Friday, June 5, 2009

Thursday

Thursday was a special day. First, I had an excellent class--seven wonderful ladies learned to rotary cut, precision machine piece and press while working on Goose in the Pond blocks. A wide range of skill levels, but each student brought a willingness to learn. One student had many "aha" moments--where she learned why some of her previous projects did not go together as well as they might have.

Then, it was off to dinner with my bestest best friend, Cindy. We were actually celebrating her birthday--the one that was officially August 2008! We never have been timely with celebrating anything--preferring to draw out the suspense. We have also decreed that we do not officially turn another year older until we celebrate together. Hey, it works for us! We had a great time--it is always so far between visits--where does the time go?

To cap off this banner day, when I got home there was a sundog! Usually by the time I can get my camera out it has disappeared, but this time I was able to document it! Sorry the pictures are separated, but here is the detail shot and at the end of the blog is the wide angle shot. Sundogs are usually a sign of a change in weather--and those of us who realize we need it are hoping it means rain. We are very dry and what sprinkles we are getting are definitely not enough.
I had promised in the last post to share with you my auction finds. I had to wait through the entire auction for these pieces to come up. I had bought nothing else so I was determined to win. And, I had asked for my lucky number - 13 - so I was sure they would be mine!

Another woman mistakenly thought these pink beauties would ultimately be hers. She was wrong! Even the auctioneer said that I was very determined! The first picture shows the tiny little whatever it is!!?? It is 2.25 inches high and 4 inches from handle tip to handle tip. It is perfect.
Although they do not go together this dish was sold with the whatever it is. It too is pristine and a slightly darker shade of pink. I'm not sure if Anne at Bunny Hill reads my blog, but I bet she will be "pink" with envy if she sees these--she loves all things pink!

I was thrilled to come away the winner.
Okay, guess that's about it for this time. I'll leave you with the last picture of the sundog. Yes, Thursday was a wonderful day. And, come to think of it, the auction took place LAST Thursday! What a rush! Remember to smile randomly--it makes people wonder what you are up to!
Hugs and good night and sweet dreams of whatever makes your heart sing!
Sharon

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

June

June is here. A month for weddings, graduations, Father's Day and probably many more celebrations. The lilacs are on their last legs, but the poppies are unfurling their beautiful blossoms as we speak.

The sky has been so spectacular the last few weeks. We seem to alternate between sunny, cloudless skies and wind-tossed, stormy, cloudy skies. I know this is not a popular view, but I really enjoy the cloudy, chillier days. It's more pleasant to work outside without sweating profusely and swatting all manner of insects. Or I can choose to huddle up in my sewing rooms with my audio books and Lynnie sleeping at my feet. When it gets hot, the only choice for me is to turn the air conditioner on the coldest setting and sit in front of it! At least it keeps me quilting!

My columbine was especially pretty this year. Here are a couple pics for you to enjoy.



I'm busy designing and stitching new samples for the fall--yes, I said fall, even though it isn't officially summer yet. Everything takes longer than I expect, but part of that is because I am trying to find a better balance between work and play. For the past five years (and even before that), I have concentrated on work. But all work and no play makes Sharon a very dull and uninteresting girl. Unfortunately, I seem to swing between all work and all play--I never have been a half-way person about anything.
I am reading Robbi Joy Eklow's new book, The Goddess of the Last Minute. It is absolutely divine! I have laughed over some of the stuff, found great tips for storage and new reading materials to search for. Do yourself a favor and get a copy.
Well, it's time to finish the ironing. When next I return I will have pics of my recent auction acquisitions. Til then, remember how special you are--I have so decreed it--make it sew, Number One! (That's a partial Star Trek TNG reference--hee hee.)
Hugs!
Sharon


Monday, May 25, 2009

Thank You to All!

Without soldiers where would we be? As we celebrate Memorial Day, let us take a moment to give thanks to all the soldiers who have fallen and to say a special prayer to keep those presently serving safe. About a year ago, one of our local papers asked for pictures of veterans to put in a special addition. When we started collecting the pictures, it was amazing just how many of our family had served. In just my immediate family, we have my father, one brother, two cousins, and three uncles. My husband also served in both Korea and Vietnam.

This morning my mom and I went to the local nursing home and helped take the residents outside for the parade. I also escorted one Vietnam vet to the reading of the names of fallen comrades. A parade, 21 gun salute and the laying of the wreath--very moving. And then two fighter jets did a fly-by. It's so easy to forget what our freedom costs. For today, let's all remember.


Enjoy this beautiful day! In God We Trust.
Hugs!
Sharon