NERM AND KITTY

FIX IT UP HELP

2010-01-09T20:53:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned before, we are getting ready to put our house on the market and move to a smaller home. Today we were so blessed to have Amy and Danny (and girls) come to help with some fix-it-up projects. Danny's a great DIY-er as well as my hubby. We are so tired tonight, but with a good feeling of work accomplished.
I thought you'd enjoy looking at our newest grand-dog, Lucy. This sweetie is 8 wks old. She's half toy poodle and half chihuahua. This puppy does not look real. It's like a stuffed toy come to life. You can see everyone loves her. Here's Kitty giving her a hug:
My mother is totally in love with this dog. She carries her around and is very protective of her around the kids and other animals. It's so funny to watch her with Lucy.

We finally had some snow here-in fact, it's been flurry-ing for two days. For us it's great even tho' most folks around here aren't used to driving on it. The temps have been so cold; high today was in the 20's. Most of the nation has been cold, so I can only say, "stay warm, friends". Nerm

WINTRY KNITTING

2010-01-05T20:33:00.000-08:00

Sure do hope you all are keeping warm. Boy, is it cold. Highs have been in the 20's. Here in Tennessee that's plenty cold. Now we are under a Winter Storm Warning for Thursday and Friday and expecting...dum de dum dum...SNOW!!! As many of you know, I crave a good snowy day which we haven't had in a long, long time. They are forecasting 1.5--3" of the white stuff for Weds. nite and Thursday. I won't hold my breath, but I'll keep my fingers crossed. (Now that's a mental picture!)

Meanwhile, I am busy knitting away on a sweater for myself. I do a lot of charity knitting and I knit for family members , but I've really been in the mood to do something for myself. This particular sweater is a cardigan and made of a beautiful tweed yarn. Thank goodness, my hands are cooperating with me recently. My arthritis is haunting my knee at the moment, so I'll settle for that.
Here's a close-up (slightly out of focus) of the tweed-y aspect of the yarn.

I will let you know how much progress I make on the sweater and if the snow materializes.

Meanwhile, join me in a cup of hot tea. Nerm

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

2010-01-01T18:17:00.001-08:00

Can you believe it's 2010? Doesn't that sound futuristic? Was it so long ago that everyone was talking about Y2K and the imminent computer collapse? I have read lots of commentaries on the past decade and what awful things (and good ones, too) have happened to us during that time. I am so thankful for my family and don't know what I'd do without them.

This past year had its ups and downs for our family, that's for sure. Hubby's business is home building so you know how that's going. He's made some creative changes with his business shifting it to more of a remodeling emphasis. The Lord has provided for us, even though we have learned to scale back our living somewhat. We're probably like alot of others in that it feels kind of good to learn to live with less. It's not as complicated and time consuming.

Actually hopefully in a month or so, we hope to put our home on the market and downsize somewhat. This house is over 3,000 sq ft and is just too much for us. We will have to have a fair size home to accomodate my mother who, as you know, lives with us, but I think we can accomplish both goals. I'll certainly keep you posted.

Meanwhile, enjoy a long weekend and take it easy on those resolutions! Nerm

WINTER LACE

2009-12-28T20:16:00.000-08:00

Christmas is a memory and the decorations are drooping a little. We usually wait until Jan. 1 to take our tree down, but this year I'm ready to do it early. We did have a great celebration with our family on Christmas Day. A few folks were missing--mainly my brother-in-law and nephew, both of whom are serving in Iraq now. My sister is without her husband and one of her sons. Although I'll say this about her, she handles it very well and keeps a good attitude. She did get to talk to them on Christmas Day tho' with the miracle of long distance electronics.
I received money and gift cards and they're really burning a hole in my purse. LOL Gotta get out there and get it spent.

I realize that a large section of the country is covered in snow and is expecting more. Here in middle Tennessee, we do have cold weather and even a wintry mix in the forecast, but these pictures show pretty much what winter looks like here. I always have thought the dark, bare limbs of trees look like lace against the winter sky. Hubby and I are shopping for a new camera with some of our Christmas money and then I'll have more dramatic pictures to show you all.

This is a maple tree and a Bradford pear tree next to it. Look at that beautiful blue clear sky. Makes for cold nights though.

Hope everybody is settling down for their long, winter's nap-stay warm!! Nerm

HAPPY BIRTHDAY & MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2009-12-22T17:14:00.000-08:00

I'm completely recovered now from my unfortunate bout with food poisoning. Alas, I am hopelessly behind now, so I have scaled down my plans and expectations. Actually, I'll admit that the older I get, the more relaxed I am about holidays and entertaining in general.
Today was Morgan's 4th birthday. She's such a cutie. Can't believe it's been four years. I remember being in the birthing room with Wendy right after I had foot surgery. I had my cast propped up on a chair and was cheering from the sidelines! We'll celebrate the weekend after Christmas at Chuckie Cheese. Oh, boy!
Welcome to our home. Glad you stopped by. I copied this wreath from one at Horchow's for $96.00. I even bought some of the flowers at Dollar Tree. It's very rewarding to replicate something expensive with cheap-o things.

I've been wanting to share this St Nicholas/Father Christmas with you for a while. My mother made him for me several years ago. The face is soft sculpture with a wool robe and fur trim. She collected little odds and ends for a while including the lantern.

I especially love the toy sack filled with all kinds of little goodies. My mom has always been very creative and passed some of those genes on to me. It's sad now to see her diminished capabilities. I try to remember the way she was while I was growing up. I am glad she is living here with us and I can spend time with her and make sure she is taken care of.

Here's another Santa. Gail, my sister, found this on sale at Home Depot (of all places) and bought him for me. I have a large Santa collection which I haven't put out this year, but this guy will be a great addition. Maybe next year, I'll be more organized and I'll show you all my santas. I have several that are antiques and many that are more modern. I'm always on the look-out for ones which are unusual and different.

I think this will be my last post before Christmas. Have a wonderful and blessed holiday. Hope all your prayers and dreams come true. I'll be back on the 26th. Lots of love, Nerm

AAURRRGH!

2009-12-15T20:02:00.000-08:00

It all started, as many things do, while we were going about our business and doing our Christmas duty. Hubby and I had been out Christmas shopping and enjoyed a nice Mexican dinner out. I had the crab enchiladas. Are the bells and alarms going off yet? Within five (5) --count 'em) hours, your truly was in the bathroom. I will spare you the gory details, but just let me say, this is the worst food poisoning I have ever had. Violent, I say! So now I am a limp noodle moaning and groaning on the couch and being waited on. (hee, hee)

Anyway, please give me a day or two to get my strength back and I'll be talking to you again.
Merry Christmas, ho, ho, ho! Nerm

CHRISTMAS BABY!

2009-12-11T09:50:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone-how are your Christmas preparations going? Mine are slow as usual..must be a character flaw. Every year it's the same ole story for me, so I might as well relax and enjoy it! It always comes together in the end, so what's the problem, right? hee hee

Hubby has been sick for the last couple of days with a stomach flu. Now let me say this is MUCH worse than a 'man-cold'. This requires lots of moaning and complaining and pitiful looks. I know he has felt bad, so I am trying hard to be the patient, loving wife. But, gee whiz, doesn't he realize this is the Christmas season? I hope you all know I'm kidding-he's a great husband and I'll take care of him no matter what. When I had my foot surgery a couple of years ago, he waited on me hand and foot (no pun intended), so how could I not be sweet to him.

Now here's the good news. My new little great-nephew Slade. Weighing in at 8'3", he's a healthy big boy. Look at those beautiful eyes. Can't wait to get my hands on him. After hours of unproductive labor, his mom had a caesarean. Everyone is find now, especially my sister-in-law who is in hog's heaven.
Aren't babies wonderful, esp. at Christmastime? We'll talk again soon. Nerm

DREARY AND WET

2009-12-08T20:09:00.000-08:00

We have had the gloomiest, grayest, rainyest (?) weather lately. The skies are leaden and if it were colder, I just know we'd have snow. You know how we here in Tennessee pray for snow and haven't really had a good one in several years. Seriously tho', all this rain is causing area flooding with some people being evacuated from their homes.
This is what the view from my back door looks like-this was mid afternoon and it looks almost like nightfall. My poor little dogs don't want to go outside to do their business and who can blame them?

On a happy note, my niece Callie is in the hospital as I type this having her baby. Hopefully, we'll have a picture to share tomorrow.
Stay dry and warm wherever you are. Nerm

ST NICHOLAS DAY

2009-12-06T19:38:00.000-08:00

Happy St. Nicholas Day! This is also the second Sunday in Advent. Boy, December is whizzing by at an alarming rate.

When my girls were young and still at home, we would celebrate St Nicholas day by reading the story of his life and exchanging small gifts of remembrance. I always felt it was important for them to know there was a REAL Christian person behind the secular Santa Claus. He was a bishop in the 4th century in what is now Turkey. It's a very interesting life story if you want to read further about him here.

I hope all your Christmas preparations are coming along nicely. Hopefully I'll have some decorations to show tomorrow. Take a deep breath! Nerm

UNDER THE WEATHER

2009-12-04T14:07:00.000-08:00

Sorry I haven't been around this week-I've been under the weather. Finally caught the nasty cold my whole extended family has had for a month. And I thought I was the lucky one! But today I feel ever so much better, so I wanted to say hi. Can you believe that Christmas Day is a mere three weeks away? This is no time to be out of commission. heavy sigh.

Even tho' I've been on the couch all week, I have had plenty of time to crochet and knit some goodies for Christmas. Here are some little ornaments. These were all done in Lily cotton yarn. Love that stuff. The ornament shaped ones came from here.

I made up the tree shape and the little dress. Isn't it cute? It'll be for one of my granddaughters.

Next you can see I've been making dishcloths. These are so wonderful to wash dishes with or even used as washcloths to bathe with. The red/cream one is crochet; the green is knitted. I like the pine tree design. I'm working on a yellow one with a star in the center. Fun, fun.

I hope you are all staying well and proceeding toward your Christmas plans with no obstacles.

Tomorrow I'm hoping to get some decorations up. Nerm

LET THE GAMES BEGIN!

2009-11-29T15:26:00.001-08:00

Hi everybody--hope your Thanksgiving was wonderful and you are full and happy. Ours was very low key this year with only nine family members. But the turkey and fixings were all there and I think there are still a few lingering in the fridge.

If you'll remember a few posts back, I mentioned my niece was having a baby and I made the sailboat baby blanket for her. I decided to add a little hat to match. It's always hard to remember how tiny newborns really are. Can't wait to hold this one. Picked up these tiny socks at the Target $1.00 aisle. How cute are they?
On Friday daughter Wendy had to work, so I kept Morgan all day. We had lots of fun. Joined up with middle daughter Amy and her girls and went shopping. Something I said I wouldn't do. But she got to see her cousins and I got some time to visit with Amy. We had a big day and Morgan slept all the way home.

Hubby and I are having a quiet Sunday afternoon watching football-our Tenn. Titans are playing Arizona and it's a close game. So I'll get back to it and we'll talk later. Tomorrow I've got to hit the ground running. Christmas is hurtling toward me with lightning speed. Nerm

I PROMISED YOU A PILGRIM!

2009-11-25T19:56:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow's the big day and I am prepared! The dining room table is set and decorated just awaiting our hungry crew to arrive. I'll get up and make the pumpkin pie and a few side items and be ready. Sweet hubby is smoking the turkey all nite & I'm sure it will be yummy.

Here's my pilgrim dishcloth compliments of Lily Yarns. Don't you love that cotton yarn they make? I have many different colors and can't wait to do something for Christmas.
Here's the link if you're interested: http://www.sugarncream.com/pattern.php
By the way I took the photo outside so it would look more realistic -Hey, the original folks ate outside, right?

Many Thanksgiving blessings to you and yours. Nerm

MORE DOGS

2009-11-23T20:06:00.000-08:00

I know Thanksgiving is day after tomorrow, so why am I talking about my dog collection? Well, if you'll look back to my previous post about cleaning my dining room, you'll understand. I spent my whole day in there putting all my sewing and quilting stuff away so we could eat in there on Thursday. I am SO tired. Hence, the dogs. I had these photos ready for another post that never came, so I thought today was a good time.
I love little china dogs, most of which are from Japan and made around the 40's and 50's. The one below here was an ashtray and is very unique. I love this guy. Looks like he's saying "who me?"

This one (kinda blurry) looks kind of like my shih tzu. He's sweet too.

Here they all are assembled on a shelf in my new green family room. There's even a vintage dog print below the shelf that once was my Grandmother's.
Thanks for indulging me. I promise to show some pilgrim decor soon. HA HA Nerm

ONE WEEK TO GO

2009-11-19T16:10:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is one week from today and you wouldn't believe my dining room. I've been busy sewing in there for weeks and have several projects spread from one end to another. Yikes. I'd better get going this weekend. I envy all those good bloggers whose homes are decorated for the autumn/Thanksgiving celebration. I do have my front door done, so I'm good from the outside. Ha, ha. (slightly hysterical laughter)

I will show you something I HAVE done: continuing in my bird & nature theme in the bonus room, I have made a little arrangement which is on a shelf over the TV. I found an old 1 x 4 in the garage (thank goodness, hubby is a builder) and attached these letters to it. Painted it all with my favorite antique white. Then out to the yard for misc. grass,weeds, and sticks to make the nest. No, I didn't use a real one. Glued my birdie in and voila, there it is! I'm pretty proud if I say so myself.

Thought I'd share one of sewing projects with you: I love making pillows. So many choices and possibilities. Also so fast and easy! This one has red and white ticking on the back, making it more cottagey feeling. It was for a friend's birthday.

Guess that's all for today, friends. It was a glorious day here--cool but sunny. Perfect fall day. I am going to be sad to see them go. Nerm

A TALE OF TWO DOGS

2009-11-16T20:00:00.000-08:00

From the outset let me say, please forgive the quality of these photos. I'm having issues with my camera and I seem to be turning out fuzzy pics.
As I mentioned before in my last post, Gail (sister) and I spent most of Saturday at Christmas Village, a fundraiser with hundreds of booths and goodies for sale. Also hundreds of people to push thru...nevertheless, it's always alot of fun and we get some good sister time.
One of the favorite things I purchased was this angel. It's wood which has been antiqued to look old. I really love angels and have several. This one's arms move up and down. Wish it was a better picture.

Here's where the dog part of the title comes from: my favorite dog of all time--Snoopy!! Gail took this photo of me giving the pooch a big hug. They were promoting Peanuts on Ice and I had to push lots of little kids aside to get this photo taken. (just kidding). I told Snoopy that I loved him and embarrassed my sis to death! LOL

Now on to the 2nd dog: Please meet Niko, an Olde English Bulldog. Can you see the tongue hanging out through the blurred photo? Kitty is dogsitting this animal while his owner is serving his time in Iraq. Meanwhile Kitty is out of town for her job for a few days, so hubby and Nerm get the honor of keeping him. We have two Shih Tzus who are small and quiet. This dog is very earthy (do ya get what I'm sayin' here?) and nervous b/c he doesn't understand why he's here. All I can say is I'll be very glad for Kitty to come home and reclaim him. Hubby and I are getting several laughs at his quirky personality tho'.

Have a great week-Nerm

FRIDAY THE 13TH!

2009-11-13T18:17:00.000-08:00

Actually Friday the 13th doesn't do much for me or to me, if ya know what I mean. My faith is not in superstitious malarky! It's in Heaven above. Today turned out to be a good day for me. The weather was great-sunny and 60's. I ran some errands and enjoyed a little alone time which is such a rare thing for me.

Since nothing outstandingly exciting is happening around here right now, I thought I'd share some of my projects recently completed. My neice is having a baby next month and our whole family is going down to Alabama for a baby shower in her honor the Saturday after Thanksgiving. She knows she's having a boy, so I made a blue baby afghan with sailboats on it. I know this photo isn't the best, but you get the idea. It is so-o-o soft - wish that could come across the blog.

Those of you who have read my blog before know I attend a church knitting/craft group regularly. We make baby blankets, hats, etc. for indigent mothers at the local city hospital. This was a twist on the regular granny-style afghan. Instead of squares it was circles of different colors. This was so much fun to make...I love all the bright colors. This poor baby will probably be hyper from overstimulation. LOL I may make myself one of these some day-I love it that much.

Tomorrow is a busy day. My sis & I are going on our yearly outing to the annual Christmas Village show. It's held at the fairgrounds and covers several different buildings which are full of all sorts of Christmasy goodies: food, clothing, crafts, gift and a million other ways to spend money. We have done this literally for years. Afterward we look at our spoils and say, "what is this and why did I buy it?" ha, ha. But it's one of the few times we really spend all day together without interruption, so we treasure it.

I'll report back on the results tomorrow! Nerm

NERM'S SALON DE BEAUTE

2009-11-11T13:02:00.000-08:00

Did you all know that I was a closet hair stylist? Keep threatening to go to hair school-LOL.
This sweet head belongs to Morgan, granddaughter #3. Age three. Never had a haircut in her life!! I got the honor of the first snip. Very traumatic for her mom, but not Morgan. Please note the cousins and aunt looking on.
Maddie lends support as the trim proceeds.

DA-TUM! The princess with her new 'do!! Look at those eyes.

The happy twosome pose for the photo ops and autographs. Another successful cut!

Now that's a very happy ending! Nerm

HAPPY AUTUMN!

2009-11-06T20:20:00.000-08:00

Hi everybody! It's so good to be blogging again. I really missed y'all! I know I've been absent for a while. Where has the time gone? It just seems that life gets in the way. I've missed talking with all my blogland friends. I've been checking in on you tho'-now I'll leave a comment or two.

Is it really November? Is next month December? Does that mean this year is almost gone? I am in BIG trouble here. Oh, those New Year's resolutions! All those good intentions! Boy, am I behind! I just finished this fall quilt. Now I bought this pattern last year , but true to form, didn't get around to making it until this year. Also it called for a jack o'lantern face, but I left that off so it could last thru the whole autumn season. I love the colors--it's very cheerful.

Now here's part of what's kept me busy lately. We have a big bonus room and it was way out of date. Money being tight right now, I decided to do all the work myself. This was fun, but took a little (ha) longer. The new color is a pretty green-very fresh and calming. Love it with the white woodwork.

In progress...

I took an old gold frame and covered it in small twigs attached by glue gun and added a little nest with eggs for a whole new look for an old print. Forgive the glare from the flash.

We had several old shutters stuck up on the attic. I painted this one with flat antique white paint and stuck some old postcards and vintage holy cards in it. Finished it off by gluegunning shells and a starfish. Love the look.

Got this idea from Pottery Barn kids catalog. They had a branch like this in one of the settings. I thought way not? Out to the yard again for more branches. A little scrapbook paper and glue gunning later and voila! looks just as good as PB.

When this chore was completed, our extended family (daughters & their families) had a huge yard sale. This was a tremendous undertaking. It helped to have several people to trade off cashier duty, etc. Granddaughter Mekenzie sold brownies and lemonade. Check it out:

This is what was left. Thank goodness for the Salvation Army and their pick up service. Believe it or not, we sold tons of stuff, but still had lots to donate. These things are exhausting. That's why it will be a long time before we have another one.

Well, that's gonna do it for tonight. I will be back again soon. I'd forgotten how much this was!

Thanks for visiting. Nerm

BACK AGAIN

2009-02-01T20:06:00.000-08:00

Hello out there-first off, I must apologize for the long interim since my last post. We have had a lot going on around here and I kept thinking I would leave a quick word about being off the blog for a while. Then something would happen and I would forget. Thanks for the emails to check on me. I'm doing well.
If you are one of the poor folks getting foot after foot of snow or ice, I hope the weather breaks for you soon. We have had some really cold this year, though not much in the way of snow. Everyone around here would love a good 4" of snow, but I guess it's not to be. Today the temperature was 62! Felt like spring. Below is a photo of a neighbor's tree. We call it the condo tree because of all the nests in it. Lots of birds and squirrels call it home. Pretty neat, huh?
I've been a little crafty lately. Trying to recycle in some creative ways. What do you do with candles when they've burned down to bottom, but there's still wax? I hate to throw it away, so I tried an experiment and it worked! Here's the candle just waiting to be reborn:

I place the glass container in some hot (not boiling water) until the wax loosens from the jar. Then I put the soft wax in an old coffee can which I have placed in a pan of simmering water. It doesn't take long to liquefy--maybe 10-15 minutes depending on the amount.

Meanwhile I cleaned out the jars by filling them with hot water and wiping the leftover wax out. I had already purchased wicks at Michael's. I dipped the bottom in the melted wax so it would adhere to the bottom of the jar and twisted the top of the wick around a pencil (shown below). I poured the melted wax into the container and -voila- I had a new candle. I mixed similiar fragrances together so the smell would still be pleasant. I ended up with three new candles!

Another family birthday: Granddaughter Mekenzie turned 11 yrs. last week! My baby is growing up fast. She didn't want a cake, she wanted a chocolate fountain which you see below. Her requested birthday dinner included homemade chicken tenders and macaroni and cheese . A meal every kid would love, right?

Here's Mekenzie (left) with her best friend, Sellars, in their matching birthday outfits. Cute.

Last, but certainly not least is a picture of my precious pups. All cuddled up for a long winter's nap. They sure know how to relax! Take care. Nerm

KNITTING & FOOTBALL

2009-01-09T21:14:00.000-08:00

How's it going out there, fellow blogmates? We are now officially a week into the new year and all the celebrations are past. I'm slogging (is that a word?) thru all my post-holiday clutter busting. I'm really itching to sew, but won't let myself until all is fairly tidy again. I'll tackle my bedroom tomorrow. I have actually accomplished quite a bit this week. The dining room is shining which sure lifts my spirits. Many times it seems what should be a reasonable chore turns into more than I can finish in one day. Drat the ole arthritis! But my favorite saying is, "chip, chip, chip".

I am trying to knit this tea cozy for a friend who requested it. She a good friend and her mother passed away a couple of years ago. Her Mum was from Britain and always used a tea cozy like this. The one Lyn has now is worn and ravelling, so I told her I'd make her one. After all, I've been knitting since high school and have made lots of items.
But, this one may break me yet. The ripples or tucks are so difficult to handle-it's knitting two rows folded together and stitched. I need more fingers. Here's what I've come up with so far.

Has anyone out there ever made something similiar to this pattern? I will gladly take any helpful hints or pointers.

On a happier note, our Tennessee Titans football team is in the Playoffs. Tomorrow they play the Baltimore Ravens here in Nashville.

It's great they have the home field advantage. The Ravens are a big rival and a lot is at stake. We are ranked #1 in the southeast conference, but have not received much respect from sportswriters and broadcasters. We'll see what they say when we go to the Super Bowl! Hubby and I will certainly be glued to TV tomorrow watching this game. It's supposed to be cold and rainy-ugh. Go Titans!

Have a great weekend, friends, and we'll chat later. Nerm

EPIPHANY

2009-01-06T20:35:00.000-08:00

Happy Epiphany to you. This is the twelfth day of Christmas if you celebrate the season this way. Some countries put more emphasis on it than the USA, but Catholics and Anglicans here celebrate it on Ephipany Sunday which this year was Jan 4th. It's the day the Three Wise Men visited Baby Jesus.
When my girls were young (do you get tired of hearing about them?), we would start the Wise Men in another room and they would move them everyday a little closer to the Manger Scene. It helped them experience the time frame of Christmas. Also showed them that Christmas didn't end on Christmas Day.

I'm still cleaning up, organzing and decluttering from Christmas. I'll probably finish by next Christmas with any luck! I'm anxious to start quilting, so maybe that will be my incentive to speed it up. This dreary, rainy weather we have been having is really getting me down. I need some cheerful sewing to pep me up. Take care, friends. Nerm

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2009-01-02T20:47:00.001-08:00

Here we go into a new year. I'll repeat what I've read and heard from everyone, where did 2008 go? Do you make resolutions? I'm not terribly serious about them, but this year I truly want to declutter my house and simplify my life. Check back with me in a couple of months. LOL This being said by someone who loves fabric, yarn and anything paper. I must either produce more or buy less. Painful I'd say.

Last weekend we had another family get-together. SIL Danny's birthday is 27th and Morgan's is 22nd. So it seems they get combined every year. Now a thiry-something man and a 3 year old girl make an interesting combination! Fortunately Danny is pretty easy going about the whole thing. Here's the cake. It was Tinker Bell. Wish you could see Tink better--it was adorable. Loved the colors.
Dear hubby and I spent a quiet night at home on New Year's Eve. We are past the age of going out to party. Watched the ball drop, kissed and went to bed. Is that boring or what?

Recall I was a crafting fool for Christmas. Here is my grandbaby Morgan in a sweater I knitted her. I was so thrilled to see it fit her to a 'T'. It was knitted out of a cotton yarn with little blurbs of multicolor thruout. Fairly simple to make. What a cutie. ..Look at those big eyes.

Here's Tanner with a picture I painted for him. He loves anything with wheels on it, so I painted a highway and glued on die cut wooden vehicles with 3-D glue dots. I was really pleased with how it turned out. Love the bright turquoise color.

God bless you all throughout 2009. May you be healthy and happy and find love everywhere you look! Can't wait to see what we all accomplish this year. Luv, Nerm

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2008-12-26T21:18:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas a day late! I'm always just a little behind. Here at the Nerm and Kitty house, the entire family group joined in for Christmas day dinner. Boyfriends and family friends joined in throughout the evening and filled all the rooms with laughter and conversation. We had unusually warm weather and even opened a window in the kitchen because it got hot with all the cooking. I had a fire in the fireplace anyway just because ya have to on Christmas Day!!!

Here is Tanner arriving in his new "sports" duds including the coveted Nike Shox. His dad spiked his hair and he was one cool dude!
Here's our sweet Madison with her Bitty Baby changing table. She'll make one great mommy someday.

Sisters Kitty and Amy sharing some sisterly secrets and laughs. Aren't they darling? I know I'm a little prejudiced.

Kitty, with Mekenzie and Morgan. Morgan received a dress-up kit complete with dress, heels, jewelry and tiara. She also has a wand complete with JEWELS. It was hilarious the way she acted and walked. They learn so early how to be girly-girls.

I love all my family and have loads of photos, but don't want your eyes to glaze over. Just had to get a quick greeting out to everyone. I thank the Lord for all my blessings and for having such a close and loving family. Nerm

ONE WEEK AWAY!

2008-12-18T20:10:00.001-08:00

Hope your week is going well and you're getting all those last minute things finished up. I'm working my heart out or at least my fingers! I have had so much fun this year doing all these handmade gifts. Good thing my sweetiepie hubby likes to cook, since I'm usually tangled up in thread or yarn when he comes home. We make a great team.

Here's our tree. This year we did it differently. Forever it has been in our den which has a cathedral ceiling and we'd get a 9ft tree. Very pretty. But...we really live in our bonus room, that's what honey's big screen tv is and the computer, etc. So we decided to do a smaller tree in there where we could enjoy it more. It is nice to look over and see it, but something is really missing in the den. The family doesn't like it in here particularly, esp. Kitty. I expect next Christmas, it will be back in it's rightful place, but, hey, you never know til ya try. Actually I'm expecting they are all going to want me to do two full size trees-one for each room. To that I say a resounding no way. Remember, folks, I'm trying to simplify!

Here are a few interesting ornaments. This is a rose with thorns, etc. hard to see. That's a full moon on the right of rose.

My favorite ornament-glassblown church. Quite large -at least 5" high. It is heavy so I have to be careful where I put it.

One afternoon after school while I was decorating the tree, Tanner's bus got here and he was more than happy to help. He comes here everyday after school for about an hour until Wendy gets off work to pick him up. Gives us good quality time in a low key, quiet way. Please note the chipmunk cheeks with Tootsie Roll Pop!

Last picture: This is the mantel in the den. The painting is of my great-grandfather. My grand- father painted it (he was an artist). I have several of his paintings. This one is quite large--it takes up the whole space above the mantel. I decorate around it with woodland things in keeping with the scenery of the painting.

Guess that's it for tonight, folks. Back to the knitting for me. Nerm

3RD WEEK OF ADVENT

2008-12-15T16:49:00.001-08:00

Greetings everyone. Hope your weekend was enjoyable. Ours went well,--enjoyed an afternoon out with Amy (middle daughter) and on Sunday a beautiful service at church. The third Sunday of Advent is called Gaudette Sunday and has a special liturgy and music. Adds a deeper dimension to the Christmas season.

Here are some pics of part of the decor-Please pardon the dark photos. These were taken mid-afternoon, but as you can see thru the windows, it was gloomy and overcast outside. The temperature has been dropping all day and is now below freezing. We are waiting for the ice and freezing rain to start. Goodie!
My dining room table has what we call the Winter Wonderland display. Tanner saw it and said, "Wow, Grammie, where did you get all this great stuff? Is that real snow?" He play and poked and oohed and aahed. Is this what Christmas is about or what!!!

Below is the little town of Bethelem. We bought this several years ago at Sam's and I love it. The detail is incredible. Tanner loves this one too. LOL

Another shot of the dining room-sorry I got my pictures out of order.

These letters spelling "NOEL" were purchased at Joann's for $1.00 each. Quite the bargain, eh?

They're made of felt with eyelets so I strung them up with yarn and hung it in kitchen window.

I managed to pull off a major goof with a previous post. Put my sister Gail's gift on there and failed to tell her not to read my blog for a while! She called today to say she had seen her gift and I felt so, so bad. But I don't have time to make her anything else. Guess I'll just have to kiss up for a while. ha ha Nerm

TIME MARCHES ON

2008-12-12T20:22:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's been a whole week since my last post. Shame on me! To say I've been distracted is an understatement. Poor husband has been very sick with bronchitis and coughing his head off. That means little sleep for moi. But now after a round of antibiotics, he's on the mend and I'm rested (sort of).
I've been a one woman Christmas machine... sewing, knitting, painting, decorating, etc. It's been such fun and very rewarding. I'm hoping everyone likes what I have produced for them. I just really want to have a more meaningful Christmas this year, not so commercial. I've heard several people say the same thing. Maybe it's a sign of the times.

Here's a pic of a set of little bags (Amy Butler design) which I have made for my sister, Gail.
I think they turned out cute. Very quick and easy to make.

Now here's the real fun--an outfit for Bitty Baby (American Girl baby) for Madison. Is this precious or what? I could make doll clothes all day long.

Still got alot to finish with just two weeks left, but hopefully I'll 'git er done'. I'll show some more pictures as I progress. We're putting up the tree tomorrow night and that will cheer me on I'm sure. We got some snow here last night. Of course, it melted today, but it was beautiful while it lasted. Big, fluffy, wet flakes which coated the trees and shrubbery. Should have gone out and taken a picture.

Going shopping with Amy tomorrow. Always fun to spend time with one of my daughters.

I'll report back soon--scout's honor. Nerm

SANTA'S ELVES

2008-12-04T18:36:00.000-08:00

I've been a busy bee the past two days. Too bad I can't show you what else I've been doing, but like I said the recepients read this blog. But here is one cute thing I know you'll enjoy and I'm safe sharing.
I made an crayon apron for Morgan. The fabric is Kitty Cucumber who is a favorite of mine. I even have a Christmas ornament of Kitty! Isn't this the cutest thing? I love it and had a blast making it. Can't wait to give it to her at Christmas.
When my sister Gail and I were young tots, a family friend gave us each a crayon apron which I treasured and still have. I should go up in the attic and find it. It would be very vintage given my advanced age--lol. Here's a close-up of the crayon pockets. Isn't this fun?

A very sweet blogger friend Tatting Chic chose me for a Marie Antoinette award. I have to tell you seven (7) things about myself that are weird or unusual and then select 7 more to share their secrets. Here goes:

#1--I've always fantasised about being a rock band back-up singer

#2--I was an English major and love words. I would actually enjoy reading the dictionary.

#3--I love beautiful gardens & landscaping, but just not enough to go out and work at it.

Fortunately sweetie pie does the outside work.

#4--If I lived alone (Heaven forbid)I would paint my rooms in bright colors and be a hippie.

#5--Speaking of hippies, when I was in college I painted flowers on my knees.

#6--I want a small farm to raise sheep, goats & alpacas. My dream is to spin my

own yarn and knit a sweater from it.

#7--Etiquette is important to me-I think it makes us all more civilized. The world sure needs more of that!

I sound pretty boring, no? Actually I'm a lot of fun, just eccentric. I love that word.

Think I'll look it up in the dictionary. Nerm

WELCOME ADVENT

2008-12-01T16:52:00.000-08:00

Happy December folks. Can you believe it's December? No matter how well I think I have prepared myself each year, it sneaks up on me. That's why Advent is so wonderful. Each day brings us closer to that special day when our Savior is born. The daily readings and devotions help me focus on the reason for the season. And yes, it's Christmas! Not the "holidays"! I miss the days when our girls were young and still at home. We'd light the advent wreath each night at dinner and say a prayer or verse. These are good memories for them today. I'll confess I still buy a Advent calender for myself. ha, ha

This is not a good picture (I need a new camera, Santa), but I'm posting it anyway. I've made stockings for each family member and I needed to replace a few which have worn out or sprung a leak. I have a special request from daughter Amy to knit her one, but that's just gonna have to wait til next year. My handmade list for this year is full up.
This one is velvet with yo-yos I made out of Christmas fabric. I placed buttons in the centers and sewed on a couple of snowflake buttons. I wish it showed up better, but you get the idea.
It's back to the sewing machine for me. See ya soon. Nerm

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2008-11-28T20:22:00.000-08:00

Now that the proverbial smoke has cleared, I'd like to share a few photos with you all showing some of our Thanksgiving gathering. Hope your day was blessed and fun! Did everyone get enough to eat? We are so fortunate to live in a country where food is plentiful and readily available. God bless us everyone!
Here's the star of the show: Hubby smoked the turkey this year and it was so juicy and tender. This will be a new tradition. The beautiful cranberry-orange cheesecake was not only eye candy, but truly delicious. This recipe came from my recipes.com. I get their emails daily and have found several yummy recipes there. Check it out.

Before dinner driving practice down Grammie's driveway for Morgan and Tanner.

Oldest daughter Wendy with Morgan.

Kitty giving Mekenzie a hug at the dinner table:

Poor Morgan! I think this picture says it all. Too much food, family and celebration!

Sorry I have no Black Friday stories to tell, because I consistently stay home on Friday after Thanksgiving. I'll face the shopping a little later. Plus I'm trying to make several gifts for many of the family this year. I can't share what or how because several of them read this blog. But I'll tell you this much, I will be tied to my sewing machine and knitting needles thru the pre-holiday.

Hope you all get all the rest and Zantac you need this weekend. Sunday is the first Sunday of Advent and I've got to get myself refocused. Luv, Nerm

DOGS AND COOKIES

2008-11-19T18:57:00.000-08:00

Hot off the press--or sewing machine--my sweet puppies in their new winter coats. I just finished Boomer's today (he's the black one) and had to have a fashion show. I can't say the pups were too excited. Smoocher stood stock still like he was frozen-it was hilarious. I thought the red plaid looked exceptional on Boomer with his black hair. Smoocher's gray, black & white coat matched his gray and white hair. I made them from fleece which is so soft and warm. Not that the little darlings stay out in the weather very long. And, after all, this is Tennessee, not Michigan! LOL Now, on to the good part of this post... Kitty was over yesterday and had a yen for chocolate chip cookies. She whipped up the dough and decided to make one BIG cookie like those you see in the mall bakeries. This one practically ran off the cookie sheet, but let me tell you, this is one good cookie. Very rich and full of chips. If you are a chocolate fan, this one's for you!

Couldn't even have get the whole thing in the picture. Wanna bite? Nerm

CHRISTMAS VILLAGE

2008-11-16T18:11:00.000-08:00

Hope your weekend has been great and relaxing. Let me show you what I did yesterday with my sister Gail. For twenty years (yep, you heard that right!), with very few interruptions, we have made it a point to attend an event called "Christmas Village" here in Nashville. It's a seasonal craft and decor show held for charity and which has over 260 vendors. It's always in November right before Thanksgiving. Sometimes it's been warm and unholidayish feeling. But this year was good because it was in low 40's and very blustery. Notice this banner which was blowing around. The event is held at the Tennessee State Fairgrounds in six big buildings. They are crammed full of vendors and shoppers. It is hard to even walk thru part of them. You can see what I mean in this picture:

Lots of fun Christmas stuff like this booth:

Although I couldn't get close enough to it to talk a full frontal shot, this was the Pink Fairy Tent. It was wrapped in pink netting and was so colorful and full of little girl things. So cute!

Another crowd shot-this sure tested my newly found strength and endurance from my illness. My husband wasn't keen on my going, but sweet Sis said if I got tired, we could leave any time. We ate a bite of lunch (premade sandwiches-yuck) which gave us a chance to rest midway and then it was Charge!!!! I mean...when it's shopping and Christmas, I found supernatural energy.

In the end I spent very little money. I think I've seen most of this stuff so many times, I have become jaded. Besides if I'm going to get something else to dust, it has to be spectacular!

But it was fun to get out, get in the holiday spirit, and spend time alone with my sister which is very rare. Usually my mother is there as well, but this is just too much for her. When we got home, my sweetie had made a great dinner of chili and cornbread. How good is that? Nerm

BUSY BEE

2008-11-13T20:14:00.001-08:00

Howdy, folks, as we say in the south. Hope your day was good. I've been a busy bee trying to catch up with some of my projects before I tackle Christmas. Here is the quilt I started before the "Enbrel drama" interrupted my crafting for a while. Originally I started out going for a sweet and soft, kinda shabby chic look. But then I found some bright colors and patterns which looked good together and I just couldn't resist. I wish this picture were better. Click on the photo to make it larger. Actually when it was said and done, it turned out prettier than I expected. I think the pink border helped. Now on to finishing it which I haven't decided quite what I'm doing yet. Here's something unusual I found and whipped up. The Happy Zombie has a website with quilting, sewing, family, etc. She also has several free patterns. I saw this one of St. Joseph and knew I had to make it. I love St Joseph and I also love redwork. It worked up very quickly and now he's sitting on a shelf, hopefully bringing blessings to our home.

This weekend is a busy time. I'm going to a Christmas open house with my sister, Gail, on Saturday. We'll see how I do. She promised not to get mad if I was tired and we had to leave. ha
I'm also making daughter Amy a Christmas stocking which I should finish up in a day or two that I'll show you. It's so much fun to be getting so much done.

Have a great weekend and we'll talk soon. Nerm

THANKSGIVING IS WHEN?

2008-11-07T20:08:00.001-08:00

I heard a dirty rumor today...that Thanksgiving Day is three short weeks away! Please say it isn't so. Please. Oh, my!

Here is what my dining room table looked like this afternoon. Can't see it? Believe me, it's really under all that fabric. I had shared about a lap quilt I was working on before the Enbrel medicine fiasco cut me down in my prime! I have been back at it and finished all the blocks today. Now on to the sashing. I think it's going to be pretty.

More later on this project. Also I'll show you the table when it's cleared and decorated for Thanksgiving.

I can't show you a photo of poor ole Fluffarina. Her mats were worse than we thought and her entire torso is shaved. She is so embarassed that she adamantly refused to be photographed. Who could blame the girl? Have a great weekend. Nerm

LIFE GOES ON

2008-11-05T20:20:00.001-08:00

The elections are over and whether your candidate won or lost, our country government will go on in an orderly fashion. I will pray daily for wisdom and guidance for the new leaders of our country. They have a very big job ahead of them and need God's help to accomplish everything set before them.

Here are some fall foliage photos taken in my back yard. We live in a subdivision with lots of common area which is nice when nature is at her best. Below is our dogwood tree which really looks a lot redder in person.

This is looking out the back across at my neighbor's. The sun was going down a little (I can't get used to the early darkness), but you can still see that wonderful blue sky. Fall does something to the sky and the blue-ness of it is breathtaking. Our weather has been divine, but I understand it's about to change.
Now here's some exciting news from the Nerm household. Below is Fluffarina who I've introduced before. She is 15 years old. Tomorrow we have told her she is going to have a "spa" day. She doesn't believe a word of it, being so old and wise. Problem is that since my mother has moved in with us, Fluffarina has adopted her. We turned the whole upstairs into my mom's apartment. Our master bedroom is downstairs. So Fluffarina stays up there most of the time.
My mother has spoiled her rotten, which is okay except she forgets to brush her. Now she has really bad mats and must go to vet and get them cut out. They will sedate her, but it won't be pretty.

Here is a side view-kinda lookin' like a porcupine, huh? We'll take a picture tomorrow after the makeover. She'll probably yell, "elder abuse!". ha, ha.

Have a good evening, folks. Nerm

ELECTION DAY!

2008-11-04T14:29:00.000-08:00

Well, after all the debates, accusations, millions of dollars spent, it's up to the people. I was worried about having long lines like they kept showing on TV. Mother and I went to vote around 10:30 this morning and walked right in! I'm sure it's due to early voting. Whatever, it was a pleasant experience. I'm still wearing my "I voted" sticker.

Now we'll sit and watch the networks and all their projections. I suppose I'd be better off to just turn it off and wake up tomorrow and be surprised. LOL Whether or not our candidate wins, it is wonderful to live in a country where the government will continue in an orderly fashion. Not riots or civil wars like in many others right now. In four years if we haven't liked the President, we can elect another one. Our system is the best around and I'm proud to be an American!

An upbeat note: I am doing so much better healthwise. Went to dr. Friday and she said I was coming along nicely. So...good for me. Thanks for your continued good wishes.

HAPPY ALL HALLOW'S EVE

2008-10-31T20:34:00.001-07:00

I can't believe it's been a week since my last post & I promised to do better. Problem is right now my life is kinda boring. Hope this Halloween evening went well for everyone. Can't wait to see the photos of all my little people in their costumes. I didn't get to see them in person this year. We don't have many trick or treaters at our house. We live in a subdivision kind of out in the country and on top of that, we are at the end of a cul de sac. But my daughter Amy says that they have huge crowds.

I have been sewing this week. The realization that Christmas is only two short months away has driven me into action. Some things I won't be able to show you til after Christmas because my family reads this blog and a lot of my handiwork is for them.
As I was looking through my fabric, I found these pieces I had painted years ago when I took a fabric painting class. I guess I must have finished them and just put them away. I think the scarecrow is really cute, so I whipped up a pillow with him. I even had some matching trim in the bottomless supply closet full of sewing goodies!

I also found this little pumpkin so I turned it into a door hanger. Found this remnant of ball fringe which just matches and finished it off with a twine hanger cord. I'm going to use them
thru the fall since I finished them so late. That way I'll get some enjoyment from them.

I'm going to bed, folks, with just one word of caution: brush your teeth so all that Halloween candy you've eaten won't give you cavities! ha, ha. Nerm

I JUST FELT LIKE IT!

2008-10-24T19:36:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday everybody! Hope your week has as good as our fall weather here in middle Tennessee. But I will admit yesterday I was feeling a little sorry for myself and my continuing slo-o-ow progress with this blasted pneumonia. I feel pretty good, but everytime I try to do anything energetic, I get breathless. And not with excitement. har-de-har-har
So, I told myself to get up and do something productive. Here's what I chose : to make a felted purse for myself.
Several months ago, I bought several sweathers at Goodwill and felted them. They were just sitting there waiting for some inspiration. This one I chose was a dark brown. I cut it straight
across the chest from underarm to underarm. It was already seamed on each side and the perfect size.
Next I found a cheerful, coordinating fabric for the lining. See, all that fabric in my quilt stash comes in handy! Also picked out green sweater for leaves and rust for the flower.

Here's the finished product. Pretty cute, if I do say so. I love the way the rose looks. I got

this pattern from Nicky Epstein's book of Crochet Flowers. The leaves I just cute out freestyle.

I added a few light green beads to the leaves for a little extra pizazz. Voila, a new and practically free purse.

This picture isn't very good, but I wanted to show the inside pocket.

Anyway, after I finished this, (it took only a couple of hours) I felt so much better. Of course, now my daughters all want one for Christmas, but that's an easy fix.

Have a great and restful weekend. Nerm

SEAT WORK

2008-10-21T09:40:00.000-07:00

Remember in school, when the teacher gave you seat work? You were supposed to sit quietly and do worksheets or questions or usually something boring? Well, as I am recuperating, I've been doing my fair share of seat work. Some is not finished, so I can't show you yet, but here are two of my endeavors so far.
I saw this Swiffer cover on a web site and thought how neat it was. It's made of Lily Brand's Sugar n Cream cotton yarn. Just put it on the Swiffer and dust or mop and toss it in the wash when you're done. No more buying refills and throwing them away. How Green can you get!

If you're interested in making your own go to sheep of a different color and click on patterns. They have instructions for knit and crochet. This one is knitted. I plan to make several more because they are so fast and easy.

Here's another baby blanket for the Weecare program at church for the indigent mothers. The colors aren't showing up very pretty, but its, pink, lavendar and white. Very soft.

This cutie is youngest grandchild, Morgan, who came to visit yesterday. She's very intent on watching Dora the Explorer. Isn't she sweet? She's all cuddled up in a quilt and cozy as can be.

And finally ... for those who say dogs and cats don't get along, take a gander at this! Boomer, my shih tzu and Lily, the cat all curled up in one bed for a long winter's nap. How cute is that?

I am going to try to start posting more regularly now that I'm feeling so much better. Hope your week is great and full of blessings. Nerm

I'M STILL ALIVE!!!

2008-10-12T14:13:00.000-07:00

Hello there, you sweet fellow bloggers, you! Here I am actually sitting at the computer and typing. It has been a long haul to get to this point, but I just had to let you all know how much your wonderful comments and emails have meant to me. They are such an encouragement. Thank you and kisses to you all!

I am on the road to recovery, but it will be slow. The doctors say about 4 more weeks until the pneumonia is gone! Egads! Don't they know this is the busiest time of the year? I have a gazillion projects to do for Christmas and shopping and parties to plan and Thanksgiving, etc. etc.

I was scraping wallpaper in preparation for redecorating the family room. Now I sit and look at the messy walls. Let's just say I sure am catching up on my reading and knitting! Perhaps I am being taught patience, but I thought having raised three girls that I was very, very patient. ha, ha As they say, "The Lord works in mysterious ways."

So I will try to keep my sense of humor and do what I can without getting out of breath. I know that I can resume the wonderful world of blogging again. Don't know if I'll have many pictures to share for a while, but we'll see what develops.

Meanwhile, enjoy this great fall weather and the beautiful leaves! My favorite time of the year. Luv, Nerm

Nerm Update

2008-09-24T22:15:00.000-07:00

OK, I wanted to apologize that I have just been able to get back with the updates on Nerm. Sadly, she is still in the hospital trying to recover. There have been quite a few complications and set backs. When it rains it really does pour!

We are hoping that she will be able to go home in the next couple of days. She is extremely eager to return to her happy home and out of the hospital.

She misses you all very much and looks forward to being able to blog again and feel better. Please continue to pray for her and her recovery. Thank you all so much. -Kitty

2008-09-20T16:04:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone, Just wanted to let you all know that Nerm is in the hospital with pneumonia. Will keep you updated....Thanks, Kitty

CATCHING UP

2008-09-09T16:31:00.000-07:00

Yes, I'm still here. Alive, but not particularly well. More on that later. I wanted to share some photos with you to show what's been going on. Last week I spent a very enjoyable afternoon lunching and shopping with Victoria Lynn of Sweet Victoria Antiques. Turns out that we have alot of common interests. We enjoyed all the autumnal decorations and tried hard to pretend it was fall here in middle Tennessee. Even if it was 90 degrees yesterday. We are supposed to cool off soon, so says the weatherman. hmmmm, we'll see.
I bought this great basket and got it filled and hanging on my front door yesterday. I love it because it's just a little different.
I found these teeny little pumpkins and arranged them around a fall candle. Nice.

These are the cutest little pumpkins-rather out of focus, but you get the idea.

Here's a rusty leaf hanging on my back door. I've had this for a couple of years, but still really like it.

Now on to the really important stuff: Grandparents Day! This was at Tanner's school. Here is the kindergarten class singing a welcome song. His teacher has been a kindergarten teacher for 30 years! Bless her heart! The classroom was so bright and cheerful.

After visiting the classroom, we got to eat lunch with our student. I wish I had taken pictures of the paintings on the wall of the cafeteria. So darling. Even though I wasn't feeling very well, I had a great time. I always loved to visit the kid's schools and was a big volunteer. Wonder if they need any grandmas at Tanner's school?

I've been under the weather due to an adverse reaction to my arthritis medicine, Enbrel. This is a weekly injection and it just didn't work for me. I've had fever and coughing; aches and pains, rash, and on and on. Good grief. Now just have to wait for it to get out of my system and it's back to square one. Meanwhile, it's alot of couch time for Nerm.

QUICK HELLO

2008-09-06T17:12:00.001-07:00

Sorry no pictures today. I've got lots of news, but I'm feeling a little under the weather, so I'll try to make a post tomorrow. Just wanted y'all to know I'm still around.
I've had a most enjoyable lunch date with Victoria Lynn and gone yard sale-ing again.
The heat has finally broken here, and I love, love it! We'll talk soon. Luv, Nerm

BACK TO WORK

2008-09-02T19:04:00.000-07:00

Hi folks! Did everyone have a restful and fun Labor Day holiday? Mine was kinda quiet, but nevertheless, very nice. We had the family cookout on Sunday since Monday was really more of a work/school night. We gave our dogs baths-now don't laugh-that's quite the undertaking. And, as promised, I bought some quilt fabric. I have started a little lap quilt for me for the long, winter nights to come. That's a joke since I live in Tennessee and it hasn't snowed here to speak of in the last 3-4 years! Hope springs eternal, because I love a good snow.
Anyway, here's the beginning of that little quilt. I have tried to restrain my love of color and make this a little softer in line with my idea of my newly redecorated bonus/rec room. (still in progress).

This is the fabric for the backing, kind of a shabby chic, muted print. Much prettier than shown here. I'm working diligently on it, so hopefully I'll have the finished product to show you soon.

Thanks for all your sweet words of encouragement to me because of non-vacation. You're the best support I know. It was nice to have a laid back time to spend with my husband and sleep late, so all was not lost. Have a good week. We'll talk soon. Nerm

SORRY, DESTIN!

2008-08-26T20:24:00.000-07:00

May I whine a little please? You see, every year at Labor Day our whole family goes to the beach for a week over the holiday. We get a multi-bedroom condo and swim, shop, eat, and play games together. The girls and I bring all our scrapbooking supplies and spread out over the dining room table and have a blast while the guys go fishing. We go out to eat every nite at a different place until our seafood gauges are filled to the top. We sleep in the sun or play with the kids in the pool. Mainly we forget the real world and recharge our batteries.

Well, this year we're not going. Life has gotten too complicated. It's not so easy to keep the kids out of school an extra day or two now that they're a little older and school is more demanding. Hubby Tom and Kitty's Tommy are general contractors and have a couple of projects in mid-progress that they can't easily leave. So...here we stay.
All is now lost, however. We will get together and have a family cookout at my house I'm sure.
And now I have a good excuse to feel sorry for myself and go shopping for more quilt fabric or scrapbooking supplies or something, anything for a quick fix. ha, ha
Hope all of you get to do something fun and relaxing this holiday weekend. Luv, Nerm

HAPPY BELATED B'DAY, AMY!

2008-08-22T19:32:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally finished Part A of Amy's gift. Maybe Part B will be completed by Christmas! ha
My camera didn't take a very good picture of this pillow's detail. It's appliqued and outline stitched. The interesting part of this pillow is the back (below) Here is the back of pillow: It's made from part of an antique quilt. I bought this at one of my yard sales. The lady selling it didn't know what she had. I bought it $3.00! She told me that her mother had bought it years ago at an antique store and was told it was 100 years old! It sure smelled like it too. At any rate it was in shambles. Full of holes and tears. So I gently washed it and put it out on my deck to dry. I knew I wanted to salvage as much of it as I could. I mended a few ripped seams and cut out enough for the backing. I think it looks great.

I love you, baby girl! Nerm

HUMP DAY

2008-08-20T19:28:00.000-07:00

Good evening, friends. Hope the week's progressing well for you all. It's been a busy week for me with nothing much interesting to report. More babysitting for Tanner who started half-day kindergarten this week. I've been keeping him in afternoons--mainly because I'm available and the school IS just right across the street from my subdivision! Let me take this opportunity to say that I'm not a very good boy grandmother. I had three girls who had more girls and this one boy. Boys are so different...active, busy, not cuddly. They don't want to talk, read, sew, etc.
But I am trying... ha, ha.l
This isn't my lawn, but nevertheless, it gives you a picture of a dying lawn. Mine is much browner. We have not had measureable rain in August. Maybe an afternoon quickie shower, but nothing substantial. We have managed to keep our bushes, et al, watered, but we are in a water conservation area, so we have to watch it. Now we're hoping some of Hurricane Fay's rain comes this far over. Tomorrow I am hoping to sew, sew, sew. I am trying to finish daughter Amy's birthday gift. Yes, her birthday WAS in July! If you don't know by now, please know that I am notorious to being late, behind and otherwise time challenged. My intentions are always good, but you know about the road to h--- being paved with good intentions. I'm hoping to give it to her on Saturday (we're going shopping together) so I can't show it yet. Here's a hint: Barbara Bradeburg. But, no, no, no, it's not a quilt! Yikes, I don't have that much free time! I'll take a picture of it to show and tell later.
Have a good night's sleep, my dears. Nerm

THOUGHTS ON YARD SALES

2008-08-17T19:09:00.001-07:00

Greetings to you all this Sunday night. Hope your weekend has been relaxing and just plain fun. My Sunday was indeed a day of rest-church, lunch, rest, and then Olympics watching.

You've heard me talking all summer about our outings to various yard/garage sales. I have had my granddaughters a few times, but I always take my mother. I've also spoken about her a lot too. She lives with us and has moderate Alzheimer's. She also suffers from COPD. Although she is actually very agile and gets around just about as well as I do with my arthritis--ha, ha. We're a real couple! Anyway...I have found talking her yard sale-ing each Friday has really been fun for both of us. She doesn't have to worry about remembering anything and we laugh at the funny things we find. Usually it's 3-5 sales at most we go to, because by then we're both tired. But it's cheap entertainment and a good together time for us. It gets Mother out of the house and lets me sometimes find a treasure or two. Here she is with Lilly (Larry) the cat.

Here's a couple of things I found this week. This is a cute cat--kinda primitive style for me, but still okay. It's in really good shape.

Now here's a shabby chic if I ever saw one and I have great ideas for it. This little leafy lamp was a big bargain. I'm spray painting it cream color and then will sand it to look distressed. I may do more, who knows once I get started. I'll post it when it's finished.

I have so many projects to work on. I just HAVE to get myself motivated and organized, because you-know-what is coming up in just four months! I have lots of things I want to make folks and they require my participation! ha, ha. Stay tuned to more whining. Luv, Nerm

ODDS AND ENDS

2008-08-13T20:26:00.001-07:00

Hello out there in blogland-hope your August is going well. We've been actually having rather nice weather her in middle Tennessee-high 80's with lower humidity. Last year at this time, we were over 90 degrees for over a month with killer humidity. Still I've already got the fall fever!

When I was at my aunt's house earlier this summer, I found this old 1986 copy of Woman's Day magazine. I loved the afghan on the cover and have started making it. I like to crochet because it's easier on the arthritis in my hands than knitting. I LOVE granny squares too. Lets you use up all those scraps of yarn. And you should know by now, I love COLOR. So there you are...
We had the family birthday get-together for me last weekend. Here's my cake. See, even my family calls me Nerm. Isn't it pretty. Very good too. Thanks for all your sweet birthday wishes-that means alot to me.

More flowers (from Wendy)--I sure could get used to receiving flowers twice in one week!

I hesitated to put this photo in because I detest having my picture taken, but as they say, it is what it is. L-R: Me, Amy, Mother and my sister Gail.

I've been helping take care of Tanner this week since school doesn't start til next week and his preschool is out for the summer. So Kitty and I have been trading off. Here he is all outfitted for his scooter riding. We worked in the yard today too. Put all that energy to good use! He starts kindergarten next week and is so excited. I am too -can't wait to see what all he learns.

That wraps it up tonight. I'll be back soon. Lots of luv, Nerm

A Day for a Fresh Feast

2008-08-10T15:29:00.000-07:00

Today after church Tom and I decided to go with my parents, my sister Amy and her husband to the Famers Market. I'm afraid these pictures don't even do it justice though. They are some of the "best tasting" local grown fruits and veggies in Nashville. I have to say, a day like this makes me appreciate it that I live in the South.

The best part about all of this, is that I bought all of it for under $20! The eggplants are only $1 a piece. The red and green peppers are $.50 a piece. Can you even believe that?

Tonight we have already decided we are going to have quite the feast. I can't wait. This is the food of my childhood and it takes me back to helping my Granny cook in her kitchen. She lived in Alabama and was the best southern cook I know. I will take some more pictures tonight to let you all see the final product.- Kitty

HOME FOR MY BIRTHDAY

2008-08-06T19:08:00.000-07:00

Back home and so happy to be here. It was great to go visiting, but this is where I belong. Yesterday was my birthday (I can't remember which one) but we'll have the requisite party this weekend so everyone can come. Of course, I'd rather skip it and I'm not just saying that. Let's face it, I'm beyond the point of being excited about birthdays. But it's important to the rest of the family and I know it's good for the kids to have that continuity. So I'll be gracious and eat my fair share of cake and ice cream. My favorite cake is white with white icing. Just in case any of you decide to overnite a cake this way.

Beautiful hydrangeas from my precious daughter Amy. My favorite flower. While at my aunt's house, she cleaned out some cabinets of old dishes and lucky me, got to bring some home. There's a piece of carnival glass, a hobnail bowl and even a vintage little glass refrigerator dish (before tupperware). The red banded platter is from my grandmother's everyday dishes I remember from my childhood. What great memories!

Here's pretty much what the countryside looked like for much of the trip up and back. Acres and acres of flat prairie land with fields of corn and sometimes, soy beans. Being from Tennessee where it is very hilly, these flat fields were just incredible. I could see where a lot of the corn for ethanol is coming from. They also have lots of oil wells just drilling away in the fields up there.

Here is the welcome sign to the little town my aunt lives in. This is a very, very small town.

But I've been coming up here all my life, so it seems familiar to me and I don't think much about the size. While here with my mother, daughter Amy and two girls, Madison and Mekenzie, we took my aunt shopping and visiting friends and relatives. Had fun catching up with everyone and helping the little girls connect with relatives they didn't know they had.

Here's a picture of my aunt Maxine and my mother Joy. Maxine is 90 yrs old and my mom is 86 yrs. old. They look pretty good, don't they? It was a good visit, but let's just say my aunt who lives alone was just not used to children no matter how well they behave. But to be 90 yrs old, she is fantastic. I can only hope I have inherited her genes.

That's it for now, folks, I'm still doing laundry and catching up on emails. Luv, Nerm

ROAD TRIP!!!

2008-07-30T20:12:00.000-07:00

Does this look familiar? I will take a picture of the real thing tomorrow morning. We'll see how they compare. I'll (Nerm) will be on the road Friday through next Tuesday (my birthday!)

The exciting part is who's going with me. Hubby will stay behind to work (gotta finance my fabric purchases!) and take care of all the animals (see yesterday's post).

My middle daughter Amy (Retro Heart) is going with her girls, Madison & Mekenzie. I've written about them before. Also my 86 yr old mother. We're going up to Illinois to visit my aunt who is Mother's sister and is 90 yrs. old. Wow! Three women & two young ladies. In one car. On a five hour drive. For five days.

Amy's bringing her laptop, so maybe I can sneak in a post of the trip. We'll see. All I'm asking of you all is a quick prayer for our safe trip and speedy return. Asking for steady nerves wouldn't hurt either. I'll be in touch. Luv, Nerm

MEET THE REST OF THE FAMILY

2008-07-28T19:47:00.000-07:00

Not much going on around here, so I decided it's high time to introduce you all to the four-legged components of our family. Take a deep breath, there are alot of them. I guess we're kinda a little over the edge.
Here's Tanner loving hubby's dearly beloved Bella, our Newfoundland. She's very old now-about ten years old, which is elderly for such a large dog. (she's about 150 lbs)!!! She's very patient with all the grandchildren and other animals. The puppies do get on her nerves, but she's improving in that area.

This isn't the best photo, but shows Kitty loving her special girl, Fluffarina. She's had this cat since Kitty was in grade school Fluffarina is 15 years old, and now that Kitty is married and moved on, she stayed here with us. Now she keeps my mother company upstairs and begs for treats continually.
You've seen these cuties before--I got them for Christmas this past year. What stinkers! What little loves! Can you tell I love, love them. Smoocher and Boomer, take a bow!

I'm not sure you can distinguish between all the fur...In the foreground my two puppies are stuffed into one bed, while in the back cat Lilly is in another. Cozy. They all get along great!

Now here is Lilly. She walked up to our house about 9 years ago, a young cat who was very scared and hungry. Little by little we fed her until she would come inside. Now this cat lives the life of luxury. One funny note: Soon after she was 'tamed', we took her to the vet for a check up. After checking Lilly, he looked up and said, "Now, you know that Lilly is really Larry, don't you?" Since 'she' was young it wasn't apparent, but we still call her, er...him, Lilly. Habit, ya know! ha, ha

And, finally, In Memory...my beloved Muffin. She passed away right before Christmas after about 20 years! She belonged to my neighbor who died of cancer and asked me to take care of her. She became my cat and followed me like a dog. I still miss her alot. She was a beautiful calico cat.

Are you bored out of your skulls now? I don't think 3 dogs and 2 cats in one happy home is too much, do you? Hey, different strokes for different folks, eh? Luv, Nerm

VINTAGE DISHTOWELS TRANSFORMED

2008-07-24T18:31:00.000-07:00

Happy Thursday everyone! Can you believe summer is winding down? At least that's what it seems like. I went with my oldest daughter Wendy to register Tanner (birthday boy earlier this month) for kindergarten. It reminded me how excited (and a little teary-eyed) I used to be with my girls when they were that age. All the possibilities and friends to be experienced! That's in just two weeks which seems kinda early to me. In the olden days we waited until after Labor Day and it worked out just fine. As Kitty once asked me when she was just a little kitten, "Nerm, were you alive when Lincoln freed the slaves?' I promise she really did.

Here are some photos of some vintage dishtowels & dresser scarves I got last week in my only garage sale purchase. I just love these things. I have several that my mother embroidered back in the 40's and 50's. So everytime I find some at a good price, I buy them. The two below were in nearly perfect condition. I just washed and ironed them.
Now this beauty is really vintage. It's from the 40's. The reason I know this is because I have a luncheon set from my mother which has almost the identical print. Love the cherries. And it already has that tea dyed look - only the stains are real! This was a much used towel.

Here's what I did with it:

Make a cute pillow trimmed with my yo-yo's and buttons. How cute did it turn out? I'm going to list it on Etsy. So come on over for look.

I've got my two girls (Mekenzie & Maddie) for the last sleep over for the summer. Next week's Vacation Bible School and then it's vacation. Like I said summer's winding down. Take care and we'll talk again soon. Luv, Nerm

SUMMERTIME IN THE SOUTH

2008-07-20T14:55:00.000-07:00

I would love to be able to spend the summer outside with fun family activities. However... when it's 93 degrees in the shade with an ORANGE ozone alert, I'm afraid this blogger will be securely enscounced in her cozy, air-conditioned home! And I suspect the weather won't improve much until after Labor Day. Last fall it didn't really cool off until the end of September.

You'll probably find me knitting or sewing during these hot days. It even puts a dent in my new found hobby of garage sale-ing. Drat. I told hubby we need a summer home in Maine.

Currently in Nashville, TN (37205)
Partly Cloudy
93°FFeels Like98°F
Dew Point:
68°F
Humidity:
44%
Pressure:
30.04 inches
Wind:
From the West at 9 mph

Tonight: Partly cloudy. A stray thunderstorm is possible through the evening. Low 71F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph.
Tomorrow: Abundant sunshine. Hot. High 97F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph.
Complete 10-Day Forecast

So, my friends, try to keep cool and hang on til Fall arrives! Luv, Nerm

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY! (a little late)

2008-07-06T19:21:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a great Fourth of July holiday. My, it was grand to have a three-day weekend! Saturday, we went to family reunion of my hubby's family down in Fayetteville, TN. They do this every year. Loads of good food, lots of conversations & catching up on lives, and swimming. I was so happy that it had rained a little earlier in the day and it wasn't as hot as usual for this time of year. Last year's get together saw temps of 95.
Tom's sister had been going thru some things of their mother's (she passed away several years ago) and brought him a number of things from his childhood. Just look what collector's items we have now! I told him it means you're old when your toys are 'vintage' and collectible. ha, ha.

These are both metal banks. You place a coin on the rocket and it sends it into the opening.

The silver rocketship has a similiar action. Aren't they neat?

Here's his Boy Scout handbook and school dictionary. How funny is it that I remember the same dictionary even tho' I grew up in Kentucky and he was in Tennessee.

The other item which is kinda hard to see is a wooden pencil holder with a cowboy carving on the front. Tom was a hugh Roy Rogers fan and we have a photo of him with his cowboy hat and guns just like in the movies. So cute!

Well, that's all for today. We'll talk more later. Luv, Nerm

YOU GO, GIRL!

2008-07-03T18:29:00.000-07:00

Okay, gang, this is more like it! You may remember my unhappiness at the Kung Fu Panda movie, due to violence and bad characters. Well, this film more than makes up for it.
This shows good models for girls and even for marriage. Filmed to show life in the Great Depression, Kit (the main character) has adventures while pulling her weight to help her mother keep the household running. Dad has gone off to find work and Mother has to take in boarders to help make the mortgage. The parents write letters and do what it takes for the family. Not a bad message in these times.
When I first heard about this movie, I was afraid it was a ploy to promote the American Girl products. These dolls and accessories are very pricey, but well made and just plain cute. My granddaughter Mekenzie has the Kit doll and she's darling. Anyway, I feel that the movie stands on its own. Mekenzie was transfixed watching it. I loved watching her watch the movie.
I give it two thumbs up1

Have a great 4th celebration!

SEW SWEET!

2008-06-27T18:04:00.000-07:00

Hi there, fellow bloggers! I'm back after a few days off. I can't believe how fast time is flying by this summer. It's already the end of June. The only time I'm glad about that is when I step outside and feel the 90-plus degree heat. While the poor midwest is drowning in water and floods, we need rain badly down here in Tennessee.

Back in May I did a post talking about teaching Mekenzie, my 10 yr old granddaughter, to sew this summer. Here's the update: We're on our way! and here's the proof.
This photo shows Kenzie pinning the pattern and getting ready to cut it out. Going carefully...
Here she is concentrating really hard on sewing the seams of her pj bottoms.

And here is a very pleased and excited Mekenzie wearing her very own pajama pants! She did all of the seams. I helped with the elastic waistband and the hem, but everything else was done by my beautiful granddaughter. We are on our Way, for sure!

Tomorrow it's off to the Weecare knitting circle get-together. I'm doing a white blanket which fits around the baby's carseat. When it's finished, I'll show you the picture. I'll be better now, and stay back on track with my blogging, so comment to me, okay? Luv, Nerm

IT'S ANOTHER TAG!

2008-06-18T19:51:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks. Hope your week is going well. We had a big Father's Day to-do here, but Kitty has the pictures. Sorry. Most of this week, I've been under the weather again, but today I'm doing better.

Now on to the TAG:
Here are the Rules:
Rules are posted at the beginning. At the end of the post, the player tags 6 people and posts their names. Then the player goes to each of the “named” people’s blogs and leaves a comment, letting them know they’ve been tagged and asking them to read your blog. If you’ve been tagged, you do the same, letting the person who tagged you know when you’ve posted your answer. Your answer, of course, is the answer to the following questions. Here we go!

1. What was I doing 10 years ago: I was working part-time at hubby's business in the accounting office. Kitty was graduating from high school and getting ready to go off to college. I had a precious 5 month old granddaughter.
2. What are 5 things on your to do list today: Laundry, bank, meet with a friend, meet hubby for lunch and get some rest.
3. Snacks I enjoy: Most sweet things (unfortunately) and cheese & crackers
4. Places I've lived: (married) Virginia, Florida, California, Tennessee
5: Things I would do if I were a billionaire: Buy each of my children a home; travel; and give alot to charities like World Vision to help fight hunger & illness in Africa & the Caribbean.

Now, on to the next tagees (is that a word?); Amy of MyRetroHeart; Victoria; Donna Lynn;
Nanette; Daisy; Ediemariesattic

BINGO AT THE GARAGE SALES!

2008-06-14T12:52:00.000-07:00

Well, after mentioning (whining?) that I hadn't had much luck with Goodwill, flea markets, and garage sales, I finally managed to bring home some goodies. Yesterday Mother and I braved the heat to go to several estate sales and garage sales. Actually the weather turned out okay because we had an early afternoon rain and it cooled us right down. My mother loves these things, so it was good for her to get out and have some fun.
Below you will notice several tins and a box FULL of buttons! Oh, be still, my beating heart!
The ones I've gone thru & washed are there on the cookie sheet. The shoe box is full of all sorts of things, including buttons, boy scout patches, sewing supplies, etc. But it is all so dirty and dusty. So I'll be washing them,but who cares with such a treasure trove. Also I got that sweet little white pillow with crochet trim for a mere 50 cents!
Here are some buttons after being washed and sorted. Some are very old, most not so much.

I also snatched up the last vintage apron in the kitchen of one house-it's hard to see here, but it's trimmed in ricrack and the bib is made to be pinned on to the cook's bodice. I remember seeing my own grandmother pin her apron bib to her dress when she cooked.

I also got some vintage Golden books, including one dated 1958. Then I got Morgan (2 yrs) a few pairs of shoes, which look new.

Here's a large World Book Atlas. They were selling the whole set of encyclopedias, but I loved this one. Great for decoupage and papercrafts. It'll last forever. Lots of interesting pages to use. I have such a love for books, a reverence really, it has taken me years to get to the point where I can actually cut one up.

Well, there it is, folks, my excitement for the past days. Happy Father's Day to one and all-hope your day tomorrow is fun and full of love. Nerm

VICTORIA'S HERE!!!

2008-06-12T19:55:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Kitty and I went to beautiful downtown Franklin, TN, and met up with Victoria Lynn, her daughter Rachel and Donna Lynn. I was so excited about it I forgot my camera which is a shame because these are some cute ladies. You can see them for yourself on their respective blogs: sweet victoria antiques and blushing rose antiques. They had been shopping all day and were in a cute antique/gift shop which I didn't know existed! And I live here! Duh.
We stood there and talked up a storm for at least 30 minutes. They had other stops to make like Home Depot, grocery and less fun things, so we had to cut it short. Can't wait to sit and visit with Victoria and Rachel longer.
I am so glad I got to meet Donna Lynn-sure wish I could have had a longer visit with her. She's seems one neat lady!
I'll get some pictures of them on here sooner or later. Promise! Nerm

KUNG FU PANDEMONIUM

2008-06-10T19:17:00.000-07:00

I know this blog was started to share my love of family and crafting. But... I took my two sweet granddaughters to see the movie Kung Fu Panda today. I just have to comment. (preach, maybe)
They had been here spending the night and just for fun, I decided to take them to the movies before meeting their mom to send them home. We were in a rush and I didn't bother to check the rating. It was a cartoon with animals, so what's to worry, right? About midway thru this movie, I thought, "wow, all they are doing is fighting". Madison (6 yrs) said, "This is a long movie" meaning she was bored. And I have to say, I agreed with her.
This movie has scary cartoon tiger-like figures, constant violence and a panda who is fat, out of shape and talks about emotional eating. I'm sure the creators hoped we would be inspired to overcome our shortcomings and accomplish great things, but all I noticed was the fighting and name calling.
All of this has reminded me how precious the innocence and vulnerability of our children is. How much is marketed to them in the name of entertainment? This has been a wake-up call for me to take nothing for granted and be vigilant.
Okay, okay, I'm off the soapbox now. I'm just saying... Nerm

A LITTLE FANCY FOOTWORK

2008-06-09T19:49:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone-sorry I'm been out of touch the last few days. Life happens ya know. Seems I'm busy a lot, but I'm not sure doing what! ha.

Here's one thing which happened over the weekend. Kitty's honey, Tom, had a birthday party. I think Kitty has said he's from an Italian family, so she ordered a cannoli cake. It was so, so good. Very light and filled with creme. Yum. Doesn't it make your mouth water? My contribution to the crafty scene has been decorating a pair of flip-flops. I found this flip-flop glue which says it will adhere anything. I layered yo-yo's fabric flowers, and buttons. Not terribly original, but fun and cute.

Here they are...

Our weather has been so hot-over 90 degrees for over a week now. And it's only the first of June. Yikes. Other places have floods and storms. Strange stuff.

Well, friends, be good and please stay cool. Luv, Nerm

I'VE GOT MAIL!

2008-06-04T20:20:00.000-07:00

Yippee! I got my package from Lachambrerose.blogspot.com today! It was full of fun stuff-lots of trims and ribbons. Can you see the little pink roses on that middle piece? Click on the photo for an upclose look. And tags in pink and white with ribbon. What fun. Thanks, Nancy!

You may have noticed our new banner up at the top. These are my new colors for the family/ bonus room. It has been coral/blue/beach-y for longer than I care to say. Hubby dear loves it and would keep it that way for a bit longer. Fortunately for me, he pretty much lets me do anything I want when it comes to decorating. The sweetie even lived with a pink bedroom for several years! Now one word of warning: don't expect to see photos of the new room for a WHILE. There are other things which need doing first. But I wanted to publicly commit so I'd be more motivated! ha ha.
Luv, Nerm

FAMILY GET-TOGETHER BASH!

2008-06-02T20:04:00.000-07:00

At Nerm's house, we certainly believe in family get-togethers! We had one on Monday, Memorial Day, and then turned right around and had another on Saturday! This one was to visit with relatives we don't see often and it just fell right to get everyone together. Hubby smoked two pork butts and it was yummy. He's as good as any bar-b-que restaurant. Lots of other goodies filled out the meal. Of course, the desserts were the best: two cheesecakes, a fruit tart, pie, etc. Let's just say no one went home hungry.
Here's a shot of Kitty with Morgan.

My kitchen was packed-you can't even see half of it. It's always the place to be!

Here's Morgan again. All the "big" kids were outside running wide open most of the evening.

Some of the guys having a serious talk on the back patio. The handsome one in pink is Kitty's hubby, Tommy.

Next weekend will be Tommy's birthday, so I guess that calls for another party. We may have this one at Kitty's house tho'. Nerm is a little tired! ha, ha.

I love having my family around. Wish we had a big house and some of them could live here just like the Waltons. As long as I could go to my room and get away once in a while-ha, ha. Hope to have some sewing to show you soon. Luv, Nerm

I WON! I WON!

2008-05-30T20:36:00.000-07:00

Hi Everybody! Hope your Friday has been good.
Mine was busy-we're having a big family get-together tomorrow afternoon/night. So I had lots of prep work to do. But I did manage to go out on my patio and see this gorgeous Hibiscus. This plant has a double bloom. Love the color! It's so nice to have color outside now instead of the gray and brown of winter.

I am so excited! Nancy of Lachambrerose.blogspot.com emailed me to say I had won her giveaway. I can't wait to see what goodies she sends me. This the first giveaway I have ever won. This blogging thing is so much fun. Luv, Nerm.,

SUMMER SCHOOL

2008-05-27T19:31:00.000-07:00

Hi there! Did everyone have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend? We sure did-sleeping late, after Sunday morning church, our whole family enjoyed a wonderful cookout my poor hubby managed in the pouring rain. And I got a lot of sewing done on Saturday. All in all a great weekend.
Now on to the next project: I am going to teach Mekenzie (10 yr old) granddaughter to sew this summer! She is about the age I was when I made my first feeble attempts at dressmaking. We are starting with a simple pajama bottom pattern (link is below. I couldn't get the photo to upload to save my life) and of course, her sister feels she must have a pair also.

They both chose kitty patterned fabric. This brightly colored one is for Mekenzie and the sweet pink is for sister Madison. We'll put lots of trims and buttons, etc. on them. Precious I'm sure!

Here are the two lovely young ladies earlier this year at the Memphis Zoo.

And here is the link for the pattern if you're interested.

http://www.simplicity.com/dv1_v4.cfm?design=6641
If anyone out there can tell me how to copy and paste the picture and then get it to download , I sure would appreciate it.

May I take this opportunity to say how much I have enjoyed the blogging experience. I remember so well the first entry and how quickly we connected with others out there. It's so great to meet such nice folks with similiar interests and kind comments. Thanks to all of y'all!

I'll report back on the sewing endeavor. Be sweet. Nerm

HAPPY HEDGEHOGS!

2008-05-24T20:47:00.000-07:00

Here's something you didn't know-I love, love, love hedgehogs and porcupines! Now I can't exactly remember when I became enamoured of them, but it's been at least 10 years or more. I can't even tell you what I love about them. It's just a quirky little thing about me. Okay, you guys, no comments about my quirkiness!!!
Here are a few rubber stamps I have:
I may be a grandmother, but I still like stuffed animals, esp. if they're porkies or hedgies. I look in every toy store I pass, in zoos, gift shops and the like. I've bought my collection all over the world as I have travelled.

Here's a shelf in my "craft/sewing" room with some of the smaller one, including Miss Tiggiewinkle from Peter Rabbit fame --you'll have to click on it to enlarge enough to see them.

Here are a few more stuffed hedgies in my bedroom. Aren't they cute, just smiling at ya!

Can you tell I live in a fantasy world? ha, ha. I hope you all have a great Memorial Day weekend and get some rest, eat good food, and enjoy friends and family. God bless America and all our troops serving this holiday. Luv, Nerm

GLAD TO BE HOME

2008-05-21T16:28:00.001-07:00

I feel like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz--'there's no place like home, there's no place like home'. I was only gone five (5) days, but it sure seemed longer. Taking my 86 yr. old mother to visit my 90 yr old aunt was certainly an adventure. It did make me feel VERY young so that's a good thing-ha.
I picked up these old (1950's) issues of Workbasket magazines. How fun is that? For those of you who don't know, they are needlecraft magazines with instructions on doilie making, crocheting, tatting, home economics, etc. The ads are hilarious. I got them for a bargain of $5.00.
My aunt lives in a tiny place called Oblong, Illinois. Population: 1600 http://www.theonlyoblong.com/. I used to love going there when I was a child to visit her & my uncle and my grandparents. They lived out in the country and owned a Porter Paint store in "town". Every summer my sister and I would go spend one or two weeks up there and it is full of memories. My aunt is the only one left and she moved into town many years ago, but we drove out to the old farm. It was sad to see my grandparents' house had been torn down and replaced with another one. It probably would have been better to remember it the way it had been.
The good news was that there's a great little quilt shop in Oblong, believe it or not.
http://www.villagestitchery.com . They have a great selection of fabrics, patterns, etc. The funny part is the store is now located in what used to be the five and dime I visited as a child. Oh, the memories of toys and candy I bought there! But fabric is much, much better-ha.

After we finished our visit in Oblong, we drove south to Paducah, Ky. This is where my mother lived before moving in with us. I grew up there and graduated high school there. We spent the night and visited some friends of Mother's.
Excitement: I got to go to the world famous http://www.hancocks-paducah.com. This is one ginormous quilt store. The American Quilt Society has its headquarters here and this store has something like 30,000 bolts of fabric! I'm sure it's not that much, but it's alot. I was in heaven. You can see what all I got between Oblong and Paducah, I'm set for quilting and sewing for quite a while

Can you tell I love bright colors? No antique, dull ones for me!

And finally, I had to get some of the Kitty Cucumber print for one of my little people. I have loved Kitty Cucumber for years and was so excited to see her in fabric. I even have a Christmas ornament of her. I am hopeless, I know!

Have I bored you all to death? Well, it was fun to kind of re-shop all my finds and bargains.

Now I can dream about what they're gonna be. Luv, Nerm

A little about me....

2008-05-16T09:47:00.000-07:00

Ok, as most of you may know, I love to cook. Over the years I have improved quite a bit and now I consider myself to be quite the chef. I think more than anything I am best at desserts though. I have always loved them so maybe that's why they always come out so great.

I remember when I was in high school, I would watch "Father of the Bride" which is still one of my favorite movies to this day. I would always get inspired after watching it and decide that I was going to try to make a wedding cake. I would even play the soundtrack to the movie to listen to while I baked. I laugh so hard at that now because 1st) my cakes never came out looking like they did in the movie, not even close and 2nd) I was trying to make a wedding cake when there was no wedding! Haha. Poor Nerm, she just let me do it anyway though and never said how horrible it came out. I'm sure she was probably laughing on the inside though.

Well anyway, this was very 1st cook book I ever received. Nerm got it for me when I graduated high school and was headed to Atlanta to go to The Art Institute. This book is not only very funny and entertaining but the recipes are pretty good and I still use it today for some things.

I love Paula Dean and her cooking. Yes, I know she uses a lot of butter but I just don't care. It makes everything taste sooo good! I am from the South so I just can't help but love her food. I guess because it's what I grew up eating. My granny who died a few years ago, was such an awesome cook. Every time she would come to visit form Alabama, she would always bring a car load of homemade cakes, cookies, casseroles, and everything else you can imagine. It was such a treat because Nerm made us eat really healthy growing up and we never got to eat junk food. We always had to eat wheat bread with Nerm but Granny would let us eat white bread. For my sisters and I there was nothing better than Granny's homemade pimento cheese sandwiches on white bread. Haha

Over the years my palette has sophisticated past pimento cheese though and I have learned to appreciate cuisine from all parts of the world so I love to cook anything new and especially gourmet food.

Last but not least, here is my Martha Stewart Christmas Cookbook. Yeah, I know Martha is kinda of crazy and a little uptight but I like her ideas and she has some good recipes. I love Christmas more than any one I know. Since I was a child it has always been my favorite time of year. In fact, people laugh at Nerm and I because we start listening to Christmas music in October! I can't help it, it just makes us feel better. Anyway, this book has some great recipes for the Christmas holiday. Hope you all enjoy! -Kitty

OFF ON A SHORT TRIP

2008-05-14T19:30:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone is fine and still enjoying Spring. Here it's rain and more rain. We do have a good sunny day once in a while. I feel bad for the folks in Arkansas getting all the tornadoes.

Tomorrow morning my sister and I are going a little trip, taking our mother (86 yrs old) up to Illinois to visit her sister (90 yrs old). Their mother -my grandmother-lived to be 102, so I guess good genes run in the family. Anyway, we'll have a good visit and be back on Monday afternoon. Then I'll give you all the juicy details-ha, ha!

Hopefully Kitty will keep you entertained while I'm gone. Luv, Nerm

A WONDERFUL DAY!

2008-05-12T16:26:00.000-07:00

This was an absolutely wonderful day! The weather was perfect and I felt great! Even worked outside a little. Thought I'd fill you all in on what I accomplished last week during the down time so I would not feel so worthless.

The black yo-yo's came to me from a grandmother or greataunt. I honestly don't remember. They are very old, but aren't very appealing. I dug out some I had started years ago and decided to get back to it. Easy and fast while watching HGTV all day, huh? I'm hoping to get enough to make a tablecover. I'll keep you posted. Below you can see the variety of the reading material which kept me occupied, plus a "few"more mags. (did I mention, I have a "slight" magazine problem?)

Kermit's back to show you that his rug (see 4/10 post) also got finished. I took it outside today to really be "green", but the sun was so bright that I had to shot him in the shade. That's why he's kinda dark and blue looking. Anyway it's now done & I'm feeling proud & will put it in the bathroom by the shower. Thanks, Kermie.

A while back, quite a while actually, we were tagged by Victoria of Sweet Victoria Antiques to share six (6) words which reveal our philosophy of life. Let me tell you that really gets the thought process going. Finally all my stumbles, forays into creativity, and rational thought boiled down to this one verse I constantly repeat: "All things work together for good" (Romans 8:28). Of course, there's more to the verse, but this says it all in a nutshell. This has been true for so many situations, as far back as college days. I see it revealed in my day-to-day life and is a comfort when I don't understand why some things happen. (like last week's drug reaction). To me the basic truth in this verse is just to trust God to take care of your life. Everything will turn out the way He wants it to and for the best.

So now I am passing this onto five more blogs. Please write a Six Word Memoir that represents your life's motto.... The rules are:1. Write your own six word Memoir. 2. Post it on your blog. 3. Link to the person who tagged you .4. Tag 5 more blogs with links (leave a comment on their blog with an invitation to play).

I'm tagging these people:

I can't wait to see what you say. See ya soon. Luv, Nerm

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

2008-05-11T18:56:00.000-07:00

I want to wish all you Mothers out there the best today on our special day. I have a great mother who taught me so much as a child and guided me along the right path. Any creativity or artistic talent I have came from her and her parents. Even now at 86 yrs. old and with impaired mental facilities, she can still paint and sew wonderful creations.
Also I have the best daughters ever. Today they treated me like a queen, cooking special treats and giving sweet gifts. The cards were so touching esp. one from my granddaughter.
I'm feeling so much better today and will make a post tomorrow showing what I've been up to while lying on the couch for a week. Luv, Nerm

Fairy With Flowers

2008-05-10T11:42:00.000-07:00

Hi guys, sorry it has taken so long to get a new post on. In addition to Nerm not feeling well, I have been under the weather with my allergies. Here in Tennessee, the air is filled with pollen and everything else you can think of. I sneeze on the average about 15-20 times a day. Seriously, it's almost humorous. I can only hope that as I get older they will go away because it is a bit of a drag.

I am taking today to spend inside and get caught up on some chores. I have an ongoing war with laundry and it always seems to be winning. Nerm will tell you even as a teenager I struggled with this one. I guess some things never change, HAHA!

I hope you are all having a good weekend and to all the mothers out there... I want to wish you a very happy Mother's Day! I did have a few minutes of peace and quiet to get my latest painting on our Etsy account. I am already feeling productive. haha.

Anyway, here are a couple of pictures just for fun. Hope y'all like her. -Kitty

Better Post Soon....

2008-05-07T09:51:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

I know it has been a few days since we made a post. I was actually supposed to put one on last night but my computer was in a mood and didn't want to act right. I will however, be making one later today with actual photographs. I made some earrings and painted a new painting yesterday so I have been a very busy kitty but at least I will have a lot to share with all of you.

In the meantime, please say a prayer for Nerm. We think she has pneumonia. She is currently at the Dr. with my dad. She has had a bad chemical reaction to the medication she was taking for her rheumatoid arthritis. In addition to feeling lousy from the allergic reaction, she is pretty bummed I think that she will no longer be able to take this medicine. It is the first time she actually started to feel better as far as that goes. We will stay strong and hopeful no matter what though.

Well, anyway hope all is well with everyone else out there. It is a beautiful day here in Nashville. Sunny and 80 outside. It really is amazing. I am on my out but I think I will take some pictures today to show you all how pretty it is here. Take Care. - Kitty

BUSY WEEKEND

2008-05-04T19:21:00.001-07:00

Aren't all weekends busy? This one sure was. Please excuse that I loaded the pictures in reverse order. The shopping was in the afternoon-the sewing in the evening. Anyway, here's the scoop:
Last night hubby and I went over to Amy's (middle daughter) house. She has a cute 1940's house. Hubby was installing a chandelier in kitchen. Of course, I forgot to take a photo of that.
It was a cheapo brass chandelier she spray painted flat black. She's outfitted it with little black shades and it looks so good. Trust me. Her kitchen has the original black & white ceramic tile countertop and backsplash. My role in this was making new kitchen curtains. Here are the old ones. Pale green like the wals.
I'm not sure who this industrious lady is, sewing her heart out!

The finished product. There is a valance at the top and another pair over the kitchen sink.

This fabric is Micheal Miller's Dandy Damask. Love the look.

Previously yesterday, Kitty and I went antiquing in downtown Franklin. This is an old Civil War town filled with wonderful old homes and antique shops. The Main Street is filled with little specialty stores. Here's Kitty striking a pose outside one of the shops.

This is store we love, having it's Spring Open House. But I only spent $10.00! What's wrong with this picture?

Here's another shot of an antique mall. Lots of goodies, but my feet started hurting and Kitty's husband was calling, so we called it a day. Pretty much empty handed.

Hope everyone had a great weekend. Our weather was PERFECT-wish it would stay spring all the time. Luv, Nerm

NASHVILLE SPRING and other thoughts

2008-05-02T20:32:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share a few springy views of my yard. Everyone is showing spring in their little corner of the world, so I had to let you see mine as well. I love flowers and beautiful landscapes, but with my arthritis I can only do containers. Which I'm not showing yet, because I'm not finished. By the time summer is here, I should be ready! I'm glad you all are so nice and forgiving.
This is a small concrete angel which actually stands under an arbor. I love concrete figures. This one is a few years old and has developed that good green mossy look.

Beautiful azalea bush. Loves these bushes-they are everywhere around here.
I know, I know, this is a weed, but, hey, it's pretty too. The Purple is a nice contrast to the bright pink azalea.

Even a little rusty pocket on the lattice look good in the Spring. Guess I could put something exciting in it.

Okay, that's enough spring for now. Let's discuss something I've been asked a few times. Why do I use the name "Nerm"? Well, now, let's go back a few years to a time when Kitty was just a young whippersnapper. We would sit on the stairs in the entry hall waiting for her carpool to arrive to take her to school. We played Goldfish, the card game, only they had all the characters from Garfield on each one. There was Garfield, Odie, and of course, Nermal, Garfield's girlfriend. Kitty started calling me Nermal. In our family everything is shortened; thus, Nermal became Nerm. I am still called this (for real). It has stuck thru the years and it seemed a cute name for our blog. Daughter Kitty was nicknamed Kitty a long time ago because she loves cats. She has a cat we rescued from a construction site when she was 2 weeks old. (the cat, not Kitty!) Kitty carried that poor cat around day and night. She even took her to school one day for show and tell! That cat is named Fluffy and she is a senior citizen. I will post a picture someday of our cats. So now you know more than you ever wanted to about our names and some of our crazy family antics. Luv, Nerm

YELLOW!

2008-04-30T11:48:00.001-07:00

After seeing other blogs encouraged to do the color Yellow for the month of April by Angela on Cottage Magpie, I thought "why not"? Who cares if it's the very last day of the month? Seems that's kinda the way I do things. So I toured around my house and found some yellow to share with y'all. Of course, leading the way was Big Bird. This cute chair was Kitty's when she was a toddler and now is used by a new generation:

Now here we have two very lazy puppies, but on my loveseat in the kitchen which has yellow in it. Also a utensil holder thingey which I painted:

Can you tell my kitchen is yellow? Actually it's yellow & cobalt blue. I love the bright colors. We all need to be cheered up while cooking, right? I painted these plates too. Kitty and I went thru a period where we painted pottery alot, so my house is full of this stuff.

I've got lots more to share, but wanted to get this posted before too late. I'll be ba-a-a-ck!

Luv, Nerm

My Birthday Pillow!

2008-04-26T20:22:00.000-07:00

OK, so I know my birthday was over 2 weeks ago but in my defense it has been a bit crazy lately. This is one of the special presents I received handmade by Nerm. It is also my favorite gift too. These pictures really don't do it justice because it is so much more wonderful in real life.

I am so fortunate to have all these special gifts because I know that I will always have them and I can pass them on to my family. I hope to have a girl someday to make special gifts for that I know she will love just like I do. Thanks Nerm for being the best mom I could have! Love you, Kitty

HOPE SPRINGS ETERNAL

2008-04-25T17:50:00.000-07:00

TGIF to you all. I am so excited! Which isn't necessarily anything new! My beloved middle daughter recently called me a chihuahua because I was jumping all over the place. Please picture this arthritic grandmother jumping anywhere!

Anyway, I picked up a magazine today (so what else is new, they ask). It is a Special issue of that great idea mag called, "Cloth, Paper, Scissors". Now you have seen pictures of my craft/sewing room (at least two walls of it) and have heard me moan and groan about my struggle to organize it. Well, this magazine has page after page of crafter/artist's studios. Lots of great ideas to help poor little me. I tried to download a picture, but haven't quite figured that out yet, so just click on this link and see it for yourself. Cloth Paper Scissors Studio Issue,

I hope you have a wonderful weekend and we'll be back in touch with our organized results.
Hopefully yours, Nerm

THIS 'N' THAT

2008-04-22T09:29:00.000-07:00

Hello out there in Blogland! Hope all is right with your world. It was a busy weekend as usual. Did lots of fun things. Saturday morning first thing I went to church to participate in the Weecare program I've written about before. Providing handmade baby blankets, hats, etc for indigent mothers at the city's metro hospital. The things these ladies come up with is astounding. What a blessing for these poor women. We do manage to drink lots of coffee and wolf down several donuts while doing such good works-ha!
Directly afterwards at noon, met up with Kitty and Amy (middle daughter) and went to an all-day scrapbooking event. It went until 10:00, but we gave up at 8:30. Everyone gets her own table so you can spread everything out. You saw my craft room, so you will believe me when I say that my stuff overflows to the table next to me! Got lots done & did some more eating and drinking of coffee. We crafters need to stay fueled up, right? Where do you think those ideas come from anyway? Go to Amy's blog and see pictures of her and Kitty working away. Unfortunately, the picture of me mysteriously disappeared--what a shame!

Look what I got yesterday in the mail from Cheryl of Perwinkle Vintage! It's so beautiful and matches my blue and white bedroom perfectly. Go over to her Etsy shop and see all her great handcrafted vintage items. She a sweetie.

Afraid even on these beautiful spring days, the laundry still calls and calls. I need a mute button for these pesky household chores. Later, gator. Nerm

Who Can Resist This!!

2008-04-18T15:31:00.000-07:00

So this is another picture I found from my birthday party from Sunday. I love my nieces and nephew more than anything. Tanner (nephew) had a special hairdo just for me. His dad spiked his hair in a mohawk. As soon as I drove in the driveway he came running out and jumped in my arms. It was hysterical! I laughed and laughed. They are all so sweet and keep everyone entertained all the time. I can't wait to have one of my own, hopefully that will be soon!

My Birthday Dinner

2008-04-16T19:54:00.000-07:00

Sorry it has taken so long to post these pictures from my birthday party. It has been pretty busy here the past week. We had my whole family over at my parents house and it was a blast! My mom made this special Marie Antoinette cake just for me. It was strawberry cake with fresh strawberries on the inside. I loved it.

Tom (husband) as you may or may not know is Italian, so for my birthday dinner I asked him to make me a huge spread of good and authentic Italian food. I was able to snap some pictures while it was being prepared. In addition to these pictures he also prepared two different sauces or "gravy" as they call it. One sauce was a bolognese with homemade meatballs and the other was a cream based tomato vodka sauce. Both were to die for. He also steamed some fresh mussels just for me since I love these. I actually think that Tom and I are the only ones that enjoy these but we love all seafood.

To top off the pasta is my favorite ingredients all together....Roasted red peppers, eggplant, pine nuts, and sun dried tomatoes...
Add a homemade fresh Caesar salad and what more could this girl have asked for???

These are the fried mozzarella balls that we had as our appetizer. They are made of fresh ricotta and smoked mozzarella. This is actually Giada's recipe from "Everyday Italian". They were by far the hit of the party and I would recommend for all of you to try them. They are divine!

More pictures to come of my gifts.... Also, thanks so much Jamie for sending me a special birthday post on your blog. -Kitty

WE'VE BEEN TAGGED--TWICE!!!

2008-04-15T18:10:00.000-07:00

I know it's been a long time between posts and I promise I will be better in the future. Really I do. I could say it was tax season, Kitty's birthday, a wedding we attended, and all that kinda stuff, but really I've just been distracted. And now we have been tagged and I'm going to have to really dig deep for some cutesy stuff.
The first Tag was from Cheryl at Periwinkle Vintage in which we were to name seven (7) things nobody knows about us. Since it's Kitty and I, you lucky ducks get double the pleasure, double the fun. Here goes:

Kitty: l. I still have my baby quilt & sleep with it!
2. I love Fraggles & have one
3. I have no wisdom teeth & still have 4 baby teeth which I try to keep healthy
4. I love romantic comedies-to read & watch
5. I studied to be a graphic designer
6. I can't touch raw chicken (I use gloves)
7. I can purr like a cat

Nerm: 1. I asked my husband to marry me & he said yes!
2. We eloped.
3. We have lived on every coast of USA
4. I won Best Reader in first grade & still have the award
5. I had all three babies a la Lamaze w/no anesthesia!
6. I have always wanted a farm w/sheep to shear & make my own yarn.
7. I have traveled very widely & my favorite place to be is home.
I am such a homebody.

Now, we move on to the tag from Jamie at Make me a Saint , It's ten things we have "the urge to do now".

Kitty: 1. I want to: have a baby
2. Get a poodle
3. Buy our first home
4. Go back to Europe
5. Go on a vacation to Florida w/the whole family
6. Learn to sew & make a dress
7. Change my hair style
8. Get a pedicure
9. Go on a picnic w/my hubby
10. Lose 5 pounds

Nerm: 1. Have a new grandbaby
2. I have the urge to get these puppies housebroken
3. Do some major remodeling/redecorating
4. Finish a few craft projects
5. Do more volunteer work
6. Lose alot more than 5 pounds.
7. Budget my time better
8. Drink a cup of coffee w/hubby & put my feet up
9. Read more
10. Improve my devotional life

Gosh, now you know everything there is to know about Kitty and me. We will tag some others soon. One step at a time over here. Luv, Nerm

GREENER THAN KERMIT!

2008-04-10T19:30:00.001-07:00

Let me show you all a fun project I'm doing. I know, I know: another project! Why doesn't she finish what she starts? Anyway, I have saved my hubby's old, ratty tee shirts for a couple of years. After I accumulated about 7-8 of them, I cut the sleeves out and the band around the neck. Then I started at the bottom and started cutting one (1") inch strips round and round like peeling an apple. I came up with a big ball of tee shirt yarn. Using a HUGE crochet hook, I chained a length of about 2-1/2 feet long & then started triple crochet rows. I am still crocheting, but will be finished soon. Then I'll put a knotted fringe on each end.

This will make a great bathmat. Obviously, tee shirt fabric is soft, easily washed & even bleached. Great recycling! Wouldn't it be clever to have rows of colored tee shirt fabric?
The possibilities are endless. I may have to go to Goodwill and scoop up some used tees.
Here's what it looks like today -I had a hard time keeping Lily the cat off it. But, hey, I could just wash it to remove the cat hair, but Lily's is white, so what does it matter, right? ha ha
Note to all readers: Tomorrow is Kitty's birthday! She can tell you how old she is, but we'll have a big family get together Sunday to celebrate. I'm making her a couple of fun things. Hope I get them finished in time (there she goes with more projects, will she never stop?) So we'll have some photos of that fun time to share. Til then, Luv, Nerm

I LOVE PAPER DOLLS!

2008-04-07T19:13:00.000-07:00

I have always loved paper dolls. When I was a little girl I collected them and kept them in a suitcase (which I still have). I think that was the beginning of my paper obsession. I bought comic books with paperdolls, regular books of paperdolls; kept the paperdolls which came in gum, home permanents, and my mother's magazines. I still love them and that 's why when I saw this quilt pattern, I HAD to make it. It's for the youngest, Morgan, who's two yrs. old. I've already made all the rest a quilt, so she wins by default and being a girl doesn't hurt either.

I started laying out the rows and appliques-it was so much fun! Here is the beginning. I hope to have more done soon. I had to take a day or two off because the ole arthritis is really hurting my wrists and hands. I guess it was all the cutting, but who knows? What a bummer. I was all primed and ready to finish the appliques and, as I said, it was fun, fun. I am not a good sport at sitting quietly nursing my aching hand. I have a dr's appt tomorrow, so maybe he'll give me a magic potion-ha! But never fear, I am not a quitter and I shall prevail. ha ha Nerm

TWIRLY SKIRT

2008-04-05T19:54:00.000-07:00

DO you all get tired of my grandchildren? The correct answer is, of course, No, we love 'em! Good-'cause I sure do. Today Amy and Danny were out car shopping and I got to babysit.

Which was a good thing, Martha, because I had just finished the Twirly Skirt ; I was dying to see how it looked on her. I think it's pretty cute and its owner is pretty special as well. Mekenzie is an angel-so sweet & loving. Look at that smile!

Of course, we had to take a picture of sister, Madison (previous birthday girl), who couldn't be left out! Are they adorable? Am I smitten? Heck, yea. I am so blessed to have such sweet granddaughters!

I hope to have more goodies to show you very soon. And enjoy the rest of the weekend.

Luv, Nerm

HAPPY WEEKEND TO YOU!

2008-04-04T20:14:00.000-07:00

I don't really have anything exciting to say tonite. Tomorrow I will have pictures -I am almost finished with the Twirly Skirt for Mekenzie (10 yrs old). It is so-o-o cute. Hubby and I went out for our Friday date night-Mexican food and a trip to Home Depot. It has been raining here buckets for two days. I am ready to build an arc-ha. So my skirt sewing got interruped, but
for good cause. Talk to you all soon. Nerm

MY SPACE

2008-04-01T19:18:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I'm doing this--letting you into my "secret" place; aka my sewing/craft room! I'm counting on your charitable responses. No comments about conspicuous consumption or overkill or "what is ALL that stuff"? Let me explain:

No. 1: You have to understand that I love all kinds of crafts, not just sewing, knitting, quilting. I also am a big scrapbooker. I do decoupage, paint, polymer clay, most paper crafts, etc, etc. I have a hard time staying on task because there is always something else fun to do. Below is cabinet holding lots of things from books, paint, fabric and lots of other things.

Now here is where it gets interesting...my desk. This is really a large table-7 feet long-filled with all kinds of goodies to use scrapbooking, creating almost anything. I have tried to organize it, but as my darling hubby says, you can't put a gallon in a quart jar. LOL. Can you even see it all?

Click on photo to see it up close...if you DARE!

Now on top of the cabinet is this--part (yes, part) of my yarn stash. Pretty, huh? I enjoy looking at the colors.

Now the important part: I have mentioned that my mother lives with us. She has moderate dementia. When she came here, she brought all our old family pictures. While she can still remember people and events, I have made it my job to scrapbook and save as many memories as I can. The pictures start back in the 1890's and come thru the 1990's. So far I'm up to the 1940's when my Dad & Mother got married. Here is his Army picture. Isn't he cute? He was a great daddy- my sister and I were both Daddy's girls. He was in WWII & was part of the Normandy invasion and was awarded silver & bronze stars. I miss him so much and doing these albums make me feel close to him and other relatives who have passed away.

Okay, enough serious talk for now. I'll let you see the other half of the room some other time. I don't want any emails about emergency room visits due to hyperventilation! Luv, Nerm

"Adrianna"

2008-04-01T17:08:00.000-07:00

This is Adrianna. I know I have posted pictures of her before but I love her so much I wanted to share her again. She is losing her winter coat right now so it seems that she needs to be brushed about every hour.

I love her fur though so I don't care that she is high maintenance. She makes me laugh really hard, sometimes just by looking at her and that flat little face. As you can imagine, she is very prissy. I always like to think that if she could speak, it would be with a French accent. I know that sounds silly but I have always had a vivid imagination!

She loves to watch me paint and will sit next me for hours. It's very sweet and I talk to her often while I'm painting. Like a good little friend, she just sits there and listens. haha. Anyway, hope all you think she's cute too. -Kitty

"Meet Ginger"

2008-03-30T11:50:00.000-07:00

Ok, well I wanted to share with all of you "Ginger". She is the cat Nerm knitted for me. I know you probably can't experience her in all her glory through these pictures but let me tell you, she really is wonderful.

I found and bought the pattern and begged mom to make her for me. I can knit but only in a straight line, haha. My mom is obviously a very skilled knitter. I have since then found other projects I wanted her to knit but Ginger was not so easy, even for the most experienced knitter so I don't think she is very anxious. Nerm said that there would be no more projects as complicated as Ginger. We laugh about it all the time though and how tricky Ginger turned out to be. She is super soft and feels almost like a baby blanket, which makes it great to love her but not so great when you have to use that kind of fine yarn. No one can believe that she is knitted and handmade because she really does look like an animal you would buy at a store.

Anyway, she is my very favorite and I keep her on top of the bed in my guest bedroom so she stays put. I can't wait to pass her on to my own kids, whenever I should have some. Thanks Nerm! --Kitty

FIRED UP!!!

2008-03-27T12:31:00.000-07:00

I had several errands to run today of the boring variety, so I thought I'd make it worth my while and went by a quilt shop I had never been in before. Oh, boy, aren't I glad I did! They were having a sale and I reasoned that I deserved a few more yards of fabric. After all it's always for a project for someone else, so why not? This great fabric here (by Michael Miller) is for a darling quilt I'm going to make for Morgan (2 yrs old). Just ordered the pattern from Sandy Berry at her Etsy shop. Don't know if you can tell, but it's a leafy green w/chocolate background.
Sweet. Can't wait to get the pattern.

Then there was this Amy Butler fabric on sale for 50% off! Can you believe it? I'm making Mekenzie (10 yrs. old) a Twirly Skirt from Erin's pattern here. The little round things are misc. fat quarters which were $1.00 ea.-buy 12, get one free. So you KNOW I did that, right?

Must get busy-I will report back to you soon (I hope). Luv, Nerm

Easter Ramblings & Misc.

2008-03-25T10:19:00.000-07:00

Our Easter day dawned sunny, but cold and windy. After all the church services, the family converged over here for the Feast and Egg Hunt. Everyone was happy and warm feelings with thankful hearts prevailed. Unfortunately, the decor didn't match the mood. I certainly can't match Elizabeth's efforts. Can't have it all, huh? In the process of recarpeting the living room, the dining room has all the overflow. The table was stacked high with knickknacks, books, etc. So no formal dinner for us. I did put tablecloths on the card tables, however, and a bunny or two. The kids' table's cloth got tangled around Tanner's feet and nearly pulled off in the floor! Next we'll be recarpeting the bonus room!--just kidding. I'm going for hardwood floors.

Here are my babes after the hunt-aren't they cute?

Now that life is back to "normal" (whatever that is), I am DETERMINED to finish this craft/sewing room clean up. I have so much to do and I have to get some organization in order to do it. Wish me luck and godspeed. I will report later. Nerm

HOME EC 101

2008-03-22T18:35:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had what you thought was a great idea and then the end project was not at all what you envisioned? As I mentioned several posts ago, I am trying to clean out my fabric and organize my sewing space. I ran across this cute teapot print from LONG ago. I love tea, teapots and I drink ALOT of tea-hot and cold. I bought this and put it in the abyss for later. Lately I have noticed a couple of blogs doing potholders (sorry-can't remember which ones). I saw this print and the lightbulb went off! Potholder!
I got a contrasting background fabric, the good ole wunder under and some batting for heat protection. It was fun to cut out the teapots and apply them to the background. I even made my own bias binding. We-l-l-l, let me tell ya what...it looked like I was in 7th grade Home Ec class! Humiliating to say the least. I have sewn for years and years; quilted; made coats and tons of clothes for my girls; drapes, rufflely curtains, etc. All this to say, I will NOT be making any more of these for Etsy. ha ha. Here's the final project:

Oh, well. Hope you love me anyway. Here's wishing everyone has a blessed and great Easter weekend. Nerm

Remembering Paris, Again...

2008-03-19T14:58:00.000-07:00

Well I have been doing a little spring cleaning and going through all my photos from our recent trip to Europe. I am determined to get my scrapbook done. I can't wait to go back. I look at each one and remember where we were at that moment. I love remembering through pictures because sometimes I think the memories are actually better than the real thing. You can have them forever and hold them dear to your heart. The pictures above are of my favorite pastries from Laduree, my favorite place in Paris to get pastries. It is very well known and as silly as it may sound, it is so beautiful to see all the pastries lined up ready to be bought. Believe me, they all get bought too! I have always been a sucker for pretty packaging and this place doesn't miss a beat. Wish I could get the pastries shipped here. Oh well, I will have to wait 'til next time.

Happy Birthday, Madison

2008-03-17T15:13:00.000-07:00

Here is my precious little granddaughter, Madison, who celebrated her 6th birthday with the family on Saturday. Our familiy has a big get-together for every occasion and this was no exception. Grampie & I had taken her out to lunch, then just she and I went shopping! You gotta train 'em early. However, there was no problem here. This girl LOVES clothes. Between me and her mom, Maddie got 3 pairs of shoes all pink! It was a Hello Kitty affair-should have taken the top off the cake, but you get the idea.

Here is Madison with her little cousin, Morgan, who incidentally, is wearing a sweater that moi made her. She's a cutie too.

And one more little cousin, Tanner, age 4, enjoying the fun.

All that's missing is Maddie's sister, Mekenzie,, who wasn't in any of the closeups. Next time, Kenzie! That's all for now, folks. Enjoy this great spring weather. Nerm

Vive Olivia!

2008-03-14T20:49:00.001-07:00

Do we have any Olivia fans out there? Surely you know Olivia? She's a very special porcine young lady with very definite ideas. I made this quilt for my 5 yr old granddaughter, Madison, in honor of her birthday tomorrow. She'll be six yrs old & I can't believe it. I hate my grand-babies to grow up. Anyway, the quilt is no big deal because it's just a panel I machine quilted and backed with a small Olivia print.

But here's the cute part, I took the leftover Olivia print and coordinating fabrics, and made a little purse for Maddie. I trimmed it with rickrack (love that stuff) and sewed a big ole button on it for closure. Pardon me for saying so, but it's cute, cute.
Tomorrow we have the BIG party with a pinata. Now that will be fun. Hope to have some good pics of that to share. Have a great weekend. Nerm

2008-03-14T12:36:00.000-07:00

Well, I was looking through some of my recent photographs from our trip to Europe and thought I would share a couple of them with you all. These two above are from the little town of Eze, France. I thought the colors the of handmade soaps were so brilliant, I told my husband they looked good enough to eat. The second picture was a booth set up next to the soap, where a young man was selling herbs all grown locally. Not only did it look amazing but the smell was even more glorious. My husband being Italian and quite the chef, of course loaded up on the herbs. We cook with them all the time and yes, they really are amazing. It's things like this that make me miss Europe soooo much. I wish I could go every year for a couple of months. -Kitty

My New Favorite Toy

2008-03-12T13:43:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share my favorite new addition to my kitchen. It is my new coffee maker and it makes fresh brewed coffee in about 30 seconds. It is so much fun. It can also brew hot tea and hot chocolate. For anyone that hasn't seen these, they use little cups that you put in the top and voila, you have a fresh cup of java!

It's also perfect for company because everyone can select what flovor coffee they want or if they prefer tea. It is delicious and there's no mess! Love, Kitty

SPRING THAW!

2008-03-12T10:31:00.000-07:00

This is what happens when the frost melts and the grass hasn't grown yet and the dog goes out to visit nature. What is supposed to be a pedigreed Shih Tzu becomes a rescue dog! Poor Smoocher-it's back to the groomer for you, buddy!

Actually this picture doesn't do him justice, but you get the idea. Just thought this was so cute, I had to share. Hope your day is as pretty as mine. Bye for now. Nerm