Wednesday, September 28, 2011

e-books and smiles

I've been reading a few e-books lately.  I almost dug in my heels thinking I wouldn't get involved with them, because I'm one that likes to pass books on to others to read.  However, I've found that there are plenty of e-books out there that are either free or very low cost.  And even better, if you don't mind the possible wait, city libraries are an excellent option.  Yes, for the latest best-seller you may be on a waiting list for a bit, but there's been plenty of times I've waited for the hard cover version, so that's okay.  And there are any number of books that are readily available.  Being able to download at any time of the day or night is great.  And think how environmentally correct!!   You're not using gas to drive there, and less paper is used.

I've read a biography on Susan Boyle, the singing sensation from the Britain's Got Talent show.   Also a couple of Debbie Macomber's fictional pieces,  Grisham's "The Confession", and currently "The Help".  I'm pleased.  But I still look for bargains in garage sales.  :)


I've been doing a bit of embroidery here and there, and starting to pull a few thoughts together for another quilt.  My Stash to Treasure challenge quilt came out fine, and the idea is inspiring me to use up some of the smaller pieces that I've had forever. 



Here's a bright little picture to close this up.  Elise and her daddy!  She's usually a momma's girl, but she did just fine with dad when mom had to go out of town for a couple of days.

Monday, September 19, 2011

it was a grand weekend...

Yep, anytime you can spend time with the grandkids, it's grand.  :)

Friday was a nice jumpstart on the weekend when I had lunch with Ashlynn and Rhett.  Their school had Grandparents Day.  Elise went with me, so she got to have lunch with her cousins.  It was nice to see such a turnout, and it looked like all the kids enjoyed it.  That's a good thing. 

Then on Sunday we celebrated Elise's second birthday, just a small gathering but perfect for a 2-year old. 
 
Happy birthday, sweet little girl!

On another note, I've finished my challenge quilt except for the binding, and that will be finished within a few days.  This is the quilt that I can't show any pictures until after the voting is done.

Have a good week!

Sunday, September 4, 2011

another year older...

Brother Carl's birthday is today.  I've said for a long time that Carl is one who will age well.  Why?  He's active, and has a variety of interests.  He rides his ATV.  He does metal work, enamelware, and jewelry making (I think it's called silver smithing). He's learned how to play the mandolin. And he's pursuing an interest in art.  He's not afraid to take classes in whatever he's interested in, and often encourages and shows others how to do what he's learned.

When I went to visit last month, I was lucky enough to latch onto a few of his pictures, with his blessings of course.  I've put them in frames, and they now grace my walls and the top of my hutch.  Here's an example of his work.  This one is in my seaside themed bathroom.

I came across this picture  the other day and forwarded it to him, knowing he likes faces with character. 
This is what he sent back to me.  He says it's not done yet, but I think she's looking good.


And this is what I came up with. 
Rather light, but maybe you'll get the idea.  And don't be too critical.  I know she's not smiling like the original, and her neck's too dark, but here's the thing...I'm trying something different.  Thanks Carl, I appreciate you.

Happy birthday!


Thursday, September 1, 2011

another project



Last week Robert forwarded me an ad from Craig's List...an old Singer sewing machine in cabinet for sale, $40 or best offer.  The picture just showed the cabinet, and the top is in rough shape.   I got in touch with the guy, and yes he still had it.  Yes, he would accept $25.  So, I got Nolene to drive over with me to take a look. 

Here's what I got.  This doesn't show the top of the cabinet, but the machine is a beauty!
Someone had painted the cabinet, probably back in the 60's.  I'd say it's a harvest gold paint color.  (eyeroll)  I may be biting off more than I can chew, but I've already started stripping the cabinet.  We'll see how long that takes and how it comes out.

The sewing machine looks to be in good shape.
I found the serial number on the bottom, not on a tag in the front as I've seen on others.  In looking up the number, it was manufactured in 1930!
I've got to do some more research, but I've not seen a machine with the little dial thing on the right front...possibly stitch length?  And I don't see anything to backstitch or sew in reverse. If anyone has any thoughts or know the answers, feel free to speak up. 

Thanks for thinking of your Mom, Robert.  :)