From Bad To Good

 Yesterday was a lovely sunny day with little wind and a high of 25.1C. The humidity was low so the humidex was 27C. This morning it is calm, sunny and 10C. We are to have a high of 26.

Lifestyle

Yesterday morning was the same. Angry, stress, and blaming me for everything. In actual fact, his delusions had him thinking I was saying things I never said. Or if I said something kind, it was construed to horrid in his mind. When the respite worker arrived at 10:30 a.m. I was a bit concerned how he was going to behave around her. I told her to call if she needed assistance. 

While I did the grocery shopping, the Spousal Unit relaxed and was quite calm when I got home. He ate a good lunch and relaxed a bit. But the pain made him nasty once again. I took him out for ice cream and then he napped a bit before a later dinner. He snapped out of it and cried. He told me he was a failure, he was loosing it, and he didn't do as he had promised my dad. He stopped crying when I soothed him and he went outside. 

I came out with him on the deck and we talked about the garden. I popped in and out as I cleaned up the kitchen. The new neighbor's dad was mowing the lawn so I gave them some grass/leaf bags for the grass clippings. He was admiring our garden, the lawn and our deck. He has a loud voice so the Spousal Unit heard everything. It made his day. We lent the man our spray nozzle and his grand-daughter (maybe 3 years old) had fun watering their plants. 

We took a walk around the vegetable bins and the tomatoes are in bloom. How exciting was that. With the heat we've had, they've grown enough to have blooms. The garden looks lovely and when I stood up at the neighbors and looked back, our place looks really nice. 

The Spousal Unit has asked if he had been a jerk the last while and I said he has had a rough few days and not to worry about it. He went to bed in a good mood and has woken up in good mood. His posture is good as is his balance. I hope for a good day for his sake. 

Sewing

I did get down to the sewing room for 30 minutes max. I got the hem of the skirt serged and pinned up. The back seam is sewn up and I adjusted the appliques. I have them well pinned on. 

The first one is trimmed and ready to sew down after I press the hem. I then decided to look for pearls to sew on the flowers and found this tube in the doll's jewellery supplies. They are a bit bigger than the ones used by the manufacturer but they work. 

I had just enough time to sew 3 beads on one flower before taking the Spousal Unit for a drive. 

I am pleased with what I got done is a short period of time. 

Knitting

I didn't knit last night as we were outside until about 7:30 and then we talked and watched a video. 

Today

I am planning on making potato salad and deviled eggs this morning. We will deliver some to family tonight. I hope to hand sew the first applique down and get the next one ready and maybe sewn. No knitting tonight. 

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

What A Day

 Yesterday was a wet day. The sun shone later in the afternoon and the high got to 23.7C. There was 3/4" of rain fall and it turned into a steam bath as far as I was concerned. This morning it was a cool 11C and the high is to get to 26C. Sunshine for the day so it will feel hot if the humidity stays high. 

Lifestyle

Yesterday morning the Spousal Unit had a terrible morning. His delusions/psychotic behavior was building where I thought I was going to need help. He was standing funny - mid section thrust out and leaning to one side and he was moving around and into everything. I was trying to keep track of him, unplug the toilet and get the bathroom cleaned and disinfected. I was really concerned for both of us at one point. After I got him somewhat settled in a chair, I showered and then we went out to get cat food and have a bit of a drive. We had a short rest when we got home and had lunch. The Spousal Unit sat down on the couch and fell asleep for over an hour. I slept for just about an hour. He woke up and was fine. He lost the day and joked about it. That was good. 

My day was shot. I got a load of laundry done and the hall floor mopped after getting the bathroom situation fixed. I went around the house turning off lights, making sure fridge and freezer doors were shut, and thinking how the disease is slowly progressing. What I am dealing with is what others who have a loved one with this nasty disease.

In the afternoon, we had a delivery. Daughter had bought us a pizza stone and it arrived 2 days early. No more soggy pizza. I need to wash it and season it.

It also came with some delightful napkins. 

Sewing

After having a nap, we both went down to the sewing room. I worked on the doll's dress for 90 minutes of which the Spousal Unit spent half of that with me and the other half outside in the yard. I got the bodice completed on the Regency dress.

I finished hand sewing down the second flower and am happy with it. 

I then did the second sleeve and the side seam. Onto the doll it went and it fits beautifully. 

 I then started the skirt by serging the side and back seams. I sewed the first side seam only to realize I had done it once again. One right and one wrong side. Once fixed, I decided to play with the appliques on the skirt. 

The appliques on the back will remain like it is. 

The front has evolved to look like this and needs a small piece or two to fill an open space.

I now need to pin it all down and do the hem. Once the hem is done, I'll adjust the appliques to my liking. I have to add 36 pearls to the flowers so am scrambling to find enough. I'll have to look in my stash for some. 

I delivered a roll of surgical tape (paper) and a roll of white freezer paper to our neighbor. She is doing a wall hanging and needs them for appliqueing. I'm happy they are gone and she's happy to have them. I do use surgical tape but the wider width. She needed the narrow width which I happened to have a full roll I wasn't using. 

Knitting

The gusset is done on sock #2. I can now start on the foot part. Progress is being made. 

Today

The Spousal Unit has woken up delusional. He has been demanding, angry, and out of sorts for some unknown reason. He is wandering around inside and out and I'm doing constant monitoring already.  He has respite for 3 hours today which could be interesting. I am going grocery shopping and will sew when I get home. I know it could be fun and games once respite is gone. I need to have my down time before I have to handle what ever will be thrown my way. It may include a drive. 

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

Continuing Working On The Bodice

 Yesterday was another warm day with a high of 28.2C and a humidex of 34C. Our saving grace was the breeze which helped keep the air a bit cooler. It started to rain late in the afternoon and we had 1/4" or a bit more fall during the night. This morning it was 18C and we are to have a high of 22C (humidex 27C) and periods of rain. It is suppose to clear off later this afternoon. 

Lifestyle

The Spousal Unit is still having a lot of pain and I'm wondering if it is bursitis in his elbow or wrist. It is leaving him miserable and grouchy. I do feel sorry for him as it is now bothering him at night. 

Respite came at 2:40 pm and stayed until 5 pm. Not the best time as the Spousal Unit is tired. But he did enjoy visiting with the lady. I slipped across the street to visit with a friend. We had one really good visit. 

I finished cleaning the hall yesterday morning. The doors, molding, baseboards, and floors were washed. It feels good having that area cleaned up. I'm doing a bit at a time when I have time. 

Sewing

I spent a good hour in the sewing room after lunch. I was productive or I thought I was.

I hand stitched the first flower down on the bodice of the dress. I then serged seams that needed doing and made the lined sleeves. When I read the instructions to put the sleeves in, it said no gathering and I wondered if this would work. It did and the sleeve was beautiful. 

The finished side fits the doll beautifully. I put the overlay on and I'm happy with the results. I'll fiddle with the 2nd flower to get it even when I stitch it on.

And a look at the sleeve. The overlay fits perfectly at the seam line.

I left the sewing room happy with the sewing I had done. It was time to sit with the Spousal Unit as he was fretting that the lady coming was late. 

Knitting

Nothing done to the socks

Today

I need to do a load of laundry and start cleaning the pantry. I have to run over and give our neighbor some paper tape and freezer paper for a project she is working on. We have to get food for Elliott and, if there is time, I hope to finish the bodice. Knitting tonight if I'm not too tired. The Spousal Unit is upset about the garden being ripped out (I dead headed flowers the other day) and is fussing about that already this morning. 

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

What A Day!

Yesterday was hot and humid. The high got to 26.7C and the humidex was 34C. The sun shone brightly all day long. The temperature this morning was 15C and we are to see 27C with a humidex of 31C. Another warm one before it cools down a bit and rains tonight. 

Lifestyle

Grandson arrived yesterday morning around 9:30 to mow the lawns and do some of the weed whacking. He had to leave in good time to help get things done at home due to construction starting outside this morning. 

Daughter-in-law came shortly after 9:30 a.m. and took the Spousal Unit to Canning to get more wine and to the butcher shop. He came home with pork chops and they were tender and delicious. 

While I was alone, I washed the bathroom floor (again) and then started cleaning the hall. The walls were cleaned with a dry swiffer cloth as was the floor. I wiped the top molding of the doors and cleaned up the laundry closet. The washer and dryer got cleaned. The air exchange vent in the ceiling and the light got cleaned. The smoke detector was put back in place. It was removed as it started to chirp. The half round table and what is on it was cleaned as were two pictures above it. I'm now ready to wash the doors, trim, baseboard and floor. 

The afternoon was a disaster. The Spousal Unit was angry about something which I was blamed. He was in and out of the house snarking at me. He pulled 4 cucumber plants and trimmed a tomato before I realized what he had done. It was almost the end of my patience as I kept saying "it's not him, it's the disease". He was hot and sweating but not wanting to give in. I finally got him in to really rest. He dozed a bit, woke up and was back to his normal self. He ate a good dinner, helped water the garden, and watched a documentary with me. As we were both exhausted, we went to bed early. 

Sewing

I played for about 5 minutes on the bodice of the dress but got no sewing done. I watched a couple of YouTube videos on Regency dresses and may stitch the flowers around the hem of the dress.

Knitting

None done yesterday. 

Today

The goal is to finish the hall this morning, do some laundry and sew in the afternoon. Respite comes at 3 p.m. for 2 hours. Dinner will be pancakes and sausages which is easy to make as I'm going to visit with a friend during respite. 

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

Regency Dress Started

 The weather yesterday started off with grey skies and rain. It then cleared off, the sun shone and it got warm. The high got to 27.1C with a humidex of 33C. Today is going to be another warm one with a high of 29C and a humidex of 33C. 

Lifestyle

Yesterday morning was a nightmare. The Spousal Unit was upset and when I got him to talk it was about him having an operation and me letting him die so I could do what ever "my friends" wanted with our money. I talked long and hard with him about this in a calming voice to no avail. After lunch, we both had a nap and he woke up in a great mood. No pain, happy, and lucid. 

We walked the garden yesterday and I finally figured out what is bothering the Spousal Unit in the vegetable boxes. It's the weeds (which I picked some out), the first leaves on the plants dying (I pinched those off) and sticks in the dirt (too many to deal with). He was happier and picked some weeds out himself. 

I spent time yesterday morning finishing up cleaning the bathroom. I have the tops of the doors and the shower to wipe with a wet cloth. Otherwise it is clean and disinfected. Though it is nice to have the cleaners, it is nice to clean the house myself as I do the nooks and cranies. Having the cleaners means I can do my cleaning at a slower pace which is fine by me.  

I need to buy new towels. I'm wanting color vs grey this time for the hand towels and face cloths. I will spend some time looking next month when I go to the city to shop.

Sewing

I spent some time in the sewing room yesterday afternoon. The Spousal Unit sat with me while I traced the pattern and cut out the fabric. 

He watched me sew the bodice but as soon as I started to play, he left for upstairs and outside for a few minutes. I was adding flowers to the bodice and I started with this idea. 

Hidden by the overlay.

So, I fiddled until I like this idea. 

And it waits for me to work on it today. I'll leave the flowers until I'm finished the dress.

Knitting

I continue to knit 5-6 rounds a day and am almost finished the gusset. It has been slow but sure the past while but progress is being made with fine yarn and small needles. 

Today

I'd like to start deep cleaning the hallway which includes the laundry closet. I want to sew on the doll's dress and knit. The Spousal Unit is going for a drive with daughter-in-law and the lawns are suppose to get mowed today. 

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

Overlay Completed

 Yesterday was a grey dull day with a high of 20.6C. There had been about 1/4" of rain fall early Friday morning. This morning it is dull and grey again and 18C. We are to see it get to 26C today - the start of the hot spell. The fog and clouds are to lift and we could have some sunshine. 

Lifestyle

With the dull weather, the Spousal Unit had a rough day. He was agitated when he woke up. It was mainly about the garden and the plants dying. It built up all day with him going to pull out the plants, him leaving, and how no one listens to him. After supper, I put him in the car and took him to family so he could talk. They said the same words as I did in the same tone and he calmed down. He had a good night's sleep and this morning has started out okay.

Respite arrived at 10 a.m. unannounced. A new person who was on her second day. She was great with the Spousal Unit. The hit was - her husband's uncle lives in Kamloops. A connection. 

When we left family's I took a picture of daughter-in-law's rose bush that the Spousal Unit gave her in 2018. It is huge compared to ours. 

The bush has huge blooms on it. 

It is hard to believe that last year it was dug out of the ground when the water line had to be fixed, wrapped in wet fabric and put back into the ground many hours later. 

Sewing

I spent most of my time in the sewing room while respite was here. I got the overlay completed ready for a press. 

Though it doesn't say, I put a hook and eye on the front to close it. 

I've looked at the instructions and am ready to trace, cut, and sew the dress. 

Knitting

I didn't knit yesterday as I spent the time trying to calm down the Spousal Unit. 

Today

I hope to finish the bathroom this morning and start tracing the pattern this afternoon. I hope to knit this evening. Lawns might be mowed today. It is a juggling game to see what gets done and what falls off the list. 

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

An Excellent Day

 Though yesterday started out grey, the sun shone for most of the day. The high got to 23.4C. It is raining this morning and we are to have a high of 21C and rain. It was 17C this morning.

Lifestyle

Yesterday the Spousal Unit spent as much time outside as he could. He walked the garden and sat on the deck. I walked the garden with him and he was thrilled with how it is growing. His whole attitude changed. I did go and bring the umbrella out of the shed and put it up. The Spousal Unit sat in the shade enjoying the weather up until almost 4 p.m. He had very little pain all day. 

I spent time deep cleaning the bathroom. I took a dry swiffer cloth to the walls and floor. There was some dust on the walls but not as bad as I had thought. I started to dust the light fixtures and had to use a wet cloth on them as the dust was sticky. The top of the mirror was dusty so it got wiped down also. I did the exhaust fan cover but need canned air to clean the blades. I used wet clothes on the vanity cleaning the outside really well. It felt great getting that much done. 

It seems as if we get no respite today as there was no phone call. We will cope as I was only going to sew today. 

Elliott had a small play with his favorite toy yesterday and I put it on the couch and he slept with it. 

He isn't much of a toy cat and this is one of two toys he will play with. 

I am finding that if I sit quietly with my eyes closed for 20 minutes in the afternoon, I feel like I can get through the rest of the day without falling apart. I'm not sleeping well as I worry about having a full psychotic spell at night. It hasn't happened for a while but I worry it will happen.  

Sewing

I was able to spend time downstairs hand sewing the trim on the overlay of the Regency dress. I put it on the doll in a hurry to take pictures and it isn't even in the front.

I have both arm holes done and from the center back neck down the front and around onto the hem. 

I watched the semi-finals of the Great British Sewing Bee. It was an interesting show with all 4 contestants showing strengths and weaknesses. They are all going to the finals. The ladies are certainly going to have their A-game on for the finals next week. 

Pixie Faire had a free pattern this week. I got it as I liked the top. Three choices of sleeves and two ways to close it. 

It is "Bobbi" by Love from Lola. 

Knitting

Though I didn't want to knit I did pick up the socks and knit 5-6 rounds. I'm slowly getting the gusset done on the second sock. I actually felt better mentally after knitting. 

Today

With the weather wet and grey, I'm not sure how the Spousal Unit is going to be. He's had a lot of pain this morning so far. I'd like to finish the bathroom, sew some on the overlay, and knit. But it is a day of going with the flow. 

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

Fresh Strawberries

 Yesterday was warm and sunny. The high got to 19.4C. This morning it was 12C and cloudy. We are to have periods of rain tonight. 

Lifestyle

Yesterday morning was quiet as the Spousal Unit napped on the couch. Just after 10 a.m. the phone rang and respite was coming early (10:30) as she had a client cancel. A bit of a rush and we were ready for her. 

I went grocery shopping shortly after she arrived. On the way I stopped and picked up a flat of freshly picked strawberries. The baskets were very full. I remembered to take a picture of the last basket. 

I froze 11 containers and we had one container for dinner.

The Spousal Unit was quite calm with the respite worker though he became agitated just as she left. I kept him busy helping me do the strawberries and we went for a drive to return the flat. The people were gone as they had sold out. We will return it Friday morning. 

The evening was tough as the Spousal Unit was in quite a bit of pain. He was worrying about things from earlier in the day. I gave him his medication, soothed him, and he went to bed early. He slept well with no pain. This morning it is back again. 

I'm realizing that the spraying of the weeds as been one of the causes of anxiety and pain. When they spray the next time, I'm going to tell him it is liquid fertilizer. His other cause of anxiety and pain is me having to do it all for him. I reassure him it is okay and that I am here for him no matter what. It seems to help him relax.

Sewing

I spent some time in the sewing room yesterday. I got the trim around the empire waist done. I also did the trim around one arm hole. No pictures as I had to rush up to start monitoring the Spousal Unit as he was agitated and the strawberries needed to be frozen. 

It was nice to be in the sewing room without worrying about anything. It gave me a chance to relax and recoup so I could meet the challenges in the afternoon. 

Knitting

I sat and knit on the socks yesterday. I did quite a few rounds and now have 92 stitches on the needles. I need to be at 72. About 20 more rounds and I'll be ready to start the foot on both the socks. I am slowly making progress. 

I am not planning my next project yet. I will wait until I get to the toes of the socks. It will be something for the dolls. I'm thinking something where I can use up a part ball of yarn and get it out of the stash.

Today

I am hoping to start deep cleaning the bathroom this morning. It will be my project for the next week or two. I will put on a load of laundry while I clean. I want to sew this afternoon and knit tonight. It all depends on how the Spousal Unit is doing. 

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

Progress on the Regency Overlay

 Yesterday was a dull and grey day. It rained off and on for most of the day. The high got to 17C. It was 11C this morning, with some sunshine and clouds and the high is to get to 21C. 

Lifestyle

The Spousal Unit had a bad day with a lot of pain. Outside he was better but inside was horrid. I'm sure it is caused by anxiety. I wasn't able to think what was the trigger as I had to monitor him carefully. He told me he was going to find someone who would get him a doctor or find one himself. That meant he could take off down the road on me. I finally told him he has to wait to see a doctor that he has been referred to. He wasn't happy but he accepted it.

After a day of pain, anger, and pacing I finally got to the root of the problem. He is worried I won't be safe if he dies. People will take advantage of me and steal things from me. He was fairly lucid as his facial expression had changed to what he used to look like. After talking and eating cookies, he went to bed and slept well. He has pain again this morning so I'm sure it is going to be an interesting day.

Before lunch we went out to walk the garden. I picked the lettuce, washed it well and bag part of it for family. While the cleaners were here, we delivered it and had a visit. For a couple of weeks we will be going over to watch while retaining walls are built in their backyard. 

Yesterday I made a big batch of mac and cheese. There is enough for a meal on Thursday and one in the freezer. I will cook on Friday and Saturday so we have meals for the weekend. 

Sewing

I snuck down twice for 10 minutes each time to play with the overlay of the Regency dress. I got the neckline and fronts hemmed on the first visit. The second visit I got the trim around the empire waist pinned on and one front piece prick stitched down to the underarm. 

Prick stitching allows me to tuck under the cut edge of the trim and secure it tightly in place. It also allows me to cover the seam allowance so it won't show. 

It is slow work but worth the time and effort. All the top stitching will be hidden giving it a professional finish. If I make this again, I will stitch the neckline, front, hem, and arm openings to the outside of the garment and cover the raw edges with the trim. Even the waist seam allowance could be done that way so the inside has finished seams. This is a learning curve. 

I put together a collage of the modern sewing I want to do in July. Patterns, fabric, and crystals (Jonquil). 

 

Picnic will be in the navy and yellow hatched and reversible. The leggings will be a t-shirt with the jonquil crystals at the neckline. The remaining fabric in the leggings will be capri length.

I also found the fabric for the border on daughter's quilt. I need to launder it with a few other pieces of fabric so it is ready for when I start the quilt. Hopefully next week. 

Knitting

I didn't knit yesterday as I sat and listened to the Spousal Unit talk last night. 

Today

The Spousal Unit is stressing about the garden dying which is so sad that he has that mind set. He does have respite coming at 12:30. I will be going shopping and hopefully will pick up a flat of strawberries. I would love to sneak downstairs and sew a bit today. I'm excited about getting more of the trim on. I hope to knit on the socks also. 

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

A Bad Habit Has Surfaced

 Yesterday was a cool grey day with a high of 14.8C. It is another grey day but it is also a wet one. The high this morning is 11C and there is fog. The high is to get to 17C. Another dismal day.

Lifestyle

I was busy before the respite worker arrived. I got the laundry folded, the bedding into the washer, and garbage out. I met with the respite worker before retreating to the sewing room. 

The Spousal Unit was agitated due to the garden. He did relax a lot with the respite worker. They walked the garden, looked at pictures, the dolls, and talked. I gave him a mid morning snack that he enjoyed. 

Once she left, he became agitated once again about the garden. I tried to get him to nap but he fought it and would bound outside to check the garden. I went out and sprinkled a spice on the soil to deter the cats from using the boxes and told him it was to help the plants get healthy. It kinda, sorta, but didn't fully work. He finally told me he wasn't going to be responsible for 400 people getting sick and had a short nap just before dinner. He woke up, ate his dinner, and was in a much better mood. We even talked about picking lettuce to take to the family today. I doubt it will happen due to his mood and the weather.

I've been fighting with a sore knee since May 17. It has been really sore and throbbing. I decided to start stretching my back and leg and the pain has subsided. I'm not sure if it was a knotted muscle, the sciatic nerve flared up, or what. I have to be careful not to over work the knee (knee lift on the sewing machine is hard on it). I'm hoping this will be over and done with soon. 

I successfully made a meatloaf and cooked extra potatoes and peas. I made up 2 dinners and put them in the fridge for tomorrow night. I'd like to make mac and cheese today and put 2 containers in the fridge for Thursday night. This way I can cook every other night until I can find some freezer meals I think we will like. It is a start and leftovers are not going to waste.

Sewing

I spent the morning in the sewing room. I cleaned it up except for dusting. I will do that later on. It was good to get the fabrics put away, and the floor swept. I will take another hour and do all the dusting. 

I dug out the tub of fancy fabric for the dolls. I was looking for the cream satin that looks like silk on the wrong side. While looking I touched a scrap of lace that I had used when making a doll's wedding dress in May 2017. I got it out to see if I had enough to use in this pattern. 

I am making the pink one. When I opened the pattern and laid it on top of the piece, I had enough. Was I ever excited.

The satin is underneath so the embroidery would show. Once I traced the overlay pieces onto tracing pellon, I carefully cut out the overlay. The scraps of lace were kept. I will be cutting out the flowers to sew onto the dress. Nothing will be wasted. 

I sewed the overlay very carefully following the instructions. I am totally impressed with the pattern so far. As I had no distractions, I was able to focus on sewing carefully. 

I have to sew a row of basting down the front and then sew it and the neckline down. Then comes the fun part. Hand sewing on the trim that was gifted to me. The arms and empire waist will be done first. Then the neck and front with hopes of doing the the hem. I will be measuring the trim first. 

 I have cut out two of the flowers to put onto the bodice of the overlay but may use them and other flowers on the dress. I know I am going to use them somewhere. I will probably use all the beads I had to cut off to sew seams on to some of the flowers to add a bit more glamor to the outfit. 

While putting away some batting I found I had a package of Soft and Stable. That is one thing I don't have to look for. It was while putting away the fabric I had a moment of reflection. I am buying fabric again. It is a sign that I am stressed and going back to old habits. I know I buy fabric when I can't sew and I'm really stressed about something. One thing, I caught it early, acknowledged it, and will be consciously trying not to buy more fabric other than to finish projects or for the one I have planned (doll outfit). I'm trying to sew down the stash not build it up. 

Crystals - I went to Amazon and typed in hotfix rhinestones ss16 and they have lots that are reasonably priced. Just remember to check that the size is ss16 or 4mm and hotfix. I love these blue crystals. They are not hotfix so I won't be buying them. I don't like to fiddle with glue. I'm like a 4 year old when it comes to gluing down crystals.

Knitting

I knit several rounds on the socks yesterday. The gusset is slowly getting done. I am trying to knit most days now as it is relaxing. 

Today

The Spousal Unit woke up late in a bad mood stating he is sore everywhere. He wanted help getting dressed and was verbally nasty. He finished dressing himself with no pain issues. It is going to be an interesting day. We will be going out while the cleaners are here and I hope I can sew when we get home. Knitting tonight if I'm not too tired. I have a feeling it is going to be a rough day for both of us. 

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

Down A Rabbit Hole

 Yesterday was another nice day with a high of 19.6C. This morning we have had a shower and the temperature is 11C. It is suppose to shower off and on today. The high is to get to 15C. 

Lifestyle

The Spousal Unit was stressed about the garden being ruined. He was angry that I picked lettuce to eat as I might die. A few of the beets seem to be dying but other than that, the garden is doing really well. He came in this morning about the garden dying and I think he is remembering when the previous lawn maintenance company did spray our cucumbers killing them. 

Last night, the Spousal Unit went out to water the plants. He came charging in yelling at me who had  used the spray nozzle last. In his hand he had the sprinkler. I took it away from him and got the water turned up so the nozzle would work and left him to water the plants. 

As I had to monitor the Spousal Unit a lot more often, less got done in the house. I did two loads of laundry and got the meat into bags and into the freezer. I also did a bit of cleaning up and some knitting. 

Sewing

One load of laundry was the fabric for daughter's quilt. The fabric has all be folded ready for starching and pressing. Then I can cut it out. 

Crystals -- I will look up where I bought them and ask daughter if I have gotten the wrong site. If adding them to a bathing suit, I would use a hotfix tool as I'm not sure what the iron will do the the bathing suit fabric. 

Down the Rabbit Hole - I fell down it while I was monitoring the Spousal Unit. I was reading a review on the Easy Does It Bag By Annie and had to look at the pattern. It is free. I got it and the extra handout plus the add-on videos (all free). When I had a few minutes I watched the videos and she shows you exactly how to make the bag. 

I'm now looking at the Piece Keeper bag as it may be a good place to start. I now have to figure out where to get Soft and Stable, circles, and a stiletto for these projects. The hunt is on. 

Knitting

While the Spousal Unit rested (no napping at all) I fixed the sleeves on the sweater. Better but not perfect. I am going to knit this pattern again as I do like it. Easy during these times. 

I did get all my interchangeable needles sorted out and put away in their container. They are back in the sewing room and off the couch. My goal is to finish the socks as I think I can pick them up and work on them a bit each day. 

Today

We have respite coming this morning. I will go to the sewing room and clean it up. I want to get the fabric out for the Regency dress and set up to trace the pattern. I don't cut tissue patterns. In the afternoon, I want to make a meatloaf and freeze one half of it for another day. I also have a load of laundry to do. A busy day with 3 hours of not worrying about the Spousal Unit. 

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

A Morning In The City

 We've had some interesting weather. Around 1:30 a.m. on Saturday, we had a fabulous thunderstorm. I only saw one flash of lightening but did hear lots of thunder. It was quite far away as there were long periods of time between rumbles. It rained almost 1/2" after the storm. Yesterday we had a lot of wind and a severe thunderstorm warning. It missed us. This morning it was 11C and it is suppose to be sunny and 19C. 

Lifestyle

The Spousal Unit is still stressed about the garden being ruined. Someone is pulling out plants (not). With this stress comes pain and the more he stresses the worse the pain. I finally gave him Tylenol and it helped him relax and the pain left. He is sleeping and eating well. 

On the garden front - the grape tomato plants have doubled in size, everything is growing well and are extremely healthy. The beets and carrots need thinning and I'm trying to figure out how to do this without it being a stressful time for both of us. 

I was into the city yesterday while daughter-in-law and grandson stayed with the Spousal Unit. I got quite a bit done and was home in 3.5 hours. It was nice to get to things we needed and can't get here. Hopefully I can get to shop again when respite begins as I didn't get everything. I'm testing what I can do in 3 hours (which includes driving time). 

Elliott so enjoys the sunshine in the evenings and steals the Spousal Unit's chair. 

Sewing

I bought fabric yesterday for July's modern doll sewing. 

The leggings will become a t-shirt and leggings. The fabric will become something like a pair of capris and a t-shirt. I am thinking of adding yellow crystals to the top. The cotton will probably become a top and capris -- the top in the navy and yellow so it is reversible and the pants in navy with yellow cuffs. 

I also saw a red/black/white plaid and black hatched fabric and will be getting them and black leggings for August's modern sewing. 

Knitting

Though the sweater is done, I need to unknit 2 rows on the sleeves and make them 2 rows longer. It is the yarn not the pattern that caused the sleeves to be short. 

The sweater set goes wonderfully with the jumper I made so 3 pieces of the 6 piece Christmas gift is done. 

Today

The Spousal Unit is out checking the plants before he has coffee. He is stressed about plants being pulled up so it is going to be an interesting day. We are on our own as family is gone for the day so I need to keep him calm and rested. I am hoping to clean the sewing room if all goes well but do know I will get a few loads of laundry done. I also need to start prepping for the cleaners who come on Tuesday.

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

The T-Shirt Is Done

 Yesterday was another lovely day with sunshine and a high of 24.6C. This morning it is cloudy, windy and 15C. We are to have showers during the day and rain tonight. It is suppose to get to 20C.

Lifestyle

Yesterday the Spousal Unit was anxious and stressed. After telling me how great the veggies are, he then felt they weren't doing well at all. 

He was worried we wouldn't have enough to feed the street. The lawn maintenance company was to our neighbors in the morning and sprayed for weeds. They went to the the gated community and didn't get to our place until mid afternoon. The Spousal Unit worried about that. After they sprayed he got upset that they had sprayed the vegetables and they were dying. No matter what - walking the garden with him and reassuring him- he believed that until he went to bed. 

The evening was one of both anxiety and depression. He swung the pendulum and finally he sat beside me as I soothed him. As he was anxious, stressed, and worried his arm hurt like crazy for hours. But, he did eat well which was great. 

He slept well last night and was only up a couple of times. He is a bit grouchy this morning so we wait and see how he does. Grey days don't help him much either. 

The chuckle for the day. Our neighbor left before lunch in his car which is not uncommon. At noon, the fire truck was on our street with the lights going. It was turning around. It didn't go back down the street so I got up to look. Our neighbor was getting out of the fire truck. He must have taken his car somewhere and asked for a ride home. First time we've seen someone dropped off in a fire truck. 

Sewing

The t-shirt is done. It was an easy sew and I took my time so it wouldn't stretch.

It fits the doll well. The crystals add a bit of glam to a plain t-shirt. 

One row was sufficient as they wouldn't show up under the Backyard Bib jumper. 

Yesterday morning I watched The Great British Sewing Bee. I enjoyed it and was amazed at the garment of the week. It was beautifully sewn and fit the model to perfection. A couple of weeks left and it will be done. 

Knitting

The jacket is done ready to be steamed. I had to go back and fix a couple of misreads. The hat has been started and will be done soon. I can't wait to show it. 

Today

It is going to be a day of delusions due to the spraying yesterday. I have nothing on the agenda but to make sure he is safe and do a few small chores when I can. 

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

The T-Shirt is Started

 Yesterday was a lovely sunny day with a high of 21.5C. This morning it was clear, sunny and 9C. It is suppose to get to 25C today with lots of sunshine. 

Lifestyle

The Spousal Unit was outside a lot in the morning. I left him longer unsupervised as he was calm and happy wandering around in the sunshine. He also feels more independent when he's on his own outside. 

In the afternoon we went for a drive to Canning. We took the old highway and enjoyed the drive. We looked at fields of corn and crops we couldn't figure out what they were as they were just coming up. We went out to a boat launch and looked at the high tide and it was high. On the way home, the Spousal Unit's arm started to really hurt which ended his drive in misery. 

While I shopped for groceries, he spent the evening with son. His arm didn't hurt until I came in. Am I a trigger for it to hurt? I know I am a trigger (and a target) when he has his delusions and anger. Maybe I stress him out and his arm hurts from it. Who knows. 

I got an overload of information in the mail yesterday. I will need to sit and read some of again as I only scanned it. I know of a few things I need to do and others I'm already doing. It certainly is a learning process. There is a lot more information available since my mom had Alzheimers. 

Sewing

After rereading my own tutorials on sewing a t-shirt, I spent a couple of hours in the sewing room. I cut out the t-shirt and started sewing it. Once I got the neckline done, I put on one row of crystals. With the neckline flat, it is easier to get the first row on evenly.

The light crystals are sky opal which are cheaper. The dark ones are swarovski crystals and very expensive. 

I got the sleeves hemmed without stretching them, one inserted and one side seam sewn up. I put it on under the jumper. 

I think that is enough crystals on this top. Daughter agreed with me. 

At this point, I'm thinking of making a t-shirt with red and clear crystals on it, white capris, and a skirt for a modern look. It may happen in July. 

Knitting

No knitting last night as I was grocery shopping and tired from driving in the afternoon. 

Today

I am sewing this morning and I'm not sure what I will do this afternoon. I'm tired as I slept poorly the first part of last night. I was dreaming which I don't normally do. I know I'm tired which could have been the reason I was dreaming. Hopefully I can nap after lunch. This evening I hope to knit. There are no drives or outings today which is good. 

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