is going to help me do trays today. By the time I got home, it was raining but the high winds didn't come until later. It was just windy. In the evening, Elliott and I listened to the high winds and rain battering against the house. 

I slept through most of the storm and woke when it was quiet. Nothing moved during this storm and I'm hoping there is no damage. Elliott slept well with me and wasn't really upset with this storm. 

Sewing

I went downstairs see if I could get the doll to hold the parasol. Nope and when I rushed, it became harder for me to get the job done. I left it to try later. At that time, I will spray starch it. 

I saw that the single hole plate was delivered and it wasn't at my door. I contacted the seller and they had sent via mail and it is in my post box. I will try to get it today and see if I ordered the correct one for the Diamond. 

Knitting

None done as I was too tired to do any.

Thoughts

    I found on the internet that there was at least one storm warning in every province and territory in Canada yesterday. From snow to rain, high winds, and extreme cold was felt over some part of every province.   

    The storm wasn't nearly has bad over us as it was more over New Brunswick. The main part of the storm hit them and we got the outer edges as it came in from the SWS. I am sure the South Shore had some surge waves coming into the shores during high tide.  

    I am grateful that we didn't loose power with this storm. There was minimal power outages in our community with more in other communities. Here is hoping they get power by this afternoon. 

    I left the car parked outside last night just in case I needed it. It got a good washing if nothing else. It was a wise decision even though it isn't what I like to do. I like the car in the garage during storms.  

    I am doing really well with my knee and hip. I hate walking with the cane but it is for safety this winter. My stride is improving, I'm more balanced on my feet, and I can walk for longer. I'm still tired after walking a lot but I'm hoping that will improve over time. I really want to start walking a bit further every other day but that depends on the weather. I do stride in the house a lot and force myself to walk further than necessary when shopping. 

Today

I have to get everything ready to go over to son's after lunch. Trays have to be made, areas cleaned up, and items put out for tonight. I'm hoping I don't forget anything but I can bring it a bit later on as I do have to come home for a while before dinner. 

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

A Busy Day

 Yesterday was a sunny day which I loved. The high got to 1.4C and it was basically dead calm. This morning it is -4C and we are to have heavy rains, high winds, and a high of 10C. This storm should be over by tonight. 

Lifestyle

I was out grocery shopping early and as home by just after 8 a.m. It was busier than it use to be during the pandemic but it was real busy. People were shopping and getting ready for Christmas. 

Once home, the fun began. Son texted me to ask if I'd been shopping. Then he let me know daughter-in-law and grandson were still in Alberta. Their flight had been cancelled as they were short one cabin staff. The plane flew to Nova Scotia empty. They sat in the airport all night hoping to be rescheduled. Did Not Happen. They won't be home until Dec. 28. 

I went over to see Son and we planned. We will celebrate Christmas after Dec. 28 but are still having people over as planned. At 2 pm we headed out to shop in New Minas. We got everything we needed in 3 stores and it took only 30 minutes. The stores were real busy which was helpful.

I was tired last night but it was a contented tired. I relaxed and slept well which was what I needed. With the storm coming in, I needed a good night's sleep. 

Sewing

The umbrellas for the parasol arrived yesterday afternoon. I checked the fit and was a bit worried. 

My crocheted parasol was a bit bigger than I wanted it to be. I proceeded with a plan in my head. I cut off the green fabric and then worried about loosing the green tips which fell off. I hand sewed them onto the proper place on the crocheted parasol and put it back on the frame. 

It was a bit big and the edging kept turning upwards. I was worried but proceeded to put it under hot running water and leave it sit overnight. It has a better fit as it shrunk and the edges aren't curling up as I kept smoothing them down. The next step is to spray starch it and leave it to dry once I have it looking the way I want it to. Pictures will come when that is done. If I am not happy with the end result, I will wet it down again, roll it in a towel and throw it in the dryer to shrink it more. That is plan B.
Knitting

I didn't get down to the sewing room yesterday as I was too busy. I will get down there after Christmas as I don't have much time until Boxing Day. 

The pattern of the sweater/coat I am knitting baffles me at times. I read, reread, knit, unknit and finally get it. Once I got the decreasing done, it has been fairly easy sailing with only a couple of issues that I corrected easily. 

I have about an inch left to knit and then I will be casting off to add the sleeves. It has been a faster knit than I thought it would be. 

Thoughts

    There are a lot of storms hitting North America this Christmas and there are a lot of people stranded at airports. The first Christmas people can travel and we learn that Mother Nature is going to make it hard on them. I would hate to be travelling by car this year due to the weather. 

    Our first Christmas without the Spousal Unit is certainly not going to be the typical one we had planned. It is okay as we are thinking about other things as we head towards Christmas Eve. I will open my gifts from daughter on Christmas morning and let her know that I did that. 

Today

I have to cook the eggs for devilled eggs shortly. I have to be out for a hair cut and physio this morning and then will do the devilled eggs when I get home. I also have to stop at the grocery store on my way home and take son to another store this afternoon. When I slow down, I will knit tonight. I don't think I will have time to starch the parasol but if I do I will try to get that job done. I have checked everything to make sure all is good for the storm and have a plan if the power goes out. It is going to be warm so I'm not worried about being cold. I will park the car outside so it is accessible if I need to use it. 

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

A Busy Day In The Kitchen

 Yesterday had moments of brilliance as the sun tried to shine for more than 5 minutes. That was nice as it has been so dull. The high got to 3.5C. This morning it was -2.5C and there is a skiff of snow on the ground. We are to have sunshine and a high of 2C. 

Lifestyle

It was a busy day yesterday. I made 2 batches of buns and a batch of sausage rolls. I got the kitchen cleaned up ready for today. A big job when doing 2 different bakes in a small kitchen. 

I delivered thank-you gifts to our friends across the road. I had to get out of the house after lunch as I was on the verge of tears. Tired was part of the reason as I had slept poorly and part was missing the Spousal Unit. The visit perked me up and I was able to get through the rest of the day. 

Yesterday was winter solistice and we have been sitting at having 8 3/4 hours of daylight for the past couple of days. It will be nice to start seeing the extra minute a day of daylight. I remember thinking like that when we lived in Dawson Creek. 

There was no sewing yesterday even though I thought about cleaning the sewing room closet. I want to get that area organized so I can use up what is stored in there. 

I did knit on the coat I'm making. The pattern at the bottom of the coat body wasn't too hard to do. I just had to pay attention to what I was doing. After 16 rows I was ready to start decreasing and that sat me on my butt. No matter what I did, I kept reading the first row wrong. I stopped, left it alone and decided to read row 2. Suddenly my tired brain understood row 1 and I was off and knitting like crazy. I got the first 2 rows done and called it a night. 

Thoughts

    I have baked a lot for Christmas Eve and Day and it has certainly been enjoyable. I have got to make one more batch of buns and cook the potatoes and eggs for the salad today. They will be prepped and ready to add the dressing tomorrow afternoon. 

    The smoker is going to be taken to our friend's house so he can smoke meat. It will be nice to see it used as the Spousal Unit wanted them to have it. Here is hoping we have some smoked meat on Christmas Eve. 

Today

I am ready to go shopping right away (early) and then will make buns this morning and do the potatoes and eggs after lunch. I probably won't get into the sewing room and if I do it will only to be putting the pillow forms, flannel, and zippers on the cutting table. I will knit today and tonight. I'm hoping that it won't be as busy a day today as I'm a bit sore with the storm coming in. 

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

Sewing Room Part 5 - A Beginning

Yesterday was drier with very little rain falling. More mist than rain. The high got to 3.4C. It was 1C this morning and is suppose to get to a high of 3C. We could have some rain or flurries. And maybe some sunshine before a storm hits us on Friday. Yes, we are going to be under a storm warning with rain and high winds.

Lifestyle

I got the dishes done from turkey dinner and then started to bake buns. While the dough proofed I took son to physio. Home to eat lunch, make the dough into buns. While they proofed, I went and got him and took him home. It worked well. I had the kitchen cleaned and the buns cooling by 2 pm.

I have been working on walking correctly and my knee and hip do get tired. They have been less sore since my last physio session (except for storms coming in) and I'm hoping that what I have been doing is helping a lot. I know I can stand longer, walk farther, and stretch better than I use to. Improvements have been noted. 

Sewing And The Sewing Room

Day 5 was started. I went down and cleaned up under the cutting table but haven't swept the floor yet. The plastic tubs were put into the storage room (another mess) and a cardboard box put under the table in the family room until I can put the big tub under there. It's dirty and needs cleaning. 

There is one small tub on the shelf along with the smocking pleater that needs a home in the closet. The shelving unit behind the table is a mess and will be dealt with after I do the closet. That is the unit I want out of the sewing room when I only have only enough fabric to put into a dresser. 

Feeling proud of myself for doing under the table, I opened the closet door and was deflated. But I quickly formed a plan and decided to tackle one project -- a towel that has hung from the clothes rod for over 3 years. It was a gift from a friend Xmas 2016. I haven't used it as the French Terry is too heavy. I used the topper to make my pattern so I decided to use the pieces to make myself a lighter weight towel to hang on the stove. 

I spent a considerable amount of time unpicking the pieces. The terry fabric must have been horrid to sew as this friend had to sew down pieces two to three times. I almost quit but wanted to have something where she had done part of the sewing. 

Once unpicked, I was surprised to discover the topper was not interfaced. I had thought it was so I know the fabric was not laundered. Anyways I forged ahead and made a towel for my kitchen. 

I did press the towel so the width of the towel is pleated behind the front. I have this fabric so will make potholders for the kitchen to use when it is in Christmas mode. And I have something to remember a good friend by. She knew how much I love cardinals and made the original towel with lots of love for me. 

My next plan for cleaning the closet is to put 4 pillow forms on the cutting table. I will add the flannel and zippers and will sew them while I'm cleaning out the closet. My goal is to put those 4 forms covered on the 4 chairs in the family room. I will also put the fabric and patterns on the table to sew a stole and drawers for the Regency outfit I still need to finish. 

When I tackle the closet, I am going to start by cleaning up the doll's fabric as it is such a mess. I hope I can sit on the floor while going through it all and make a list of items I want to sew. What individual items, outfits, and ensembles do I want to sew for the dolls in 2023? We will see what the fabric has to say. 

Knitting

As I haven't sewn or knit for the Gotz dolls this year, I decided to knit this lovely coat and hat for them. I have the sleeves done and started on the body. The first 3 rows were easy but when I started the pattern, which has increases in it, I read the pattern wrong and had to unknit the first row. Though only 2 rows, I will be reading the pattern every row as it is not one to be memorized. It is going to be lovely when done. And, yes, I will make the beret. 

Thoughts

    It has been 3 months since the Spousal Unit passed and I still miss him terribly. Though I'm adapting to living and doing things alone, I miss sharing what I'm doing with him. I also miss the wonderful conversations we had about the many topics we were both interested in. 

    The dull grey days have been somewhat depressing and I'm trying to keep busy so I don't notice them. I am worried about the next storm coming in on Friday. Here is hoping the damage will be minimal and people can enjoy Christmas with their power on. We don't need to have a third savage storm this fall that leaves people living without power for days/weeks on end. 

Today

I am hoping to get 2 batches of buns and sausage rolls made and put into the freezer. That way I will only have to shop and make salads on Thursday and Friday. I am not sure if I will make it down to the sewing room but if I do, I will sweep the floor and get ready to work on the closet. I am not sure if I will knit tonight or go over to the neighbours and deliver the gift I made them. We wait and see if they are home or not. 

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

Day 4 Part 2 Sewing Room Completed

 Yesterday was sort of wet with almost 1/2" rain falling. The high got to 2.6C. This morning, it is 2C, the north wind is blowing, and it's wet. They say snow but we get a few flakes and then rain. I'm okay with that. 

Lifestyle

I charged around and got the house cleaned up and laundry folded. The house wasn't that dirty but it was nice to have it really clean for company. 

After lunch, I got things ready to cook dinner for my neighbour and I. We had a wonderful turkey dinner. We enjoyed it very much as beef will be served at both of our family's house this Christmas. That will also be delicious. 

Sewing Room

Day 4 - Part 2 of the sewing room clean-up was accomplished. The design table was cleared off, sorted and put back on with one container gone. The table was washed (and it was dirty) and I now feel like I can work in that area. 

I did not do the peg board but it will get done when I do patterns. It looks sloppy but in reality, it is organized. 

I moved to the other part of the design area. It has been kept cleaner and only needed the dust wiped off the old desk. I use this area a lot as I bring up tutorials I've saved, read patterns for the dolls, and look at and edit embroidery files. 

I am going to have to hang a wall hanging on that empty wall. The floor has not been washed but it will get done when I'm finished this end of the sewing room. Next up - the closet. 

The cutting table got a work out in the evening. I had put the cardinal wall hanging I need to finish on it to show my neighbour what I wanted to do. She promptly told me to finish it as it is. It is on the to-do list for 2023. We then looked at the horse wall hanging I want to make for daughter. I've had it 13-14 years and it has scared me to death. My neighbour is going to help me with it so I can complete it this year. I'll start it in January by doing the eyes. In the meantime, I will fold them up and put them away as the cutting table needs to be clean for the next part of the clean up and a bit of sewing. 

Knitting

I did look at patterns for the Gotz dolls and have one I would like to knit. I will get up the yarn and needles to start it in the next couple of days. 

Today

I have to clean up the kitchen as I refused to do the dishes last night. If possible I would like to start a batch of bread which can proof while I have son out for physio. I can finish them this afternoon. I would like to put away the projects on the cutting table. Tonight I may knit but that remains to be seen. 

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

I Read A Book

 Yesterday was "dry" compared to Saturday. There was mist vs rain until late in the afternoon when it started to rain. The high got to 3.6C. This morning it is 1C and the high is to get to 1C. The big question is - will we get rain or snow today?

Lifestyle

Yesterday morning I went down to the family room and finished wrapping presents. It wasn't hard to do once I had what I needed and ideas in my head. All I need to do now is take them over to family's and put the under the tree. 

Once done the wrapping, I made our neighbours a batch of butter tarts to go with the gift I made them for being so helpful this past year. They are wonderful people. 

I read a book yesterday. It was "Premeditated Myrtle" by Elizabeth Bunce who also loves dolls. This book is for children about 10-12 years old, a mystery which Myrtle helps solve, and a real delight to read. The setting is in the Edwardian period in England which is right up my alley. I will have to get the next book "How to Get Away With Myrtle".

I was over to see son yesterday after lunch and he is doing well. His shoulder is healing and he is able to do more though he can't lift anything with that arm. 

Sewing

I threaded the Diamond, changed the needle, and tested it out after having "issues" with it the day before. It stitched perfectly so all is well. I will take it in to be serviced in early January to make sure it is ready for another year of sewing piping and embroidering. 

I cut paper and wrapped boxes on the cutting table. I looked at the stash and wondered how much I've sewn since Sept. 2019. I did some rough calculations and it is over 200 meters. I bought around 70 meters and most of it has been sewn up. I did not realize I had so much quilting fabric in the stash and am happy that it is being used up. 

When looking for fabric for the gift bag that didn't happen, I found more of the red/black/white striped fabric. If there is enough, I will be piecing it together and making another towel topper for me. If not, I will try to use it for a doll's top so it is gone from the stash. Something quick and easy. 

I also spent some time looking at embroidery files. I have a lot of them and will be using them on gift bags this coming year. I have plenty of Christmas files so I'm not short when making gift bags. I need to make about 10-12 this year so I'm aiming for one a month. 

Knitting

I am taking a break from knitting and am reading. I will probably spend a bit of time looking at the patterns I have and decide on what I am going to knit next. I'm thinking of something for the Gotz dolls as I haven't knit for them this year. 

I did steam the stole and got it on Addy to photograph. I quite like this pattern but am not sure if I will knit it again or not. 

Thoughts

    I am coping with Christmas better than I thought I would. I'm glad I took the time to decorate in a less traditional way using decorations we both love. The Spousal Unit would have enjoyed what I did if he were with us. 

    I am realizing that I must eat less rich foods (chocolate, cream, etc.). I have decided that I will continue to make freezer meals that I like and enjoy eating. I can eat desserts but smaller portions. Once Christmas baking is done, I will start cooking more of the freezer meals as I have none left. 

    This week is going to be a busy one for me. I have to make buns, sausage rolls, and 2 salads for Christmas. I will be out three times this week and need to think about what I want to eat for 3 nights. A lot of time in the kitchen which I will enjoy. 

Today

I am going to do a bit of housework and then cook a turkey roll for dinner. I am having my neighbour over for dinner tonight which will be nice. If I have time, I may try and clean off the design table or at least take everything off it so I can start working on it. I need to get this area cleaned up so I can  start work on the rest of the room. 

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

Regency Stole Completed

 Yesterday was a wet day with a high of 3.0C and nearly an inch of rain fell. There were a few dry spells during the day but not many. This morning it was 2C. The high is to get to 2C and we are to have rain or snow flurries. 

Lifestyle

Yesterday morning I went downstairs and started to wrap Christmas presents. I have about 2/3rds done and realized how much I would love to be wrapping presents in fabric gift bags. A goal for next year. I finished up as I need to find boxes for the rest of the gifts. 

I had a nap in the afternoon. Not a long one as I'm finding it is interrupting my sleep at night. It becomes a vicious circle so I'm trying to break it early in the game. 

Sewing

I thought I would make another gift bag and cut out a taller one from the tutorial. I found a file to digitize -- S'mores skiing which I know grandson would love. It became a fight from the minute I started embroidering. 

I'm not sure if the file is badly digitized in areas as it was loopy when doing the satin filler. I took it out, started again and the same thing. The next part stitched beautifully as did the third part. When it came time to stitch the marshmallows, the loopyness started again. I broke a needle as the foot came off the machine. Then the needle went through the foot and, at that point, I stopped for the day. The foot is ruined which is okay as I have a new one coming in the mail. It is an upgraded one for embroidery and suppose to be much better. I folded up the fabric and have it ready to go away. I will work on it in January.

I spent a few minutes looking at the stash on the shelving unit. I have to say it has decreased in volume in the past 3 years. It is a mess as I have been digging through the piles. Most of the cottons are on one shelf rather than two. Progress is being made. 

While digging through the piles, I realized I need to sew more  gift bags out of the orphans. That way I can use those pieces up. Most will have embroidery put on them to glam them up a bit. I have lots of designs to choose from. The only thing I will have to buy is interfacing though I can quilt a few to use up left over batting. The other thing I can make is mug rugs in a larger size. These are embroidered in the hoop and will use up lots of scraps I have on hand. 

Knitting

I finished the doll's stole. I tried it on Addie before I cast it off. 

I need to have it hang down further in the back but wanted to make sure it was long enough when put on her prior to casting off.

I am hoping that I can read a book before I start a new project. I don't have a project planned for right now. 

Thoughts

    The shortest day of the year will be here this week. Soon we will be having longer days which will be nice. 

    January brings our storms and I will be shovelling snow. I enjoy it as long as it isn't so wet you can see the water run out of it. It is good exercise to strengthen the muscles and it gets me outside. By the time the storms end (end of February, early March) we will be tired of the cold weather, heavy snow falls, and the NE winds. I'm hoping we don't have the terrible storms like we did last year. 

Today

I am going to wrap more presents this morning. I want to check on the Diamond to make sure the timing wasn't thrown out on it. I need to go over and see son to make sure he's fine. I will start cleaning the sewing room (once again) and read a book tonight. 

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

A Dull Day of Resting

 Yesterday was another grey day but it wasn't depressing. The high got to 2.5C. This morning, we are under a storm warning (snow and rain) and the temperature was 2C. The high is to get to 3C. 

Lifestyle

Yesterday morning I did the grocery shopping. The store was starting to get busy and I was happy to get out of there. When I go back to get the fresh vegetables, I will go at 7 a.m. in hopes of missing the crowds. 

At home, I rested as I was tired. After checking in with son, I had over an hours nap. I was surprised but I think the dull day did it to me. I just couldn't keep my eyes open. 

I was over to see my neighbour after dinner for a couple of hours. It was nice to visit with her and see what she is making. Two visits in one day was wonderful; son and my neighbour. 

I didn't do any sewing or cleaning in the sewing room. I did knit 3 rows on the shawl before going to bed. It ended up being a lazy day. 

I finally got the word for the outfits I am making. Ensembles. When I sew for the little girl and make a couple of items that match, it is an outfit. When I make the outfits for the dolls that includes everything, it is an ensemble. I would like to get the two Regency ensembles done by the end of December. 

Today

I am going to wrap gifts this morning and get that job done. I don't like wrapping gifts so getting it out of the way will allow me to think of other things. I have to check on son and I would like to make butter tarts for our neighbour. If time, I will start cleaning off the cutting table so I can fill it up when I start cleaning the design table. I am hoping that will happen sooner rather than later. I hope to knit tonight. 

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

Christmas Sewing Completed

 Though yesterday was grey it wasn't depressing. The high got to 3.6C and the wind blew from the NE. This morning it was 2C and the high is to get to 3C with a chance of flurries or showers. 

Lifestyle

Though I was tired and sore from Wednesday's cleaning, I pushed myself to finish the rest of the upstairs. It was slower going has I had to rest more frequently. But I got it done before lunch and sat for 20 minutes and admired how nice it looks. 

I did launder the red blankets in the living room which adds to the Christmas look. They will be put away in the Christmas stuff when I find new ones for the couches. I'm hoping to find something in navy blue or light grey. I may even knit an afghan to snuggle under. I do have a pattern I'd love to knit. A friend gave it to me years ago when I lived in Ashcroft. 

Sewing

I headed downstairs after lunch and finished the gift bag. I am pleased with how it turned out for the first try. 

A few changes for next time. The bag is perfect up to the putting it together. That is where the tweaking will begin. 

    1. Turn the outer fabric under 1/2" and baste in place (I did that with this one and perfect. I pinned the handles in place before basting. 

    2. Turn the lining fabric under 5/8" and baste in place. This makes the lining just a tiny bit shorter and it fits perfectly inside the bag. I only turned under 1/2" as called for. 

    3. Baste both layers together at the top as this bag is tiny and the pins poked me as I sewed it together. It will also keep both edges from slipping up or down from each other. 

    4. Top stitch close to the edge and 1/4" away. I did that and loved how it looks.  

One thing I did was fold the bottom of the bag as shown in the tutorial before I marked where I wanted the centre of the stitching to be. After stitching I used Shir-Tailor interfacing (Pellon 950F) on both the outer and lining fabrics. It gave it the body to stand up. I will be making this bag again in this and the other sizes. 

As I was on a high from bag success, I sewed the buttons on the last 4 towel toppers plus mine. 

Mine is now hanging on my stove and I love it. No picture of it done as I hurried upstairs so I could use. 
Knitting

I am now officially done Christmas sewing and will start to clean the sewing room again. I need to clean off the cutting table and then move on to the design table. I'm looking forward to cleaning up the room after the marathon sewing spree I had. 

I got another 5" of knitting done last night and the stole is really growing in length. I've got 20" done and may stop at 30" though I'm thinking 35" in length. Once 30" is done, I will try it on the doll. I think it will be too short at 30".

Thoughts    

    I looked at yarn for an afghan for the living room and loved this one. This will be my one big purchase of yarn this year. 

    I am getting over not wanting any taupes in the house. I am finding as long as they are cool toned I will use them sparingly when decorating. I think having the house painted in a warm beige made me not want any taupes in the house. I'm slowly getting over it. 

Today

I need to grocery shop and then check on son to see if he needs any thing or help. I want to wrap presents today and then knit tonight. I may get over to see my neighbour if I have time. 

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

The Grinch

 Though the high only got to 1.3C, we had sunshine. Gorgeous sunshine. The wind blew until noon and then it calmed down. This morning, it is 3C, windy, and it has rained. The temperature is to remain at around 3C today and we are to have more rain or flurries. 

Lifestyle

I chose to clean one half of the upstairs yesterday and started off in my bedroom. I pushed and shoved the mattress as it needed rotating. I really hurt after doing that but kept moving until I had the 2 bedrooms, hall and bathroom cleaned. I was literally exhausted from doing it and I hurt all over. I had an hours rest while I ate lunch. 

With the sun shining in the house, I opened all the curtains and used the solar power to heat the house. At 9 pm I realized I had turned off the heat upstairs and the house was a tad cool at 18.5C. I didn't notice until then it was cool. 

Sewing

I spent a couple of hours in the sewing room even though I was sore. I did the buttonholes on the towel toppers and can sew the buttons on. I have to find more of the microfibre towels and make myself some as they are nice. Pictures when they are done. 

I started the gift bag for son. The embroidery file is well digitized and stitched out perfectly. 

The pattern I am using for the bag is this one by Charmed By Ashley. I used the Grinch's Head from Embroidery Library (the sale price changes every day at the moment). You can't see the white on the hat very well due to the light filtering through the fabric. It needs to have the handles attached and lined. I am using left over fabric from other projects for this bag. It is the last of the Christmas sewing. A fun way to end. 

Knitting

I got another 60 rows knit on the shawl last night and am half done. I do make mistakes and have to unknit rows to correct them. Those are my issues as there are no mistakes in the pattern. 

When done this shawl, I am going to stop knitting for a few days and read the book I want to read. I've been too busy trying to get projects done that reading has been put on hold. 

Thoughts

    The storm we were to have the night before last and missed us, dropped 23" of snow on Cape Breton Island which is NE of us. They seem to get the brunt of all the storms that hit Nova Scotia.

    I am hoping to get more of the sewing room cleaned up now that I am almost done Christmas sewing. The mess is driving me nuts and I need to get it organized so I can enjoy sewing in a clean and organized room. I know I was doing some frantic sewing the past while as I was behind. That lead me to become messy and unorganized, two things I can't deal with on a daily basis. 

Today

The goal is to finish cleaning the upstairs in the morning. There isn't a lot to do as the rooms are clean. It is mainly the floors that need washing and some tidying up. This afternoon I hope to finish projects and tonight I will knit. I will only go out if it is necessary.

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

How Stupid Can I Be

Yesterday was another dull grey day. The wind blew from the NE all day. The sun shone at 3:45 pm for a very short time. The high got to -1.6C. This morning it was -5C. We are to have a few flurries today and some sunshine. We wait and see on that. 

Lifestyle

I headed out to do the last of the Christmas shopping and got it done. What ever else I need, I will get locally as the stores are getting very busy now and I hate crowds.

Other than going back to get something I forgot in one store, I spent the rest of the day in the sewing room. At 4:30 pm I picked up grandson from school, went and got some dinner. 

Sewing

While shopping, I went and got the prize I won at the new quilt shop plus I bought one piece of fabric. It was for the bag I want to embroider the Grinch's face on. While there, my bag of embroidery thread fell out into the shopping cart, hence why I had to go back and get it. 

On the way home, I stopped at the other quilt shop and bought more fabric. I'm thinking of what I want to make for next year. I went back and bought more on my way home the 2nd time. 

I already had the brown plaid fabric in the stash that I bought in September. The blue plaid, the birds and the textured fabric I bought yesterday. The bottom picture will be placemats with the blue as the backing. These are for the house in January and won't be started until then. The fabric I bought for son's bag is now going to be used in the placemats. I will dig in the stash for fabric as I know I have something that I can use. 

I did finish the towel toppers and they are ready for buttonholes. That could be done today and I will sew buttons on while the machine stitches out the Grinch. Once the bag is sewn up, I am done sewing for Christmas this year. 

Knitting

I knit on the shawl last night and got another 60 rows done. I am pleased with how it is looking and can't wait to see how it looks with the Regency dress. I'm sure I will be crocheting another parasol to go with this outfit. 

Thoughts

    I am done buying fabric for this year. I need to figure out how much I need for the cardinal quilt which I will buy in January. Other than batting for the quilt, I should have plenty of fabric in the stash to sew before going back to the quilt shops. 

    I walked a fair amount yesterday and wasn't as tired as I have been. I used the cane which helped a lot. The knee hurt a bit during the night but there was a storm passing just north of us. 

    My next big job to do is wrap presents. I need to haul them all downstairs and do it in the family room. Hopefully on Sunday. It is my least favourite job. 

    Once sewing is done, I will be back to cleaning the sewing room. I need to continue on with my plan. I will be setting up my new planner so I can write down what I want to sew this coming year. A lot of the stash has projects attached to them either for the house or for gifts. 

Today 

I need to do laundry and clean the upstairs today and then take the gift to Alberta over so it can go with daughter-in-law. I want to stitch out the bag for son's gift this afternoon after I make buttonholes. We wait and see if that can happen. Then it's knitting tonight. 

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

More Sewing Done

 The weather has been cooler the past couple of days. The highs have been below freezing. Yesterday's high was -3.3C. The wind blows from the north or the west. It has been cloudy and somewhat depressing. This morning it is -5C, the wind is blowing and we are to have a high of -3C. We may see a bit of sunshine (which I do hope happens).

Lifestyle

Sunday afternoon I spent with daughter-in-law while grandson was at soccer training. We did up Costco and when we left I was tired. We walked most of the store and when I was "parked" at the end of aisles, I did my exercises. I also practiced walking correctly while pushing the cart. The store was busy and people were in a hurry with no regard for those around them. We were happy to get out of the store and away from the crowds. 

Grandson spent the evening with me on Sunday and we went over his English. We talked about the short stories he had read and I found him some websites where he can read summaries about them and, hopefully, other stories they read next semester. It was all about using the resources you find on the internet to help you as we reviewed details he need to know for writing his paragraphs and essays. 

Yesterday I baked the last batch of ginger cookies for daughter-in-law. They turned out great and she has her own batch to nibble on over the holidays. I am done for a couple of days before I need to make more tarts for the neighbours. 

I did a search on cane height and I had the cane toooooooo long. I shortened it to the correct height and it is easier to walk with. I did practice with it yesterday. As I practiced, Elliott looks at me like I'm am crazy. I tell myself what I need to do so I can get it into long term memory. 

Sewing

I spent some time in the sewing room and got 2 towel toppers sewn ready for the towels to be inserted. I really like these ones. 

I left after 90 minutes as I was tired and aching from standing so much while baking cookies. But, getting 2 done was a huge accomplishment and I know I can do 2 more in another afternoon. 

On Sunday afternoon, daughter-in-law took me to Atlantic Fabrics. The store front looks small and I was shocked to see how large it was inside. Huge as it looks almost warehouse size. I walked around some looking at some of the fabrics. The lace trim selection was horrid, they had a lot of Christmas decorations out, about 20 Babylock sewing machines, a full selection of DMC embroidery floss, and much, much more. I walked around about 1/3 of the store. I was looking for white and red cotton and they had no white though they had a lot of cottons -- plain and textured. I was amazed at the selection. I bought two packages of buttons and 4 zippers. 

I ordered the Q foot and single stitch plate for the Diamond and will be receiving them after Christmas. The stitch plate will arrive towards the end of January. I'm okay with that as I have other things to sew before then. I can do what I need to do with what I have been using for the past 13 years. 

Knitting

The umbrellas are ordered and will be here Dec. 24 (not expecting them then but later). Once here, I will finish the parasol. 

I ripped out the stole as I did not like how loose the stitches looked. It was also not wide enough. I started it again on smaller needles doubling the number of stitches. I had one too many stitches and had to rip that out again. Once I had it figured out (multiple of 12 stitches plus 1), I sailed along and got over 5" knit. I am happy with the gauge. 

Thoughts

    I am starting to monitor more closely what I am eating and think I have a sensitivity to cream. That wouldn't surprise me at all as it is in the family. 

    I have also begun to try and eat less but it is hard. Boredom, tiredness, sadness, and depression come knocking on my door and I snack. I'm trying to monitor it but some times it is hard. I got some clementines for a "sweet" snack and I do like them. I am cutting back on the amount of diet pop I am drinking and choosing water instead. Portion sizes are being enforced most meals. I will be doing more of this as time goes on. 

    Though tiring, I am pushing myself to be able to stand and walk for longer periods of time. There are times I don't want to do the exercises, but I force myself to do them. I know it is for the best. I have become less stiff when I do the stretching exercises and I am able to stand longer than I could. I guess we can call that progress. 

Today

I am off to New Minas to get the last (I hope) of the Christmas gifts. I want to be home before noon so I can sew this afternoon. I will knit tonight. 

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