One Crazy Mom Quilter

Some photos to share...

2009-12-25T19:00:00.000-08:00

My three sweet Blessings!
Morgan 15, Nicholas 4 1/2, Ashley 18

Merry Christmas! Downtown San Francisco

Wednesday December 23rd..fun day for the family

December 25th...another beautiful Christmas!

2009-12-25T18:57:00.000-08:00

Well it's been a while, a long while since I posted here. A friend asked about my list for 2009..I have been mostly successful but some things just haven't happened or will not happen in 2009. There's always 2010. I did update the list so take a peek and tell me I did "ok"...heehee...
Merry Christmas All!!!

It's been a while...

2009-09-04T20:04:00.000-07:00

I'm still alive. Seems as though August flew by. I remember my grandma telling me that the older you get the faster time goes and man is that true!
I have had a day all to myself, granted I'm sick with a horrid cough, but still nice to have an empty clean house to myself. Watched a little tv, browsed the web, lots of email, lots of laundry and now heading to bed early.
I promise to post more often....

Love to all

Best news of the year (for me anyhow haha)

2009-07-24T09:32:00.000-07:00

Nicholas is finally at age 4 going to bed in his own bed!!!! YAHOO!!!! 5 nights now. He does wake 1/2 way through but hey it's a beginning.

Just wanted to share :-)

Exciting life of the Carr family....

2009-07-10T17:34:00.000-07:00

Well, Ashley quite possibly has the H1N1 flu virus :-( She has been spending time with her best friends family who have been sick and recently found out that a girl their youngest daughter had gone to church camp with tested positive for the virus..ugh. So Ashley was cultured this morning at the dr and home and quarantined to her bedroom. Fever, aches, headache, cough, etc etc. While I have a good feeling that it isn't, ya just never know. All we can do is pray that she recovers quickly and no one else in the family gets it. We are staying home this weekend to see how this plays out. I am feeling achey right now and sorta blah but no fever and no cough.

On the good side of this , having to stick close to home, I get to SEW!! yah!!! Bought a new pattern for a purse yesterday, fabric too with a gift card my hubby gave me for mothers day, was waiting for fabric that really caught my eye and I love the new fabrics out at the quilt shop.

Tonight is a simple cobb salad for dinner. Think I might lay down for a little bit with some motrin and see if I can get rid of this achiness...wish me luck :-)

Graduation photos of Ashley 2009

2009-06-22T19:33:00.000-07:00

Ashley and Daddy after graduation

Ashley and her sister Morgan after graduation

Ashley and Mom (me) after graduation

Ashley right after receiving her diploma!!

My baby girl is now a high school graduate. Woohoo!! We're proud of you Ally.

Best of luck in the real world sweetie!!

love mom xoxo

June already

2009-06-16T12:39:00.000-07:00

What a month this has been! Still recuperating from family visit for Ashley's high school graduation. At one point we had 13 people sleeping in our little 2,000 sq foot home...no kidding, we were all packed in like sardines...3 per room, the living room, dining room....can you imagine? while it was wonderful to see our families, can't say that I could do that again :-( We have been left with a bad toilet, plumber is coming out today. (138.00 minimum) Puppy was hurt on the leg somehow (288.00 emergency visit) Food (500+.00) Party...(200+.00)...time with family was priceless though. I may sound like I'm complaining....I hope you all don't think so. While we all love family it is nice to have our own homes.
Ashley is signing up for college classes today..yeah! 14 credits...full time. We are sooo proud of her. She has really grown up this past month. She will be 18 on friday. I still remember the day she was born like it was yesterday...sigh....
It's a bit cloudy this afternoon, the weather has been really strange for northern california, not much above 80, normally it's in the high 90's - 100. Not complaining here...I love the cooler weather.
I'm sitting out front on my porch while Nicholas is riding his little bike around, he's really whipping on that thing now, maybe time to take off the training wheels. Can't believe he will be 4 this month :-( Where has the time gone.
I will post some photos of the graduation this evening. Think I'm going to sew for a bit while I wait for the plumber.

What's up & Cell Phone wallets & Prayer request

2009-05-09T20:11:00.000-07:00

Life has been crazy to say the least. Ashley graduates in less than a month and we've been busy trying to prepare for that. Many family members will be coming down to celebrate with her and we're all excited for the visit. Nicholas has just a couple more weeks of preschool left and then he's out for the summer. He is signed up for 4 weeks of swim classes and a friday morning preschool class called "circle, story, art time"..that should be fun for him and a break for dear old mom. Morgan is finally feeling better, her poor shoulder was injured back in February and she's just now heeling, praise the Lord she's feeling better. She still has to wait until mid June to be released back to sports.

I have been having fun sewing. I found the cutest pattern for cell phone bags and have gotten carried away with them. Above is a photo of some of them. They are sooo simple, it's a pattern from "quiltsmart". I figure they will make perfect gifts for friends and family, just enclose a little gift card and they have a ready made shopping trip, wallet and all :-) They have a long strap to wear across your chest for handsfree shopping. I plan on using one when I take Nicholas and Sophie to the park or on a walk etc, grab my ID, cell phone and house key and we're ready. One of them you will notice is made into a wristlet.

There is a family in need of prayer...if you feel it in your heart to pray for them their names are John and Danah Jewitt and their little guy Jayden. They recently lost their 5 year old to cancer and then just months later lost their newborn son as well. God Bless them!! This family is a true inspiration of how God works and the Faith that they still have is unbelievable.

Good Night!

Our first HOT day...94+

2009-04-20T19:20:00.000-07:00

Ugh...I am not looking forward to the summer heat. At 2:00 it was already 94..don't know what the high was for the day. I knew this morning when it was in the 80's at 9:00 that we were in for a hot day.
Nicholas and Sophie had a great time in the wading pool this morning. I will post photos in a bit...Sophie loves the water, so does Nicholas. Sophie took her first head dive into the big pool yesterday, she did not like it! I think it scared her and the pool is still not warm so it may have been too cold. Patrick had to jump in and help her get to the stairs. Poor baby.

Blessings to all.....

Sophie with her Duck and Nick with his quilt

2009-04-16T09:26:00.000-07:00

My precious pup. Somedays she's not so "precious"...but isn't she cute???!!! This is her new Easter Duck...makes the same sounds as a real duck, she couldn't get enough of it. She's 7 months here.

Nicholas under his new nappy blanket. Just a simple shooting stars pattern in batiks and backed with a soft cream chenille...he loves it. Me too :-) Perfect for snuggling at nap time.

Good Morning

2009-04-16T09:22:00.000-07:00

Wow..this week has gone by fast.
The girls are on spring break...Ashley flies home today from her vacation and Morgey and I have just been hanging out having fun shopping and eating out etc.
Nicholas is at preschool so I'm heading in to my sewing area...woohoo! Haven't had much time for that this week. Nicholas is going to a little girls birthday party on Sunday, we chose a cute little baby doll as the gift and I'm making some little doll receiving blankies :-) and mini sized burp cloths to match. My girls loved that kinda thing when they were into dolls.
Hope all is well....wish I had more time to chat but my sewing machine is calling me....

Blessings to all.....

All my kids...even the furry one :-)

2009-04-06T18:19:00.000-07:00

My two girlies...Morgan is 14, Ashley is 17. This was taken Saturday before prom.

Nicholas, 3 1/2, Sophie 7 months...enjoying the sun and fresh mowed grass :-)

Another, Nicholas and Sophie...they are buds.

Just relaxin' in the sun...both are a handful of energy...put em together and you've got dynamite...no kidding!

Friday Morning

2009-03-06T08:45:00.000-08:00

...and the sun is out. I enjoy a rainy gray day every once in a while but lately we've had just too many, today I plan to take Sophie to the dog park to run, she's a wild puppy being pinned up all day. Took her for a short walk yesterday in between rain shower. Nicholas is funny...when I asked him if we should take Sophie to the doggie park he said "yes, she will like to slide"..haha. Crazy thing is, this puppy probably would LOL!!! she's a fruit nut.

Have a great weekend!

Good Tuesday here

2009-03-03T12:21:00.001-08:00

Afternoon already :-) Where do the days go?
Ashley is doing well...alot better! Praise the Lord. She's has an appointment with her therapist at 1:00. We both love her therapist, a very special lady that has a soft spot for Ash.
My friend Jill came over this morning and we had a great time talking, drinking coffee and showing off eachothers recent projects. Thanks Jill for a great morning...you're an awesome friend and I love spending time with you. So nice to have someone that shares your interest and you can be yourself around.
Time to sew for a while..gotta love that kinda day. Working on a scrappy 9 patch, I really don't like scrappy but it's time to get out my comfort zone a bit. I like the way a scrappy looks, I just have such a difficult time putting together fabric that just doesn't match...sigh....

Happy tuesday!

Weekend is here

2009-02-28T19:55:00.000-08:00

Even though I am home during the week I still love the weekend. Saturday morning is my "sleep in" day, and I look forward to it all week. Sunday is Patricks turn. Today we went to Woodland to watch Morgans soccer game, she's doing really well but hurt her leg badly today :-( Poor girl. Motrin and ice seem to be helping a bit. Those girls are rough! amazing.
Ashley is doing better today too, Praise the Lord for that. The power of prayer is awesome. God is good. Times like this really open your eyes and teach us to trust in Him even more. Sometimes the want to control things ourselves take over and stress begins.
Tomorrow we are trying a new church and then I'm home to sew..I have not sewn since I cleaned my area up. I'm just itching to sit and stitch for a few hours. May do some handsewing tonight while watching tv with Patrick. Keeps my hands busy and away from the snacks.

Blessings to all my friends and family!

Sunny today but still feels like it's pouring rain :-(

2009-02-24T08:35:00.000-08:00

Not much good news to report today. Our family has been in chaos for the past couple months and yesterday was the turning point....all I can say is Please Pray for Us!! Especially my oldest daughter Ashley...she really needs it.

Well lets see if this sunshine today can turn my mood around... Was supposed to have coffee with my friend Jill, but instead I'll be visiting Ashley's school etc.

Blessings...and remember God is always faithful and gets us through our trying times...these trying times are what bring us closer to Him.

Tracey

Still Raining :-(

2009-02-22T21:18:00.001-08:00

Looks like we're in for a dreary week..not just day :-(
The movie was cute..He's Just Not That into You..sweet ending. The girls liked it too...Patrick said it was OK. More of a chic flic I guess. But Sunday is family day and we must spread the fun for all ages...Nicholas stayed with a sitter today though, he's just not into movies at the theatre yet.
Can't wait for Tuesday, My friend Jill is coming over..for some show n tell, gotta show her my tidy sewing area and my neatly arranged and organized bins..woohoo. Planning to make a puff pancake and coffee...fun morning as Nicholas will be at school. Love that school!!! By the way..he is doing very well in school, much better at following instructions too.

Good night to all...blessings

Rain Rain Go Away ~

2009-02-22T10:51:00.000-08:00

Another rainy dreary day here in Northern California. Well at least we won't suffer from a water shortage this summer, at least I can't see how we could, it's pouring rain, gutters are overflowing with water, grass is flooded in the back.
Today we found a sitter for Nicholas so Patrick, Me and the girls can go to a movie together...and...actually enjoy the movie HAHA. What a blessing to have two teenage daughters that have friends that babysit :-)
My sewing bins are so pretty! They are all tidy and organized on my shelves in the garage with room to grow even LOL My sewing room is now just my sewing cabinet with the machine..woohoo..no more clutter. I have grown to despise clutter, makes it terribly hard to clean and makes no sense to have tons of crap around. Less is better I have discovered. Plus it makes the house feel so much bigger.
Time to clean the kitchen, hang up some laundry and clean the downstairs bathroom before we head to the movie.

Blessings to all...

What a feeling!!

2009-02-19T15:38:00.000-08:00

Finally was able to finish the huge task of organizing my quilting/sewing fabrics and supplies. Feels wonderful. Looks great too. Now to swap the dining room with the sewing area..that's a task for Patrick HA!! Not sure he'll dig the idea but we shall see...

Another unproductive week :-(

2009-02-11T17:39:00.000-08:00

Sunday nights I go to bed with visions of getting things done throughout the week...never happens. I tore apart my sewing area to only have a bigger mess and no where to put all this junk. Today I was just overwhelmed with it all and didn't even step foot in there, I'm sure Patrick will be overjoyed with the never ending mess in there...mind you for those that don't know...it does not have a door, it is a little area off the family room that is designed to be the formal dining room.

Anyhow...I did get to go through about 20 magazines to give to a friend..only about 120 more to go HA!

My hobby has become an obsession and I don't like it anymore...I don't, I don't, I don't...time to scale back so this feeling of being overwhelmed with it will be in the past...

Okay enough venting on one subject.

Blessings...

Mini Shop Hop with Alex Anderson

2009-02-08T17:45:00.000-08:00

Yesterday my friend Jill and I went on a mini shop hop. We visited 3 shops, 2 of which I had never been to, they were all great! First was Main Street Quilts in Martinez, CA, then Thimblecreek in Concord, CA, and the last was The Cotton Patch in Lafayette, CA..this is where we were able to hear and see Alex Anderson talk about her quilting past and present. She had many beautiful quilts with fun stories for each, she's a very nice lady! It was just such a perfect day. Patrick kept Nicholas and they had a great time together. The girls of course went to the mall...whatelse is there to do on a saturday afternoon??? haha...
This is a cherry apron panel, it was so cute all made up! Can't wait to get it done :-)

Dinosaur quilt kit for Nicholas of course. It's just adorable in person, the colors are to die for.

Patrick gave me a beautiful tower of fq's for Christmas and I lucked out yesterday to find the fabrics made up in this beautiful quilt pattern at one of the shops. So..I bought the pattern :-)

Signed by "Alex Anderson"...what an awesome lady. So real and genuine, not what you'd think. Be sure to check out her new internet show with Ricky Timms...sounds great!

Jill introduced me to these "thimble it's" and they work wonderfully, used it this morning and not a pin prick or sore to finger to be had the rest of the day :-) Also some needles and two- 1/2 yard cuts of a wonderfully soft woven. Tea towels in my future :-)

Just too cute to pass up! Both Jill and I have this thing for Cherries right now...they're just so cute! I know...like I needed more fq's..but these are very cute! LOL

MMMM....this brown and pink is so yummy! I had to have it. Reminds me of chocolate. 3 1/2 yards total so I can come up with something nice. Might even add a solid shimmer of brown.

Another "have to have" haha...valentine post card kit. Makes a bunch of cards, I've been wanting to try this and what better way to have a kit all ready :-) Gotta love those kits.

Being a mom and Being sick..sucks

2009-02-03T09:03:00.001-08:00

Started Sunday with flu like symptoms and woke up in the middle of the night sick :-( Morning came and I thought I was okay..well it hit me hard later in the morning and I spent the day in bed. Ashley stayed home and watched Nicholas for me as Patrick had already left for the city. Gosh I hate not having family here to help us out during these times. While laying in bed with my door locked I could hear my baby crying for me, no sissy was not what he wanted, he wanted mommy. The feeling of guilt that he didn't understand I was sick, I mean he knows what "sick" is, but he always thinks if you're "sick" you're going to die like our puppy Tucker did :-( My poor little guy. I think I will get some kid level books on death, and sickness. Sissy tried her best for hours to occupy him, finally he was exhausted but would not sleep for her so I was trying to come downstairs to rock him..I know he's 3 and should be able to just lay down and sleep on his own but that's our fault as we have always rocked him..anyhow I couldn't do it, instant nausea so Ashley took him for a ride and he was out..slept for 3 hours! Of course he was up at 445 yesterday morning. So I slept for 3 hours and woke feeling a bit better. This morning I hurt all over, Nicholas is at preschool so I am going to sit and watch tv for a while and work on some yoyo's. The house is a disaster but who cares right?? Doesn't seem to bother anyone else but me so why should it bother me? because I'm the mom! right?! Anyhow you don't realize just how much your family needs you until a time like this :-) Gosh I love my family...a true blessing, each and every one of them!!

Blessings,

Cherry Tablerunner for Mom

2009-02-01T20:09:00.000-08:00

This is a tablerunner I just finished for Mom for Valentine's Day :-) It was so much fun, I love all the Mary Englebreit fabrics. This line is a "recipe for friendship". The cherries were made from yo-yo's, the leaves are 3D with grossgrain ribbon for the vines. Left the center open so she could have her centerpiece or whatever in the middle. Sure hope she likes it.

Blessings...

GO STEELERS!!

2009-02-01T19:23:00.000-08:00

What an ending?!!!! wow. Patrick was on the edge of his seat at the end there, this is "his" team :-) 6 superbowl wins, amazing team.

Quilting news

2009-01-28T20:54:00.000-08:00

Tonight I pin basted 2 tablerunners and a valentine wallhanging. Both ready for quilting now, just a simple stitch in the ditch. However, I'm out of white thread :-( Can't believe how much thread I go through. Luckily I still have a coupon for Joann Fabrics, will head there in the morning. Binding is ready for each, it'll give me a nice evening hand project.
Tomorrow night (thursday) I have a quilt class, it's more of a group of ladies getting together to sew a certain pattern with a jelly roll...gotta love those jelly rolls :-) I sure do!

Will post some photos of finished projects by the weekend (hopefully)

On Motherhood

2009-01-22T11:56:00.000-08:00

This is just too funny. Was browsing through some photos when I came across this one. Nicholas on his "red" trike and behind you'll see Ashley's "red" car..wow do I have two totally opposite ends of the spectrum or what?? To see them progress from the trike to the car certainly makes you realize just how short of a time period they are young. Ashley goes off to college next fall and that just does not seem possible. Lately I have had the itch for another little baby...but then I think I'm almost to the point where Nicholas will be in kindergarten and I can have some of my life back, is that selfish? nahhh...Plus in today's economy and college to pay for it's just not the responsible thing to do.
Blessings....

bread recipe anyone?

2009-01-12T10:53:00.000-08:00

I would love to learn to cook bread from scratch, anyone reading have a good homemade recipe? Not for the bread machine though...I have a breadmaker and while it makes good bread there's nothing quite like "homemade".
Just finished my monday morning housework, nicholas is playing outside..it's nice and warm..with a good wind going though. Back door is open to air out the stale smell from inside.
Off to shower shortly and head to the quilt shop, can you believe I'm short a 12" 2 3/4" wide strip of fabric to complete my blocks :-( Sure hope they still have this fabric.

Blessings....

Making napkins today :-)

2009-01-10T12:35:00.000-08:00

Going to make an attempt at being a little more green :-) Even planning on using what I have as far as fabrics go. Save $$'s, trees and the landfills a bit. I know they need to be washed but hey I wash a load of towels every other day so it will not make a difference. I'll post photos later.

Crockpots

2009-01-08T15:24:00.001-08:00

Okay...seriously ...would you cook in your crockpot 365 days of the year? Yes, I like my crockpot and it makes for a nice simple meal but don't know if I could do this. Maybe once a week. Anyhow Kim sent out the link to this gals blog who actually did this as a new years resolution for 2008, I have added her link to the bottom of my blog lists. Feel free to take a peek, very interesting. I would have never thought of making punch or desserts etc in my crockpot. And did you know there is a gadget that has 3 individual crockpots? wow.. The one nice thing is dinner is done when it's time to eat. I will definately be browsing some of her recipes. Thanks for sharing the link Kim!

Quilting

2009-01-08T12:23:00.000-08:00

Went and signed up for a class today at the local quilt shop. I know I could just do these quilts at home without paying for a class but 1/2 the fun is chatting with others who share your interest and love of quilting. A dear friend of mine will be taking it as well, yeah!
Also...sew and supper is next friday night. The two owners bake a fabulous meal with dessert and then at 10 they bring in starbucks...7 hours of sewing and fellowship, I love this night, generally do it a few times a year. One of my goals this year is to have one of these nights or days at my home, potluck style or appetizers, drinks..what fun!
The new BOM starts in February and I was lucky enough to get a spot this year, I lost out last year as I was too late to sign up :-( Ah well..this years theme is hearts with a space to write in inspirations, I chose the red/white/black color theme. Aren't those colors always so stunning?!!
Gotta run make lunch for Nicholas, Ashley and I before taking Ashley to the dr this afternoon, she's has a really severe sore throat for a few days and fever spiked up at 102 last night, low grade this morning.
Blessings to all...

A few things done on my list :-)

2009-01-06T11:58:00.001-08:00

yeah!! I'm finally feeling up to par and have all my energy back..I think plus some. Took Sophie on a long walk this morning, did some sewing (it is tuesday morning), took Nick to preschool, ran and got necessities like laundry soap and such. I have highlighted and changed the text color of things done..

LIfe is almost back to normal

2009-01-03T20:41:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling better, however, still not at 100% :-( This bug got a hold and doesn't want to let go.
The kids go back to school on Monday, Nicholas goes back to preschool Tuesday so things should be getting back to normal. Can't wait to get caught up on the housework and meal planning. Anyone have a good recipe for hamburger or boneless chicken you wanna share? I get tired of cooking the same dinners, always looking for something that is a sure hit with a family. Tonight I made pancakes, it was late and they sounded good! By golly Patrick even thought it sounded good..yah! So added some fruit and we were good to go. Not to mention clean up was a breeze! gotta love that. Think I might head into the sewing area and work on a couple of table runners, almost done with the 2nd one, then to baste and quilt them.

Oh yeah....I got a new Dyson vacuum today!! I'm very excited...even though I hate cleaning..HAHA...it's purple :-) Maybe that will add to the fun of cleaning...hmmm or not.

Blessings and love to all

Sick, sick, sick

2009-01-02T21:22:00.000-08:00

Tired of being sick :-( Tomorrow I plan to wake up well..yah. Anyone ever taken the cough syrup with codeine? UGH!! is all I can say. Tomorrow marks the beginning of week 3 since this nasty sickness began. Tomorrow will be a good day!! Tomorrow is the last day of antibiotics too. Supposed to be mid 50's so maybe that will lift my spirit and I can take a walk with Nicholas and Sophina Mina
Good night

New Years 2009 Mystery Quilt!

2009-01-02T10:24:00.000-08:00

Here is the finished product (well it still needs borders). It was a fun, simple quilt...may even make another :-)
After thinking back this is the 5th year I have participated. Certainly a tradition now, even Patrick begins asking me about it early december, what a guy!

Not sure what lucky person will receive this one....

New Years!

2009-01-01T20:44:00.000-08:00

Happy New Years! Hope everyone had a safe and fun time last night :-) Patrick, Nicholas and I were all in bed by 10..this darn sick stuff has me down early. The girls were both gone overnight. My house is a crazy mess, with Christmas and being sick I am so far behind but you know I'm not stressing. Life is too short to stress over housework..agree?! :-) Anyhow, sewing is more fun! Take a look at our front room yesterday afternoon..this was after about 6 hours of me sewing and Nicholas doing what he wanted..he is a mess maker!!

Getting there on my 101 things to do in 2009

2008-12-28T14:24:00.001-08:00

Now up to 42...my mind is whirling, tomorrow i will go through the house and figure out all the must do's.
Going to the dr tomorrow morning, can't seem to get rid of this awful cold/virus.
Anyone else working on a list of "to do's"?

Love to all

a couple of NYE quilts...

2008-12-27T18:11:00.000-08:00

Tree is down...countdown to NYE Mystery WOOHOO

2008-12-27T18:01:00.000-08:00

A dear gal on one of the quilting lists I am on does an annual mystery quilt...the one day I look forward to every year..it starts at 5AM my time on New Years Eve, it is SOOOO much fun. Patrick knows how much I look forward to this and he occupies the kids (well Nick at least) and I come down about 4:30 am turn on the heat, make some hot cocoa or tea and click on the laptop and sewing machine, warm up the iron and I'm ready to go! I'll post a photo of my top next weekend..yes I finish the top that day.

Another note..my brother had Christmas with my parents today and opened his quilt that I made him, yaya....he loved it. It was so beautiful...here is a photo, this was before borders and quilting, but it's just beautiful, such a "man" quilt.

Blessings....

Merry Christmas from my kiddies :-)

2008-12-25T18:46:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas from (left to right):

Ashley, Sophie our furry kid, Morgan and Nicholas.

hugs and kisses to all, blessings for a properous and healthy, happy new year. Prayers for all that 2009 brings some relief to the economy.

Tracey

Merry Christmas! Here comes 2009

2008-12-24T22:23:00.001-08:00

What a wonderful year this has been, filled with so many blessings.
Tomorrow morning the kids will wake to a tree full of gifts, I hope they enjoy it all. Tonight was a dinner of belgian waffles and sausage, made by Patrick..yah! it was yummy. We read the story of Jesus each year and then we all get to open a gift :-) Nicholas is asleep and time for Patrick to put his little scooter together.

Merry Christmas!
Lots of love....Tracey

Time to wrap gifts

2008-12-21T09:37:00.000-08:00

UGH...I love shopping for them, choosing just the right item for the right person etc...but the wrapping is for the birds. Patrick has set me up a gift wrapping station in the garage HAHA..sorta like my sewing table with a little table off to the side (l shaped there ya go) all the paper, tape, boxes, ribbon all nicely sitting there for me..now to get my booty out there and take care of it all. No kidding I have at least 60 gifts to wrap...yes we went hog on the kids this year. They have been soooo good and were so supportive of Patrick during his short layoff and they seldom ask for anything so figured why not :-) They will all be very excited and have a great time.

Bye for now....

Another Monday...

2008-12-15T21:58:00.000-08:00

Is it me or is time flying for all? Often wonder that.
Nicholas has a thing for candy canes right now, his motto "the more the better" haha...too much sugar and he's a different child. Tomorrow is his field trip to the tree farm with preschool but him and I are both sick so we're skipping out. I'm actually feeling better but his cough sounds worse. I hope he sleeps well tonight, I'm exhausted, been up since 5 this morning. Have a big cake order for tomorrow night and just spent 4 hours making 50 gumpaste roses..ugh. Very pretty but very time consuming. I'll post a photo tomorrow of the cake. Heading to bed now since I still have to bake the cake tomorrow morning.

Good night and blessings

Santa visit today for Nick

2008-12-10T09:08:00.001-08:00

Nicholas and I are heading out to the mall to visit santa today. Funny thing though...my dad has a white beard and Nicholas swears that Santa is Grandpa. I asked him if he wanted to see santa today and he said "do we go on a airplane" too funny! He has insisted upon this all season. We were at macy's and they had these free little pins with santa on them..some Believe promotion they were having or something..anyhow, he says really loud..."hey that's my grandpa" too funny! He still has the pin :-)

17 days and counting

2008-12-08T17:47:00.000-08:00

Hard to believe it's that special time of the year again. Have been making cookies like crazy..25 1/2 dozen yesterday, thankfully I had Ashley's help or I would have pooped out way earlier. Tomorrow Patrick will take a nice big platter of cookies to work. Brownies just came out of the oven and the house smells wonderful.
Hope you're all doing well and taking a time out to remember the real reason for this season!
Love to all....

Tea Party Blocks and thoughts on mother hood....

2008-12-02T16:28:00.000-08:00

Here are 5 of the main blocks for my Tea Party quilt. Aren't they sweet? I 've had so much fun with this Block of the month. These will all have a double border and then there are 4 small teapot blocks that go with it, planning to work on those tonight. The older girls are going to Merriment on Main to see the tree lighting tonight so it's just Patrick, Nicholas and I.

I had a break through today....After an hour of running wild..literally!...I had just brought the muddy puppy in from outside, she was in a crazy mood!, then fanagling her into her crate..which she didn't want to go in...Nicholas was going potty and missed the potty, peed all over the floor, himself etc..I'm sure you all get the picture now...his socks were soaked and he's running around downstairs, I grabbed him first and removed the nasty socks, mopped the floor up where he and the muddy puppy had been, then into the bathroom...WOW...didn't know a little one had that much pee, it was everywhere! cleaned the bathroom up, floor and all, the entire time nicholas is screaming for underpants HAHA..the life of a mom..As I dropped the wet carpets, towels etc into the basket of laundry I smiled and thought...wow I am very thankful to be able to take care of my family like this :-) Took a brief moment and thanked God for my family, health and of course my muddy sweet little puppy.

Thanksgiving weekend

2008-12-01T08:33:00.001-08:00

I hope all my friends and family had a wonderful weekend. We sure did. What a blessing to spend such quality time with my family. Patrick and I headed out at 445 on Friday morning, its a tradition for us and we both enjoy it, may not even buy a lot but it's fun and then we stop for breakfast and come home for a nap :-) No kids allowed haha.
Finished a couple of quilty christmas projects this weekend, yah! My hands are feeling it now, that hand sewing is tough on the arthritis. Today I'm working on the house, laundry and my TeaParty BOM's..they are so cute, gotta finish this quilt quickly as I have the perfect wall in my dining room, plus...my mom recently gave me a couple of my grandma's tea cups, I love them!! And plan to hang those up on a rack above the quilt. I will post photos when its done...haha..it may be a longgggg while but it will get there.
Patrick has one last day off for this long weekend and we plan to finish the kids' Christmas shopping today, only a couple of items left. Then just shopping for him and I'm finished and can sit back and enjoy the holiday.

Take care and have a blessed week!

Sophie and Nicholas playing

2008-11-26T23:20:00.001-08:00

Nicholas just loves Sophie..and she can't get enough of him :-) I'm sure they'll grow up together best buds. It is so entertaining to watch them "play" together on the climbing structure, she tries her hardest to "climb" the slide..too funny!

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T20:18:00.001-08:00

Prayers to all that you enjoy a happy Thanksgiving with friends and family. Remember those less fortunate with a special prayer as you count your blessings.

Hugs to all

Long day....

2008-11-19T18:31:00.000-08:00

...and I'm exhausted. Been transitioning Nicholas into his own big boy bed, which he's doing really well..but....yesterday he had a 3 hour nap!! No not my doings, I left at 530 and Patrick let him sleep til 7 :-( So at 9 when I took him to bed he just wasn't tired. It was midnight before he was asleep and even then he wokeup shortly after that to use the potty. At 1:30 I gave up and took him to my bed, I had to have some sleep!
Our new furniture arrived yesterday..oohhh it's beautiful. All La-z-boy and I love it! Now to teach Nicholas the new "rules" for eating in there...hmmm, another challenging time ahead.
Morgan was kind enough to give Nicholas a bath tonight, of course he's not behaving so I gotta run.

Blessings....

Monday morning

2008-11-17T11:06:00.000-08:00

WOOHOO...Nicholas slept in his bed til 5:00 this morning. We are thrilled at how simple this transition from our bed to his new bed has been. He is very proud of himself too :-) This morning he got a new hot wheel and a piece of gum, he was in 7th heaven.
The weekend went by too quickly, they always do. Did most of the downstairs housework last night so I can work on Christmas gifts today. Might take Nicholas to the park too, it's been beautiful out, low 70's during the day and cooler at night, this is when I enjoy living in California.
Chat more later......
Blessings to all.....

Sophie Update

2008-11-15T20:57:00.000-08:00

Almost forgot....Sophie is doing really well, she's feeling 100% now. I was worried cuz she was so darn skinny for a puppy, vet said today that was due to the Giardia, she wasn't eating her full meals. Well my little princess piggy has gained 7 pounds in 2 short weeks!! She is such a doll, we love her so much. Patrick still misses Tucker I can tell, he does love Sophie though.

Saturday night

2008-11-15T20:50:00.001-08:00

Wow...I guess at 40 something you just don't get into a saturday night anymore :-( It's only 8:50 and I'm in my pj's and ready for bed. I remember when I'd stay up all night or at least til 2 or 3, not anymore. I do love my bed :-)

Nicholas is now a certified big boy. He is sleeping in his new full size big boy bed all by himself with undies! no more pullups or diapers for this kid. He is very proud of himself as is mommy and daddy :-) Today we all went (even Ashley and Morgan, which they are hardly ever with us anymore, part of having teens is getting used to the fact that they have a life of their own, has been hard on this mom!) to the movies and saw "Madagascar 2", it was very cute. Nicholas did awesome, first time he's been in about 6 months and I must say he's ready for kid friendly movies once in a while now, yeah!

I am going Christmas shopping for the girls tomorrow...wow teens are hard to shop for :-( Nicholas is done, he was so simple...some cars, trucks, blocks etc, he'll be a happy camper..oh yeah I got him the cutest "car's" scooter, it's a 3 wheel instead of 2 wheel. Cute cute.

Bye for now....

Sophies 11 weeks today :-)

2008-11-10T19:18:00.000-08:00

My cute little baby girl. See her little "milk moustache"..it's actually yogurt, she gets a tablespoon with each meal, she loves it. Her tummy is better now, she had giardia...a parasite that is passed from mama's milk to baby. She was on meds for 3 days and vaccinated against it. She's just so darn cute!!

Friday already

2008-11-07T09:28:00.000-08:00

This was a quick week. Feeling in a blue mood lately :-( Usually it doesn't hit me til january/february, the past two years it's hit early. Yikes. Just need to remind myself all I have been blessed with and be thankful instead of the "feel sorry for myself" mood I've been in :-( Not a good feeling.
Nicholas has been such a handful lately and with the puppy added in the mix I have no "me" time anymore. The girls aren't fond of babysitting when he's in this kind of mood so it's me til Patrick gets home, then he's usually tired and so it's "me" some more... The kisses and "I love you mommy's" keep me going though.
I have been working on my list of 101 things to do beginning January 1st. Getting there, it's amazing how many little things ya just let go and if you don't stay on top of it it's overwhelming. So one thing at a time is my new motto.
Today I'm working on two rag quilts...woohoo...simple and fun, just what I need. I will post a photo of the tea towels soon too, they have turned out so cute! And they were so much fun.

Have a great weekend!

Christmas Countdown at FlashBannerNow.com

2008-11-03T17:57:00.001-08:00

Christmas countdown at FlashBannerNow.com

Nick and the chick

2008-10-31T10:06:00.000-07:00

While at the pumpkin patch on Tuesday all the kids were able to hold and pet the baby animals. Here is Nicholas with a baby chicken :-) At about this point his was squaking like crazy so I had to take it from him (ick!!) and hold it so the others could pet too. I was a little freaked out at first but it wasn't so bad. You see I have this "thing" with birds eyes, they just gross me out..why I don't know?? I had to be brave mama for nick though. We had a great time!!

101 things to do in 101 days.... my new idea!

2008-10-29T21:15:00.000-07:00

I made the decision recently that 2009 will be my year of organization!! I have been so far behind on tasks the past couple years it's crazy. Over the next couple weeks I will be working on a list with 101 things to do in 101 days..just 1 simple task a day will hopefully make a huge difference at the end of 101 days. Things like organizing my closet, cleaning out the junk drawers..yes drawers..plural :-( Anyone care to join me? make your own list and we can tackle this together...let me know.

rain is coming

2008-10-29T21:08:00.000-07:00

Each and every year (well that may be an exageration..slightly) we get our first rain of the year on Halloween :-( Supposed to start raining tomorrow night straight through the weekend...I sure hope it's light on halloween. Nicholas is at such a fun age for halloween this year, he is very excited to "trick n treat", as he calls it. We are going to a friends house for dinner and trick or treating, should be a fun night. Can you believe how expensive halloween candy is now adays?? geez...crazy prices.

Value of friends

2008-10-25T19:54:00.000-07:00

Years ago when my husband was in the military I made a couple of precious friends, each time we'd move I'd cry...this last time which was 13 years ago I swore I'd never make another friend. That did last for quite sometime, I isolated myself and kept everything inside..what an awful mistake that was! If only I knew then what I know now...friends are a true blessing from God! I feel whole again knowing that I have so many wonderful friends, some I don't talk to regularly but know they are always there, some I talk to weekly, some daily...like my internet friends. Who would have thought that friends mean so much and make life so much better. I thank God for the many friends that I have...each and every day! God Bless each of you....

Thursday night again..they sure come up fast :-)

2008-10-23T20:05:00.000-07:00

Things are good here. Nicholas has adjusted well to school now and learning to listen well...woohoo! didn't think that day would ever come.
Sophie is a bundle of energy, just soooo cute! and she's very cuddly for a puppy, I'll post some new photos this weekend.
Girls are doing well too...both have excellent grades this year, Patrick and I are very proud of them! Hard to believe Ashley graduates this next spring. Amazing how fast our babies grow up.
I've been sewing tons for Christmas gifts and having a great time at it too.
I should sign off as I'm soooo tired I feel like I'm babbling...Maybe tomorrow I'll have the energy to post a full message..

Good night

I wanna sew....

2008-10-21T13:21:00.000-07:00

I wanna sew!!! no luck today though :-( maybe tonight. I started a mystery quilt friday night at the sewing event I attended and would love to finish it up, only 2 steps left. Mary Englebreit Christmas fabrics, it's so cute! I'll do my best to have a photo up asap.

Introducing Sophie Belle

2008-10-20T10:01:00.000-07:00

She is just the sweetest little girl. She has a wonderful personality, very gentle and loving. She is content to play with her toys, yesterday she even napped on the family room floor :-) We definatley have a great breeder, she does all she can to socialize the pups and it shows! Nicholas is doing very well with Sophie, nothing like with Tucker....night and day difference with both Sophie and Nicholas. She is having a little tummy troubles this morning, I just called the vet and they informed me it was more than likely due to a change in diet...so I'm heading up to shower and run to the store to pick up what she had before..then slowly change her to this new brand. We'll see what happens....

Breast Cancer Awareness Month....

2008-10-16T21:00:00.000-07:00

..and I have switched to a pink background just for the cause :-) Plus..pink is my favorite color! I love pink....

and our new puppy will be named.....Sophie Belle..isn't that cute?!!!

more tomorrow..good night

Thursday already...where has the week gone??

2008-10-16T12:36:00.000-07:00

Had a lovely morning visiting with a friend and her children and her new little rottweiler puppy "nala". What a cutie!!

Tomorrow we bring our little one home, can't wait. I "think" we have a mutually agreed upon name...I will post it this afternoon after talking to one more daughter ....It is cute, sweet and seems like a good choice for a female golden.

Plan to make some cupcakes this afternoon, that's the plan anyhow. Tomorrow is the "tickled pink event" a breast cancer sewing marathon...well they aren't actually calling it a marathon but since it's 12 hours of sewing I think that's appropriate. I have my pink pj's, pink candy, pink fabrics and ready to go!! It takes place at the Hampton Inn here in town, catered dinner from Outback Steakhouse, prizes, bingo, raffles, lots of sewing and a "double" mystery...meaning I don't even know what fabric I"ll be using...it's a kit.

I'll post photos of puppy and the event saturday evening or sunday...

Time for Nicholas's nap and my lunch...

2008-10-12T20:03:00.000-07:00

oops...meant to say the girls are "not" crazy about the name summer...

puppy update

2008-10-12T20:02:00.000-07:00

Well not sure if her name will still be Summer, the girls are crazy about the name...but she will be coming home on Friday morning, yay, we are all very excited. I'm a bit nervous with what happened to Tucker still so fresh in my mind, but I know this puppy will bring us all together to heal from the loss. I will post photos on Friday afternoon.

Ashley trying to skate :-)

2008-10-11T17:32:00.001-07:00

Ashley is on the left, yellow scarf. Arrianna is her best friend who is attempting to help Ashley stay up on the ice HAHA!!!

cake

2008-10-11T17:29:00.000-07:00

heres the cake.....the last one was Morgan at the ice skating rink...

Another busy day

2008-10-11T17:21:00.000-07:00

Patrick, Ashley and I spent a few hours birthday shopping for Morgan today. Her party was great last night! 8 girls came, they had fun ice skating and then home for pizza, cake and presents. Wow...she is now wealthy...I guess gift cards and cash are the new fad. So guess where I'll be this week????....the mall.

Cake turned out beautifully last night...take a peek and see what you think. The top layer was chocolate, bottom vanilla both with raspberry filling, was yummy. The little cinderella on the top actually lit up too.

My baby girl turns 14 on Sunday

2008-10-09T17:15:00.000-07:00

where does the time go?? Isn't she a cutie?!! This was taken back a few months ago... She's having a big blast bday party tomorrow night with 9 friends, ice skating and a sleepover..am I nuts??

vinyl for tote bags...kim

2008-10-08T20:15:00.000-07:00

Hey Kim...the vinyl was purchased at the LQS. I'd be happy to pick you up some, it's about 6.00 a yard, but it's not a true yard, it's like 17" wide. Otherwise I'm sure it can be purchased online..let me know.

the stash we all have...

2008-10-08T20:10:00.001-07:00

WOW...I was just looking at the poll of "how much fabric do you own". Between 8 of us that voted there is 6 that have over 100 yards!! 1 that has over 20 yards and 1 that only buys when needed..well figuring out the $$ amount of fabric 8 people own at 620 yards x 9.00 a yard we're looking at $$5,580.00!!! amazing!! that's at only 100 yards per person...Maybe we should all take out fabric insurance haha...

wonderful trip to Seattle

2008-10-08T13:37:00.000-07:00

It was an awesome time for Nicholas and I. My nieces and nephew are getting so big and so full of happiness. I don't think I've seen kids that happy and content in a long time :-) Kudos to Jeremy and Holly for a job well done.

It was so nice to get back to my sewing machine! I missed her HAHA.... Finished a Christmas gift for my sisters boyfriend Tuesday and then last night/this morning made another Deli Lunch Tote. It's sooo cute...I used the line of fabric from the uterine cancer line. All torquoise with flowers and dragonflies. Decided I wanted to make my two nieces purses for Christmas so chose some really cute fabric for those, will get started when Nicholas naps today.

All is well here....daily chores almost done. Nicholas is thrilled to be home, I think he missed his toys. I sure missed my girls and Patrick, was so nice to see them. I really believe time away from loved ones brings you back much more appreciative of them :-)

oh and did I mention in drizzled and was dreary the entire time we were in Seattle!! I think the sun may have peeked out once :-(

Halloween Sampler

2008-09-30T12:13:00.001-07:00

Here is my Halloween Sampler...I fell in love with this quilt at the quilt shop and took the class. It was fun but I won't be making another one, very very time consuming. Don't you love the boot?? The broom is "paperless paper piecing" very fun! I'm sending it out to the quilter this afternoon.

Deli tote bag

2008-09-30T12:05:00.000-07:00

One of my latest projects..and yes I'm addicted to this pattern. Have a couple more cut out already. The inside of this one has an iron on vinyl lining for easy cleanup. I'm taking this one to mom tomorrow...Nicholas and I are heading to Seattle for a visit. He is SOOOO excited about the airplane.

Summer baby....

2008-09-28T18:25:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of our new baby Summer. She will come join the family the week of October 19th. We are all soooo excited!!

leaving for Seattle Wednesday!

2008-09-28T10:10:00.000-07:00

Hurrah!! Can't wait to see Mom and Dad, my brother and his family!! Jeremy (my brother) and his wife Holly have 3 little ones...Ryan, Taylor and Tori. I have not seen them in a couple years so I'm very excited to see how they've grown, plus Nicholas will get to see them for the first time, he loves "big" kids :-) So in the meantime I will be rushing through the laundry and housework to make sure Patrick and the girls are okay while I'm away. What a blessing that both girls know how to cook and clean.

Thursday already....

2008-09-25T06:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a good day! Accomplished alot around the house, dr's appointment went very well, all is good. Today is a sew day, bought new fabric yesterday (like I really need to "buy" more fabric, really should be "shopping" in my garage LOL) for another deli lunch tote, they are so cute and so simple, sometimes I need something that sews up quickly, especially after all the time it has taken to finish the halloween sampler...YES..it is done! Will post a photo tonight so come back and check it out.
Nicholas is supposed to have preschool today but he's having a tough time listening to the teachers and had an episode of spitting on Tuesday...yikes what to do?? I'm going to take him but I might just stay today and observe. He is my busy boy, always into something, I think he looks for mischief :-)
Time to feed the kids. Speaking of food....here is a recipe for Pumpkin Bars that I received from a friend who is an excellent baker! ENJOY....thank you Gail and Margit!! Two of my "silly" friends.

Pumpkin Bars
2 cups Flour
2 cups Sugar
2 teaspoons Baking Powder
1 teaspoon Baking Soda
1 teaspoon Cinnamon -- ground
1 teaspoon Nutmeg -- ground1/2 teaspoon Cloves -- ground
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1 cup Vegetable Oil
16 ounces Pumpkin, canned
4 medium Eggs

***FROSTING* **
2 cups Powdered Sugar
1/3 cup Butter or Margarine -- softened
1 package Cream Cheese -- (3 oz.), softened
1 tablespoon Milk
1 teaspoon Vanilla

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 15 x 10 inch jelly roll pan. In large bowl, Blend all bar ingredients at low speed until moistened. Beat 2 minutes at Medium speed. Pour into prepared pan. Bake at 350 degrees F for 25 to 30 Minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool.In small bowl, combine frosting ingredients; beat until smooth. Spread over Cooled bars.
(You can successfully freeze these bars by allowing them to completely cool, Then placing them inside zip baggies, then removing all of the air inside the Baggies, using a drinking straw to suck it out. They are great to freeze in Small baggies for individual servings, but can also be frozen in large baggies For larger groups.)

September 24, 2008

2008-09-24T07:58:00.000-07:00

Wednesday already!
On the agenda today:
Dr this afternoon, clean the kitchen, mop, "try" to finish the laundy (it's a never ending ordeal in this house haha) Take Nicholas to the park for an hour this morning while it's still cool outside.
I am hoping to spend an hour or so and finish my Halloween Sampler quilt top, if so I'll post a photo this evening. It is so cute! It was a two part class but took about 30+ hours of piecing, tons of little pieces but all worth it in the long run, I will have a lovely heirloom to pass on down to my kids :-)

Better get on my morning chores...have a great day

simple apron I found online...

2008-09-23T18:47:00.000-07:00

Take a look at this great simple apron pattern, I love it and plan to make a few for gifts. You can embelish the towels to match with a little simple applique too.

http://craftydaisies.com/2007/09/21/towel-turned-apron/

September 23, 2008

2008-09-23T13:15:00.000-07:00

Hi,

Never thought I'd have a blog, yeah they're fun to read and very addictive so here I am....hoping to share some of my quilting, recipes, and just mom wisdom...hmm what is that???

I'm Tracey from the bay area of California. I have a wonderful, caring husband of 20 years, Patrick, he is not only a wonderful spouse but also my best friend. I'm a stay at home mom with 3 children, Ashley is 17, Morgan is almost 14 and Nicholas is 3. My passion is quilting, I love it...wish there were more hours in the day though as somedays I get very little sewing in. I also enjoy cake decorating, reading and a good movie from time to time.

Well this should be fun....I'll check back in tomorrow :-)