All Things Iris

Halloween crossed the Rainbow Bridge

2012-01-11T07:12:00.001-08:00

...yesterday. It's never easy to lose a pet and to have to make the decision to let them go, but this one seemed especially difficult. She was so tied to Chuck as she had been his cat when he was alive.

Halloween was my old (17 years) barn cat.

Her mother had come to our barn and had a litter of kittens - then got out in the road and got killed. Chuck raised the kittens and over the years they all disappeared except Halloween.

She had a gazillion kittens over the years - with only a couple of survivors. One we gave to a friend and one became our house cat - Fluffy.

When Halloween was a few years old she began to venture into our fenced back yard (by coming over the gate). She would show up every day at feeding time and 'escort' Chuck to the barn. He would sit with her, pet her and talk to her.

When he got sick the feeding chore fell to me, but she wasn't nearly as impressed with me as she was with Chuck. She moved to the lean-too next to the goat barn (which was closer to the house than the big barn). Then when Chuck died she moved to the deck. When she moved to the deck (at 11 years old) it was time for a vet visit. I did not need more kittens.

She became "my" cat and was quite tame. She thought the dogs were just there for her to rub on. When Boots (the front porch kitty) arrived she even shared her deck with him occasionally. She had a nice house and a comfty bed on the deck. I brought her in a few nights when it was extremely cold, but she wasn't particularly impressed. Her domain was the deck and the back yard. She thought the chaise lounge was just there for her benefit. Occasionally she would lay on the deck rail so she'd have a better view of her world. I don't think she ventured out of the fenced back yard at all in the last 5 years.

I fed her on top of a table on the deck and she jumped up there every morning - including yesterday.

I went outside with Frosty a little after 11AM and found her laying in the monkey grass (in the rain) crying pitifully. She couldn't stand and I discovered once I got her to the vet that she couldn't see. She did respond to my voice and petting on her head, but she was basically paralyzed otherwise. I held her and said sweet nothings to her as she crossed the bridge. Now she's rubbing on Chuck's legs again, but it's surely been difficult here.

2011-10-08T14:50:00.000-07:00

Newest venture in my life is counted cross stitch design.

I've actually been designing charts for years, but always just for myself. I was encouraged to market some of them, so they're available in my online shop.

I'm not a great artist, so they're relatively simple, mostly 'sayings'. Here's one of my favorites:

Birthday Present from my kids

2011-05-13T14:30:00.000-07:00

Okay, is is a longer story than you might think, so bear with me. My kids went together and got me a new range hood for my birthday. The fan on the old one was shot and after 21 years, the old one looked, well - old! So, new it is. I was pretty excited about sprucing up the kitchen and finally having a fan that worked again.

Ordered online, came, looked great, son and grandson installed it. Unfortunately during the installation, my 27 year old ceramic cooktop got broken - no one's fault, it was already in a weakend and sad condition and also looked - old! Had to remove the stainless steal backsplash that was behind the old cooktop. I had painted the kitchen when I was doing chemo, (yeah I know, but I proved "I" could do it) and hadn't painted that spot, so now I had a lovely new range hood, a broken cooktop and an ugly white spot in my otherwise green kitchen wall. Not my first choice of a lovely kitchen. Too bad I didn't think to take any pictures of that. These pictures are obviously all "after".

So, I started looking for another cooktop. Really didn't like the prices these days (being the frugal mcdugal that I am). So, was still looking on April 27 when the tornadoes hit north Alabama. No, we didn't have tornado damage (thank you God - except a couple of trees down), but we were without electricity for 5 days.

Now, my only way to cook, or more importantly, make coffee, was electricity. Fortunately, my sweet neighbors had a gas stove and a 'french press', so we drank coffee and ate at their house. However, I really do like (translated, seriously need) my first cup of coffee every morning. You know, "instant human, just add coffee".

Considering the above, as soon as power was restored and stores opened again, I changed my search to a "gas" cooktop (this is for you Danette - and Asher :). Lowe's was useless, however, my local mom & pop appliance store could order the exact one I'd found online, and it was cheaper there. They had it in 3 days and in another 3 days my local gas/electric guys came out and installed it.

Started looking for new backsplash - again, I'm frugal (translated - cheap), and was really tired of the way it all looked. I'm not a patient person!!! Son found some inexpensive 'tin tiles' on Amazon.com which I ordered and he installed.

Now I'm pleased - well, mostly. I don't really like the cooktop. I don't like cooking with gas. But then, I rarely cook, and MOST importantly - if the power goes off - I CAN MAKE COFFEE. Did I mention, my son gave me a 'french press' for my birthday :)

But you know, those countertops are looking pretty old now.

Another "Lazy Girl"

2011-05-11T05:44:00.001-07:00

I love my first "Lazy Girl - Margo purse" so much, I've made another one (and plan for more). Perhaps one for each season :)

I found this Michael Miller fabric online at fabric.com and fell in love with it. Of course, I love most anything 'iris' (imagine that). Anyway, decided it would make a great Spring/Summer purse.

So, I made the Margo, and of course, needed a coordinating wallet. I love the Lazy Girl Wonder Wallet. Can't imagine why I ever carried a large wallet, this one holds everything I need.

THEN, decided I'd like a smaller purse for shopping. Now, I don't go shopping very often, but when I do, my regular purse is heavy - you know, all that 'stuff' in it that I can't live without. Found the Runaround Bag and decided that was the one. Soooo, I made a matching smaller bag with long handle. Can be worn criss crossed across the body and doesn't hold much, so doesn't weigh much. That brought the idea of a Maggie. Just a little 'pouch' that I can switch between purses.

SO, the Runaround will go in my car and if I'm shopping, I'll simply transfer the Wonder Wallet and the Maggie from the Margo into the Runaround and I'm all set for shoulder saving shopping. I'm loving them!

I've always loved purses, but never really found one I liked that was the right size, had organization and was lightweight. I've decided I love the Margo so much, I'm going to have one for every season. Since they'll all be alike, I won't be confused about where anything is when I switch purses.

Can you tell that I REALLY like these purses?!!!!

Purse & wallet

2011-03-25T15:54:00.001-07:00

I've long felt that men designed most of the purses around (I apologize to those ladies who make the fancy handbags with their names on them) as I don't ever think I've found one that I truly like. And believe me, it wasn't for not trying.

I love purses and I've bought lots more than my fair share of handbags and purses - only to get them home and discover; they were too big, they were too small, I couldn't find anything in them, and on and on and on...

Always thought that one of these days I'd design my own. Well, finally, someone has done that for me, and done a really outstanding job - it's Lazy Girl Designs.

And, actually, I owe my friend Suzie at Ask The Ebay Queen for finding Lazy Girls. She posted a picture of a small purse on her blog one day and while I wasn't crazy about that particular purse, I looked up Lazy Girl and was immediately hooked. She has multiple patterns for a large variety of large and small purses. There's the Chelsea, the Chloe, the Claire, the Miranda, the.... well, you get the idea. There's also lots of little accessories, like the Wonder Wallet (which I LOVE), the checkbook cover and the Maggie, and more. My first pattern was the Margo - I ABSOLUTELY LOVE MY MARGO!!!

The Margo is just the right size, has two outside pockets, zips closed and has a multitude of interior pockets. Very well organized!! I used three contrasting fabrics with my favorite colors, though it could be made all one solid color.

So, then I decided I'd try the Wonder Wallet. Never found a wallet I really liked either. This one was really easy to make, is small, but holds a lot. As you can see, I made one to match my Margo.

I've added another Lazy Girl pattern of a smaller purse for shopping, but haven't made it yet. For normal everyday use though, I'll stick with the Margo. I've already bought fabric to make several more.

Coupons

2011-03-10T07:11:00.000-08:00

WOW!! I've been lazy and not posted in ages. Too much going on in my life I guess. You'd think as I get older I'd have more time - NOT! Seems to fly by even faster. And of course, I don't move quite as fast as I used to getting 'stuff' done. But here's an idea for you...

Do you want to save money? Do you shop with coupons?

I've never been very diligent doing it, and if you do it right, it does take time. However, a young woman in my church has it down to a science - she she's teaching classes on it.

Here's her blog - she posts daily on ways to save money.

From groceries to toiletries to furkid food to.... she even manages to get a log of things FREE, or at a ridiculously low price. And, even if you don't embrace this concept to the extent she does, we can all use a little extra jingle in our pockets these days.

And of course she's on facebook too.

Check her out!

The bedroom is finished

2010-08-29T14:52:00.000-07:00

And, I'm so pleased. This is been going on since June, but the last touch was put on it right after church today. My new upholstered headboard was attached to the bed.

A friend mentioned making a headboard and after all the HGTV I watch I was hooked. And, there are lots of tutorials online.

My materials consisted of a 4x8 piece of 1/4" plywood, three 1x4s, bolts, foam, batting, vinyl and nail strips. Costs for all the materials was $67. (Labor was free :-)

My son is too much like his Dad, and the thing had to withstand a tornado. So he and a neighbor cut the 1/4" plywood for me and attached it to the 1x4s. I did the rest of the work, until it came time to attach it to the bed (today).

Vinyl on the floor with back side up, batting, foam and then the frame. The foam was cut the same size as the frame, the batting was the same size as the vinyl. Fold around the edge and staple. Turned it over and put the nail strip on.

I must I'm rather proud of myself. I could have done it quicker than the 2-1/2 hours that it actually took if the darned electric stapler that I was using had cooperated. Of course, that was 2-1/2 hours crawling around on the floor with a stapler and hammer and trying not to make any mistakes. I could just about walk when I got finished. That's 2-1/2 hours longer than this old lady needs to be on the floor. I could have gotten help. But, "I wanted to do it myself".

Son (Asher) and grandson (Nathan) and a couple of Nathan's friends got it attached to the bed after church today.

I've had my new platform bed long enough now to know that I love it. And, LOVE the new floor. As a matter of fact, I'm pretty pleased with the whole bedroom. I'm a happy (if tired) camper.

Wow, it's been a long time...

2010-08-16T06:32:00.000-07:00

...since I've posted anything here. Life has just gotten in the way (imagine that).

Been doing a lot of work in my house. And thanks to my son and grandsons, I have new laminate flooring in my bedroom and office, the two rooms I spend the most time in. So, of course, that "required" a total re-do of both rooms :-) I know, a picture is worth a thousand words, so while I don't have my new headboard made yet, here's the bedroom.

First picture is after floor, but before any other re-do. This is my massive, king size bed.

Took up LOTS of space and made the large room look small


New low, full size platform bed - I LOVE IT!

The iris pictures over the bed are high, in anticipation of the headboard I'm going to make.

Looking from the corner where the secretary is

The floors were sort of a necessity. Very old carpet with lots of pet dander and dust imbedded in it. I had bronchitis all winter long and just never seemed to totally shake it. In March the doctor decided I had developed chronic bronchitis and asthma and said I needed to rip up all my carpet. Well, that's bit easier than said, but I did have some hefty workers and they did a great job. Of course, my house was a total wreck for awhile. They did my bedroom while I was in Texas in June at another grandson's graduation, and the office just in the last few weeks.

So, really I didn't change any furniture except the bed- which I'd been considering doing for quite awhile, and painting a few things white and moving them around a bit - and of course, draperies, curtains, & pillow covers. Yeah I know, according to HGTV, I'm way too cluttered - but it looks so much less so with the new floor and bed. And, "I" like it, and that's what matters.

Etsy Treasury

2010-02-25T07:47:00.000-08:00

I've never been included on an Etsy treasury before - so was thrilled to be put in this one for Barbies.

Features one of my Barbie dresses.
Etsy treasury

I believe it expires on Saturday (2/27), so it won't be around for too long. Exciting for me nonetheless.

New website is live

2010-02-02T11:09:00.000-08:00

...and I think it's a cute one. Poodles and Pals Grooming

A grooming salon in Guntersville. She likes pink, I like pink, she likes poodles, I like poodles!!! (She does other dogs besides poodles - but they're MY favorites).

We still have to add some info on the secondary pages and a photo of the shop. She has the reception room decorated so cute and when I was there a couple of weeks ago there was a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel laying on the love seat. I thought he was stuffed at first, but it turns out he's just a really laid back dog who goes weekly for a 'shampoo and set'.

If you go to the link you can even see Frosty's picture farther down on the page. And, of course, she's Frosty's "stylist/groomer" and always has treats for him.

Bring coffee and no one gets hurt!!!!

2010-02-01T12:22:00.000-08:00

That's the "Dolly Mama" cross stitch hanging over my coffee pot. And, there's good reason for it to say that.

My husband used to bring my coffee to me in bed before my feet ever hit the floor - that worked out great for both of us :)

Now that he's gone, I stagger into the kitchen and pour my own. I get the coffee ready before I go to bed at night - it's not something I never forget. I don't set the timer as my daughter-in-law gets up before me and turns it on, so when I stumble in the kitchen it's made and waiting on me.

EXCEPT THIS MORNING! When I arrived in the kitchen the coffee pot was sitting there empty, surrounded by a wet towel and next to it a note - "coffee pot broken, water everywhere, NO coffee". Needless to say, that didn't totally make my morning a good one. So, doubter that I am, I had to turn on the coffee pot. How it could have still had that much water in it as wet as the towel was I have no idea. So now there's more water on the counter for me to clean up and none in the carafe where the coffee was supposed to be.

It's been leaking a little for awhile, but it still made coffee - not today.

So, as soon as I could shower and get dressed it was off to town for coffee and a new coffee pot.

The coffee wasn't nearly as good as my "Community" coffee is, but at least it was coffee and sort of got my motor running.

After finally finding a coffee pot that did the few things I required it to do, getting homeunpacking, cleaning, and running one pot of water through it first - I've FINALLY had my regular morning coffee.

I don't require the fanciest coffee maker in the world - but I am spoiled to a few things - programmable, strength setting, auto off and not break the bank. This Black & Decker filled my requirements and while it certainly wasn't nearly the cheapest coffee maker there - it wasn't nearly the most expensive either.

The coffee maker that just died was a different brand, bu if it this one lasts as well as my last Black & Decker (under counter one which was about 25 years old when we finally replaced it) - I shouldn't ever have to buy another one.

Oh, and if this point you had any doubts about how seriously I take my coffee - here's another cross stitch hanging in my kitchen....

Ice.... in Alabama

2010-01-29T14:23:00.000-08:00

... is NOT a good thing!!!

This is part of my back deck that doesn't have a cover. That ice is there and hard. I was able to sweep off the steps as it's still slushy there (Frosty has to be able to go down those steps to do his business). He loves to go under this picnic table when something is falling out of the sky. He's not crazy about bad weather.

I know it's not hitting us nearly as bad as some parts of the country, but ice is ice.

And, speaking of Frosty, he's been acting very strangely today. We worked at the cross stitch shop today (as usual on Wednesday and Friday) and everytime I moved, he barked. He wanted to go outside, then he didn't want to go outside when I got bundled up. He shivered and shook all day, and has been doing that since we got home. I know he gets cold easily, but he's wearing his sweater as he usually does when the weather is cold. I'm wondering if it the change in the weather. My previous poodle would go nuts when the barometer started dropping.

If he is a little weather man - I hope he's wrong about the severity of this winter storm in Alabama.

Someone's thinking spring

2010-01-25T11:04:00.000-08:00

....and boy am I ready for it. Enough of this cold weather already. It's been unseasonably cold in Alabama this winter - we've even had snow.

I just mailed this cute 'garden charm bracelet' to a customer, so maybe someone is getting ready early.

Decided to go and remind myself just what I have listed in my little online jewelry shop . Here's another 'spring like' bracelet. This one features lampwork beads and fruit. Quite colorful.

These bracelets and more are available - all offer free shipping.

New web site

2010-01-23T14:35:00.000-08:00

Working on a new web site - something I just love to do.

Can't really show it till the client sees it, but I can't wait. "I" love it - I hope she does too.

My UGGs are great

2010-01-20T14:37:00.000-08:00

... and the only thing that helps the neuropathy in my feet. One of the many lasting side effect from chemo or Herceptin - and VERY uncomfortable.

Bought the UGGs last year after doing lots of market research - as this was a major purchase for me. They will last me the rest of my life and I love them. Ugly (well mine are) but extremely comfortable and the only things that keep my poor toes even remotely comfortable.

Barbie boas

2010-01-19T13:40:00.000-08:00

... are so much fun to make. I don't do a lot of crocheting, but these make up fast and add so much to a Barbie outfit.

There are so many interesting yarns today, there's really a wide choice. And, different yarns yield totally different results.

Then, there's the ever popular feature boa - not quite as much fun to make, but sure looks great on Barbie.

All of these (and more) can be found in my doll shop - stop by and visit anytime.

Look what I found

2010-01-18T11:24:00.000-08:00

Putting away the last of the Christmas decorations today, I found an old paper bag in the back of the storage room. Curious, I opened it up to find a stack of vintage handkerchiefs and a vintage ladies slip.

Now, when I say vintage - I don't mean the 70s or 80s (that's just a few years ago). These are from the 1930s or 1940s - certainly no newer.

At first I thought it was silk - but I'm not sure. The inside looks handmade, but it does have tags, one is a heavy paper tag, so it hasn't been worn. The color is a peach with cream lace trim.

It's been folded a long time, but doesn't look any the worse for wear. I'm sure the wrinkles will iron out.

Now to figure out what to do with it. It's a "large" size (40), so who's going to want to wear it. And anyway, why would one want to wear a slip that's 70 plus years old??? Offer it on Etsy maybe? We'll see.

Most of the hankies are stained - mostly from being folded for so long. Some of them are handmade, others just old.

Then there are a couple with full designs. I'm thinking I'll try a vintage hankie Barbie dress with one or both of them (wish that was an original idea, but it sounds like a good one anyway).

I really thought I'd gotten rid of all this old stuff, I'm not usually a 'saver'. I'm thinking my DH stashed this away at some point in time being sure I'd want it eventually :)

They're all finished

2010-01-16T16:36:00.001-08:00

...and if I don't see the 'inside' of a blog template for awhile it will not hurt my feelings. I'm sick of them.

But then, they does anyone in their right mind have 4 blogs. Just sort of happened, though I can't say they're all real current - will try and work on that.

It's Almost Finished

2010-01-15T15:16:00.000-08:00

And, if you're a frequent visitor here you might not even see the difference - but I surely do.

I still don't have my post titles looking the way I want. I tested this out on another blog (also on blogger) and it looked perfect, then when I loaded it here where it's going to live - it's different. I have no idea why, and my brain won't wrap around that at the moment.

I've actually worked on these changes for days (when I could spare the time) and am ready to move on to the next one... I'm 'updating the look' of all of my blogs.

So, my goal was to post on at least one blog each day - didn't make it yesterday, but maybe the future will hold more writing, and hopefully in the future you'll find something at least quasi interesting to read on one of them.

Not done yet...

2010-01-13T14:17:00.001-08:00

...but I will get these blogs revised the way I want.

Wasn't around the computer today, but I did think about it. Haven't resolved my problem yet, but maybe leaving it for awhile will let my brain work while my fingers are doing something besides typing.

Stay tuned....

Basically wasted day

2010-01-12T13:35:00.000-08:00

... well, I guess not wasted, I've learned several things that will NOT work.

I had a great list of "to do" things today, and have done none of them.

I decided I wanted to update my blog layouts. Sounds easy right?? Well, I can't get mine to do what I want it to do. Obviously I want it to do something it doesn't want to do.

I've been at it all day. Did walk away for awhile and rode my stationary bicycle thinking that might clear my hear. Didn't work (well, I did get some good exercise - but that's all).

Now, I've run out of time and much move on to something else. Work in the cross stitch shop tomorrow, so won't get back to it till Saturday.

I do love designing websites, templates, etc. But when I hit a snag, it's difficult to walk away and time just flies by me.

Maybe by then my brain will be cleared and I'll have figured it out (but I do have 'chemo brain' - so at least I have an excuse)

Barbies

2010-01-11T10:13:00.000-08:00

Barbie arrived in doll world when I was too old for dolls. The closest we had was a "Tony" doll - you could work on her hair, but she wasn't nearly as much fun to sew for. My grandmother did teach me to make clothes for her (and for myself) and I've loved sewing ever since.

A few years ago, I started talking about Barbies and how cute they were. My hubby (always on the lookout for an easy gift for me) decided to start giving me Barbie dolls. After awhile, "I" decided to make a Barbie dress. My sewing machine was old and failing so we went on my birthday that year (the last year my sweet hubby was alive) and I got a new sewing machine AND serger (which I have a love/hate relationship with). One thing led to another and I've been making Barbie outfits ever since. I have so much fun designing and making elegant gowns and accessories. Then, almost as much fun dressing and photographing them. I've recently gotten a new "chair" to use as a prop - but haven't taken any photos with it yet.

This dress for Silkstone Barbie is called "Simply Red" and sold over the holidays. It included the custom necklace and handmade boa. More pictures of a few of my sold dresses can be found at: http://www.dollfashionsbyiris.com/photosgallery/index.php

Many times I'm designing as I go - and sometimes I'm more pleased with the results than others. This one was particularly fun and I love the outcome.

And this one didn't turn out 'exactly' as I'd planned - but definitely different and cute.

Sellling these fashions in my online doll shop and my Etsy shop are sort of a by-product of my hobby and do help support my 'habit'. If you're interested, you can see more outfits here:

http://www.dollfashionsbyiris.com/shop/

http://www.etsy.com/shop/IrisOriginals

Hope you have as much fun looking as I've had creating :)

New Year's visotors

2010-01-01T12:50:00.000-08:00

Haven't been around much lately. Was sick from about the middle of November till after Christmas. Broncitis and flu - not much fun - and when I don't even feel like being on the computer - I'm sick.

Better now and enjoying the new year with out of town family - and a special visitor.

My son & his family from St. Louis are here - and a local friend has gone to Gatlinburg for New Years and I'm dog sitting with her little Pomeranian - Teddy. Frosty and the cats are not particularly impressed. However, at the momenet it's working out quite well as Teddy has decided he loves my son & his family (and they're pretty impressed with him too).

Even my grandson (who is NOT a dog person) has made friends with him and thinks he's cute (he's really adorable).

As I type this, he's sitting next to my DIL with his head resting on her laptop.

I think they'd take him home with them if they thought they could get away with it.

My Outside Cat Houses

2009-11-02T09:28:00.000-08:00

...yes, you read the subject line right. I've just finished (well, with a little help from my son and grandson) making winter houses for my outside cats. I found the idea online and just changed it a bit.

Front porch kitten - Boots (he's about 7 months old now), lost his brother a couple of weeks ago and has become MUCH more loving since he's basically alone. He comes inside occasionally to visit with the skin grandkids, but the inside cats are not impressed with his presence. He's a great mouser and hopefully will stick close to the front porch instead of going out in the road like his brother did.

Here's Boots, lounging in the sunshine after supervising the placement of his new house.

Anyway, did some online research and found an idea for feral cat houses - my outside cats aren't feral - but they are outside. Take two rubbermaid containers, one larger than the other, put cut insulation between them and cut a hole in one end. And, that's sorta what we did.

Used the two containers, however, son got some spray insulation to go between the two instead of a big sheet to cut. You spray it in, it expands and hardens (and makes a mess). So that worked, however, I was concerned that the inside walls (plastic tub) wouldn't be warm, so I put flannel on the interior and covered a piece of foam with flannel for the bed.

This is looking down inside with the lids off.

I then glued foam on the interior lid for top insulation.

The finished product now sits behind the front porch glider and Boots has already inspected the inside, so I'm confident he'll be a happy camper on cold nights.

Then, there's Halloween. She's an almost 15 year old barn cat who moved to the back deck a couple of years ago. Basically had a bed in a box there, but not really a nice winterized house, and she's not getting any younger.

She hasn't been very enthusiastic about her box there since son & family came with their large, old lab who barks at her. I feed her on top of the bbq table on the deck and she stays when large dog isn't in site. If she would just hiss and slap him once he'd leave her alone. She and Belle get alone great. She has been sleeping back at the barn since large dog arrived, but I wanted her to have the option of the back deck if she chooses.

Anyway, back to her bed. There isn't room for the double box where it can be be protected from large dog, and, the back deck is more protected than the front porch, so I improvised. Got one rubber tub (same size as interior tub in front), a foam mattress pad and some flannel. Lined the entire interior with the foam covered in flannel. Made her a 'really' soft interior bed and glued foam to the inside top of her house. Another hole in the end and 'hopefully' she's set.
This piece of foam is glued on the inside of her top. Same mattress foam that's on the top of Boot's house, and what I covered with flannel for the inside of Halloween's house

Looking at the finished product

This is with the camera inside the little hole, so what she has is comfty and should be relatively warm.

It's put in a fairly protected spot on the shelf of the bbq table, so hopefully she'll actually use it. The back deck has two house walls and while the north side of the deck is open, there's another 'leg' of the house not far away, so it's pretty protected from wind.

She usually shows up at night, so I'll 'encourage' her to check it out tonight. The fan is wedged between the table and bbq grill to give her some added security from large dog.

I had priced exterior, insulated pet houses and the prices were prohabitive for my budget. The cost of both of these houses was around $30 (not including two bottles of spray insulation that son bought for larger house) and that breaks down: 3 rubber tubs-$12.00; flannel throw (cheaper than flannel by the yard)-$5; twin foam mattress pad (and I have a good bit left for future projects)-$13.

Maybe not as elegant looking, but much better than bought houses and I believe they'll be just as snug.

Oh, and I can take both apart easily to clean!!

#2 son is 50 years old today

2009-10-20T10:36:00.001-07:00

...and I still can't believe I'm old enough to have one son who's 50, let alone two.

This is the same son I went to Texas a couple of weeks ago to surprise - it was a great week. His older brother came out from St. Louis later in the week and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing my oldest two sons (together - that doesn't happen often these days).

It was a great week. My daughter-in-law and grandkids worked really hard to surprise my son and they did a great job!!!

This is me with my two oldest sons. Birthday boy is on the left. Aren't they handsome?!!!

Texas surprise

2009-09-29T10:00:00.000-07:00

I arrived in Texas yesterday afternoon for a surprise visit with my #2 son who will soon have his 50th birthday. Pretty handsome for a guy over the hill, don't you think.

My DIL wanted to REALLY surprise him, and surely we did.

He had called me yesterday afternoon - aren't cell phones wonderful! I sat on HIS front porch and talked to him and he had no idea I wasn't in Alabama.

When he got home from work I was sitting on the sofa and when he finally looked around and saw me, he was really surprised... "What are you doing here? I just talked to you on the phone"!!

So, we'll have a great week. It's kind of a treat to be someone's birthday gift :)

Frosty is a cutie

2009-09-18T09:24:00.000-07:00

I promised to post a photo after Frosty finally got groomer and then life got in the way and I didn't get it done. So here you are. Isn't he a cutie?

We're fighting the flea problem though. Of course, I have so many animals at home how that it's a definite challenge, but I'm determined.

Goat herding kittens

2009-09-07T08:53:00.000-07:00

Who would have thought.

Well, at least now, the two resident front porch kittens are earning their keep.

First, Boots is a great mouser - though he refuses to share with his lazy brother, Firestar.

Or, we thought he was lazy till late yesterday afternoon. Here's the story....

Everyone was gone to various places except grandson Nathan who went to the kitchen for food (an activity he does a lot - he's a big growing football player). He heard a goat crying. You know, the 'help me I don't know what to do' cry. Sounded like it was coming from the front (shouldn't be coming from the front). Looked out and sure enough, "Darth Vader" (little black billy) was OUT of the pasture and near the road in front.

So, Nathan goes rushing out (barefoot) to try and get Darth Vader back in the pasture before the dumb little thing gets out in the road and gets run over. Opens the big gate and tries to herd the Darth Vader towards it. Darth Vader does not cooperate, runs into the woods beside the cemetery (at the edge of my front yard).

This chasing/herding goes on for a little while with no positive effects.

Suddenly - here comes Firestar flying off the porch, into the wooded area and part way up a pine tree. Darth Vader runs past and Firestar leaps out of the pine tree onto his back. Darth Vader goes tearing out of the wooded area towards the front porch. Boots comes flying off the front porch hissing and spitting. Darth Vader takes the path of least resistence and runs through the gate back into the pasture.

The goat herding kittens retire to the front porch to bask in their success.

Wish I had a video.

Traumatic day on Friday for Frosty

2009-09-06T14:37:00.001-07:00

...but he did great. No grooming pics yet though. This is a long story, so either bear with me, or click away...

Frosty is 9 years old, a teacup toy poodle who is MY BABY, weighs 3-1/2 pounds and apparently has really "loose skin" (I didn't realize that).

Anyway, he'd gone to the same groomer since he was a teeny tiny puppy until a few months ago. She'd never had a really great personality, and Frosty had come home with shaver burns several times. I mentioned it to her (and mentioned a friend who'd taken a dog to her and had a really bad shaver burn) the last time he went there and she got really defensive and huffy and was just downright rude - AND Frosty didn't come home with a very good cut. So, I decided.... I don't need to pay someone money to be rude to me!!!

Looked around for another groomer - not too many in a small town - found a new one and thought I'd try her - can you say DISASTER!!!! Frosty came home with fleas and a bad shoulder which is still bothering him.

Soooo, still need a groomer. A new one opened up in Guntersville and I went by one day early last week and talked to her. Nice lady, very pleasant and cheery - nice clean place. Cute happy dogs there and she didn't want to keep him ALL day like the original one. Take him in at the appointment time, pick him up a couple of hours later.

His first appointment there was Friday, so I dropped him off on my way to work (10ish). She called a bit after 12noon for me to pick him up. Her voice sounded a bit strained on the phone, but I haven't talked to this lady on the phone, so....

When I got there about 10 minutes later, she was holding Frosty and when I walked in she burst into tears. Took me 5 minutes to calm her down enough to tell me what was wrong - I thought someone had died.

It seems when she was clipping Frosty, she nicked him on the right front elbow. She said he didn't cry and was really good, he had just flinched a bit. She double checked and could see the bone - she freaked. She immediately closed her shop and rushed him to the vet. My vet (she uses the same one) was closed on Friday for a long weekend, but fortunately there's another one in town, so she went there. They took them right in (emergency you know) and really thought it would be a good idea to put stitches in - but since they would have to put him to sleep to do that she declined. They did put in two staples (no idea why they could do that and not stitches, but what do I know). He was really good at the vet's too.

She's alternately telling me all this and sobbing and apologizing. She said because his skin was so loose, and he's so little it made it more difficult to cut him super short (which I'd requested).

Now, the reason I have him groomed so short is because he hates for me to brush him and he mats really easily. She didn't get to finish grooming him - no bath as the vet said not to get the staples wet.

The gist of this whole story is, he goes back next Friday to have the staples removed, then I'll take him back to her and she'll finish grooming him - AND she wants me to bring him in twice a week so SHE can comb him out and that way his fur can get longer.

Frosty doesn't seem any the worse for wear at all - he's bouncing around as usual (except for the right shoulder that's been giving him trouble from the previous groomer). I handled it okay - I wasn't mad and was really more concerned with her. IF she had been blase and defensive about it like the other groomer I would have been mad, but I've never seen anyone as upset over a mistake. Of course she paid the vet bill, and she's not charging me for the grooming or the weekly combing.

Think I've found my new groomer!!

btw - I'll post pictures after he's done next Friday :)

The cat at Shepherd's Cove

2009-09-01T16:17:00.000-07:00

Visited a friend at Shepherd's Cove today.

And in case you're wondering, Shepherd's Cove is a local Hospice facility. All of their offices are housed there and they have ten rooms for patients. Patients who can't be cared for at home, or for respite care for the caregivers. It's an absolutely gorgeous place.

Today was my first visit - it's been built since my dh died, but this is the same Hospice group that took care of him and they are WONDERFUL. I have no idea how I'd have made it without them.

Anyway, back to the facility. The patient rooms are huge and more like a room in your home than a patient room. Armoir with TV, sofa, comfy chair and double french doors that open to a private patio. There's also a 'family living room' complete with all the amenities, a small kitchen, dining area, etc. They even have a kids play room.

You can see some photos of the place here.

I was walking down the hall on my way to visit and looked over in one of the little sitting areas and what was laying on the coffee table but a HUGE cat. Now, I have cats at home, but it would take three of my cats to make this one - and on top of that he has lots of really long fur. He's gorgeous, super laid back, and refused to stand for a photo.

My picture isn't very clear, but you can get an idea of his size, those are normal size magazines on the table he's on.

Apparently he wanders the halls at will. And what a wonderful idea for patients and families to have a soft furry creature to pet.

Boy am I behind

2009-08-29T15:24:00.000-07:00

.... and really trying to get caught up.

First, I had family visit earlier in August - that put me behind.

Then I had to work for 10 days straight (well almost, I was off on Sunday/Monday). I'm way too old for this full time working. I normally work 2 days a week in my local cross stitch shop (and love it). There's just the owner and me - and would you believe she had the nerve to go on vacation to Ireland.

And, there were doctor and dentist visits - which usually take up waaay too much time. I'm trying to adjust to a new partial and having to go back frequently for adjustments. This is not fun.

Sitting in the living room one night recently, too tired to do anything and looked across at this:
Does she look like she thinks she owns the place??

Trying to get back into cyber world...

2009-08-21T06:34:00.001-07:00

... after having family visiting, working more than usual, and not feeling well.

My Texas son and his family were here for a long weekend, along with my daughter and her son. And of course, the son and his family who are living with me temporarily - boy, did we have a houseful. Three of my four kids and their families and all but one of my grandkids. Not sure if I'll ever have them all together at one time again - it's so difficult with jobs and kids activities. St. Louis son (the one who wasn't here) is planning on bringing his family around New Years, so I'm looking forward to that visit.

Here's a pic of all the ones who were here this time - the old lady in the midst is me. Otherwise though, they're a great looking bunch!!!

You know, on the rare occasion that I have a photo made of myself, I look at it and wonder "who is that". I don't feel old inside - well, I do this week - but not always. I must say though, living with teenagers again - in this day and age, REALLY does show me that I'm from a totally different generation.

Facebook fans & family

2009-08-07T07:16:00.001-07:00

I'm so excited (doesn't take much with me). I have 100 fans on my facebook page IrisOriginals and I have family coming today and Sunday.

Facebook pages much have 100 fans in order to secure their 'name' in the URL instead of the long one facebook automatically provides. Well, that can be a challenge, but thanks for my personal facebook friends and some of 'their' friends I've made it. My lovely daughter was a special help and kept asking her friends to fan me. Reached the magic number this morning. Thanks everyone. There's not a limit and I'd still LOVE to have more fans - so if you aren't already a fan, stop by and become one.

Now for the really important stuff. FAMILY! It's really a challenge for them all to be here at one time. Everyone has jobs/commitments/etc. Probably won't have them all together again till I die - maybe they'll all get to come to my funeral (though I hope that's not anytime real soon). But, I'll have three of my four children (who live all over the country) and seven of my eight grandchildren here for the weekend. Of course, there will be a fair number of bodies sleeping on the floor. I have a big house, but not quite that big.

So, the Texas contingent are hopefully already on their way - arriving tonight. Daughter and grandson from Tennessee will arrive on Sunday and youngest son (who's birthday was yesterday) and his family are currently living with me. Hopefully he's going to be doing the cooking for this crew - though he hurt his leg last night playing softball and it's quite swollen.

He's too old to be playing those games!

Dentist this morning....

2009-08-04T11:12:00.000-07:00

.... and Oncologist yesterday. And, I visited both alone! That's a major accomplishment for me.

The dentist was pretty easy. It was only for a fitting for my new partial, so they didn't really poke around or anything. Still stressful for me, but I survived and they were proud of me for coming alone.

Oncologist yesterday was okay too. Routine visit - and I've graduated to 6 months. YEA!!! Big, major goal reached.

Did a bit of shopping after each one and arrived home totally worn out. I just can't walk and shop anymore and what I need at WalMart is always on opposite ends of the store. I failed to check my list well enough and wound up not having one item, but not enough energy to walk the length of the store again.

My energy level is pretty low these days, so balance of today will be resting :)

Red Carpet Dress for Barbie

2009-08-01T09:20:00.000-07:00

...well, it's amazing. Guess they print those directions to machinery for a reason. (Did I mention, I hate reading directions.) But, I very patiently did - well, as patiently as I do anything. Took all the thread off my serger and starated from scratch. Followed each little step in the manual, checked all the settings and WALA - it's working again. I'm still not in love with it - though I love the way it finishes. They designed the darn thing for a Rocket Scientist to rethread and adjust, plus aside from the fact that the directions are written in four different languages, I'm convinced English was NOT the first language of the folks writing the manual.

Anyway, it's up and running again and I'm a much happier camper.

So, here's Barbie's new 'red carpet' dress. It fits "My Scene" and "Fashion Fever" Barbies. Took the photos in a hurry, so most didn't turn out well. Must take better photos before I list it in the shop, but I needed a break from the tedious job of working on the serger :)

I love this fabric - it's nice and sparkly ("I was going to take over the world, but I got distracted by something sparkly" - a favorite quote of mine stolen from my friend Jacki). The photos never do the really great fabric justice.

I HATE my serger

2009-07-29T07:00:00.001-07:00

Spent a good part of yesterday cutting out and sewing Barbie dresses. I do love making fancy Barbie outfits.

HOWEVER, my serger gave me a fit. I had to change the thread - hate doing that - and in the process, one thread broke which messed up the entire thing. I messed with that darned thing for over an hour and never did get it to doing what it's supposed to do. Finally left it and went with Plan B on the dress I was working on.

Thought maybe if I left it for a couple of days and then went back and started fresh re-threading and adjusting it would work. Maybe I was making a mistake and kept doing the same thing over and over. Anyway, I'm REALLY frustrated with it.

That dress turned out quite different than what I'd first envisioned though. You know, if you goof on one it's not normally a throw away, you just figure out another plan. This one wound up being a two pieced elegant gown. Not your typical elegant Barbie gown, but seeing some of the Hollywood stars and what they wear on the red carpets these days, it's right in style. I'll get a pic of it soon, too tired last night when I finished it.

Computers and Kitties

2009-07-25T13:49:00.000-07:00

My bottom is tired of sitting in this chair. Get started on a project though, and it's difficult to walk away from it. I've worked on facebook and a logo for a friend ALL day.

Well, all day except for the time I spent sitting out on the front porch petting the two new KITTIES who have showed up at my house.

Here they are relaxing with full tummies.

This is Boots (yeah, we've already named it). He/she (I can't be sure) is the shy one and really scary. I've already got it to let me pet it if I walk up to it slowly. This picture was made with it sitting right next to me.

Of course, I'm drawn to this one because it's so shy. Like I really need another cat.

The grandkids haven't been able to come up with an acceptable name for this one. It's all black with a touch of white on it's chest and way back on it's tummy. VERY friendly.

These little cuties were starving - about 2-3 months old and so cute. Here he (I think this one is a he - but again not sure) laying down - you can see the bit of white.

I don't need more kitties! I don't want to be the "old cat lady". Why do these keep appearing on my front porch??? My cats inside are having a fit.

Laura's Kitty (a grown orange and white one that showed up about a week ago that I've hopefully convinced Laura - a friend from church) to take).... isn't particularly pleased either.

And Halloween (my barn/back desk kitty) won't even come to the front porch with all these interlopers here.

Quiet Day

2009-07-23T16:34:00.001-07:00

But sometimes those are nice.

I have a "Stitch Group" that meets at my house on Thursday afternoons - so that was my afternoon today. We're just a bunch of ladies (mostly from my church) who use cross stitch as an excuse to get together and eat goodies :)

Actually, there are only a couple of us who do cross stitch. One crochets and/or quilts, one does needlepoint, one does embroidery, and one of the younger gals (who doesn't come all the time) just comes for the fellowship.

We always have goodies - unfortunately, our main/best cook was out of town today, so we had to make do with store bought, except for some pretty good dip one lady brought.

It's a great time to just relax and fellowship. And, it makes me sit down and relax for an entire afternoon.

Frosty LOVES Stitch the Group ladies and knows exactly when it's time for me to put the coffee on. He begs for treats shamelessly, and is always rewarded with some.

Still tweaking...

2009-07-22T14:06:00.000-07:00

...the new website Iris Originals - takes awhile for me to think of everything that needs to be done, links on other sites changed, etc. But, for the most part, I believe it's okay. I'm pleased with the look.

It's lovely and cool in Alabama - has been for several days - thought it was going to return to being July, but not yet. I love it! There will be plenty of hot left I'm sure.

New website

2009-07-20T11:39:00.000-07:00

Well, I got a bug in my bonnet for a new website - really needed an 'umbrella' site as my list is growing steadly. Someone asks me for my website and I can't very well spout off half dozen names. SO... Iris Originals is here and live - or will be when GoDaddy figures out I'm not forwarding the name to my Etsy shop anymore. Oh, I still have the Etsy shop, it's one the links on the new site.

Actually, I got started thinking about this because my grandson asked me to advertise in their football program - and again, I didn't want to list 6 or 7 websites. Of course, once I got the idea in my head, I couldn't just wait till I actually had the time to work on it (of course, it might never have gotten done if I'd done that).

Actually, I'm still tweaking, but "I" really like the look. Check it out and let me know what you think.

What a day -

2009-07-18T16:32:00.000-07:00

I've been fighting with facebook all day long. Finally got a business page set up, but had great difficulty getting it to do what I wanted it to do, or see what I wanted to see (though I must admit, part of that was my fault).

I should have walked away sooner.

But, it's there and I'd love for YOU to become a fan (box on the right).

Went to a local volunteer fire department open house this afternoon. I do their website and they are the owners of a brand spanking new truck (from a Grant), so they were anxious to show it off.

Well rats...

2009-07-14T14:21:00.001-07:00

... the Walmart dishes won't work either. Colors are fine - size is NOT. Good thing I only bought the ones above to test. They'll go back.

I cannot believe some idiot designed dishes that will not fit a dishwasher. Am I the only one this is happening to. It seems all the "new" dinner plates are huge.

I've finally found a Pfalzgraff pattern with a smaller square dinner plate. The price is actually pretty comparable to the Walmart ones, I just have to pay shipping - not horrendous, but I'm always looking for free shipping when I shop online.

Speaking of online shipping. Walmart at least allows you to have an item shipped to the store where you pick it up and shipping is free. Target, on the other hand, charges an arm and leg, no store pickup for them. Not that I was a huge Target fan anyway, but I surely won't be shopping with them now.

Red dinnerware

2009-07-11T17:14:00.000-07:00

... is almost impossible to find. At least red dinnerware that "I" like.

Maybe I'm just too picky, or maybe I'm too cheap (or maybe both).

I painted my kitchen last year - a light minty green. Chose the color to go with a red garbage can I bought. Added more red accessories and love my red & light green kitchen.

I've had the same dinnerware for a hundred years - Pfalzgraff "Village" - and I have enough of it to feed Guntersville. But, I'm sick of it - and it does nothing for my lovely kitchen.

My DIL gave me two really pretty little bowls from a set of dinnerware at Kohls. I love them. However, the dinnerware itself is a bit pricy (for my budget) and the plates are those huge new ones that won't fit in my dishwasher. Why do they make plates too big to fit in dishwashers? Obviously a man designed that.

So, I thought - I'll get a solid red and get some of the little bowls as accents. Not nearly as easy as it sounds. I haven't found a red that I can afford and like at the same time.

I found a set at WalMart that I could live with, though the red is a bit darker. There's also a green - which is also a big darker, but they would probably work. However, the plates are square - and I'm not a big fan of square plates.

We visited "Old Time Pottery" in Madison today - thinking they might have something red, and I actually found a starter set that I liked and was willing to pay for. However, they only had ONE, and service for four at my house just doesn't cut it.

I've wasted waay too much time searching online. Found the pottery set online, but shipping was as much as the dinnerware - so not going there.

I'm frustrated!

Family is home....

2009-07-10T06:41:00.000-07:00

.... and I missed them.

I'd definitely gotten used to living alone before they came, but with 4 our of 5 gone for several days (and the one left home is the quiet one), I missed them. I wasn't lonely - I'm fine alone - but I did miss them.

Off to work today - nothing exciting happening.

I don't eat enough...

2009-07-08T18:34:00.000-07:00

....at least that's what my grandson thinks.

My son & his family are staying with me till they can get their house situated.

Son, his wife, oldest grandson and granddaughter are at a Pastor's conference (they've been gone since early Monday morning). Middle son (15) is home with me since he has both football and basketball practice.

He just decided I haven't been eating enough in his parents absence and he's very concerned about me.

Now, I've lived alone since my DH died in 2005. I've taken care of myself, survived breast cancer and fed myself. I haven't always eaten on a regular schedule and almost never cook anymore (did I mention, I hate to cook). However, I've managed so far. But, he's concerned that I haven't had enough protein (and I probably haven't, but I'm not telling him that).

I suspect his mother (my sweet DIL) told him to keep an eye on me and make sure I eat enough as she's always concerned about my eating habits.

It's really sweet that he's concerned. He offered to cook me some eggs so I could have protein. I don't really want eggs, I don't really want food right now.

I do appreciate his concern, but I've decided my kids and grandkids are getting awfully pushy in my old age.

It's Monday

2009-07-06T07:54:00.000-07:00

.... and I had a lovely Independance Day Holiday weekend.

My oldest son came down from St. Louis and spent 3 days with me - mostly working outside (I usually have a list for him), but visiting a bit more since he had a brother and two nephews who could help with the big outside projects.

They got a bunch of fence taken up that I wanted gone, and the gutters cleaned trash and little trees that were growing there.

Unfortunately his family didn't get to come this time - short trip and grandson was headed to scout camp on Sunday.

DIL who's living here cooked us a great Independance Day dinner (with the help of oldest grandson). Fried fish, hush puppies, french fries, fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocados. I ate waay too much.

One son and granddaughter went down the mountain to see fireworks on the lake. I stayed home and visited with out of town son.

She was going to fix blackberry cobbler for dessert but we were all way too full, so she made it yesterday afternoon instead. Hot from the oven, topped with Blue Bell vanilla ice cream. It just doesn't get any better than that.

The only thing that would have made the weekend any better would have been having the balance of my family here - but I just appreciate those that were here.

Happy Birthday America

2009-07-04T13:54:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning thinking of all the things we have to be thankful for in America. Yeah - we moan and groan and complain - but in reality, we have it pretty good.

That said - we should never take our freedoms for granted. We've lost many of of our freedoms - and probably will lose more as our country caters to the minority instead of the majority.

Another good reminder - our great country was founded on Christian principals and our forefathers weren't ashamed to be known to be Christians. I hope I can follow their example.

Such a small world we live in

2009-07-02T11:39:00.001-07:00

... and it shrinks every day.

I've been online friends with a sweet lady in England (Jayne)for a good number of years. She sells lovely vintage type stuff online shop. A couple of days ago she posted on her blog about selling a selection of vintage china cups & saucers to a lady in the USA as she was planning a tea party for her sweet daughter's 3rd birthday. The nice lady (Tammy) had sent Jayne some photos and given her permission to post them on her blog.

I read Jayne's blog faithfully so I saw the absolutely adorable photos of a little girl's dress up tea party, and posted a comment.

Now, this tea party reminded me of little girls of long ago - you need to go and see the photos if you haven't already - and those little girls look like they're having so much fun.

Okay, I'm finally getting to the reason for it being such a small world. I got an email from Tammy this morning (she saw my comment on Jayne's blog) and she (Tammy) only lives about 40 miles from me (here in north Alabama) and her parents (he was the butler) are only about 30 miles.

She said the girls had a great time and particularly seemed to enjoy being waited on by a grown up butler (Tammy's step-dad who also had a great time), and stayed at the tables longer than expected.

Yes, it IS a small world!!!

Strange day...

2009-07-01T11:52:00.000-07:00

... or it seems so anyway. I'm used to going to work on most Wednesdays and while I have PLENTY to do around here, I've kinda been at loose ends because my week is now totally different.

Not complaining - it's been kinda nice getting caught up on some 'desk stuff' and doing some online researching that I've been wanting to do. It's just strange for me.

Ariel seems to be feeling better - enough to complain about being bored. Her Dad told her she should have been sick when he was a little boy - 3 snowy TV channels with soap operas in the afternoon and poor quality AC. Then he said she was really lucky she wasn't sick when Gram (that's me) was a little girl - we just lay in the bed and sweated (actually, that's a pretty close description). Ariel wasn't impressed.

I'm still having a bit of a sore throat, though it may well be sinus. I'm taking the preventive meds and staying away from the rest of the family.

Sick granddaughter turned into worse sick...

2009-06-30T15:25:00.001-07:00

... and turned out to be swine flu. The good news is the doctor thinks we've caught it in the 'magic window' where the antiviral medication (Tamiflu) is effective.

The bad news is that the entire family, and our entire church family have been exposed.

The other bad news is that I've been exposed and because I'm older than dirt and have medical issues, I have to take the medication also (as a preventive - and hopefully it will work). Kinda expensive stuff - but better than the flu I guess. And if I do get it, hopefully the medication will make it a lighter case.

[sigh] It's always something - but God's in charge of it all, or He's not in charge at all - so my trust is in Him!

Frosty and stuff...

2009-06-29T10:58:00.000-07:00

Well, Frosty went back to the vet this AM for a check on his shoulder and leg. He's better, but still not 100%. She wants him to stay on the anti-inflamatory meds until they're finished and then see how he does. His age isn't in his favor at this point, but she said his size actually is. He doesn't have much weight to carry around on those tiny little legs.

My wonderful daughter is here for a few days with another grandson - so I REALLY have a houseful of teenagers.

Granddaughter came home from Youth camp sick. She went to basketball practice this am, but is now in bed with fever. We were going to a friend's pool this afternoon - but she'll be staying in bed.

Rain storm last night did cool us off a little. Think we'll only be in the 80s today - YEA!

New Software and Dentist

2009-06-25T07:29:00.000-07:00

No, they have absolutely nothing to do with each other.

But, once again I'm having to learn new software :-( One of my least favorite things to do. It's a free graphics program - GIMP - and I think I'm really going to like it. I actually completed a tutorial yesterday (imagine - me, reading directions and following a tutorial!). It's not nearly great, but that's how I created my new profile picture and it is really much easier than PSP7 - so there, PSP!!!

Yesterday I was "OUT" all day. It was the dreaded dentist. About my absolute least favorite thing to do - Dentist appointment was 8:30AM with 'concious sedation'. Which meant that I took Valium the night before before bed and the Halcoin as soon as I got up. Couldn't drive for 24 hours and all these meds were supposed to make me relaxed - NOT!!! I wasn't able to get to sleep till 4AM on Thursday and I was definitely not relaxed when we arrived at the dentist. They gave me another Halcoin (crushed, under my tongue) and eventually I relaxed a little.

I will say I don't remember a lot about the visit (which is really good). And the next appointment (in July) will double the meds, so hopefully will be better - especially since they'll be doing a LOT more at that trip.

It's been forever since I've been to the dentist - only go when it's absolutely necessary - but after this will "try" and maintain regular visits as I'd like to keep what teeth I have left. I will say this dentist and assistants are the best I've ever been to. April (his assistant - not sure of her title) is an absolute jewel and does her very best to make me feel comfortable.

Today is Frosty's birthday...

2009-06-23T06:33:00.000-07:00

Doesn't seem possible. My little furbaby is 9 years old. He doesn't act 'old' - or even middle age. I've Googled dog ages and find various formulas putting him between 49 and 52 years old by human years. He's tiny (3-1/2 pounds) and I'm praying he lives MUCH, MUCH longer.

Thought I'd share some pictures.... I'd lost my last poodle (a miniature) to heart disease when he was 15 and Chuck (dh) knew I'd always wanted a tiny teacup toy poodle. He wasn't totally enthusiastic because he was afraid he'd step on him or hurt him. But... he found this little sweetheart. I wasn't sure I was ready for another dog, so we just went to "look". Frosty came home in my lap and he hasn't been far from there ever since. And he still reminds me of Chuck's love :-)

These two were made on 8/25/00 - a day or two after we brought him home.

He's a big boy of one year old here.

This is his only 'professional' picture and he not only needed a haircut, but he was definitely less than pleased about not being right next to me.

Here he is running outside in 2006. He thinks he's a farm dog and loves to run in the field after Belle (Chuck's big 55 pound red setter). I have to watch him really closely when I take him out there or he'd follow her all the way to the back of the pasture.
And, Frosty's a working dog too. I work two days a week in a local cross stitch shop and Frosty goes with me. We put a sign in the window "Frosty is in". He's the official greeter and watch dog and takes his job seriously. He knows the mornings we're getting ready to go to work and is so excited.

And here's my baby today. Isn't that the sweetest face you've ever seen.

Unfortunately Frosty is also a 'handicapped' dog. His back left leg is fused at the joint. Doesn't slow him down. In retrospect, I think the breeder was more of a puppy mill and probably doing a lot of inbreeding. He's got the best personality though and is definitely my sweetheart.

When Chuck was so sick, he and Belle both stayed on the bed close to him - it's the only time Frosty has intentionally left my side for another. And, when I was going through chemo, he stuck to me like velcro. He's such a blessing in my life.

He's having difficulty with his right front leg at the moment. We went to a new groomer (BAD decision) and he's been having trouble ever since with his leg/shoulder - and he came home with fleas :-( Of course, that required a vet visit - he's on anti-inflamatories for 10 days and then back for xrays if it's not better. She said the joint was popping in and out and she thinks his shoulder was either dislocated or certainly seriously bruised. He's supposed to be confined to "no jumping or stairs"... which is really tricky with Frosty as he's a 'jumper'. I'm carrying him down the stairs outside (down is worse than up) and trying to keep him from jumping down from chairs, etc. He's such an active little fellow and definitely "my baby".

Computers.... again

2009-06-22T13:55:00.000-07:00

Well, I've tweaked, scanned, fixed, and it seems to be running better, so I'll put off the reformat till I have a little more time (or am more in the mood). I really need to clean a bunch of stuff off here, my old hard drive is filling up. I'd love a shiny new computer, but just can't justify the cost as long as this one is plugging along.

I'm so annoyed with Paint Shop Pro though. I'm using PSP7 and have been since it first came out. Not going to buy an upgrade. It's a memory hog, but has worked pretty well till the last couple of weeks. I was editing a massive number of photos and it locked up (not unusual). But since then, every time I open it, it opens about 12 of those old photos (that I've since deleted). and I can't do anything till I get rid of them. NOW, it won't open at all. I've uninstalled and reinstalled, repaired, and all of the above again. Won't open!

I don't really need it for editing photos, I'm now using Picasa3 which I REALLY like. However, I do need something to create graphics in. SO, guess that's my next project (since I don't have anything else to do).

Aren't Computers Wonderful???

2009-06-21T17:13:00.000-07:00

...well, sometimes anyway. Mine is not behaving well and I really don't have the time to do a reformat, but it may come to that. Probably clear out a lot of junk that I don't need - and it always gets some I forget that's not junk.

We lost power for 2 hours in the night last night and while it was having a few problems before, it has gotten worse. So, that may be my tomorrow's project :-(

My new Blog

2009-06-20T09:43:00.000-07:00

I have some great online friends who have discussed blogging a lot lately. Well, I already had a couple of blogs - but they really started out as "speciality blogs" and I decided I wanted one where I could put all sorts of things - so here we are with "All Things Iris".

I got the idea for the links at the top from Ask the Ebay Queen, but she did hers with Wordpress and while I've done that before, I just didn't have the energy at this point... so here we are on blogspot and while all of mine look different - trust me, they're all mine.

I think some of my other friends are going to follow in her footsteps, so I'll have some links to their new blogs soon.

About Me

2000-01-01T13:16:00.000-08:00

~ Well, I truly am older than dirt. I have wonderful kids, grandkids and furkids - and a fantastic church family. My little furbaby "Frosty" (teacup toy poodle) is usually stuck to me like velcro and he's such a joy in my life.

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in February of 2007 and am so far a survivor - see Me and Breast Cancer

I have several online businesses which can be reached here and I really enjoy the challenge of designing websites.

I work part time at my local counted cross stitch shop and since cross stitch is one of my loves, it's always fun to see what the latest thing out is.

I work as Administrative Assistant at my church and have a wonderfully supportive church family who really kept me going when I was doing chemo and treatments.

I turned one of my hobbies into a small business when I went back to making elegant Barbie ball gowns.

I've gotten involved with some family history and genealogy in the last few years - seems that's more interesting as you're reaching the end of life than it was towards the beginning.

I've been retired for a number of years, but somehow manage to stay busier than I was when I worked (or at least it seems that way).

Now, I suspect that's way more than you ever wanted to know, but I hope you'll stick around, read my blog, and check out my other blogs as well.