Slip Slidin' Away

 what a lovely morning. It is not yet to warm to enjoy the garden. the temperature at the moment is only 79 and Murphy and I sat outside for a few minutes. Of course it is only 7am.

There is almost not part of my delicate body that is not hurting...and it is not just the arthritis. On Tuesday just finishing my shower.... guess where this is going....I stood from the built in seat in the shower to hang the shower head back in holder and all of a sudden.... yes down I went. Twisting and turning in hopes of getting up without breaking anything or hitting my head. I was alone in the house except for Murphy who was not attempting to come to my rescue. I think my yelling caused him to remain outside the bathroom. Finally got my aerobics under control and got out to find Murphy finally showing some concern. Actually he was trying to take the towel away...loves to grab towels. When Lisa returned home from the fitness center, she wanted to show me a good exercise for me to do. While demonstrating it I began to think she might want me to try so I told her about my shower exercise. I did not feel anything to bad so we left for an errand and while out we bought me a non slip bath mat. Didn't I mention that there was no mat in the tub? I had planned not to tell Alan..... but of course Lisa did. Yesterday was spent literally in bed and slathering Voltaren gel over most of my body. Still feel like there was a fight which I lost. Very thankful nothing is broken. i am thinking of making a bubble-wrap suit.

If you follow my blog you know that the Arizona heat is on...has been in the triple digits reaching up to 118. What? Yes that is a ball in the fridge. Murphy left it outside and when I went to get it it was mushy...not hard as a rock like it should be. It was melting! So into the fridge for 20 minutes hoping it would firm up. Murphy was not amused and waited by the fridge for it to be returned to him. He loves this ball that makes sounds when pushed and shaken. This is a nutty house for sure. 

Monday (June 21st) marked the 4th anniversary of not having Dennis in my life. It still is difficult, some days more than others. I was so lucky to have spent 48 years with my favorite person in the whole world. I am thankful for the people who have been there for me in the early days and those that followed. Besides family there was Glenda and Don and Dianna and Bobby and Robyn and Dave. Lucky for having friends like them.

Today will be another do nothing day.... more Voltaren and plenty of iced water. Back to resting my back...glad you stopped by to visit. thank you for your kind words and thank you for your friendship.

Edited: I really need to give a shout out to all my dear blogging friends who faithfully send good thoughts. They are  wonderful support group.

H E L L O out there!

Goodness what happened? An entire week has passed me by. Things are pretty good around here. We three are well and no signs of virus. The weather has been hot, very hot....usual in the mid to upper 100s with one day at 111. This morning is very cloudy but no rain in sight. Are we going to have a Monsoon season or what!? We really need the rain.

Back on May 20th I showed you this bulletin board.... it was just hung in the garden. Since then it has my name (the one that Denny called me) and I added garden tools. Yes, I know. They are just plastic but since I no longer need to care for the garden ...... they add a burst of color! Oh the wine bottle.....always wine at the ready around here. Let me explain how special this peg board is to me. First the wood came from a potting work table that was Dennis'. We were no longer going to use it and it need some attention after 16 years of Arizona heat. Lisa and Alan figured a way to keep it around. The made this from the wood and then named it as Graz which is what Dennis called me (an Italian form of Grace). Each day I pass it and think of all the plants Dennis potted..... good thoughts.
I should tell you about The Brother Alan..... he has become a landscaper, a demolition dude, a gardener, an irrigation installer, an electrician and a plumber. Yes indeed, I am very proud of Alan for all that he has learned and accomplished since moving here 9 months ago. Before Alan coming out here you will remember that Don and Bobby were always here to help. To teach me the basics. Now I sit back and offer my opinion when asked (sometimes when not!). Alan learns what and how to get things done. Once again I am being spoiled by Alan and Lisa.

Are you wondering what I have been doing? Here is the large window (almost to the ceiling and down to the floor) at the end of my bedroom. It is a great source of light as my sewing table is here. For some time I have wanted to make a quilt with my many....over 100 handkerchiefs. Then along came Murphy who loves to relax and nap on my bed. No way would I want him on the quilt. Then I though about making it into a wall hanging for behind my bed. All of a sudden I though of the window. Still allows plenty of light while looking pretty.  Maybe a wall hanging is still in the future. 
I do hope all of you and your families are doing okay with this virus. We maintain masks at all times out. Alan and Lisa wear theirs all day at work. I hardly go any place but when I do, I wear a mask. I have made Lisa several so she is a fashion statement at Safeway. Alan and I are proud of Lisa...she has been training for more than the cashier job. This past week she has been a Front end Supervisor.
Happy to chat with you today especially since Murphy is ignoring me! Thank you for your good wishes and for your kind thoughts. Thank you for your friendship.

What a year!

I am sending good wishes for a wonderful New Year to all of you and your families. Keeping positive thoughts for 2020.
This has been a tough year for me... I did not want to admit that I was depressed but finally a melt down and there it is. I began to feel better once I started a med and then....and then along came Murphy. He has been like a whirlwind of love. Murphy and I walk 3 times a day and Alan added the pedometer app to my phone and I track my steps. We walk a quarter mile each time out... it certainly adds up. I am wearing slacks that I could not wear...so loosing some ponds is good. Murphy stays with me at night and we are sleeping much better. My blood [pressure is slowly coming down. Having Alan and Lisa here has also been great. We have melded our home décor and this year Lisa put her ornaments on the tree...here are a few...

This gal needs a new hairdo

This one is looking for a modeling job

Poor gal is missing an eye

We had fun adding and sharing memories for each one

Last night we went out for pre NY Eve dinner...

The Angry Crab just opened a few miles from us...Alan ordered the Boiled in a bag and served in a bucket, Alaskan King Crab.... he ate it all. The food was delicious... the appetizers were great. A new place for us to go often.

Lisa and I picked out the fabric for the French Roses runner.... as soon as we put away Christmas stuff which we will start in a few days we will start it.

Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and celebrated New Year's Eve safely. We are staying in...shrimp is just out of the boil and cooling! Champagne has already been poured. I hardly think I will see midnight! Tomorrow will be a stay at home relaxing day...the first day of a new year and new beginnings. Murphy met Dianna and Bobby when they stopped by yesterday. A sad note; Bobby's cat of 16 years, Moochie,  passed away. She was a one person cat and that person was Bobby. He is missing her sitting with him in the morning and greeting him when he comes in from work. Keep a special thought for my dear friend. I am happy to say that Murphy brought out a smile from Bobby!

Glad you took time to visit. Thank you for your kind words and for your friendship.

Santa and his Burro

I am getting tired of this heat…. I am ready for the below 100s they say we will have next week.... feeling will be believing. We are still in the excessive heat warning time frame. I know, there are those in hurricane path and heavy rains, but I am here and this is what Arizona is like until October-ish. For me, it means waking with a light headache most days and not wanting to go anywhere. A lazy kind of feeling.
But.... Santa is finished!

Isn't he adorable… and the burro too.  Love all the beads. Of course I did make some changes. 

Instead of long and short stitches on the mane and brow and tail, I made fringe and fluff. I think he looks better this way. Santa has a belt and buckle of silver beads.

The sleeve and bottom of the jacket I also made fringe instead of the long and short stitches. On the cactus, I omitted the long stitches which would be the prickly part … Love the bead flower. Most of the trimming of the perforated paper is done but I will tweak it once I add the felt backing and a loop to hang him on the tree. Just look at those fancy boots!

Now I will think about what is next.  I do know that what will be soon is The Brother Alan and Lisa arriving around the 3rd week of October.... you did remember right? Still need to get a few things ready before they arrive.... making room for storage they will need.  Their room is set and closet half full already. They left clothes each time they came out! The moving pod will arrive when they do and Bobby offered to help Alan unload. Dianna, Lisa and I will drink iced tea and supervise. We will make a party out of it. Since we will need to put a few things on the lanai until we move things inside around, I will be sure to get that all sparkling clean. The weather should be cooler by then too. 

Well, on to chores; swishing and fluffing and the Shark will swim around the abode. So glad we chatted. Thank you for your kind words and for your friendship.
Asking a favor…. please keep Dianna's real sister Debbie in your thoughts as she is not feeling well at this time.

Spam, mittens and a perch

Finally got out to the garden yesterday morning as the temp was only 87and the sun had not filled the garden yet. I managed to sweep most of the debris and rake back the rocks around the fountain. Since the leak  issued is solved it was time to do so. I even trimmed a little but all of that is on the ground drying out and this weekend I will try to finish. Meantime, the hummer has found a new place to perch....

This are the bells that Bobby and Dianna gave me last Christmas and it hangs in the lanai. A couple of times when the breeze caught it and it swayed, the little guy had to hang on! As hot as it is, the lanai is just a bit cooler than the garden but more importantly it is all shade.
The question I have.... how do I keep a regular email out of the Spam folder?! The last couple of days my emails from DebbieB have been going into that folder. We email everyday and this is the first time it is happening and I have no idea how to correct it. So, now some of my emails are going to outer space...unable to deliver…and some emails are coming in the Spam folder. Last week Dave came across the courtyard to re-boot the router and at least my tablet is running better, and now I will make it  monthly maintenance to do.

As you can see, I have worked on Santa and his burro. He now has mittens and I am adding the beads as I go along. I am loving this project! More on the burro today.
I have the star fabric strips ready to press and then weave also for today...keeping busy since outdoors is out of the question. Vicki and I were to meet this week for lunch but she is not feeling well so that is on hold. I am of now to create....
Glad to chat with you. Thank you for your kind words ad for your friendship.

I'm on a "watch list"...again

This is not the first time I have been on a watch list...the other is when we first moved here to Arizona.... and it was the bank's fault that I was being investigated for bank fraud----but that is another story.
Where did this week disappear to? I blinked and it was Friday!  To be accurate it is Friday afternoon! It is not that I have been on vacation...I only wish I were. Let's see, on Saturday I spent time with Diana and then Bobby took us out for Mexican dinner. Sunday there was a visit from Robyn who brought delicious cookies to have with our coffee and moving to Wednesday and Glenda came by for morning coffee. Oh and there was the visit with the Opthmologist on Tuesday. Busy me. The doctor has me on a watch list for the very suspicious glaucoma diagnosis. For now we are just monitoring. I am okay with that.... for now.
The beading has been keeping me busy... still cannot show you as it is a gift. I need to order some beads to make the horse and paw print pods. They will eventually be gifts too. You may be asking why not show the one I am working on? Well, the person who will be getting it will know because it is very obvious. Anyway, In the meantime I will be working on the Mill Hill Southwest Santa in between.

Robyn thought these 2 fabrics would be a nice origami star so I will be making that this weekend.  This heat and humidity has made me lazy to get out and drive.  Have I mentioned that I am still driving on the full tank of gas that The Brother Alan put in the car before they left at the end of May? Finally at a half tank! What can I say. You do remember that The Brother and Lisa will be here for good by the beginning of October. Almost have a date, and then the countdown will really begin. Preparations on both ends are being taken care of.
At the moment, the computer keyboard is acting up.... just about ready for throwing it out and of course my tablet is misbehaving. Seems electronics only last 3 years or so then it is replacement time.
Well, my friends, no need to worry about me...thank you for your caring emails. Happy you took the time to visit. Thank you for your kind words and friendship.

Hot town......

… summer in the city desert...… here it is  almost 6am and it is 93 and heading to 111 or more. At the moment it is all cloudy. Yesterday was 113 and stifling. Severe heat advisories again today, no problem, for me as I do not plan to leave the abode. Woke at 1 am so by later today I will need a nap!I did go out yesterday. I went to visit with Diana and  when Bobby came home from work he took us out to dinner. Very good Mexican fare. As always I enjoy being in their company. Later this morning, Robyn...from across the courtyard will be joining me for coffee and.

I can not show you my current beaded pod project...I have one taco done, now for the next two.… but this Southwest design is on the to do next. I will change the shade of blue and the red for other colors keeping the stallion black. So glad I am able to bead again. I do stop and rest my hand and so far so good. Still feeling the inflammation in the thumb/wrist area. The majority of the swelling has disappeared. It is what it is.
There is swishing at the moment in h laundry area with another to follow but that is the extent of household duties for me today. Still waiting for the Faeries to appear.
Soon I will be beading and watching Le Tour de France... sad to say that today is the last day. I know the riders are happy but I will miss it. This year there have been strange happenings due to weather and several riders crashing. I will be looking for another sport to watch. Not big on watching baseball... too slow for me.
So, it has been nice to have you visit today. Thank you for your kind words and for your friendship.

Let the water flow!

Yesterday was hot. The sun was very bright and did I mention hot? I was so frustrated with the irrigation. I went out to the garden several times and some of my comments directed  to the system … well, let's just say were not very nice. One thing for sure is, it is a good thing that I did notice that the plants were not getting watered in this heat. They can be a bit pricey to replace. Nothing I tried was fixing the issue. All of a sudden, at 4 PM it was as if my mind began to work. I literally ran out through the lanai and to the Pond Garden... that is what I call it. I opened the control box and flipped the switch. No I mean I really did flip the switch. Somehow it was off. It controls the irrigation system. Voila! Let the water flow. Am I good or what. Yes I am! Do I sound boastful? Sorry but I feel pretty good about now. I have become knowledgeable on so many things that I had no or only limit knowledge of. I can do many things that were so impossible before.  Yes, I learned a lot with the help of Don who taught me how to use the electric screw driver and the drill correctly, how to hang a shelf and how to install the irrigation and how to properly find the studs  in the garage and once found how I should hang the wall rack. With the help of Bobby I was able to have my kitchen counter assembled and fit my new fridge in it's spot and have my kitchen lights changed. Both of these friends always took the time to explain and patience to answer my questions so I could learn and understand. Today I feel capable of doing quite a lot. The anniversary of My Denny's passing is just 20 days away.... 2 years. Earlier today I received a Facebook comment form my aunt; 

 Rose Marie Della Ventura Grace Piccirilli Horton You've done a great job. Denny would be very proud of you. 

Yes indeed. He would be proud. He worried so much about his leaving me knowing how dependent I was on him. I am a stronger person now. Maybe the blood pressure will start to return to normal and the headaches will disappear. There is no stopping me now! 
I am happy to have you drop by. Thank you for your kind words and for your friendship. Thank you Aunt Rose Marie for always encouraging me from afar. 

The week that was....

The morning is beginning a bit cool but the entire past week has been almost 20 degrees cooler than normal. Does it mean that we will really heat up soon? It won't be long and the Monsoon season will arrive and dust storms and rain will be expected and with it comes the heat.
Today is the departure day for The Brother Alan and Lisa. A lot has been accomplished and a few hiccups along the way.... nothing that adjustments can not help.

Look at my Plumeria...the "arm" has sprouted leaves! I have high hopes for this plant. I am hoping the Garden Faeries will kiss this plant for me. I had to move it with all the changes for the Pond Garden... and it seems to be liking this spot and having the irrigation added.

The Pond garden is still a work in progress..... Yesterday Alan painted the wrought iron planter a turquoise color that Lisa wanted. I had Alan put the ladder back there and then I mention earlier to Lisa about moving the sun to the area and Alan did. I need to work on the planting...needs something more and I will work on it before the heat of the summer does arrive. This morning I watched as a hummingbird took a shower then a bath in the fountain! Not wanting to startle him, I did not rush to get the camera. That makes it all worth the work.
Yesterday Dianna and Bobby finally got to meet Alan and Lisa! Every time Alan is here, they are away. We had a nice lunch sitting out in the lanai. It was simple; Italian antipasto, tossed salad, various add-ins, fresh bread for sandwiches (store bought) and cantaloupe wrapped in prosciutto as well as plain and strawberries followed by custard pie.
Today is sis Lynowl's birthday. Of course with all goings on this week, the package is still sitting on the sidebar in the kitchen! I will make it to the post office today for sure. I did not want to mail it too early because she would have opened it before today and now it will be late.
It has been nice chatting with you but my coffee awaits. Thank you for your kind words and for your friendship.

My left leg......

Happy to have the weekend gone. The weather was delightful, very warm and sunny. We entered a cool down to the 80s yesterday. In this early morning the chimes are singing loudly in the darkness. Caught a glimpse of the Dove kids  while the parent was off nest...

It is beginning too get a little crowded up there. They now have feathers so it will not be too long before they try them out. Never a sound from them unlike other baby birds.
I have been busy with beading...

Russian Leaves Earrings finished; dipped and dried. The beads have  a high shine and a green tinge to them. I also tried without success to learn another beaded earring. I plan to continue trying until I get it! Getting lots of encouragement from the Facebook beading group. I did practice to make a small beaded tube...

I just grabbed some beads to practice and it was easier than I thought. Today I will begin a "pod" style ornament. Positive thoughts that I will accomplish it.
Just trying tp keep sitting busy so that I will not do too much of anything. Yesterday was the RFA procedure on my back. My blood pressure was quite high so we had to wait a little to see if I relaxed enough.... I admit I was nervous. Thankfully Dr. Paul is a sweet man who continued to chat with me to occupy my mind. I will admit it was painful to get the initial injections for insertion of the larger needles, but all said it was not too bad. When he was finished, two nurses came in and I thought why do I need them both. That was soon revealed when I stood and my left leg turned to rubber. Totally numbness.  So, they took me to the recovery area ( a small room with soft recliners) to rest until I could walk. It was what seemed to be a very long 3 mile drive home. I was clear headed but my left leg seemed to be still at the office! Getting from the car/garage into the house was tricky and then right to the recliner to rest and let it wear off. Finally I could actually stand and feel my leg somewhat. The phone rang.... from across the courtyard. Robyn was checking to be sure I was doing okay.... then Dave appeared at the front door. Robyn sent

freshly baked and still warm Banana Bread for me to have for breakfast. Why wait?! Yum... and it certainly took my mind off the left leg issue. So here it is very early morning and I am walking almost perfectly, not quite fully a normal feeling in my leg/hip area. Today and tomorrow will be rest days to let the procedure take hold. No driving and not much of anything. It can take 3 weeks for the effect to take hold … or longer and can last from 6 months to a year or more. Keeping positive thoughts.

My Plumeria is leafing! I am excited that there are signs of successfully rooting this plant that Dianna and Bobby brought back from Hawaii for me. They have a few in their yard and now I will have one too. I know it is not  the best picture, but as I can not bend down yet to get a better look, this will have to do. My Garden Jungle is looking mighty good. Still needs some work, but in 18 days The Brother Alan and Lisa will be here and will take care of it . Yes, the count is now 18 days. I do not have too much on the TO Do List this time.
Thank you for the emails checking on me...and the encouragement. Thank you for the kind words and your friendship.
When friends care, all is well......

Flowers, beading and needles

I can not believe it is almost May. These months seem to be disappearing so quickly. It is not that I am so busy...although at times lately I have been busy. I just went out to the garden to check on the Dove...still no sightings of babies. What I did see was another mess of debris. Last night the winds rang my chimes.... haha.

The Prickly Pear Cactus is in bloom...in our courtyard. Actually this is in front of Robyn and Dave's home. Living beneath this large cactus is a bunny warren...that is what it is called. Soon there will be Prickly Pear fruit appearing.

My Guara plant is so pretty... love this shade of pink.... and delicate looking. It is a very overcast day with 50% chance of rain today and looking out to the garden makes up for the lack of sunshine.
Yesterday I decided to sort through beads to make a pair of Russian leaves earrings...

The one on the left (green) is the one made with the Delica beads as recommended and the other is made with regular seed beads. The difference is about 1/2 inch in length and once stiffened will be about the same width. At this size it makes a good pendant as well as an earing. I like big earrings. So now I have to decide if I will make it as an earing. While I am deciding I will go ahead and make the pair I was going to make. I plan to make a bumble bee bead but must get the beads...I now, but I do not have what I need in the cupboard of beads.

These are some of the recent beading needles that I have put to rest. I save them for the February 8th Hari-Kuyo… Festival of Broken Needles:
Hari-kuyo （針供養）is a traditional Japanese festival where people pay tribute to the old and broken needles that have served them the past year, and at the same time pray for better sewing skills. 'Hari' means needle and '-kuyou' means memorial. Most needle-workers are women. The reasons for sewing and praying were given deep thought.
I keep a lot of needles on hand. Either they bend by the end of a project if not sooner or the eyes break. It does not matter what brand or the cost I am very tough on needles.

This is my Plumeria from Hawaii that Dianna and Bobby brought me back this year. I think it just may be growing! The last one died. The very tip is showing "leaf" growth. Dianna checks it when she visits…. hope she is reading and seeing this! It is getting lots of sun and water and misting.
I had a fairly good night sleep and late start (for me)  this morning. I do remind myself that I have no commitments for anything earlier than 10 on any day. This week is clear except for Wednesday when I go for more injections. Now about that...I feel very lucky to receive all your kind words and encouragement. Understand that I do know that many others have more issues than I...   and also that I am not the only one that is working through a loss. I truly am lucky to have a place to speak my mind and heart without judgement. This is my place to record not only my crafts but my thoughts. I do keep a daily diary where I can really put words down to express my heartfelt thoughts. Once someone ( along time back) asked why I do not just write about my crating. She no longer follows me once I told her that this is my blog and I can write as I wish. Oh well. For those of you who visit regularly and comment here or in email, thank you for your kind words and encouragement. Thank you for your valued friendship. 

I either have too many studs or not enough!

Oh the weather outside is frightful is getting hot already. They say up to the low 90s this weekend. I really think I am having weather related headaches and sinus issues..... or whatever. I give up. Yesterday morning the fragrance from the Daffodils was really bothering me so they are now out on the table in the Lanai. They are visible each time I walk into the kitchen. The back is just okay. I have been doing nothing and there is the possibility that I will call the doctor Monday.

My April Origami Star is finished. I like the colors and how it feels like Spring. These are easy and enjoyable to make. I like that I have all the months prepared so that I can just sit and make in just a few minutes.
I  decided to replace the garden tool storage rack in the garage. I want to have a storage on the garage wall. So of course first I need to find the studs. Were you thinking another kind of stud from the title????? ... anyway, I found the stud finder (of course Denny had one...only one in the cupboard) and read the directions. Read them and read them again. I was doing what it said but could not successfully locate studs then all of a sudden there was one almost on another. Something obviously was really wrong. I texted both Bobby and Don for advice. Bobby got back to me with directions but I still could not find my studs. Don call and said he would stop by and he did and showed me how to use the tool but even he had to admit they were not lining up right. Glad it was not my inability to follow directions. After we chatted and he gave me advice on how to mount the rack  he kindly added the last 2 bags of soil into the pond. Ta Da…. just going to let it settle then plant. I have also decided to remove 2 Yucca plants that cause me serious cuts from the sharp leaves. Things are progressing nicely.
Wednesday lunch with Vicki was delightful. We chatted and munched on Fettuccini and salad at Olive Garden. I forgot to link up her 2 blogs....one here and the other is here. Be sure to check them out.
Okay, time to move on..... glad you stopped by. Thank you for your kind words and for your friendship.

Even a dried tulip is pretty

The sun is bright and the temp moving toward the 70 mark then into the 80s today. There is a breeze right now which is bordering windy. As soon as I opened the back gate door and returned to the kitchen I looked out to see the bunny running so fast into the garden through the wrought iron gate opening and right into the Fountain grass. Then last evening as the light just faded, I stood in front of the kitchen slider and there he was... looking at me through the glass. Of course once he saw me off he ran to the grass again. Just opened the gate door and no sign of him...  yet.

I love having fresh flowers in the house. Denny always brought some home to me through the years just because. When it comes time to discard them, I think they still have beauty so I let them stay just a day or so. The tulips had such lovely twists to them....
Sat for a short time yesterday with the embroidery, until my back said it was time to move about. Still not much better today. Is it Monday yet? The hand seems to be finally getting to that loose point and hopefully my fine movements will also improve. The incisions are almost invisible and less tender. ( I tell you this because some of you have asked). Dear Dianna stopped by yesterday morning with some printed exercises for me to try for my back. She actually made me get down on the floor and do a few!
I have hopes of getting into the garden later... most likely it is not going to happen but nice to think I am. I filled the center area with the mulch and put the paver in place...took forever. After a text with Bobby, we decided that I should add landscape cloth before the soil which means I need to lift the paver out then put it back ... not sure if the body will cooperate. Is it Monday yet? All this so I can plant before the temps heat up. April is the time to set it in motion.
The embroidery may get finished today. Just shoes and flowers left and touch up here and there. Still no sure why I chose pinks for her... probably will make another in different colors. Anyway, she is fun to do. Might even get to do some beading again soon.

Could not decide what to have last evening so I tossed shrimp with my salad  and made some croutons to add. I could eat shrimp every day. Guess I should think about tonight's meal and the swishing in the laundry area has stopped so off I go. Glad to chat with you today. Thank you for your kind words and encouragement. Thank you for your friendship.

Growing romaine in the kitchen....

Growing Romaine.... okay, it is only two leaves sprouting. Remember the green onions? well I am still cutting and using them so I thought why not try this. Simply put into water and one of these days maybe a salad...okay, maybe just an add to a sandwich.   The onions have since been put into a pot of soil.
I really am trying to keep busy... much rather be stitching or beading...soon, very soon. Right now though I am trying to manipulate my fingers to type. Monday the stitches are leaving and I am sure I know I will have more mobility. Everyday my hand feels better. Still flexing fingers and making a fist is easier than the day before. Definitely not getting better at being left handed.

There may be a new couple moving into the garden.... this Dove has been hanging around each morning. It will be nice to have them back. Of course it takes two and so far there is only one. Today I will try to work in the garden just cleaning up a little and the birdbath needs cleaning and filling.  Diana and Bobby stopped by yesterday and we went for lunch. Good friends… I am very lucky.
 I have been reading to keep busy. Just cozy mysteries. I find after I read a good book it is difficult to find one that measures up. The Nightingale is hard to top for sure. Before I go out to the garden I need to swish some clothes ad Swiffer the bookcases.... I walked the Bissell yesterday. So nice to chat with you today. Thank you for your kind words and for your friendship.

Hello.....I am okay!

What a difference a day can make. The surgery went well. Whatever the cocktail they gave me was great..... except...

this is from the second attempt to insert the IV line. The line was finally into the crux of my elbow. Then there was an IV for a  nerve block for the surgery hand which numbed it from the tip of the fingers to the elbow and lasted 8 hours or so. I woke at 1am when I thawed out! Ouch!  The medication given for the surgery was different than I ever had and would allow me to wake easier and better and it did. Am I really okay? Let me just say....I am foggy a bit and not as steady as I would like to be but I m okay.

I am very securely wrapped but part of the tape became loose over night so I have this adorable... half sock to keep it in place...must remain all week then off and then just band aids. I must remember to keep it raised resting on my left shoulder to control swelling. Why am I typing or how can I be typing...very carefully and I have  to exercise my fingers so this is counting as one of my exercise moments. Thank goodness for spell check.
Dave and Robyn delivered me there and returned to take me home.

When we arrived home there was a plant, a balloon and candy bar waiting for me...Thank you Dianna and Bobby.
 Nurse Robyn remained with me for a few hours then off across the courtyard she went. I fell asleep around 9:30 and when she came back to check on me at 10 I was sound asleep. Nurse Robyn just left...she came to have coffee with me and to check on me.  Lasagna for dinner will be delivered around 5:30.  So lucky to have them caring for me.
Thank you all for your words of encouragement and kind thoughts for me. Exercise time is over for now... time to take my Tylenol and put my hand back up and read for a while. 

A vine for the window

So glad to have finished the window.

It is just how I wanted it to be...amazing, I know. We sometimes envision something and in the end it is so different or not as we like. I struggled with the nuts on the vertical mounting. After 14 years they were not coming loose too easily. I was determined to not fall through the window and not fall off the step ladder and with my trusty pair of pliers and a few whacks, the nuts loosen and off they came. Then it was time to  put up the rod brackets. You guessed right if you are thinking I had never done this before. I have come a long way these past 19 months. The brackets went quickly and then for the middle support....I called Glenda for advice and then that too was up.

A quick trip to Michael's after receiving an email with a 60% coupon "good for today only". they had the perfect vine … it is a grapevine style which I attached to the 3 vertical brackets that were left. I had already purchased 3 bunches of lavender sprigs and took them apart to be single sprigs and voilà...finished. The vine will remain and the sprigs changed out for the seasons. The window is pleasing to me and a nice look for the kitchen.
Met up with Dianna and Bobby to get something to eat on Friday night. Good conversation and great company.
The weather today is beautiful ----sorry to The Brother Alan and all in New England area--- and the front door is open and the sun is warm. The birds are chatting and enjoying the hummer feeder. I am thinking of hanging another feeder outside my bedroom window. I am feeling brave with the step ladder. I went to use the drill yesterday and it needed charging and it will be ready to put up a hook. The other drill is ready but I cannot get the screw bit out! It is locked in really tight. So, I can wait.
Happy to chat with you today. Thank you for the kind words and for your friendship.

A window remodelling

None of us is perfect.... our creative pieces should be just what they are...  creative.

Here it is Saturday.... where did this week go? I know I am not alone with this thought...The Brother Alan also feels like the days are whizzing by this month. That could be a good thing... or not. The sun is bright this morning and temps are expected to be really nice. Sorry for those in the storm path...like The Brother Alan. Hope he and Lisa did the New England storm preparedness thing...bread, milk and snacks!
Well, yesterday was the day of determination. I managed to remove the stubborn screws holding the verticals to the window frame. Someone should have taken a picture. Me up on a step ladder with a pair of plyers whacking the nut on the screw to loosen it. 14 years in place and they were not coming off easily. All the time holding onto the wall with the other hand hoping not to go through the window or fall backwards. I did not fall or miss any steps on the ladder on my way down! It is still a work in progress...not finished yet. The window... as well as me!

I left the vertical brackets--for now-- as I may use them for this project. The curtain panels have a vine like pattern on them which fits in with my plans and the fact that this window looks out to the garden. I want to light to enter but not the sun at times and the panel sides can be dropped to cover the window. This is a large window 60 inches high by 72 inches wide. Did I mention that this is the first time that I hung curtain rods? Of course I am sure you already guessed that. A phone call to Glenda to ask about the middle support piece and voilà... done.
Spent time with Dianna and Bobby last evening.... we met for dinner. Always cheerful conversation and hugs. Good to be with friends. Today is an open day...might read, might sit outside, might bead... might even get the window finished. Right now there is fluffing out in the laundry area that needs attention. and I am hungry so breakfast will be served. Happy that you stopped by to chat. Thank you for your kind words and for your friendship. 

One more to go.....

Hope everyone enjoyed the Christmas Day festivities. I am thankful to dear friends Dianna and Bobby for including me with their family for the day. They made my difficult day easier.

This gift from them was inspired by my post about The Carol of the Bells. I jingled all the way home form their house! It is out on the lanai and waiting for a good wind to come along.
It is nice when people know what you like when they get you a gift....

This was from Glenda.... I am sure you notice the turquoise hanger...it is from one of my favorite artists. And a lovely plaque that is already on the fridge for me to see and read each day.

Sis Lynowl was paying attention many months ago... while during one of our phone conversations I mentioned that I would like to get a Quesadilla maker. It was delivered in that beautiful green sheer bag! Can not wait to get the supplies to make lunch! I once worked with someone who used to make us lunch  with the same one and the possibilities are endless.
It was a very nice Christmas under my tree...🎅
I was treated to a four bloom for Christmas...

Yes indeed...4..... f o u r   blooms bringing the total to 7 flowers on this amazing plant. There is another lower shoot but I do not think it will amount to much but who knows.
We are on the count down to the end of another year and one more day to note, New Years Day. This means almost time for me to get ready to pack up all the decorations and store them away. Do you make New Year resolutions? I never make resolutions. This year I plan to make a list.... a list of what I hope to do during the coming year. I will have a craft box with patterns and some supplies so that I can just open it and choose a project. The Brother Alan gets a To Do List each time he comes out but this is not for him...he will be happy to know. His fun stuff is the garden, the house and other things. Time to get a move on around here. Coffee is almost finished and the Housework Fairies have not arrived. They seem to be on an extended vacation. Happy to have you visit with me today. thank you for the kind words and for your friendship.

On my beading tray

It was a good day yesterday and a good night sleeping. Every once in awhile it happens. I went out for milk and bread yesterday and I thought the market was having a free day...busy does not cover the store activity. It looks like many are having ham for Christmas dinner this year. Still have no idea what will be on my table.

Catherine...look....the Amaryllis is going to have 6 blooms! This plant has been unbelievable. I am going to try to plant it after Christmas. The first three are finished with their blooms but I look forward to having these open.
Yesterday I began a new beading project...

I know it does not look like much but it will be finished today.... that is after my hair appointment this morning. It is a Snow Globe Snowman. I am discovering that working with clear Delica beads is not easy nor are the black beads. A test for my eyes and hand for sure. I say this every year....I will work on Christmas ornaments during the year for next year... maybe this is the year I do just that.
An update from Bobby is that Moochie is already doing better with the prescription medication. She really is a sweet kitty.
We are going to have another lovely weather day...temps near the mid 70s. Normal for this time is mid 60s. Love the weather but hate that the sun does not rise and shine until almost 7:30am.
Today is the last day for mailing in time for Christmas delivery... hope you all made it in time. My tracking tells me all my USA packages arrived, can not check on delivery to Canada…. Debbie, it is on the way. Hope it clears Canadian customs soon. Well, I best get a few things done before going out later this morning. Glad to chat with you. Thank you for your kind words and for your friendship.

Busy days.....

Oh I am chilly! It is around 49 out  with expectations of the temp rising to 75 today. Waiting for my coffee to brew and think Eggos will be on my plate soon. I generally have quiet slow days but recently I have been busy. On Friday an Saturday I was with Glenda helping to set up a dinner and then helping with the clean-up...she worked me to the bone ( I told Glenda I was going to tell everyone!!!) Totally enjoyed the time spent.
Then Sunday was my quiet day..... On Monday a call from Dianna set me in motion. Bobby's cat Moochie was sick and he was at work and Dianna needed help getting Moochie to the vet.

The poor kitty was definitely ill, she was a perfect patient never giving the doc any trouble. She has beautiful markings. I will be checking to see how Mooch is doing today...and Bobby. Yesterday was a planned outing with Glenda. We had a nice time galivanting and lunch too. Then a phone call from sis Lynowl to tell me she received a package...of course since I tracked it I already knew. The surprise was that she was trying not to open it! That did not last long and she opened it while we chatted on the phone.  I never sat at the computer at all yesterday and did not answer my emails until last evening. Debbie was worried and she sent out "Car 54 where are you" email.... we are in touch every day. Sorry to worry her but I finally responded so we are back on track today. Definitely no plans for today...I did say that for Monday didn't I? I hope to make a beaded snow globe ornament that was featured in one of the Facebook groups. I will plan my baking for the weekend... not a fan of baking too far ahead. Christmas dinner will be a simple one. 
The fourth flower on the Amaryllis is getting ready to bloom...any day now.

Look at the color of them! Actually looks like popcorn shooting out of the center! Really pleased with this plant and hope they will be available next year again. I have a new lavender plant but have not put it in the ground yet. Yes, here in Arizona winter is still planting and blooming time. Well I can smell the wonderful fresh brewed scent of coffee and I am a bit hungry so off I go. Glad you visited today. Thank you for your kind words and thank you for your friendship.