Barb's Blog

What to do on a Snowy Day?

2011-01-07T13:17:00.004-05:00

Stitch, of Course! Here's my progress on "Shades of Winter" by Nancy's Needle. Michele gave me the kit for Christmas, and it's the first thing I started for the New Year - well... on New Year's Eve, that is!

I'm having such a good time stitching this Canvas piece! Whooo-hooo!

Of course, nothing else is getting done, and I'm going to have to hire somebody to dust pretty soon, but I digress.....

The Storm of the Century

2010-12-14T13:17:00.002-05:00

"Whoooooshhhhhhh".... "Howllllll".....Why do most of these things seem "over-blown?" (No pun intended!) All I've heard about for the last 3 days is that the "horrible storm" that brought the Mid West to it's knees was headed for my front door! I rushed around like a crazy woman buying food, and battening down my hatches. For what? For a measly 2" of the white stuff last night. It would appear that TSOTC (note the acronym, here), Part 1, never materialized. That dern Lake Ontario with it's 40 degree temps, just couldn't "do" it. Now..... NOW.... we all sit, watching every snowflake fall, wondering if Part 2 will materialize.... Yeah... "Don't go anywhere.... don't DO anything, just in case.... " Sheesh! Doesn't the weatherman understand that it's almost Christmas? I have shopping to finish.... more food to buy.... "STUFF" to do!

I'm tired.... I think I'll go take a nap, and then stitch for a bit.

Later!

I'm D O N E!

2010-12-11T16:57:00.002-05:00

That's IT! OVER.... FINI....Ka-put! I have finished shopping for Christmas! May I please have a "whoot" or an "atta girl," or SOME sort of acknowledgment? Look at the date! This is the fastest ever!

Wait! I didn't get a gift for Hubby! Oh, dear....

I suppose that Chris would like something besides a pair of long johns, too.....

Hmmmmm.... what to do? WHAT TO DO?

It's 5:00..... Guess I'll have a glass of North Country Red, and think about it......
Barb

There are HOW many days till Christmas?

2010-12-09T08:43:00.002-05:00

Oh, Good Word! Somebody stop the clock! I need more time!I'm not RE-ady!

I've been so absorbed in "Life" that there is no way I'm going to do Christmas! Could we postpone it until.... May or so?

Lots of "stuff" is going on around here. Much of it is really important, too. We've had a wedding.... Well, it happened in July, but the after-effects linger.

There will be a "move" on the day after Christmas, too! It's a cross-country event that takes my Grandsons on a new adventure! I'm so happy for them, and and trying my darn-dest to view it in only the "positive." Yeah, right.

I've stitched up a storm, and at some point you'll see it, too! All this, and more.

I really need to get my "Act" together....

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good..... whatever!

My Latest Offering

2009-09-14T18:09:00.002-04:00

I've had the "bestest" Summer ever! I spent the majority of the season at our "Summer Palace," in Clayton, New York. I gardened on a grand scale. I stitched. I tried my hand at a bridal cascade, a head dress, boutonnieres and a Matron of Honor corsage. I even COOKED! Just ask my neighbors! In all, it was a wonderful Summer. I think I'll do it again next year! lol
Here is some of what I accomplished......

Arizona Blanket Flower

Butterfly Flower

I had to trim my Bleeding Heart 3 Times! This is after the second "trim."

This picture doesn't do justice to my Canna Lillies..... They were the prettiest shade of "dusty rose...."

I had Peonies, too! lol

I'll get back to you on my other "exploits" from my Great Summer Adventure later.....
Enjoy!
Barb

Happy Spring!

2009-03-28T15:52:00.003-04:00

Wow! What a beautiful day! The sky is blue, and the grass is ..... well.... not quite green.... My narcissus have begun to poke their heads toward the sky with buds peeking at the sun. I haven't seen hide nor hair of a crocus, though. Methinks that the resident squirrels have done their damage. Ah.... Thoughts of Camp reign!

I took a Road Trip with Michele and her Son, Donnie, to Indianapolis on last Monday. Donnie had an appointment with Lance Armstrong's oncologist at the Indy Cancer Institute. The short of the visit is that things remain "stauts-quo," and if that changes, Dr Einhorn (sp?) will "recall" Donnie post-haste to re-evaluate. So, for now, Don and Michele are headed back to Florida until the end of July. They've only been home twice in the last 11 months. Although I'll miss Shelly, at least I know that she'll be back this Summer. I'm just tickled pink that I could help them out by being the "Driver" for them.

Here's some more stitching..... I completed Permin's Freebie Easter Eggs a couple of weeks ago.... I really need to get it framed! I also finished Quaker Row. That was a fun stitch..... Enjoy!

It's Time!

2009-02-27T15:43:00.005-05:00

Okay, I've been "remiss" in posting. So shoot me! I've snuggled and bundled under over 145" of snow to finish some WIP's, and begin a few UFO's. For those who don't stitch, don't ask! For those who DO..... Ya' know!

Here's a sampling.....

The Sampler Girl's "Mrs Lincoln"
From This year's JCS Ornament Issue
From Last Year's JCS Ornament issue
An Old Dimension's Kit
"Fox Run" from The Work Basket

Oh, There's much, much more! Ready?

Ground Hog Day Freebie
I made him into a "Flat Fold"
A mini snowman that was all the rage on my message board
Heart in Hand "Winter" Wee Bird
From La D Da "Back Yard Birds

There's more..... for another day!

There's still plenty of Winter to be had, and snow to fall, so baring disaster, "I'll be baaaaaackkkkkk!"

Happy Turkey Day!

2008-11-19T11:41:00.003-05:00

Yeah, I know..... it isn't Thanksgiving yet! If I waited till Thanksgiving to update my blog, it would be Spring! Deal with it!

I just wanted to show (off?) you what I'm working on.... It's by Plum Street Samplers, and it's called - What else - "Gobble"

Enjoy!

My 3 (Grand) Sons

2008-09-22T15:17:00.006-04:00

How about an update of Bryce, Peyton and Colin, whilst I'm at it? Hard to believe that Bryce will be 12, Peyton is 5 and in Kindergarten, and Colin is 2..... Wow! Are Heather and Shawn getting old.....lol

Here is Peyton's First Day at School.....

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As you can see... Nobody seemed the least bit "teary-eyed." Peyton never even looked back! lol

Holy Moley!

2008-09-22T14:51:00.003-04:00

After I posted my contest submission, I realized that there are several finishes that I'd never posted! Here ya' go....

Mrs Washington by The Sampler Girl

Victoria Sampler Nametag from our Get Together at A Stitcher's Garden in Dewitt in May

This was a Passione Rincon Freebie done for my kitchen.... maybe someday I'll frame it!

I did this little guy last February while waiting for a flight at Kennedy.... I had several folks looking over my shoulder. He was also a freebie, but I can't remember the name of the French site! I used 22ct Hardanger, and stitched him.... He's only about 3". I even cut the mats! Whooo-hoo!

This is "A Kindred House" by Chessie and Me. I made it for Heather and Shawn's 10th Wedding Anniversary...... lots of speciality stitches, but it was still fun!

I did all 4 of the Prairie Schooler long Seasonal Samplers from last year:

....As well as the 4 Seasonal "block" samplers:

My first contest

2008-09-22T14:44:00.005-04:00

I decided to enter a contest. I'm not "tickled pink" about my entry (mostly because it needed more work!), but I sent a pic out anyway. I think I'll make a small pillow out of it. The frame shown is just a Photoshop jobbie.

The prize is two charts of my favorite new designer, The Sampler Girl! I'm hoping that I can still ask for two of her "President's Ladies" if I win..... lol
What do you think?

Our Weekend vacation

2008-09-15T14:54:00.005-04:00

Yeah, I know it's been a while since I've updated my blog..... "Deal with it!"

We took Chris and his Fiance, Shannon to the Louden race.... Thanks to Hurricane Ike, we got soaked in the morning, but the weather cleared just in time for the race to begin. The gods were kind......

I have to say that Vermont and New Hampshire have the most beautiful scenery! We left Albany on route 7 through Troy, then Bennington, Vermont, and into New Hampshire all the way on route 9 into Nashua, New Hampshire. The towns were so "quaint," and made me think of my hometown, Oneonta, New York.

Needless to say, a great time was had by all!

You can either "click" the Blog title, or copy and paste the link below to see how much fun we had!

http://www.photoshow.com/watch/VZ4wr7Rk

It's been so long......

2008-02-09T12:10:00.000-05:00

Okay, so I was blog-surfing because my nephew, Eric is in Afghanistan, and has "learned" how to use Blogspot. It reminded me that it's been a while since I updated this puppy!

I've been very busy cross stitching, and stress relieving...... anybody who knows me also knows why! Here's a little bit of what I've been doing... enjoy!

A Valentine for my Hubby......

A birthday present for a friend who is a dental hygenist..... It says "Wear your mittens, eat your vegetables, and don't forget to floss." The thread used for the saying was a little too light for the fabric, so it doesn't photograph as "sharp" as it actually "looks!"

There's one more, but I can't show it off yet. It's a present! Shhhhhhhh!!!!

Speaking of the weather..... was I?.... This Winter hasn't been all that bad.... THUD! That was the sound of a hundred inches of snow falling on my street! We've only had around 6 feet so far..... not bad at all! We might not even win the "Golden Snowball" award this year! I think that Buffalo, NY has had more..... they can have it this year!

When I can think of something else to say, I'll post again..... I'll leave ya'll with a photo of The Grands - it's been a while.....

What did I do this Summer and Fall?

2007-12-29T20:56:00.000-05:00

Barb was a stitching fool this Summer and Fall..... What with John being in the hospital, and then needing a "Nurse" for a month, I spent a lot of time just sitting around watching the dust collect! The opportunity was too good to pass up, so I finished some WIPs, started a couple of Christmas ornaments, and in all..... aggrevated the heck out of my tendonitis! lol Oh.... and first of all, I made a few trips to Walmart when they sold off their DMC floss.... first for Michele, then for me..... here's mine:

And here's the finished pieces:
Heart in Hand "Hark!"

Another HIH "Wee Halloween Bird"

Ewe and Eye and Friends "Mommy and Me" Tuck Pillows for Michele's new Grand Sons:

Michele's Birthday Present.... "Another Day in Paradise" by (I can't remember who.... sorry)

Here's Michele's Christmas Present.... There's a neat French web blog that has all kinds of "freebie" mittens.... This is the "Tropic" themed mitten, front and back:

Prairie Schooler Santa 2005 was fun to do..... I was a little intimidated about the quilt, but it was really simple!:

This was a little handout from my LNS, A Stitcher's Garden in Manlius, NY... From Just Another Button Company, I've had the backing for years! I was probably going to make pajamas for Chris when my "almost" 31 year old Son was little....lol:

Here is The Prairie Schooler book 133 "Winter Wind":

....and #137 "Summer Breeze":

And also..... #132 Autumn Leaves:

I'll eventually get around to #136 "Spring Has Come" before the end of Winter.... lol

Enjoy!

Wow! It's Been A While

2007-12-29T19:06:00.000-05:00

I can't believe that I haven't posted since last Summer? Where have I been, anyway? If Anita hadn't left a comment on my blog (Thanks, Anita!), it would probably have been the "dead of Winter" before I blogged again.

So.... Here's my life for the last 3 or so months, as I remember it!

In September, Colin turned a year old. It seems like yesterday that we were all surrounding the labor bed at St Joe's, while Heather vacillated about whether or not Colin would be her last....... You should have seen the look on Shawn's face when she "announced" that she guessed she would NOT have her tubes tied as long as they were "in there" to pluck Colin out! Ah, yes...... Anyway, Colin has teeth, walks, and occasionally says something understandable!

John and Shawn slaved in a blinding storm underneath the "Summer Palace" for the last time in the middle of September. Their job is not quite done..... There was a HUGE hole in our ductwork that was about 7 feet long. I Always wondered why the back of the trailer never kept cold with the air conditioning in the Summer? DUH! Poor Shawn.... everytime he came out from under the trailer, he was just covered in grime. He must have scraped and cut his poor bald head 20 times.He never complained, though..... just kept plugging along! Bless his heart!

John and Barb didn't have enough to do the day that we closed camp, so we went into Watertown for the afternoon, and went on a mission to find a new headboard for the spare bedroom at camp. Four hours later, we have a new beautiful Cherry headboard!

In October, John got ready to have his rotator cuff repair. The surgery was a piece of cake and Barb was more than jealous! THEN......disaster set in..... John contracted what we were intially told (in order for him to have the "heavy duty" drugs ), but now denies was MRSA. Instead, to cover their posteriors, the new diagnosis became "An unidentified antibiotic-resistant strain of stafflococus." .... Sheesh! It never "cultured" as MRSA because John had taken a weeks course of an antibiotic pre-op, was given IV Vancomycin in the OR, and 7 days post op, when the sutures were removed, was give a third antibiotic for his "little surface infection." I don't mean to sound vindictive - these things happen - I just get a kick out of how far our litigious society has come that prominent physicians have to "dance" around a diagnosis these days. Anyway...... Poor John got bounced back into the OR for an "I & D" and they had to "un-do" the repair and the deltoid for 24 hours with a wound vac attached. Then, he had to go back to the OR and fortunately, the repair was able to be re-done. He spent 5 days in the hospital, and a month on PIC line IV Vancomycin..... tethered to his IV pole for over 5 hours per day. The poor guy..... It's a good thing he was so sick, or I would NEVER have heard the end of it! The end of the story is that he's better now, has just begun PT, and still hopes to go on his golf outing in March. My suggestion is "Go! If you can only putt, then just Putt(z)!"

That brings us to our Thanksgiving! For Canadian Thanksgiving, we had produced our first ever "Trash Can Turkey," with many thanks to Nash and Rendy for patiently showing us how to do it last Summer. It was so spectacular (even my Father in Law raved about it!), that we decided to do it all again for American Thanksgiving! Aren't we smart? Do you sense disaster here? Well.....

The bird went under the can at the appropriate hour in a 42 degree drizzle..... Chris and Shannon(did I mention that Our Son has a "steady?") had 2 dinners to eat that day, so it HAD to be done on time!!!! You guessed it! The darn bird was 2 hours late! We never thought to take into consideration the difference in the outside temperature...... DUH! Poor Chris and Shannon were ravenous when they got to their SECOND dinner, and enjoyed it more! They came back to our house on Saturday to see what they had "missed" the first time around.

Christmas...... ahhhh yes..... It was a quiet one at our house. Heather, Shawn and the boys went to Texas to see Shawn's family, so it was John, me, Chris and Shannon. The Prime Rib was perfectly medium rare, the cream cheese mashed potatoes were without lumps, the green beans were al dente, and the Pumpkin Gingerbread Trifle was subperb! It wasn't until 1AM on Boxing Day that Barb awoke with that feeling that said..... "Get to the bathroom quick!!!!" I spent every 15 minutes "hugging Huey" as my husband says.... from 1 AM to 1 PM. Then the fever set in. Can you say severe dehydration? I slept until the 27th, and spent that day back in what had become my "haven," getting rid of everything I've ever eaten in my life!!!! "Who needs Weight Watchers, anyway?" How do beauty queens, and actresses DO this all the time? Anyway..... Barb is on the mend today the 28th, and Gatorade is my new favorite cocktail......

Happy New Year!

Here's a pic of the headboard.

And..... Here's the FIRST Trash Can Turkey..... You won't see the second! lol

Who IS this Man?

2007-09-10T17:44:00.000-04:00

Is this what happens to David when he tries to play "Ben Franklin?" Nope...... uh..... trying to make one arm longer than the other?..... Nope..... Here's Mr Wire Head..... trying to get the best signal....

Dave and Carol's new "Pad"

2007-09-10T17:30:00.000-04:00

Dave and Carol have a new house! Thank Goodness! If I had to have Carol whine one more time......lol I guess I should thank Noreen for selling?
Oh! So THERE'S the oven pilot! Verrrrrry interesting. Noreen..... KICK HIM!
This is how David "works." A vaccumn and two beers!
Poor Carol. When it came time to "hoe" out the old trailer, she was at a loss..... "Will I still wear this?" Er..... "Carol.... ya' don't wear white after Labor Day.... pack it!"
Ahhhhhhhhhh...... time for a break!

Thanks, again, Noreen...... Carol is now officially HAPPY!

Random shots at camp

2007-09-10T17:25:00.000-04:00

Just some random shots from camp..... I know..... they don't mean anything to anybody but us! Tough! Deal with it!
John and David watch Dave and Sue put up the palm tree..... lotta' help THEY are!
The Sanfillippo's "Get together." They put out the "fine china" and had turkey dinner! Very impressive!!!
More of the above

You go here, and you go there......

2007-09-10T17:20:00.000-04:00

"YOU go there!"
and "You go THERE!"
"You go where I TELL you to go!"
"NOW Where are they going?"

Nobody give direction like Ushi! LOL She usually has ALL of us coming and going!

It's a Palm Tree!

2007-09-10T17:17:00.000-04:00

Yep! And it Lights up, too! Now.... those two "helpers" just wanted to have their pictures taken..... nice try, Carol! You don't even know which end of a tool to use!

What is this Woman DOING????

2007-09-10T17:12:00.000-04:00

Yep! That's Ushi putting her "menagarie" back together after Dave finishes mowing the lawn!

Going to Grandma and Grandpa's camp

2007-09-10T17:08:00.001-04:00

Poor Colin...... Bless his heart. He held on as long as he could......ZZZZZZZZZZ

Tropical Island, or Just "Camp?"

2007-09-10T17:00:00.000-04:00

Now.... one might think that a group of children went on a scavenger hunt..... right? Wrong! This Tropical Island atmosphere was created by our "Front Row" neighbors. What a hoot-n-a-holler we've had this Summer. It seems that every time they arrive for the weekend, another "piece" of a tropical island arrived with them! They're like a group of little kids in a Garden Store!

Enjoy!

Who ARE These Fairy's?

2007-07-01T19:46:00.000-04:00

John and Barb, Dave and Carol all went to Wolfe Island, Canada for Lunch today..... We went to Cape Vincent by car, and then took the Ferry over the St Lawrence to the Island. What fun! We couldn't resist taking pics with the sign above us...... look closely....."Yoooooo-Hooooo!!!" I think that John and Dave are having just a little TOO much fun together.......lol

Happy Father's Day!

2007-06-21T20:16:00.000-04:00

Okay.... so the slide show was just US...... getting silly! Blame Heather, it was her idea! We were just "slap-happy" enough to get caught up in it. By the time we were through, we had laughed so hard our stomachs hurt! It isn't often that we all just "let loose" like that!

Check out my Slide Show!

2007-06-21T20:13:00.001-04:00

Weather Alert for Onondaga Hill!

2007-06-21T16:58:00.000-04:00

Check this out! We had some Funky Alienn Hail on "The Hill" today..... Blue sky one minute, golf ball size hail the next!

Paul Bunyan Day!

2007-06-09T21:19:00.000-04:00

Guess what WE did today? Nope..... not THIS!

WE would be the ones sitting on the lawn chairs, calmly hoping that nobody fell out of a TREE! LOL

Tomorrow, the REST of this tree, and two others will HIS-TO-RY, and our pool will be MUCH warmer, MUCH earlier, and stay warmer MUCH later, too!

See? We're doing our part toward global warming, in our own little corner of the world.

Tomorrow? We'll plant another tree, Al Gore!

Happy Birthday Peyton!

2007-06-09T21:14:00.000-04:00

Has it been 4 years? Where have I been? Don't answer that, Heather! Anyway.... here's the cutie pa-tootie! Happy Birthday, Peyton! Believe it or not, this is the best pic in the bunch! He wasn't interested in "posing" for Grandma! Okay.... let's just skip right to the best part, then....

Ah, yes...... the cake!

Ta-Daaa!!!

2007-05-31T20:12:00.000-04:00

My Papillion Mystery is Finished! I completed the center Motif to celebrate our 35th Wedding Anniversary in August.

Enjoy!

Future Yankee

2007-05-31T13:47:00.000-04:00

Here's another cute pic of Colin. He's SUCH a happy little guy - as long as he can see his Mommy and Daddy! LOL

Peyton and Colin

2007-05-29T21:19:00.000-04:00

Here's another pic that I grabbed from Heather's My Space..... Boy do they look like Angels?

Mother's Day

2007-05-29T21:13:00.000-04:00

I "grabbed" this photo from my Daughter's My Space blog..... It isn't often that there's a pic of ME..... ANYWHERE! I'm always the photographer....lol
I'm holding a sign (that JV mounted for me up at the Summer Palace) that says.... "SAW it....WANTED it.....told GRANDMA...... GOT IT!"

I'm not sure if that's "wishful thinking" on Peyton, and Bryce's part, or if Heather is having flashbacks to her own childhood! lol

Anyway..... I don't think I look too bad for 3 days post-op! Just ignore the double chin, please!

Poor Killer.....

2007-05-21T12:02:00.000-04:00

Somebody please get this baby a coat.... and a scarf! Good WORD! I'd scream, too, Killer! What was that groomer THINKING???? Did she use the wrong clipper? Was she having a bad day? Didn't she like you, Bill????? Maybe she thought Killer should audition for the Taco Bell commercial..... I can't think of any other reason. Sheesh! Be careful when you take him to the Parkway for a walk, Bill..... The Geese might EAT him! lol

It's Finished!

2007-05-21T11:58:00.000-04:00

Here's a short post to brag..... The Great Kitchen Remodel is complete. My Hubby did a GREAT job!

Now...... about that sink at camp.......

The New Kitchen Progresses!

2007-05-19T08:30:00.000-04:00

I know! It's been a while since I've posted...... I've been busy! Well...... JV has been busy, anyway!

This is the progress on my "new and improved" kitchen. Thanks for looking. Last night, JV jumped up from the dinner table, assembled his "tools," and got to work. He diligently masticked and placed; re-positioned, and then spaced all that you see here. Now the fun begins. Our tile cutter doesn't have the "guts" to cut the remaining tiles, so this morning, bright and early, he's off to the Folks in the Bright Orange Aprons to "procure" an adequate tile cutter. My best guess is that we'll be the proud owners of the "latest and greatest" before noon....LOL

Happy Birthday, Liza!!!!

2007-04-19T13:40:00.001-04:00

Sometimes I wish we were still 17, and full of hell. Then I realize that if we were, we'd really look silly doing Chinese Fire Drills on Main Street, painting flourescent.... er.... uh..... "stuff" on the rearing stallion on Chestnut Street, drinking home brew at Lynn Fris's (with you in your fau rabbit jacket and cutoffs, and hiding from George Washington Hamway!

Ah.... those were the days.....

Now, we're middle aged (God forbid!) 12 year olds who don't care what people think or say about us as we try on hats in Walmart! Ha!

Wear your birthday well, My Friend! We know God loves us, and we love each other!
Barb

Kitchen Remodel 2007 is Underway!

2007-04-15T10:11:00.000-04:00

It's Friday evening, Barb is firmly "ensconsed" in her recliner with needle in hand, and John says.... "I have to go to Lowe's." (Well, have a good time!)Barb: "Do you need me to pick nuts bolts, and screws?" John:"No, but I thought we'd pick out new countertops." (Crap! Why am I such a wise-n-hiemer? Now he'll probably change his mind!).... Let the games begin.....

Good word! JV wants new countertops. Okay.....("feets' don' fail me now!") "Let's go to Lowe's, and see what they have." Okay...... Barb heads to Formica, and John isn't behind her. Wherever did he GO? "Over here, Claire.... (his "Pet" name for me...)." Barb muses.... "CORIAN????? He's looking at the expensive stuff???? No way.... he'll be back in a minute....lol." Minutes turn into several, and still he's looking at the "good stuff."

Okay.... if he wants to buy Corian, so be it. "I like this," Barb says..... "Prices starting at $59 per square foot, installed" the sign reads. Now.... Barb is doing some quick calculations, and figures that the price alone (we have a LOT of countertop in our kitchen!)will scare JV away...., then we'll be back at the Formica. "Yeah, he says, it goes with the floor." Well, "Katie, bar the door," pick me up off the floor, and send in the defibrulator! We're getting Corian countertops! Whooo-hooo!!!
Turn the page....
Now it's Tuesday, the new countertops have been measured, and JV is so excited, he begins to tear the kitchen backsplash off..... new language learned..... "Maybe my Father (who installed the original kitchen 20+ years ago) will remember how he attached everything..... " Nope, give the guy some credit..... he's over 80! Be thankful he remembers anything at all, and he DOES! He has a brilliant memory, but it doesn't extend to "Now how did I attach the countertops in the house on Crossover Road?" Sheesh! "Well," says, John.... "I'll just start here at the Char-glo, and work my way around the kitchen." (Pick the hardest countertop first - yup!) Insert, New language learned here..... !@)%&$)%&+($# !!!!!!

Now.... as the countertops are being removed, Barb decides to try her luck.
"Uh... as long as we're doing the countertops....."(insert very long pause here.....),"do you think that we should re-do the ceramic tile backsplash behind the stove and Char-glo, too?"

The new countertops will be delivered and installed on this coming Tuesday afternoon.

Turn the page to Saturday.....

Time: 7:30 AM
Place: Kitchen
Who: John
What: "I'm going to remove all of the rest of the countertops today."

WHAT??? Uh.... er.... "Where are you taking me to eat for the next 3 days" You can see that Barb has her priorities all in order here! After all... is IS "All about ME," right?

Fast forward to the end of the day on Saturday.... here's the result:

"Toast, anyone?" Served on the "fine matching china, too!"

"Easy Access to everything.
Who needs a "pull out" pantry, anyway?

My new "appliance Island."

Good thing these new countertops come with a new molded kitchen sink, too!... because....

THIS ONE won't cut it for very long!
It's only big enough to cook a Turkey!

"Anybody seen the phone?"

Okay, Heather.... Here's your "correction"

2007-04-04T13:16:00.000-04:00

Apparently my "Oldshiemers" kicked in, or my hearing failed. The dogs name is "Lilly"..... and not "Lilly Ann....".... There, are you happy now?

LillyAnn

2007-04-03T20:25:00.000-04:00

However you spell it, it's still the same..... She's a beauty! Lilly is 8 weeks old, and according to Heather, she's the smartest, "bestest" Brindle Boxer Evvvv-er! Well.... Heather's the one who has to "potty train" her, after all.... Anyway... here's my "Grand Daughter" in all her splendor! Welcome to the family, Lilly!

Heather finally got her girl!

2007-03-31T21:35:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday to my Beany!

2007-03-27T09:05:00.000-04:00

Today is a very special day...... On this day my favorite "Cousin" was born, thus making my life complete. I just wanted to let Beany know that she is, indeed, a very special person. She has raised two wonderful boys to be wise and strong men. She has cared for and nurtured me, them, and a host of others. My world would not be as bright without knowing that at any time, day or night, I could call her. It wouldn't matter if I was happy or sad, she would make me feel better.

Thank you, Beany for being in this world.... just for me.
Barb

I'm an Airhead?

2007-03-21T16:01:00.000-04:00

Your Element Is Air

You dislike conflict, and you've been able to rise above the angst of the world.And when things don't go your way, you know they'll blow over quickly.Easygoing, you tend to find joy from the simple things in life.You roll with the punches, and as a result, your life is light and cheerful.You find it easy to adapt to most situations, and you're an open person.With you, what you see is what you get... and people love that!

I included the link on the right..... I just "stumbled" upon these little "ditties" from another Blogger..... I hope you enjoy them as much as I do! Sometimes it's hard to answer the questions..... I think I know how the answer will "look" on my profile, but I'm trying to be blatently honest. After almost 56 years on this earth, I figure I have nothing to lose, right? LOL

Colin is Teething......

2007-03-19T09:01:00.000-04:00

Oh.... do I ever remember the drool..... why do kids teethe in the Winter? LOL

Happy St Patrick's Day From the Harvey's!!!

2007-03-19T08:51:00.000-04:00

Colin and Daddy

Peyton

Heather and Bryce

I just had to share.....
Enjoy!

Anybody need a "Colin Fix?"

2007-03-17T19:43:00.000-04:00

Here's the latest pic of my youngest grandson, Colin...... Man-o-man..... can I ever see My Dad, My Husband, and Heather here! We finally got one that looks like Our side of the family..... Good work, "H!" colin went to the Doc's this week and weighed in over 19 lbs! Not too shabby for only 6 months old, huh? We'll get a linebacker in this family yet! Look at how nice he sits up.... right between Mom's legs..... LOL

Cindy..... don't you think he looks like Daddy thru the eyes? Maybe it's just because of the .... er.... "hairline...." ....lol

How Open Minded Am I?????

2007-03-17T19:18:00.000-04:00

Not very..... if you believe the survey I just took! I guess I DO see things pretty "black and white." Oh, well..... that's just one more reason "I am what I am, and that's all what I am, "I guess.....

Here's mine.... Take the quizz, and let me know.... The link is over on the right side under my "Web Links."

I An 36% Open Minded
You aren't exactly open minded, but you have been known to occasionally change your mind.You're tolerant enough to get along with others who are very different...But you may be quietly judgmental of things or people you think are wrong.You take your own values pretty seriously, and it would take a lot to change them.

The Great Crossover Road Flood of 2007

2007-03-16T11:22:00.000-04:00

The other day, I left the house for 3 hours...... The rain began about an hour after I left. This is what I found when I came home!

We have a small "creek" at the side of our house. It usually runs from Spring until the end of May or early June every year. Because we live about half way up a hill, and the creek originates at the top of the hill, the creek "swells" with a heavy thaw or a heavy rain. But..... THIS IS RIDICULOUS! Imagine that what you're seeing from this angle is USUALLY a dry creekbed..... and it's 8 or 9 feet BELOW what you're seeing in the picture. Yup! There's at least 8 feet of water DEEP! At the top of the picture is Crossover Road. There's a culvert that passes under the roadway to the other side, and that culvert is big enough for a man to walk through without "bending." The problem is that "something" is blocking the entrance of the culvert, and whatever it is, and however big it is, there's nooooooo water going through it. The creek just kept rising, and rising, and rising, and finally spilled over the road!

This picture is taken from the top of my driveway down toward the street. Er.... my new pond! There's a foot of "Yucky" water there.....

Yep! Those are ducks on my new pond! lol Mr and Mrs Ducky have come to "roost." He's a beauty..... I'll bet he weighs over 10 lbs, and he must have flown in from Webster Pond, because he's as tame as can be. I can walk right up to both of them, and feed them! Kool, huh?

The force of the water running over the street actually moved a snowbank!

"Rubber Ducky..... you're the one......"

The neighborhood kids have been feeding them! When the water receeds, there will be cracked corn all over the road! Bet there's a song in there, somewhere.......

Meanwhile..... it's been very quiet around here! No thru traffic since the Town put up the baricades....lol!

My Irish Lassie -Happy St Patrick's Day!

2007-03-09T22:34:00.000-05:00

Since it's almost St Patrick's day, I thought I'd bring out a little something that I did a while ago. About 4 years or so ago, I decided to do a project for each Holiday. Now, mind you, I hadn't cross stitched in y-e-a-r-s! I found a book in the "bargain book box" at P & C Grocery store, and off I went (with Michele's help, of course) to buy Aida, thread, and because my needles were rusty - new needles! I never dreamed that after I got 4 different colors of green, and 3 different colors of white and off white, that I would still be looking at "half-stitches" and "quarter-stitches," too! That'll teach me to be headstrong!

My "can-do" spirit took over, and low and behold, here she is! Remind me never again to try quarter stitches on Aida!!! LOL

Enjoy!

Michele's Over the Arm Chair "Thingy"

2007-03-09T22:16:00.000-05:00

I know there's a better name for what this is, but I'll be darned if I can remember it! It lays over the arm of your chair while you're stitching.

Michele went to a cross stitch "retreat" last year, and this was one of the items that she learned how to stitch. Shel.... I know that you don't think you did a great job on this, but I think it's beautiful, it's perfect because YOU made it, and most of all..... because you love me enough to part with it. I shall be forever thankful to have a little piece of "You."

There's a small pouch at each end for needles, threaders, "Orts" (Go ahead, Laura - I "double dog dare you" to ask me what an "ort" is....lol) or whatever. The center is a pin cushion, and the ribbons could tie scissors, etc...... I just love the porceline Flamingo in the center of the pin cushion! The whole piece is like a "Piece of Florida." I can stitch on a cold February day, and pretend I'm in Sunny Leesburg! Whoo-hoo!

Enjoy!

Is Santa Early or Late?

2007-03-09T22:07:00.000-05:00

These Heart in Hand "Wee Santa's" just crack me right up! This is the 2005 Santa, and I had started him, who knows when? I just love his sterling silver Christmas tree.... he was supposed to have a gold star hanging from his staff, but I must have lost it..... "Improvization" is my middle name! I think I have 2 or 3 more of these little guys to go.....

Enjoy!

It's Finished!!

2007-03-09T21:13:00.000-05:00

I finally finished my "The Gift of Stitching Mystery Sampler!" I had the best time doing all of these little tiny "motifs." I also discovered that it's much harder to make a square! One would have thought that at 55 years old I would know how. All that counting..... Anyway, I decided to finish it for our 35th Wedding Anniversary. I think it will look nice at camp!

Enjoy!

Valentine For My Hubby

2007-02-10T17:12:00.000-05:00

Okay! First of all.....don't tell John! Got that???? This is a secret till Valentines Day.....

I thought I'd "make" a Valentine for my Hubby this year. He's always crabbing about how much money I spend on my "Hobbies," so I thought I'd actually make something for him with his money! Thoughtful, huh? (Insert applause and "atta' Gurl's" here, please!)

Okay, so it's the thought that counts! Anyway, the pattern is by Cedar Hill, and it's called..... are you all ready..... "Forever Yours." It was supposed to be a simple little stitch with a speciality satin stitch. It turned into a "Frog Monster!" The stupid branch was frogged out a minimum of 4 different times.....that AFTER I'd done all the back stitching! Sheesh! Then the "o," the "r," and the "e" in forever TOOK forever! Over, and over, and over. I'm not a good "bottom to top" stitcher...... Must be a right brain thing! LOL

Anyway, for my Sister, and whoever else cares, here it is..... complete!

Enjoy!

Post Script:

Hey!!!! I just went out to see the blog after I'd posted it, and realized that y'all can't see any of the "white" stitching." Bummer! I just want you to know, that in between the red "x's" on the hearts, there's white "x's" there, too! I spent a lot of time on those stupid white ones! LOL

I'm "Available"

2007-02-07T16:55:00.000-05:00

What's a Guy to do? I'm trying (with my "Daddy's" help) to become a "Chick Magnet." This is Daddy's idea of a sexy Valentine's outfit!

Daddy took me to the .... er...Doggy-barber.... for my very first Pompadore today. Would you just like to barf at the sissy bow? Cheesh! How am I supposed to troll the neighborhood picking up chicks wearing THIS stupid lookin' thing? Huh? Huh? Maybe I should bite Dad's leg! That would teach him! Now.... the bandana I can handle.... kinda makes me look like the "Kissing Bandit." Yeah..... the Ladies love a man wearing a cowboy hat and a bandana....... Macho...... how can I look macho wearing a bow???? Shoulda' bit the groomer......

Maybe I'll just go out and hang around the fire hydrant and wait to get beat up by the German Shepard down the street...... Cheesh!

Killer
(somehow the picture just doesn't fit the dog!)

Colin's First Snow!

2007-01-22T16:47:00.000-05:00

Ah.... there's a "first time" for everything! We had a little snow here in Sunny Syracuse over the weekend, and Colin got his first "taste" of it! Well.... actually, Peyton tasted "only the WHITE snow!" Colin couldn't have tasted anything! He was so bundled up that you can't even SEE his mouth! Matter of fact..... he couldn't even move! He looks like a mummy! Enjoy!

As for Peyton..... he can sleep anywhere! Daddy told him to go into the house, take off his snowsuit, and get ready for lunch..... This was as far as he made it!

Do you see YOURSELF?

2007-01-20T10:18:00.001-05:00

Check out my Slide Show!

2007-01-17T10:23:00.001-05:00

Killer?... or... Bill's New Toy?

2007-01-16T13:42:00.000-05:00

"Aren't I handsome? Doesn't this picture just make you want to say Awwwww.....? Do I LOOK like a vicious Beastie? Beware! They don't call me "Killer" for no reason!!!"

Jeepers, criminy! Just when I thought I had everybody on the edge of their seats, My Dad gave me a bath, and made me look like a drowned rat instead of a vicious Beastie! Who's gonna' believe me now? Huh? Huh?

See? I'm in "attack mode" now! Look how she tries to squirm away! I'll get you, My Pretty!!!!! Heh, heh.....

Now here's somebody who looks like he's afraid.... or maybe he's just doing a poor imitation of Me! Ha! I bark louder!

Well, If I can't scare them, I'll pretend to be in love with them! See? I've got this on on the string already..... who's next?

Ah.... Here's another one. Some guys get ALL the girls..... Bet Dad is jealous. Uh, huh!

Even the Kids love me! I'm one lucky Dog!

They love me so much, they bought all these toys. Some guys are just "chick magnets," I guess! Ah..... life is good!

This was NOT part of my plan.... Oh, no! I'm a Killer.... a Beastie. How can I attract chicks and intimidate my enemies when I'm wearing this whimpy thing? What? Do you think I'm afraid of the rain? Common' Dad! Get this thing off-a' me, or I'll piddle on your lap!

Okay, Maybe I CAN make this work...... Think..... Gene Kelly and "Singing in the Rain." Don't I look suave and debonnaire?

Miss Me?

2007-01-13T20:01:00.000-05:00

Hi! Bet y'all wondered where I've been..... or not!
Humpty Dumpty died, and all the kings horses were not able to put him back together again. Soooooo..... thanks to Bryan, I have a brand new "guts" in my old Tower! "Faster than a speeding bullet, more powerful than a locomotive, able to reach tall buildings in a single bound..... "yeah, yeah..... blah, blah, blah. I haven't decided yet what to name HER, so if you have any "intelligent" ideas, I'll entertain them.

So..... since I couldn't be on my computer, I cross stitched. Here's some of what I did....

I took a "Russian Punch Needle Class" a week ago, and here's my first attempt..... it's a mitten! I spent all of 2-3 hours "thumping" the punch in and out of the muslin to create this lil' gem! It was so much fun, not to mention instantaneous gratification galore, that I'm going to do some more! Watch for it.

I also made the Shaker Ornaments from TGOS (The Gift of Stitching) Magazine. Little did I realize that it was almost ALL done "over one." Petite Point on 36 count linen is such fun! NOT!
At some point, I'll actually make them into the ornaments, but for now, I just "framed" them with my new photo program..... lazy me!

Last, but not least, I also started the TGOS first "Mystery Sampler." I know, it's almost a year old, but I always seem to get a late start, Kirsten! I guess I just wait till everybody else is finished, and have worked out any "bumps." LOL Anyway..... I had a piece of 28 count "Buttercup" linen (even if it doesn't look like yellow in the photo) that I couldn't figure out what to do with..... yellow isn't MY color, so I tossed the floss, and got started. Not bad so far.... much easier than I expected, and doing all the tiny "motifs" has been fun! Glad you published it, Kirsten. I just love the magazine, and now I'm ready to dive in and get started.

Bill, this blog is for you. I know that you look almost every day. Thanks! Send a pic (or 2 or 10!)of Killer, and I'll blog him!

Laura..... well..... you know..... lol ...... Watch out for helicopters!

Michele...... I hope you were able to access this! I also hope it was worth it.

Later.......

The Perfect Ending to a Perfect Day

2006-12-25T19:04:00.000-05:00

No caption necessary.......

My new Wheels!

2006-12-25T18:58:00.000-05:00

Okay..... So I got a little excited about my new wheels, and forgot to get dressed before I took them around the living room for a "spin." So what? I just needed to make sure that the seat was the right size for my tush. Not buying that one? Okay..... It's a convertible, and I didn't want "Farmers Tan?" Not buying that one, either? Well, then, add your own caption!

I'm such a Big Boy!

2006-12-25T18:55:00.000-05:00

Hey! How do you like my new chair? Isn't this just the bestest gift ever? Now I can be one of the "Big Guys!" Whoopee!!!!

Traumatic Turbans!

2006-12-25T18:35:00.000-05:00

Okay, so we're having WAYYYYY too much fun! It's apparent that we have no lives when trying on a "Turvy -Towel" brings this much enjoyment to both Miss Laura and Miss Barb! Somebody give us lives...... PLEASE!

Maybe we should say..... "Merry Christmas to all, and to all a 'Good Night?'"

Laura came for the big Family Christmas Dinner with her salad (which was yummy!) and fresh green beans. That was the least caloric part of the meal!. As usual, Heather and Company were late..... something about the broccoli surprise and an oven.... yeah, right! She and Shawn ate leftover Turkey, stuffing, and baked potatoes, while the rest of us chowed down on Prime Rib, cooked to perfection..... thank you Epicurious! Raspberry swirl cheesecake finished the meal, and everybody took a turn at the kitchen sink, too!

In all. it was a great day, with Family and Friend! Thanks, Laura, for my Glen Beck book, my stickers (Yes we will get together to start our 2007 Christmas Cards in January.), and my bottle of "Barb's Brandy," too! I just love your personalized labels! What a hoot!

Laura's Present

2006-12-21T21:01:00.000-05:00

Well, Miss Laura...... You didn't look close enough.It was sitting right on top of the entertainment center..... And because you didn't, I'll just have to tantalize you with SEEING your present up close and personal. No, you may not shake or peek! Not until Monday will you get your grubby hands on my masterful wrap job! Ha!

My Nativity

2006-12-21T14:32:00.000-05:00

Many years ago, My Mother in Law "lucked" into a Fontanini Nativity Set complete with Crache. I was the lucky Christmas recipient of it, and each year have added to it. I now find that unless I want to buy a larger hutch, I must STOP buying animals and people....LOL. I just don't think that John will want to buy a new dining room set, move the doorway, or extend the entire house just for Fontanini! Anyway..... here is this years creation. Enjoy!

The Presents were Wrapped.....

2006-12-21T14:28:00.000-05:00

Okay, Bill...... here's your blog! How I spent my Thursday.... morning....and afternoon! If I never see another piece of wrapping paper, it'll be too soon! Enjoy your Ruben on Saturday!

Victorian Sampler

2006-12-13T18:54:00.000-05:00

Now that my Sister, Cindi, has received her present, I can post a pic of "Cottage Garden." This was my first attempt at drawn thread and specialty stitches. Don't look too close!

I had never worked with Perle Cotton or Silk thread before. I can't say that I'm crazy about the Perle, but the silk thread is really nice to work with. It works easily, and doesn't fray badly.

The worst part was the "thatching" on the roof. I just don't do "diagonal" stitching very well. Other than that, it was fun!
Enjoy!

Pere Noel Ornament Complete!

2006-12-12T12:26:00.000-05:00

Well, here He is! Pere Noel turned out even better than I had hoped. I truly believe that the pictures don't do him justice at all. He's so much prettier in person.

I even learned how to use the "Twisty Thing" to make a ribbon braid for the perimeter of the ornament..... Now.... what do I do with him?

Thanks for looking!
Later.....

Colin's Christening

2006-12-10T18:06:00.000-05:00

Poor Father..... he had to s-t-r-e-t-c-h out the beginning of Mass, because, as usual...... The Harvey's were late. He must have had a really nice "Welcome" to the new "parrishoner" (ME!) planned, too! Oh, well..... he obviously doesn't know my Mom and Dad very well! Then, all 12 of us trooped in, and didn't sit in the "reserved" seating smack dab in the front pews, either. S-t-r-e-t-c-h..... some more, and send somebody to tell us where to plunk ourselves down. Can you say "I'm sooooo embarrassed!" Good thing these are really nice folks at St John's. They made me feel right at home! Everybody smiled at me when I paraded in.

So the good news is that the christening gown fit me! Good thing Mom and Dad didn't wait another week! And I was so good, too! I laughed and cooed at Father. Then Father laughed and cooed right back at Me.....
"Maybe if I hide my eyes, nobody will notice that I'm a boy in a dress, with a frilly hat! My Grandmother HATES me! This will probably make me Gay! It'll be all her fault! Somebody Pleeeeeezeeee make me look like a boy!

"There! That's better! Now, get rid of these lacey shoes, and put my cleets on, right now! "

"And what are YOU laughing at Father? My baseball cap looks better than YOUR Hat!" Hair? Oh, sorry..... thought it was a hat!" Let's get on with this, before I loose all my nerve....."

Anyway..... My Mom didn't drop me in the big bathtub, and Father came through on his promise to warm the water before he dumped it on my head! Guess I'm glad I'm Catholic, cause they don't make me jump into a river or anything like that! Grandma would have been bummed if my nice dress got ruined..... hmmmm..... maybe I can save some other kid.....

Everything went fine until Father woke me up with the water. Then it reminded me that I was hungry. I figured that if I fussed loud enough, and long enough that somebody would give me some of whatever they were eating and drinking in front of me..... not a chance. Mom took me outside for a little "teaser," but had to bring me back in again so Father could say some more nice words, and slobber oil on my head. What's up with that, anyway? Still nothing to eat.... bummer! Let's get outta here!

Pictures? Now you want to take PICTURES???? Didn't Bryce take enough of them (with Uncle Buzzy's help, of course) when they dunked me? Oh, all right..... make it quick!

Me, Mommy and Daddy. See how happy I look? FEED ME!!!

Me and My Godmother, Aunt Rachel, I'll be a good boy for her.... she doesn't have anything to feed me with, and besides.... she's nice!

Me and My Godfather, Uncle Michael... not a prayer for a meal here. I'm being good for him, because Aunt Stephanie is going to have my cousin in February, and I don't want to scare him off, or anything...... just lookin' out for your future interests, here, Cuz......

A point of interest here.....do you notice who DIDN'T.... and RARELY has her picture taken with me? Just thought I'd bring that up.......

My Big Brother, Bryce, has a birthday on December 10th, so after Mommy fed me in the front pew of the church while chatting with Father (we expect anything else from my Mom? If she doesn't care, I sure don't .... I'll eat ANYWHERE!), we all trooped off to Avicoli's for our 7 PM dinner reservation.. ...which..... they screwed up! I don't think that all 12 of us would have fit into a booth for 4, do you? I mean.... I had my OWN seat, but I felt sorry for the rest of them! Somebody really messed things up, BIG TIME. So much for the leisurely fine dining..... we finally sat down at 7:40.... record time to shove the other people out the door! Uncle Mike and Grandma's orders got.... uh... lost somewhere, but they still managed to finish dinner with the rest of us. The cake was served, we all sang "Happy Birthday" to Bryce,

and, as you can see......

My Big Brother, Peyton held on as long as he could.

And to all...."A Good Night!"

Love you!
Colin Julian Harvey

Happy Birthday, Bill!

2006-12-08T08:04:00.000-05:00

Did you think that we would forget????? Miss Laura, Miss Lana and Miss Barb were busily plotting and planning for your Special Day, for days in advance. We wanted your birthday to be memorable. By the look on your face at the gym this morning - it was! Great! We did it! AND..... we couldn't have done it without YOU! Thank you for slugging through the snow, not knowing about your surprise, Bill!

Now you can celebrate your special day for two days in a row. Enjoy your decorations, especially your "Kiss Me" button...... pin it on anywhere you want! Don't forget to wear it to the C&S party tonight, or to your Family birthday celebration at Danzer's tomorow night, either!

Enjoy!

Did You Miss Me?

2006-12-07T08:33:00.000-05:00

I'll bet - not!" My PC decided to take a vacation, and after a week, came home! Thank you Bryan for putting "Humpty Dumpty" back together again..... now I'm paranoid to surf!

I've included a couple of pics of the horrible rain storm we had this week. I was thinking that it was terrible, until I thought..... "What if it were snow?" Straightened out my thought process right quick, Pardner!

Since last we spoke, "Curly, Larry and Moe-lita" trimmed the tree (complete with the Star - not Fluffy the Angel, boo-hoo), and Moe-lita quasi-decorated the house. I guess I'd better finish the job, as Miss Laura is going to be our Dinner guest for Christmas Day. Hope she likes either over-done Prime Rib, or Burned Bird! With company coming, that's surely what will happen!

I also worked furiously on my Santa..... picture will appear post-Christmas, as it's a present. I'm so tired of seeing Gentle Arts Sampler "cranberry" thread! I've used 6 skeins of it! That's a lotta' thread!

The Victoria Sampler Cottage Garden Sampler is framed, and ready to go. Look for that pic just before Christmas..... yep.... also a present. It turned out really well...... that's a "tease."

On a more personal note.... I want to wish Bill a "Happy Birthday" on this Saturday. Rumor has it he's turning "60-something", but he sure doesn't look it. He's going to Danzer's for a Rueben, and promises to eat the whooooolllllleeeee thing! I'm not taking bets on that one. Uh, huh..... no way! It's a "given" that there won't be a shard of cabbage, or a teaspoon of Russian Dressing on the plate!

For a bit of Family humor (Yeah, everybody who has a Family has one or two stories to tell.), try this one on..... Our Daughter and Son in Law are having Texas Company this weekend for Colin's baptismal. It figures that the sink would plug (thank you, Peyton for the toy in the trap), the toilet would overflow (oh, sure, why not?), and Peyton would toss water all over the bathroom floor (a nice soggy mess - and "What's that mildew smell?). Well, as long as you're doing it, might as well do the whole thing, right? So Shawn rips out the old shower doors, and the vanity, buys copper, fittings, new fixtures, a new vanity, shower doors, and starts to "re-model." The floor would have to wait - clorox will take care of that smell, right?). The first thing that happens is that the piping under the now wide open sink is so corroded, that it has to be changed out. Then, the pipes behind the shower leak, necessitating finding the "cut-out" for the plumbing behind the bathtub..... located "conveniently" behind the refrigerator. Not, too bad..... UNTIL the new copper leaked..... and leaked.... and leaked, because Shawn couldn't get it "plumb." All bets are on the fact that at some point, the shower had leaked before they bought the house, and the dingbat had probably done the plumbing repair herself! Okay.... tear out all the copper, and replace it with PVC because it's more flexible.... problem solved! It only took 4 days, and Heather can shower at the gym or climb into the kitchen sink if she needs to, right? Next item on the agenda is to buy the new vanity. Saw a great one at Home Depot for a terrific price - including the sink! Buy it, have it delivered, and THEN discover that just because there's a sink IN the vanity AT the store, doesn't mean that it COMES WITH the vanity. New lesson is learned..... To add insult to injury, the vanity is damaged when it arrived. Now.... it's Monday, and Company arrives on Thursday...... Go back to Home Depot, straighten it all out, order another vanity. New vanity is supposed to arrive on Tuesday evening. 8 o'clock PM arrives, and no vanity in sight. Somebody neglected to schedule it for delivery. The end of the story should arrive this evening..... we'll see. The whole "tale" sounds just like Everybody's last nightmare, right? I tell you this tale to make all of the rest of us feel better..... These things DON'T just happen to US! Sorry Heather.... but it sure makes US feel better!

Have a good day, and look for me tomorrow!

Nasty Syracuse Weather!

2006-12-01T15:39:00.000-05:00

That "Wait 5 minutes, and the weather will change" statement that I made in an earlier blog has come back to haunt me! It is Naaaassssstttttyyyy outside! The skies have opened up, and the gutters can't keep up with the rain. Oh, I'm gonna' wish we'd taken down those Poplar trees sooner, I just know it! Wind, and rain so hard, I can't see the end of my driveway. Good thing I'm not a scaredy cat! Ha! "A Day Not Fit For Man Nor Beast" as WC Fields would say!

Anyway, I'm on a "mission" to figure out how to add a link to my Webshots and Photobucket picture files, so look around for it on the blog....
Later.....

For Miss Laura

2006-11-30T19:08:00.000-05:00

"Mea Culpa, Mea Culpa!!!!" Gad Goodfry, I forgot to mention that on our little shopping spree to the "Nort Country," that Miss Laura also bought Diamond Glaze!!!! OH! I just remembered that she bought ear muffs at Herb Philipsons, too!!!!!! Whoop-tee-do! There! Take THAT, you! You'd better watch out, or I'll tell Mr YMCA where you live! He'll ride his bicycle over to your house and show you what's in his backpack! I'll bet HE has lots of rubber and paper in there.... Yup... I betcha he does!

Feels Just like Summer!

2006-11-29T19:10:00.000-05:00

Another beautiful warm Syracuse Day! Ha! Please, don't tell Mother Nature that it's the end of November.... please.....please! The thermometer was at 56 at 5 AM this morning, and hovered at 63 for the rest of the day. I'll gladly take the overcast skies that went along with it, as long as there was no snow! It all ends on Friday evening, as the temperatures are predicted to drop into the low 30's, and there's Lake Effect snow predicted for Saturday.....bummer!

The good news is.... my ornaments are d-o-n-e! Take a look.....

They turned out okay, if I do say so myself! Now I can get back to my Santa.... he's calling out to me!

Later.....

My New Finish

2006-11-28T15:30:00.000-05:00

Check out these French knots! I had such fun, and there must be 50 of them I'm so proud..... LOL

Believe it or not, I actually finished.... yup.... soup to nuts one whole ornament! Sheesh..... I'm going to keep Elmer's glue in business! I procrastinated attaching the braid for so long that I almost gave up on the whole project! Silly me! It took all of 5 minutes to glue the stupid braid onto the ornie. Okay.... so I didn't "twist" the braid myself.... I haven't gotten up the nerve to learn how to use the stupid "twisty thingy." Give me time.... give me time........

Anyway..... enjoy!

The Great Shopping Extravaganza with Laura!

2006-11-28T15:22:00.000-05:00

Okay! So Laura had never been to The Dragonfly. I try to "enable" every stamper that I know to try it once. Just ask my cousin Janet! This is a pic of my "stash" from today. I really n-e-e-d-e-d another piece of rubber (yeah right!). So, I bought 4! Then I was "enabled" into buying some paper..... well.... it WAS marked down to 10 cents a sheet, ya' know! Who can resist another stamp pad, either..... oh, shut up, John!!! The Glaze pens jumped into the basket when I wasn't looking..... well.... sort of. Okay, okay..... I'll shut up, now! Watch your Christmas cards for the finished display!

Oh! Did I mention that Laura bought a resin bag? BIGGGGGGG time spender, My Friend!

Monday, Monday.....

2006-11-27T08:05:00.000-05:00

Good title for a song, huh?

The weather isn't bad for the end of November, either. I saw somebody mowing her lawn yesterday! Sure beats shoveling snow, right? If you live in Syracuse, you get used to our quirky weather. The "tag line" around here is "Wait 5 minutes, and the weather could change!" It comes from living so close to Lake Ontario.

I'm still working on ornaments, and I have to tell ya' that it's been a "slow-go." I spent the better part of Saturday just gluing stuff. Today I'm going to learn how to use that thing that makes cording..... This should be interesting.

Last night, I got out my Russian Punch needle kit, and started to learn..... What a mess I made! I'm now busy weaving fibers back together to try to salvage the stupid thing! It took over an hour just to figure out how to hold the stupid needle without cutting the material...... There are parts of it that are just shredded. Not good! Maybe I should just stick to plain old cross stitch!

The good news for today is that there's no rain or snow predicted! Whooo-hoooo!
Later......

For My Sister

2006-11-26T08:17:00.000-05:00

Here's your big chance........

Cindi sent a beautiful gift along with the Familial Christening Gown the other day. Yes, you Snot! You indeed DID make your "always will be younger Sister cry!" Happy now? The pic in the upper left is only one of two pics that I'm aware of with me as a baby. I know all babies look alike, but I can see myself in Colin! Vanity......

There's a great pic of the two of us standing in front of our old house on State St in Oneonta on Easter morning. Mom loved to dress us up...... she had to be careful with me, though, or I'd take off, and roll in some dirt somewhere. I was never dressed up for long! Cindi was the "prim and proper" one.

The other photo is of the "Glamore Gals" onboard ship. We took a nice cruise to celebrate.... oh.... I guess our existance. Cindi..... remember the berths on the ship? there wasn't room to turn around! Our bright idea was to choose an "inside" berth for our first cruise, too! You have NO IDEA how dark those rooms are in the middle of the night! I also discovered that when they change out the fresh water (also in the middle of the night), the water in the stainless steel toilets comes right up to the brim! Ask me how I know this at 3 AM!

The other picture is is Cindi and I at the Enchanted Forest taken in 1955. I think Cindy was 7 1/2, and Barbie was just 4 years old. See how proud we were of our new "Annie Oakley" Cowgirl outfits? Check out the fringe on the skirts! For some reason, I'm not wearing my "6-guns" though. It was probably too hot that day! I remember that my hat was red, and I think that Cindy’s was Black. I have a vivid reccolation about the shoes, too. They were red "Buster Brown’s" and had holes cut out in the shape of leaves on the instep! Mom always dressed us up so cute when we went out "visiting!"

For Marlene......

2006-11-24T16:47:00.000-05:00

Just for you, Marlene.....

The Gruesome Foursome got together to christen

"Marlene's Summer Palace" in November. Oneonta just hates to see us coming! We hadn't all been together in 3 years, and I'm surprised the Town Fathers didn't yell "Katie, bar the door!" from River Street to Emmons!

Ah..... Mosca's Pizza from the Depot. Brooks chicken makes the mouth water...... The Widmer's Lake Niagara didn't hurt, either. Mary is just as crazy as the rest of us - we must invite her next time, Mar!

Notes from Marlene..... "But if you're going to do it, don't forget to tell everyone about Barb's Hints for Being the Perfect Guest-- like, "Stay up with your hostess, while she cleans up the kitchen, even if it is 3 hours past your bedtime!" And remind them to remember WHERE the party's being held, (Oneonta, not Syracuse), so they don't go up and down the thruway for 2 hours!And don't mimic the symptoms of a heart attack a week or two before the party, just to scare the crap out of everyone!"

At least we didn't embarrass ourselves by trying on hats in Walmart, or having anybody paged at the Dollar Store...... DID we, Liza? We'll just save that for next time...... We are SUCH children! Ha!

Thanksgiving Flowers

2006-11-24T14:42:00.000-05:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving yesterday, too! The Lake Shore really out-did itself! It also helped that the sun was shinning, too! The bird was cooked to prefection, they had REAL Thanksgiving veges - candied yams with melted marshmallows, squash, peas and corn - along with the usual mashed potatoes, dressing and gravy. We also weren't "rushed" in and out. All in all, it was a wonderful day.

Heather and Shawn and the boys brought flowers for Grandma, too! What a nice treat!

New Finish

2006-11-24T14:30:00.000-05:00

I also found a frame for "Can You Spy....." I think I like it better "encased in glass......" LOL

Black Friday!

2006-11-24T13:52:00.000-05:00

Oh, my! I had the best of intentions...... I met my Running Partner, Sue, this morning at 5:30. There was so much black ice in the parking lot of the Mall where our "jaunt" begins that I was sure I was going to end up on my Keister! Between watching for the icy patches, and watching out for the half awake folk looking for that perfect Christmas present at the perfect price (That's a lotta' "perfects!"), I started thinking that we should have scrapped the walk and headed to Dunkin Doughnuts! After a lot of "slip-sliding-away," we had a nice, brisk, 27 degree walk. By the time we got back to the Mall, the parking lot was half full, and already folks were headed back to their cars, burdened with Dick's and Penny's bags. Well..... it all looked so good that I just was... uh... "compelled" to see what was so special - at least at Dick's. Oh, yeah..... Chris will be the best dressed "Roofer" on the job after Christmas!

Did I mention that my AC Moore, Michael's, and JoAnne's flyers "magically" appeared on the front seat of my car? Yup! They did, and ..... Yup! I had to check out those three stores, too. Who cared that I still had my running clothes on, and smelled? Not me!!!! JV will be proud of himself when he sees the Ott - light magnifier that he bought me. Hey! I .... er... HE... got 20% off the entire order! OH! He'll also be pleased as punch when he remembers that he also bought an "Oval" Mat Cutter for me - half price at AC Moore's! He's quite the bargain hunter, that Hubby of mine!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2006-11-23T11:32:00.000-05:00

Blessed Thanksgiving to everyone. I'm especially thankful this year to have our Son, Chris, at home with us today. As everyone knows, he's had a rough few years, and it looks like he's on the road to Recovery at last. Thank you, everyone for your prayers. The results can be found in my eyes. Bless you!

Thanksgiving dinner is at the Lake Shore this year. We'll be doing the "Does this fit?" in the parking lot again! One of these days, I'm going to take pictures of all of us "exchanging" shirts, suit jackets and sweaters in the back seats of cars. It's such a "hoot!" Here we all are..... at the Swanky Country Club.... trying on each others clothes in the parking lot! Get the picture?

I finished "Can you Spy...." this week. I have to say that I'm not pleased with the colors. I knew it would be on the "dull" side for my taste, but this is REALLY washed out. I'm thinking that a nice "crackle" paint frame might help brighten it up. Check out the pic, and see what you think?

Actually, the pic sharpens up the colors nicely..... it really doesn't look that good in "person." LOL

Now, I'm on to making Christmas ornaments. I can't say too much about them, except that they "whip up" nicely, one ornie per day. This will be my first attempt at creating my own cording..... I hope that twisty cording thing works! LOL

What a Crappy Day!

2006-11-08T17:20:00.000-05:00

Good Word! Dreary, drizzley, dark, dank..... can't think of any more "D" words to describe today.

I even coerced Chris into going to Beak and Skiff for apples this afternoon - just to get out of the house for a while! Yum! Mulled apple cider hit the spot! We were the only two people there, too! I just hate going to the apple farm when it's so crowded. Of course, some of the "pickins" were pretty well picked-over....LOL!

Here are a few pics of Chittenango Falls that a Friend sent over. He and his wife went out for a "hike," I guess. I hadn't seen The Falls since I was a little girl...at least a couple of years ago....LOL

Enjoy!

2006-11-04T18:32:00.000-05:00

Am I cute or what? What's Halloween, anyway?

Happy Halloween!

2006-11-04T10:03:00.000-05:00

Halloween arrived as a beautiful, sunny morning! Great time to finish the landscaping - just ask my Son! Poor guy had to load, and off-load 24oo pounds of stone mulch. I kept thinking...... "This will make you stronger." His facial expression kept saying, " How much stronger, and WHY does she hate me?"

What began as a relatively simple project to replace the cedar mulch with stone (in order to keep the ant population at a minumum!), became a typical 3 Stooges project! Just after Chris and I left the house, John called to say that he would come home, pick up the tow behind trailer, and help us get the stone from Lowes to the house. HA! After two trips to Lowes to carry the stone and constant worries about flat tires and burning transmissions, Chris and I were ready to begin. Did I mention that it was a pallet of stone? OH! Also, each of the 63 bags weighed 45 lbs apiece! Do the math.

The end result? Check it out!

The Boys were supposed to arrive by late afternoon, but Mommy's "day before her first day back to work after Maternity Leave" was too hectic. She wanted Lucy Peabody to see the "Tricksters," so Grandma came in "second place." LOL. Naw..... I was "on the way home." Then, Shawn had a "fender-bender," so everybody ran late. The wait was worth it! Peyton has quite a "Dinosaur Roar." He was so excited! I just love this age.....everything is such a "Hoot!" Poor Colin slept through it all in his Bumble-Bee costume. The only time he woke up was to eat! so cute..... I sure miss those times....

When's my new Brother Gonna' BE here?

2006-09-08T12:59:00.000-04:00

When is he gonna' BE here? Huh?
All of this waiting was just too much for Peyton. Heather's scheduled C-Section was already a half hour late! Time to get this show on the road!

Finally!!! It's about time! I think he looks like ME, Mom! When will he wake up so we can play with my new Power Ranger? Does he walk yet? Can I hold him? Huh? Huh? Can we go home and watch cartoons now? Let's go, Dad!