Wednesday, Is today really Wednesday?

 My battle right now is using my time wisely.  Which by the way I have not done at all the last two days! So, it is my own fault if I am behind the 8 ball.

So much work has come into the shop the last two days, and I have been anything but productive. So today I must change my course.

I know most of you are nuts about me cooking a meal for my family, but I am excited.  I love cooking big meals and I actually miss doing this.  It brings me joy. Now the fact that the week is stacking up with appointment's does not add to my pleasure, but I will be fine. I have so much food here that needs to be used, and I have Sissie if I need help.  Plus, the kids will help with set up and clean up. If they know what is good for them.....

I am doing a simple shrimp pasta dish that everyone loves. Making a German chocolate cake that was their Dad's favorite.  I have stuff for a salad and will throw together some French bread Thursday morning. It will be fine. I am excited to see everyone together as it does not happen often enough for me.

I certainly am touched by all of your concern over me. I am kind of a workaholic by nature, having a busier schedule will motivate me. It is how I am wired. I know it is not good for me, but love me anyway, because I love all of you way more than my luggage.  That being said here goes the schedule for today....

1. bride in at noon for a fitting (pray it fits)

2. alter and steam suit

3. hem rust mother of the bride dress

4. organize all things by date due (if Sissie saw this shop she would croak)

5. continue to work on a wedding dress

6. finish a work on wedding dress 

7. take neighbor to food bank. (this is at 4:00)

8. go pick up prescription's and buy some mushrooms ( in the evening)

I had better get busy I have a lot to do. But it is doable, if I do it.  The problem is doing it. 

I am setting my timer for an hour.  I try and do 3 hours of sewing a day.  If I do more my back complains loudly. 

Sew let's get busy

God is good.

Kim

Tuesday, too many appointments!!!

 Went for my yearly 10 minute Medicare physical.  Was pronounced adequate. All meds refilled. No argument on the statin uses this time.  My good cholesterol is high, so should offset the bad I guess.

Took Roscoe in for a grooming appt one. doc. appt two. Take missionaries to dinner tonight appt 3.  That is just today. Take neighbor to food bank tomorrow that is 4.  Go to lunch with a friend on Thursday whom I turned down last week that is 5.  Have a Birthday Party for Dan,(Bruanwyns husband),Kelsa, Oliver, and Nate at my house Thursday evening that is 6. Now we are on Friday and who knows what that will bring.  Too many things in one week.  I am kind of a home body. Just thought of another appt.  I desperately need a pedicure. Guess I will see if my buddy wants sone also and go together. that will be 7 and then I will have to pick up meds #9. Now I need a nap.

  Dan and I will probably do something this weekend not sure what.  But Kay will be out of town so I will do some cooking.

I was able to get a wedding dress ready for fitting and the bride will be here tomorrow at noon. The shop was busy yesterday with people here at all hours. That is good is mean money is coming in, now I just have to do the work. The work is where I get stuck. It would be so nice if I had little elves.

I am lacking some serious motivation and last week I was so motivated. Seems to run in stream with me. On again off again.  Right now, we are focusing on mostly off.

Just picked up my clean dog, who is getting fat, okay he is fat.  But harder for me to put him on a diet than myself.  Maybe more exercise. Does that mean I have to do it, why yes.  Okay seriously thinking right now.

Need to call daughters to find out what is expected at this party for the birthday people. Do I cook, do I order pizza? Should there be a cake? SO many questions and expectations.

Now I do need a nap.

Kim is going down.  Don't worry the doorbell will a ring and a client will get me up.

Have a great and productive day.

God is good,

Kim

Monday, New week!

 

I had a nice weekend.  Uncle Dan and I went up to Kelsa's party Saturday afternoon. She was so excited and so cute. She stayed with me Thursday and Friday night, so she was out of the way, and she was actually shaking with excitement when we drove her up to her house.

I frosted her cake and Uncle Dan helped with the setup of the water slide and a balloon pool.

Sunday I was up early as the choir was singing, and we had practice before church. It went well and that song can be stowed away for later. Received one of the songs we will do for Christmas as we will start practicing. We were not supposed to have choir practice after church but the Bishop called a meeting and I had not brought treats. This was not a bad thing for the adults but the kids we shoo into the nursery were devastated and the meeting lasted almost as long as practice.  Thank goodness, I had purchased 6 cookies from a bake sale that were delivered to me at church. They were large and I pulled those out and split them in two.  Crisis in the nursery averted. I however did not get a cookie.

Then I came home and spent the entire afternoon resting. I did have to water and tend chickens, plus watering the property and I did a weekly spraying.  I was a sweaty mess.  So much for not working hard on the Sabbath.  But when it is in the low 100's you have to water. Dan came over for a piece of that pie I made. He also brought me some shrimp salad from Sissie, and I had that for breakfast yum! Ate the last piece of pie this morning.

I already had two brides in here this morning. One was just a consult, so she did not leave the dress. But I have plenty to dresses to get out. Hopefully I will get two out this week, bridal dresses that is.... Not counting the mother of the bride and just general alterations.

I have several little bills that need to be expunged and that is my goal for this week.  I also have to save for the last half of the house taxes which are due in Dec.  Those are 1600.00 plus Christmas. So, this week I need to just try and get all these little bills paid. Hopefully in the next two weeks, if possible.

I need to put 350.00 into my checking account to pay for airplane ticket that daughter bought.  Then I owe Sissie 300, don't' ask.  I swear we throw money back and forth at each other all the time.  It is really kind of funny. My two sister's and I had what we called the traveling thousand, that floated between us for years when times were tight. We really don't know how it ended up.  I am sure I was the winner on the receiving end. Then I owe Home depot 70.00, have a balance on my Talbots card, that I need to pay before interest.  Just little bills that need to be addressed before I go for the taxes. Also, I used my major CC for things this month and will have to pay those balances. Money in money out.  The whole goal is not to add new debt. Oh, and the dog needs a groom $50.00

I have a wedding dress ripped and ready for me to work on today. Plus, I have grooms' suit to alter. I will try and get those done today. Still have pants to fix for a buddy, so should get to those. It is always something.

What plans do you have for the week? Are you trying to save for anything?

Life is just plain old expensive.

God is good

Kim.

Thursday, I completed a Goal!

 I have no control, but I keep trying. And I completed a goal!  I had to save $3000 to pay a bill before the end of the year and I did it.  I am going to the bank and getting it done this morning before I go to the Temple.

Now I need to save for the house taxes which are due in December.  That savings goal is 1600. I hope to complete that next month. 

Even though the shop slows down this time of year, I feel that I have more work coming in to help reach this goal. Plus, I am back to my austerity measures until my next trip which is who knows?

I am feeling pretty darn good about myself right now.

Had a wedding dress picked up last night.  Also started on another one.  I will probably have two go out next week, I think.

I am going to run to the bank and then going to pick up my buddy and take a trip up to the Spokane Temple. Going home I will pick up Kelsa for the next two nights.  They are getting ready for her birthday party on Saturday and don't want her help.  I can't imagine why.

Sissie came up last night and cooked fried shrimp and potato croquettes. So yummy.  We had my neighbor over and it was fun.  Dan mowed and trimmed my lawn bless his little heart. We also had yellow squash from the garden so good.

I froze another gallon of tomatoes and put all of my cured off potatoes in a crate.  I still have the onions curing in the garage.  I go out and stir through them twice a day to make sure air is getting to them. Then when they are good a dry, I will peel off the outer layer and store them in a crate.

Slept badly last night so I slept in a little today and I feel great.  I think just completing that huge savings goal has helped my attitude.  I can do hard things.

I have no plans for tomorrow, as I will have Kelsa, but will probably get a little sewing done. Surely, we will spend time at the park. Probably make cookies or something else fun.

I also made a beautiful peach and blackberry pie last night.  I used the blackberries I picked from the yard and peaches I froze last year. Sissie made the crusts, bless her.  All I had to do is roll them out.

Now I have to eat the pie but can't do that alone. Or can I?

Anything fun at your place?

God is good

Kim

Wednesday, First day of school here.

 When I was growing up school started after Labor Day and ended before Memorial Day. We had three whole months.  Now kids have two months. But they rarely go to school for 5 straight days. Usually, it is 3-to-4-day weeks.  It is a parent's nightmare. 

My grandkid's school had every other Friday last year a 1/2 day. So, kids went to school for two hours.  Daughters' solution and many of the other parents was to just not send them to school. This year to avoid that the district has late start every other Wednesday, making it really hard for the parents that have to be to work. The reason was to avoid parents taking kids out of school for the day and losing government money. How about just going back to the old way and quit with the 3 and 4 day school week. I am so happy my kids are out of school, as I would be telling the admin they were now on my time.

I was able to get the wedding dress done yesterday.  It was a bugger to press.  Full ball gown and so wrinkled. Bride will pick this evening. I will start on another wedding dress today. It has to go out next week and I have two more sets of wedding gear that have to be done in the next two weeks.  I have plenty to do along with a few more formal dresses.

I am wiped out from sewing so hard the last 2 days, but I did get a lot done and most of it was nerve racking and hard. But I tell myself just take it one seam at a time. 

I really need to take one of my sergers in for a tune up and new blades.  I like to have two going at once.  One white and one black. I could get by with one and change the thread accordingly.  We will see. Changing serger thread is no joke.

We are in the dog days of summer here and it is very hot and will continue for another couple of weeks and then cool down to the 90's.  Yes, that is cool here.

What fun and excitement do you have to do today? Hopefully it is a little better than my excitement.

God is good

Kim

Tuesday, Up early and busy...

 I think I have been chalanting way too much! What thinks you?

Spent the morning pulling all the potatoes, and onions from the garden. Now I have them curing in the garage.  After I rotate them and air them for a couple weeks, I will store them away. I did not plant many potatoes probably grew 40 lbs at the most. Potatoes are still really cheap here.  On sale they are 1.28 for 10 pounds. I will go pick onions off the road this fall.

The shop has been crazy busy with at least 8 clients so far today.  Two wedding dresses came in actually 3 as one had 2 dresses. I also have two wedding dresses booked to come in next week making a total of 8 in the shop.  My June was not as busy as usual, and I think I am going to make up for it in September. Which is great, I have another savings goal I have not been able to touch that I thought I would have to give up on this year. But maybe it is still in the works. I hope.

Sissie ran up 4 piecrusts for me bless her. I pulled out peaches and I have the three cups of blackberries and I will make a pie and then freeze two crusts.  Ate at Sissie's last night, chili and I brought down the corn bread I had made.  Yum! Tonight, she is doing pork chops so I will eat there again. I am so blessed to not have to cook.  I will take down my frozen applesauce.

I still have a mother of the bride to finish and a wedding dress I did not get to yesterday.  These dresses that are coming in have cheaper and cheaper linings and satins. Like costume satin which is throw away quality.  I have just noticed the really good bridal sites are really dumbing down their fabrics.  They are hard to work with, and don't hang well. I was so frustrated yesterday with two dresses I just gave up after 3 hours and my back was angry.

But I will get these done and call it a day!

God is good

Kim

Monday, Another chart!

 Completed another chart on Friday, I brought home almost all the money I took with for our trip to Canada.  So, I added that to the savings. 

I spent the weekend trying to fight off a serious case of depression.  Don't know why it hits like it does. I had Kelsa Friday night hoping that would help. 

Saturday morning started with pancakes and me deciding to take a swipe at my house.  I hadn't done a thorough deep clean since spring cleaning.  So, I set a timer and what I thought would take me an hour took three. But I dusted the ceiling fans on down.

Living next to a feed lot brings in flies, I am always fighting them. I swear they die in the window wells.  Having been gone 3 days left me with the carcasses I clean up several times a day.  It is just that time of the year. Still, I love the cows, so I am really not complaining.  Rather flies than mosquitos. 

Saturday afternoon to ward off the blues Kelsa and I went shopping.  I have not taken her shopping all year as I am trying to save money. But I went to Costco for laundry soap, plastic freezer bags, and plastic wrap. We found some school clothes for her, and we just had a good time.  Then her mom came to take her away as they were going to a theme park the next day.  I could have gone with but said no and stayed home to wallow.

Wallowed all day yesterday.  Did not change out of my p.j.s until after noon. Finally went out to feed and check on the chickens.  Found out they are laying eggs under the coup and came out with 16 pullet eggs. Little buggers.

I have plenty to do today as I continue to wallow. Lil sis was over her and she cheered me up some. Now I have to kick my own butt to get something done. I hope I can kick hard enough.

I have 4 mothers of the bride dresses to get done today and 3 pairs of pants to hem, 2 by 5: o'clock tonight. I also ripped a wedding dress on Friday afternoon, and it is ready for me to sew, if I can just get on to it.  It has two layers of horsehair braid, which I hate. But I can do it with enough gumption, which I am sorely lacking at this moment.

I went out and took a look at the garden this morning and I need to pick all the onions and get them curing.  Also, tomorrow I think there will be enough ripe tomatoes to freeze another gallon bag. That will make 4 gallons so far.  I really want to can at least 24 to 30 quarts this fall if possible.

Well, this sewing is not going to do itself, so I had better get on with it.  I will set a timer and get busy.

I want to be able to get my savings goal done by the end of the month and that means work more and spend less.

What are your goals for the week?

Have a great and productive day

God is good

Kim

Friday, Glad to be home!!!!!!

 I have been asking myself this for the last three days, while I sat in the back seat of a car getting thrown around.  Note to self, this is why your grandkids get sick in the car.

Sissie insisted on driving, so I let her.  Our neighbor had the other front seat as she is very tall, and I could not imagine her trying to cram her long legs in the back seat. 

It was a long trip. Over 20 hours in a car, but we accomplished the mission.  She was able to get her banking done and get her money out. But I am telling you never again. You guys just witnessed this, right? So, remind me when I go to do some crazy A$$ thing for someone else.  Like break their husband out of a rest home or take their cat to be put down or take a three-day trip across the border. I will never receive any blessings for these kind acts of stupidity as I complain about them afterwards. You need to do things with a kind heart and mind and mouth.  The mind and mouth I need to work on. But it is done!

I am home and working hard on saving money so I can pay a $3000 bill I have before the end of the year.  after this I just have, and couple of small goals and then the house taxes and one other larger savings plan which I don't see happening this year.  It will probably go into next. 

I went out this morning and picked a large bowl of produce from the garden.  I checked the chickens and only found one egg. It has been so hot that they have slowed down on laying. It will pick back up when the weather gets a little cooler.

I need to go out and pick all the blackberries before they fall off the vines.  I think I will have enough for a pie.  The vines come from the neighbor's place. I don't want them to go to waste. After I pick, I am going to seriously cut those dang vines back. They are lethal.

I have no idea if I am going to have Kelsa this weekend, I need to call and find out. Looking forward to a weekend of peace and yard work, maybe pie baking.  I need to use up some peaches I froze last year.  I will make a quadruple batch of crusts so I can freeze them for later.  Think I will call Sissie to come and help. It is so nice to have crusts in the freezer and takes all the stress out of making a pie.

The dryer just signaled so I had better get over there and get the clothes out before they wrinkle.

Have a great and productive day

God is good

Kim

Monday, Hell week!

 The weekend was too busy!!! Between birthday party and getting up really early 3 days in a row, this grandma needs a nap.  Is she going to get one? NO!

I have Kelsa and Will here as Signe' and Nate had their flight cancelled out of Miami yesterday.  They finally got out this morning and are In Seattle awaiting flight to Spokane.  I should see them after 3 today.

So yesterday I got a call from Brittany to meet her in Colfax which is halfway between here and Spokane. Both kids were teary and upset as they were missing their folks and William was sick. Having the flight delayed was more than they wanted to handle.

We stopped at their house and Will was sick again and I just cancelled all my plans and stayed up in Colton overnight, then up early to meet Kay at the car repair place.  Now I am home with both kids.  Just heard from Sig and Nate. Anyway, best laid plans out the window.

I have so much sewing to do today, as I was not good last week.  So of course, I am under pressure now and will get things done. 

Tomorrow Kay and I are driving my next-door neighbor to Victoria.  She has Parkinson's and needs to get some banking done that she can't get done over the phone.  I hope this is not a wasted trip and I am not at all excited about doing this, but we agreed we would. I just don't feel like being out of town for the next three days.  Oh well, it is an adventure.

So, let's make a list and see if I can get all this done today, Yikes!

1. hem three jeans

2.hem 2 jeans

3.alter a dress blue

4.hem a mother of the bride dress

5. alter a jacket

6. hem and waist two pairs of pants

7.hem two mothers of the bride dresses

8. alter a bridesmaid dress

9. alter neckline on dress

 I would love to clean my car, but it is supposed to be over 100 again today.  I do have to go pick all the tomatoes that are ready in the garden and also the eggplant  I will freeze the tomatoes and process the eggplant when I get home.  I would also like to make a shrimp salad for a man in our ward who just had a heart attack. He loves my shrimp salad.  I should have made it yesterday, but those plans were blown out of the water. Oh well this list is way too dang long.

Headed out to pick the garden already gathered the eggs.

Have a great and productive day

God is good

Kim

Friday, Kim's brain

 Looking for my brain.... It has gone missing... You get two posts one upon another has I forgot to hit confirm because I was distracted by a client and then I was distracted by weeds, and then I was distracted by running out of weed killer, and then I was distracted at Home Depot getting more weed killer, only to be distracted by some other distraction.

This is my life, this is also the look I have on my face most of the time.

I did get a lot of spraying done yesterday. I went to book club and had a good time. Loved the book this last month. called These is my words.

I would recommend it, for a book club, or just reading on your own.

I have piano lesson this morning after a bridal fitting and then I have to get ready for Oliver's B-day party tomorrow.  Have to make a relish tray and a fruit tray and bring up some water balloons. Uncle Dan will go with me.

Talked to Nate and Signe' who are on a cruise right now and they are having a good time. Kelsa and Will are up at the other grandma's house and I am jealous.

I need to go practice a little as I have been very slack lately. Shame on me need more discipline, or medication not sure which.:)

Forgot I had this post up and just found it 3 hours later.

That is it, Kim needs a keeper.

Havea to make a veggie and frit tray for Olivers party tomorrow.  Plus figure out if water balloons will last in a cooler. I lead such an interesting life.

Have a great and productive day

God is good

Kim

 

Thursday, have to spray

 I am still in recovery. I remember after my first baby was born, you were supposed to be in recovery for an hour or two and I was in recovery for 24 hours, with a grand mall seizure, and basic inability to recover at all. This is back in that 20-year time span where natural childbirth was the norm, and you were not allowed to eat or drink anything when in labor.  So, by the time I got to the hospital I was so dehydrated and weak, I couldn't even begin to have a baby. The good times.

Today I need to sew, and I did get everything sewn yesterday that I wanted to, so I was happy with that. I am going out to spray after this post.  I am sure I am going to run out so will then run to Home Depot. I need to drop some things by a shut ins house and stop at a bank.  Just a few minor errands.  Then home to sew.

Or I might just stay home and sew. Or I might.... I had better stay home and sew. 

But first I am attacking the weeds.  Dang things!!!!!

Have a great and productive day

God is good, weeds are bad

Kim

Wednesday, What more?

 

Okay so I was so proud of getting all the bills paid only to realize there are two more.  One is an advertising bill for the shop, and another is a check I write once a month to help support a missionary.  You see if I follow the spread sheet Sissie worked so hard on to help me, I will know these things.  But why do that when I can lolly-gag my way through life? This was written for Sissie's benefit. I can hear her silent screams from miles away.

Yesterday was restful, today will not be. I was able to get all the flowers dead headed last evening while I was watering. I also soaked all the peaches off my little tree in boiling water and peeled them and then smashed them into a gallon bag for jam later.  The tree is not very big, and the deer seem to get the peaches on the lower branches. But a little is better than none.  I also picked and froze two gallons of tomatoes, that I will can up later on this fall. So, the day was not a complete waste.  Realize just watering and taking care of the chickens takes about an hour.  Dan helped me by watering the garden area. But today I really must sew, as I need the money to pay the two bills I forgot about..... That is life.

Thank goodness I enjoy sewing or life would be a lot more challenging. I am blessed to do what I love, and I know this and certainly appreciate it. Now if I can just motivate myself a little more.

Here is a picture of me in Philly, this temple is right across the street from the first church Joel served his mission in over 50 years ago. It was a wonderful trip. I think getting to be with my daughter and two grandsons was the best part. We had so much fun and many laughs.  The kids mostly laughed at us, but I am okay with that.

Looking forward to many more years with them. I am letting my hair go grey not sure if I like it. Right now, it is just like a raccoon nest, and I am okay with that. I surely love not having to keep it up.  Never have been a worried about how I look most of the time.  Give me a pair of overalls and a pitchfork. The horns are optional...

Sew So today Kim must be good and get some sewing done.  Plenty of work has come in the last few days and more is coming. Sissie and I are running an errand later this afternoon and then she is making pizza so I will eat with her. It is so nice not to have to cook.  Who am I kidding I wouldn't cook, I would just have a bowl of cereal. I will think of something I can cook for the three of us tomorrow.

I really love having her so close, it gives me someone to irritate on a regular basis. 😇

I have three denim skirts to alter and a couple of pairs of pants, then a few more pants to hem.  I can do this in a short while.  Then there are 5 mothers of the bride dresses that have come in in the last 2 days. Fun, Fun. Loves me some organza. (Not really)

A girl must work to be fed and I am more than well fed.  Look at picture.

Have a great and productive day

Any plans? Anything fun? Do tell!

God is good.

Kim 

Tuesday, PAID!!!

 I came across this and had to post, 6 nincompoops on Christmas eve.  The good times.

I think it took all my energy and sanity to get my bills paid yesterday.  I think paying online is so frustrating as our internet (two tin cans and a string) kicks me out at least every other time I log on.

I do think old fashioned mail and stamps might be faster and less aggravation.

I did get some sewing done and got a wedding dress done, also was able to deliver some of the sewing to a home bound lady.  Got the visiting done and a little genealogy. I will not allow genealogy to take over my life.

Ate dinner with Sissie, she made too much so we have to have leftovers.  Neither Dan nor I are excited about that. We are trying to learn to cook smaller portions, but Sissie and I are threshing crew cooks, and it is hard for us.

I have to go out and pick tomatoes today, and I did not get the dead heading done yesterday. It rained in the afternoon, so I did not have to water yippee!

Not feeling my best today, a little headachy. But I would interpret it as an advanced case of laziness. I seem to be a strong carrier of that gene. It strikes out of nowhere and there I am on the sofa watching TV and napping. I always recover when I realize it is late in the day, and I might as well hang up my hat. Because? Why not? Tomorrow is another day.  I am positive that way.

I need to go get my nails done this week. Might call and get that set. Hate to spend the money but they look horrid.

The garden is calling, and I had better get out there before it gets too hot.

Have a great and productive day

God is good

Is that a sofa?

Kim

 

Monday, Okay so what am I doing now?

 This is me and several people I know along with my Sissie. So may that I can have fun with and get in trouble with and laugh with, so important.

I had a nice lazy weekend, trying to keep up with the yard and garden, but I think I lost. SO many weeds.  So much produce.  I am giving it away.  I am blessed.

All the onions need to be picked, and I need to go out and get mor tomatoes.  I am freezing them so I can them later when it is cooler. 

The chickens are laying little pullet eggs; I am going to take a dozen to a girl friend who makes cakes with fillings. Pullet eggs are supposed to be creamier than regular eggs. I thought she should try them and see.

I need to dead head all the flower boxes, and we have reached that time in the year where all the boxes look sad and burnt a little, but they will come back when it starts to cool down in a month.

There is a wedding dress to get done right away and several piles to keep me busy. Plus, the garden and yard work. No rest here.

Kay and I are talking about visiting Slug this fall, because I so need a Sluggy fix. I have a free ticket that must be used before the end of November.  We will see.

Now I am on a no spend challenge again trying to recover from my trip. Little pile of bills to pay this month. My goal is to get through the month and add to a $3000.00 savings challenge.  I already have 1500.00 saved for this challenge, and I hope to have it all by the end of the month. Then all I have left to worry about as far as large bills go, are the property taxes, that are due in December they are 1600.00.

But I have home depot and Talbots, which have small balances, and I don't want any interest charges! 

The only way to do this is to not spend money and save, save, save.

Sissie just came in and had me help her get French bread started.  She has never used my Bosch mixer, so I gave her a training. We have two loaves of French bread kneading right now and after I will show her how to do pizza dough.

This is today's schedule:

1. alter pile of clothes, 4 pants (one pant), one robe, two skirts (One skirt)

2. deliver clothes to shut in

3. alter wedding dress

4.alter some things for a girl friend

5. practice piano

6. go visit a church member for her birthday

7. get help with genealogy from a friend

8. dead head all flower boxes

9. water flower boxes

10. pay a few bills, home depot, Talbots, internet, and power. That will take care of the month also have the house and my major CC to call and pay.  Then that can be put to bed. Yeah!

Just got done helping Sis with her dough. I am off to get something done, anything done.

Have a great and productive day

God is Good

Kim

Thursday, I am back!!!

 See this little boy!  He is 5 today! Headed off to kindergarten. I cannot believe Oliver is 5. Time goes so fast when the kids are little.

I had a wonderful time with my daughter and her two boys.  We stayed 5 days in Delaware and went to many beaches.  Beautiful weather.  Very humid, which is so different than the desert heat we have here.  We then went into Philly and spent 4 days, wandering the city.  Independence hall the Liberty bell, The Franklin Institute, ran up the Rocky steps, spent a day at the Zoo.

We walked and walked a lot.  Like averaging 15,00 steps a day.  Food was very expensive.  The cabbie's said tourism was way down for foreigners and everyone was suffering some. It is much less expensive to take cab's and Ubber's rather than renting a car. Other than day cares and summer camp groups we saw very few people at either the Zoo or the Insitute. People who rely on tips are really suffering there.

We got back on the 25 and I stayed at Jethelyn's to help her start and get things put together in the master bedroom.  I made a custom pleated bed skirt for the king size bed and dresser scarves and such.  We ordered curtains and bought curtain rods, and she is going to order wallpaper for one of the walls but that is a project for another visit.

I came home to a happy dog who missed me, although Dan loves him and he was not neglected in any way. My garden is going crazy, and weeds are nuts! I need to dead head flowers and get out and weed and spray desperately. Picked a bunch of tomatoes.  Kay has already frozen a couple bags. I do plan on canning tomatoes this year. My onions are doing great, and some are ready to pick. 

It is 107 today so not much will get done outside other than watering, just too hot.  The chickens are laying little pullet eggs, so that is fun. I made a long list of things to get done in the next month and I am starting to tick them off.

Called the county assessor about my property being over estimated, he came out this morning and was very nice and it looks like the values will be adjusted next year.  I can't do anything about this year. But I feel that at least I was proactive about them not continuing to rise and rise. I do have a view of the river that is unobstructed and that makes the property much more valuable.  Half of the 1/2 acre I own is a city easement for water drainage and not usable.  I told him to take is back and then send someone to weed it for me.  Oh, and deal with the rattlesnakes. He thought it would be easier for the county just to lower the taxes and have me take care of the mess. Nice guy.

Oh, a sadder note, Kikki ended up getting quite sick or she was sick and just fooled us.  She had cancer and had to be put down while I was away.  She is in Kitty heaven, and I will need to clean all her things out of the garage. I will not be getting another cat.  Unless a stray shows up here and lives in the garage.

Animals are expensive, and I just don't need the worry every time I go somewhere. Plus, the vet bills, the food and the litter. I loved her but until the shop closes and I don't see that anywhere in the near future, I will not have a cat.  If I could have a cat inside, I would get another, but not with the shop.

I will be taking Kiki's belongings to the animal shelter, and her old chair to the dump.  This will free up the already overwhelmed garage space.  She was the queen out there and had several thrones.

I have a few things to list on Facebook marketplace, and some general decluttering to do around here.

Now I have to get back in the saddle. But it is nice to come home to a shop that is not screaming at me.

Missed you guys, anything exciting happen while I was gone? Fill me in please.

Have a great and productive day staying positive while you are in the negative.

God is good

Kim

Thursday, Kiki and the academy

 See how many charts Kim can fill when she works hard and is not out spending money in town.  No groceries, no gas.  Just stay home and work.

Now let me tell you about the most gifted cat in the world.  When Kiki was found she was not moving.  She was dirty and limp.  Not bleeding but obviously had what we thought as a spinal injury.  Not moving her back legs at all.  So, she sat in a carrier with food and water she did not touch for a couple of hours. I was taking her to the vet at 4:30.

I did bring her into the house where it was cool and checked on her frequently.  My neighbor who found her came over and decided to hold her for a while and we talked, while she stroked Kiki and I finished up the Indian regalia.  All of a sudden, I noticed Kiki pushed with her back foot.  Did I just see that?

But again, no movement with her back feet. We decided to put her on the floor to see if she would react.  She gets up and ambles under the chair. She is fine.  Now she has always been a dirty scruffy cat.  We constantly go out and wash her off with clothes.  Which she loves by the way. So, what really is going on? We have no idea.  But we do know she is a good actress. I called the VET and they have a term for it.  

Magic Door syndrome. The minute you walk through the VET doors the animal miraculously recovers. But you still get a bill and some embarrassment to go with it. Kik's is back outside in her garage domain.  She had an afternoon of love.  She does get a lot of attention, as she demands it. But what an actress. The academy has been contacted. She is ready for her close-up Mr. D'Mille.

One more worry off my plate and I also completed all the shop things by 3 in the afternoon!!!!!  I am done until I get back from vacation.  I feel so free.  Made porkchops, squash from the garden and red potatoes for dinner. Dan and I went a got a dairy queen last night, we were watching Rooster Gogburn and the lady, and I fell asleep on the couch. Wen to bed early. I think yesterday really tired me out.

Now I need to think about packing and what I am going to take on this trip. The ironing basket needs love as most of what I want to take with is in there. But I have time to think and plan.

Sissie and our friend are due in this afternoon.  I am excited to spend some time with them before I leave.  Now I can.  Rather than being hooked to the shop until the last minute.

I still need to go out and do a little more spraying and I need to thin the beet and the radishes that have come up and have not been eaten.  I am not holding my breath.

Have a great and productive day

God is good

Kim

Wednesday, when it rains!

 I know a little sacrilegious, but I feel this way at times.

So that wedding dress from hell is gone.  Thank goodness as I wanted to light a match under it.  Took me 4 hours to complete.  Most of it is hand sewing....

Needless to say, my neck is a little sore.

But onto more important stuff.

Kay was leaving yesterday morning, and before she got far out of town, Dan called her to say his heart was acting up.  She returned and he was in A-fib.  So, I got to babysit Dan as she left town again.  Made him stay up here in the spare room so I was close if he needed to go back to hospital.  Kay has the car.

It was a long day yesterday, and I made a new sewing rule.  I no longer line bodices on corset gowns.  If you buy a sheer corset gown, find someone else or don't buy it.   It takes hours of hand sewing and I clearly underbid the dress.  I just don't want to do it at any price. There I have spoken.

My neighbor just came over with KiKi or garage cat who has clearly been attacked by a coyote.  I believe she is paralyzed on her back half, and I will have to put her down. Just what I need right now. I have her in a kennel in the house with water, but she is not eating or drinking.  She does not appear to be in pain. Poor darling.

Called Vet going in at 4:20. If she was in pain, I would have paid for an emergency visit. Oh my, life just throws things at you left and right.

I have three sister missionaries weeding my garden bed right now!  Isn't that great! I can so use the outside help.  I don't want Dan out in the heat, until we get an all clear on him.  Kay should be back tomorrow afternoon.

SO now that my day has been blown up what am I going to do next? Well, the piles. I have been waiting to do these all week. Let's list them just so we know where we are....

1. hem pants, and take in top

2. enlarge waste on pants

3. fix pockets in three pairs of shorts

4. hem a skirt and alter a neckline

5. shorten sleeves on three dress shirts and hem a pair of pants

6. hem 4 pairs of pants

7. put zippers in Indian leggings 

8. Alter a pile of tops 5 and fix waist on pants.

Okay can I get this done today?  I hope so.

On your mark get set go!

I feel terrible about my cat.

Kim

Tuesday, I don't want to!!!!

 

This is how I feel about the dress I am working on.  Bride came last night, and I pinned on lace, and it took forever.  All the pieces would not line up. I will get that done first thing even though I don't want to. Then I have to line the bodice by hand another thing I don't want to do.  I have to fix one of the darts again!!!! But she did like the fit so that is good. Beat head against wall.

Went out this morning and watered chickens and did more picking up in yard.  Then cleaned up and hosed off a mess the grandkids had made of the porch.

Now the back yard and deck are returned to normal.  I was able to freeze over a gallon of apricot puree last night. But too worn out or lazy to do dishes.  So, I did those this morning. I am trying to find chores to avoid this dress, but I think I clear ran out.

Okay Kim, set a timer and get to work.  Also need to slide in a piano lesson this evening as my teacher is leaving and so am I. Boy these paragraphs would not pass inspection in an English class.  I am jumping from one thought to another.

Sissie left for Missoula to pick up a friend. Dan is without a car.  I will run and pick him up this evening to go get a sandwich.

It is going to get to 104 today.  Love the heat, but I seem to spend most of my time in the airconditioned house. So maybe?

Say a prayer for me on this dress it is a real stressor. There are 7 piles to complete 2 are rather hard and wouldn't it be lovely if I could get to a few of these today?  A girl can dream.

Have a great and productive day

God is good

Kim

Monday, One dress left!

 

I am too tired to figure out how to get rid of the above chart, so you get a bonus picture. I am just not going to rack my memory right now.

I just had a wedding dress leave and I have one more to go.  That bride is coming in after 5 tonight. Then it is just piles.  Which believe it or not I am excited to get to. I have 4 days to get things done and I am a working fool.

Had a nice weekend.  I woke up on the 4th not feeling great.  But I persevered and made it to Kelly's with the family.  It was hot and noisy, and I do not mind either usually, but I also had everyone coming over later for a sundae bar and I was not my best.  I excused myself and went home and had a nap.  I am so happy I did.  When everyone arrived, I was feeling somewhat better. Signe' knowing I was not on top of my health stayed the night with me and the kids.

Boy did those kids have fun!  Poor Sissie was not her best either, but I made her a homemade vanilla shake her favorite and she collapsed on the sofa during the late-night fireworks.

The next morning Oliver had me up at 7:30 and started breakfast for the crew of 16.  Had the bacon and sausage done and warming and then at 10 started the overnight waffles.  We had cut up fruit and whip cream, syrup and eggs. Everyone left full and happy.  I did not get the dishes done and put away until noon.  SO, from 7:30 until noon I never sat.  Now I was tired.  I was due to have both Kelsa and Oliver the rest of the day into the next, but Signe' recognized I needed a rest, so she took the kids up to her place and I took another nap. Then I went and picked up Kelsa and Oliver at about 8o'clock and brought them home to stay the night and give Signe' a break.

We made individual lemon pound cakes with a really neat pan Sissie bought for me.  It makes 24 little loaves of bread and takes up the whole oven. They were very good, and the kids insisted on putting chocolate chips in the left-over batter and we made some muffins. We took the little loaves to choir practice. Where I overheard one of the men say, "I hope Sister Haverfield brought treats today."

Then home with the kids, for lunch and I took them to Sissie's pool for 1.5 hours and then home to rest.  Braunwyn picked them up about 5 and I laid down and slept until 10:15. I was up for about an hour and back down to bed.  I think last week really tanked my energy reserve and I just had to sleep and build it back up.

 

I am feeling great now. I had the kids go with me to pick a bucket of apricots. I don't have time to do jam this week, but I do have a nice batch pureed and cooked up which I will freeze to do jam later. I also made 6 large containers of turkey/chicken broth over the weekend and froze that along with two packages of turkey. I will pick a couple more buckets this week and puree and cook and freeze then when I get back, I can make jam.  I think this shows you I am getting a little smarter, because old Kim would have been trying to make jam now. Know your limits.  Something I struggle to learn.

They delivered the green house in boxes today.  Kelly's will go up first and when all the mistakes have been made, they can tell me how to do mine. I am such a good sister. I am letting her go first. 

My poor flower boxes need water so bad I have not either been awake or home the last two evening to water and they need to be watered every day. I have to wait to water until evening so as not to burn the plants. Dan is coming up later to help me, I hope they can gasp until then.  Poor darlings.

I cannot hardly wait until this bride comes to get this last dress done.   That will leave three waiting for me when I get back.

Did you guys have fun on the 4th?

Have a great and productive day

God is good

Kim

Friday, Happy 4th of July!

 Happy 4th of July my friends. Do you ever look back and realize how much you have compared to your earlier life?  Whenever I start to feel anxious about the world, I remember how hard I prayed for a beautiful home, a financially solvent life.  The blessings of a loving family and friends. A country that allows me freedoms not experienced in other parts of the world.  We are all so blessed. It is easy to soak up social media and think we are on fire, but are you on fire right now, I mean personally?  Probably not, so live with joy this day, pick up the woe tomorrow if you must.

I woke today with a bad headache, still not feeling my best.  Sissie not feeling well either.  Great! Two old sickies.  But we are both up and moving.   It was weird getting up today and not having a mental list of sewing. I have two more wedding dresses started that will be tried on Monday.  One is a nightmare. I worked on that sucker until after 10 p.m. last night.  Redid one of the hand darts 4 times. Might be why I woke with a headache.  Way too much stress on my neck for way too long. I will be happy to see this dress gone!!!!

Completed another chart, onto # 14 which should be done before the end of next week. Then I am off! I am so excited to get to go on a real vacation. 

I have many little bills to pay before I leave and then will face the music when I get back. I still have 3 major things to save for before the end of the year.  Actually 4 if you count Christmas.

I hope all of you have wonderful 4th. I am excited to get everyone together just wish I felt better.  Might be coming down with a sinus cold, hence the headache.  I will ignore it as much as possible.

Now time to break out the sparklers!!

Have a great and productive day

God is good

Kim

Thursday, let's get her done!

 

This was me this morning. I spent most of the day yesterday with Dan and daughter Signe'. She came by after I picked Roscoe up from groomers, and we decided to go and get groceries for the 4th.  Mine was mostly loss leaders as I base my bringing's around those. Also, we had Dan and decided to go pick up two greenhouse kits at Costco, because the truck was in town and we had Dan's back.  Poor Dan.

Anyway, just as I suspected they were sold out as the greenhouses, had been marked down $500. But we were able to order online and had them shipped free to my address which is in Idaho and has 3% lower sales tax.  Win! One of the houses is for Lil sis. I gave daughter $1000 in cash I had been saving for the green house as she ordered with her CC.  So, it is paid for. I am sure there will be more expenses concerning this as it will have to be put on a foundation of some kind, although I might have those here. I am excited as I am hoping this will really help with expenses in the spring. I spend a great deal on flowers and plants, and I know how to do my own.  Plus, I can share with others.

All the running around really cut into my day, but I managed to get done what I wanted to get done.  Signe' wanted me to come up to her place and help her purge her closet.  I enjoy spending time with my daughters and helping them.  As we had no kids or husband to distract, I said yes and went up about 7 last night after I had watered and taken care of things here.

We pooped around for a couple of hours and finally at 10:30 at night.  Yes 10:30 I said," Well I want to be in bed by midnight so let's get crackin."  I piled as much on the bed as possible and then grabbed item after item.  KEEP? DONATE?  If she took too long, I said DONATE!  We completely cleaned that closet, sorted, and hung by style all the clothing.  She had three large bags of donate. Then I vacuumed and we were in bed by midnight.  Lots of laughs. I even found a few things of mine... Those lulu lemon sweatpants I was missing, a pair of Dansko sandals, a swimsuit cover up, and a summer dress.  I also helped myself to a really nice coach pocketbook she never uses.  Go me! Left there this morning about 9:30.

I had a piano lesson at noon today, and I have two wedding dresses getting picked up today.  I hope!

Sissie and Dan are coming up to cook dinner on my grill and I put the whole chicken in the oven that I had pulled out yesterday.  It is done and cooling and I just put a small turkey in the oven to roast this afternoon. Had to get some things out of the freezer.  I will make a chicken salad for the weekend and then slice up the turkey for sandwiches and freeze the rest.  Plus make a pot of broth.

I have everything for my Sunday bar for the 4th.  Saturday morning the 5th we will do big breakfast at my house.  Could be as many as 20 people.  Will do bacon and sausage, overnight yeasted waffles and eggs. I will get Kay and Dan to come help.  Then I plan on making a triple batch of rolls for turkey sandwiches and leftovers from the 4th. Between the bar, the dining table and the outdoor deck seating I can do 20.  Who am I kidding, will I get to sit down? 

I will also have Oliver and Kelsa this weekend this should be interesting.  Therefore, help from sister and Dan necessary. 

Today I have two mothers of the bride dresses to hem, one is a nightmare and then I want to start on that last monster wedding dress if possible.  The more I get done the easier next week will be.  Even though I have 5 days, I know how my schedule can change in a minute, and I just want to be ready.

So, I am going to force myself to get to work, even though I really do not want to. I have to say I am thoroughly tired of sewing. However, that is not an excuse to slack. I wish it was.

Are you ready for the 4th celebrations?

Have a great and productive day

God is good

Kim

Wednesday, I am Smoking!

 Isn't it nice to have friends that understand you...

I was one busy beaver yesterday along with my foul mood, but I have quickly brought myself back to cheerful.  Just can't abide foul for too long.

I was able to actually get three wedding dresses done yesterday.  I still have to sew up the inside of one dress and that is the first thing I will do today.

I started to pick the lace off the bottom of the fourth wedding dress last night and I have to hem the under skirts and call the bride to come in so I can place the lace. That leaves one bridal dress left before I go.  It is also a really, really hard alteration, and I am dreading it.

So, in actuality I have two more wedding dresses left, one I have a good start on, which I am happy about.  Then I have two mothers of the bride dresses and of course the piles.  I will try and get all the bridal stuff done except the one hard dress before the fourth.

I need to run out and do errands today, as in pay a bill, cash some checks, and go to a couple of grocery stores. 

Sissie and I looked through my freezer and I pulled out a turkey and whole chicken that need to be cooked.  I can do this and pull the meat off the bone. Will probably make some homemade rolls for turkey sandwiches and then will freeze the rest and make broth for later.  I just need the room in the freezer.

Took the dog to the groomer this morning and she has a huge apricot tree that is loaded, so I will pick some apricots while I am down there when I pick Roscoe up.

So next week all I will have are the piles which I can get done in one day and the zippers on some Indian Regalia. I can handle a week of that.  Kim needs some down time. I might go ahead and pick all the apricots from my baby tree, as they fall off and the marmots eat them.  I think I will pick up the culls at me neighbor's house for my chickens. I see myself, making apricot jam next week.

It is so nice to finally feel like I can see light at the end of this tunnel.  Still there is a lot to do and I can't rest on my laurels, or my butt for that matter.

I was able to get all of the weeds picked in the front yard last night after the sun went down, so now I can mow without guilt.

What do you do when you feel overwhelmed?

Have a great and productive day

God is good

Kim

Tuesday, I am tired, but can't quit.

 I sewed all day yesterday and now I have two wedding dresses that I can finish today and then start on a third. I finally figured out what my problem is... I am tired of sewing.

I actually really enjoy sewing, but trying to keep up is getting old.  I am not behind like I was last year, so I don't have that stress but trying to keep up from getting behind is also a stress.

I am reaching a point now that I will not be able to take on any new sewing until I get back from vacation.

I had another wedding dress come in yesterday, that someone's grandma was supposed to do and then grandma realized it was too hard.  Wedding in two weeks. So, in reality with the dress I did yesterday for my little sister's stepdaughter and this grandma fiasco added two more to the already tight list.  I am over it.  No more. This girl is done.  I have this week which is short and then next week, and I am out of here.

We are in our hot season.  102 yesterday and 104 today.  I was able to get 1/2 the weeds in the front yard pulled last night after the sun went down and will do the other 1/2 tonight.  The chickens need fresh cool water, and I have been giving them corn cobs every night which they love. I change the water twice a day.  Also, I cannot skip watering as all the flower beds, pots and part of the garden are hand watered.  This takes me almost an hour.  So right now, a minimum of 2 hours of yard duties and I really should spend more time out there. I am in the keep it alive mode for the next month.

I just responded to a txt where a client who wants a fitting on Saturday.  She tried the same thing last week.  I am not open on Saturdays and Sundays. People will just push and push for their convenience, and I am over it!  Is it an emergency? As in a funeral?  Then no come when I am open.  Oh, Kim is developing an attitude. Remember the Fridays off?  Well, that has not happened for a long time, and I knew it would not work during high bridal season, but that is coming back my friends.

Okay enough feeling sorry for myself and complaining.  I need to get to work.  When I have two dresses done and ready to go out, I will feel better and less anxious.   Alos need to quickly pay my bills it is the first!

Have a great and productive day

God is good

Kim

Monday, Only 4 days this week?

 

This is how I feel about me today, well almost every day if you want to know the truth. I only have 4 days to get as much done as possible. Let's see. I see 9 major jobs, 5 of which are wedding dresses, plus whatever other small stuff is hiding. So, if I divide it up and get 2 done a day, I might be on even keel. I was hoping for less as I worked so hard last week. 

The weekend was fun with swimming, and trips to the park and tea parties.  I helped Kay and Dan put in a cut garden.  We layered soil and Dan rototilled.  Then laid out sidewalk edging.  Sis and I set out plants, and we went a bought pea gravel for around the steppingstones.  I have not seen the final product, but I am sure it is lovely.

Took Kelsa swimming at Kelly's house where we met Kelly's step granddaughter and they hit it off instantly. Swam and swam. Kelly's step son's wife came over with her wedding dress and I am going to alter that today as they are leaving tomorrow. 

Kelsa and I made two batches of cranberry /orange scones for choir practice on Sunday. Cooking with a 4-year-old is so much messier than cooking by myself, but I am making memories. Sometimes after it is time to clean up, I think I am making nightmares.  How can one spread flour that far? Must be a gift of some kind.

I tried to get up Saturday morning and de Kelsify the house.  After an hour and a half, it looked a little decent. But this morning it looked like I had not touched the place in a month. So, I started again. I still have to vacuum, but as the princess is watching a cartoon I will wait. 

We are having a big Family celebration at Kellie's new pool on the 4th and then everyone comes here to watch the fireworks from our viewpoint.  I am thinking of having a Sunday bar for dessert here.  It will be easy.  Ice cream and toppings everyone makes their own.  Then I will have both Kelsa and Oliver for the weekend as Braunwyn and Dan have to work, and Oliver is easier to take care of when Kelsa is here.

I need to go and get groceries, and I need to pay bills for the month.  Hard to believe it will be July tomorrow. I need milk, bread, fruit, and some easy protein options. 

I had an unusual turn of sickness again on Saturday evening.  Just got sick out of the blue, for no reason.  I jumped up and ran for the bathroom, Kelsa was upset by it, but it passed as soon as it came.  So weird.  Was it something I ate?  Could not figure it out.  But she is still talking about it. I guess Grandma's cannot get sick.

My goal this week is to have at least 500 to put toward a greenhouse I am buying at Costco. I still have three more major savings goals for the year, but I need to get back from my vacation to concentrate on them. I have not been as frugal lately and it shows in mt bottom line. 

Financial goals for the week.

1. save 500 for green house

2. get 9 items done in shop

3. 2 no spend days

4. get all monthly bills paid

5. eat at home from pantry

6. stick to list when getting groceries

Last week I went to Albertsons and only bought 4 loss leaders. One package of brats, one package of bacon, cheese, and chips for the holiday. Albertsons had great loss leaders but everything else is so expensive.

Well, I had better get busy sewing, it is not going to do itself.  Dang it!

Any plans for the 4th?

Have a great and productive day

God is good

Kim

Friday, I made it, almost!

I love this quote from C.S. Lewis. We need to remember who we are surrounded by, even the least of us is an immortal being of such worth.

I think yesterday I was a little blue and out of sorts.  I was having stomach issues, but I was also a little depressed.  I just needed Sissie time.  I am alone so much, and I don't mind being alone, I just like to do things with someone. I needed to run errands and the thought of doing it alone was just not in me.  

So Sissie and Dan went with me to the bank, and Home Depot where I paid off the $1400.00 for the yard equipment.  It was on a no interest offer until Sept. Stopped by hobby lobby for sewing supplies. Then We grabbed a protein bowl from a fast-food place and went to Albertsons for their loss leaders and to fill and pick up a prescription. It was nice to have company. 

Then home to finally get to sewing.  It was late in the day and Kelsa was due in at 8.  I had three more pairs of pants come in yesterday, so I added those to the 6 pair that still needed done.  I got those all done and started on a wedding dress and now need the bride to finish.  I also ripped and got another formal dress ready to sew.  I did not feel like I had wasted the day being blah!

This morning, I went to my piano lesson and then had my nails done.  I have Kelsa, and I left her with Kay and Dan when I did my nails.  Now we are home, and I need to make several phone calls for the shop.

Got a new hymn for choir at my lesson and it is an African spiritual.  I really like it.  Love the rhythm. I have been neglectful in practicing lately and need to improve. I was so disciplined for a long while and I need to get back to that.

Went out early this morning and replanted carrots, and beets and radishes. I could have bought a lot of veggies for what I have spent on seed. But I will win this, I swear!!!!!

This has been a very productive week, and I need to keep at it in order to leave town in the middle of July with a clear conscience. Tomorrow I am helping Kay and Dan at their place and then I think Kelsa and I will go swimming at Kellie's in the late afternoon.

I was able to get zippers at Hobbie lobby on sale for .99 a piece.  These would have been well over 14.00 at Joanns.  Plus, they have leather supplies.  The leather package was $3.99. Normally I have to buy an entire hide at the shoe shop.  Then I cut the hide into fringe and sell it on the reservation, so I don't waste the money, but that is a pain. Now I can just buy a small strip. Love that.

I am trying to convince myself to get some sewing done today. Kelsa is busy playing with playdough.  I think the playdough sounds like more fun.

I have to substitute music with the children this week and play for choir.  I think Kelsa and I will do homemade scones for the choir treat.  We haven't done those for a while and everyone loves those.  I have cranberries and blueberries that need to be used in the freezer.

So, I will have a busy weekend ahead of me. Signe' has William up in Spokane at hockey camp and Kelsa is with me until Monday when Nate gets off work.  It is a grandma weekend.  I will love every minute of it!

Have a great and productive day

God is good

Kim

Thursday, getting tired...

 Chart # 12 done! I certainly will be able to pay off the home depot card now. Plus left over for the next savings plan which will be spending money in Rehoboth Beach in July.

I am dragging today.  Just not feeling great. Don't know if it is a bug.  I have gotten plenty of sleep, just really struggling to stay awake.  Plus, my stomach is not happy. But I am sure this will pass.

Yesterday I finished my quota early and started to look around at the piles and realized I had 11 pairs of pants to hem, so I started on those. I was able to get 5 pair done, so that leaves 6 pair for today plus another two dresses.

I believe Kelsa may show tonight depending on when Signe' leaves Twin Falls. I will have Kelsa for the weekend or at least 3-4 days.  She will slow things down a bit and that might be a good thing.

I was able to do a little spraying on the hill, but I think I need a bigger spray nozzle. It was also too windy to change to a larger spraying can. I really need zero wind as it is down by the chickens.

Bought new carrot, radish and beet seed, to plant in the beds now that we have them surrounded.  I also picked another 3 small zucchini, which I will fry for dinner.  Yum! Still don't know if this new fencing is doing the trick, I guess we will know when the new seedlings emerge, or I get a cucumber growing. It is a waiting game now and I do have to get out a plant seeds.  Just too tired right now.  I am sure I will get my mojo back soon.

Scheduled a nail appointment for 5 today, they need done badly. But right now, all I can think of is a nap, so I will go take one and then get up and sew.  Or sew into the evening. I have done that before.  I think I will call Sissie, she might be able to help me. I really don't need help, just her presence.  She will energize me or hit me I am not sure which. 

I really don't like sloggy days and this is one of them.

Have a great and productive day

God is good

Kim

Wednesday, Sticking to the list

 Does anyone else have this problem?  It is an aggravation I tell you.

I was able to finish my quota yesterday.  Took about 1.5 hours longer than I thought.  I always think I can do a whole list in a shorter time frame than is possible.  Have been that way my whole life. But the list is done!

Today I have two dresses to finish, and they are both started. I am supposed to have three dresses picked up but so far no one has come in to pick up.  Just work has been dropped off.

The Elders and boys came last night and got the hill cleared.  It took 4 large garbage cans full to clear the acreage.  Luckily a neighbor lent me her can and one of the men brought two from his neighborhood. Now I just have to get out and spray the tiny weeds.  Hope to get that done later today.

Sissie came over with the last of the bricks from her place.  I will not start on the blueberry bed until later this summer.  Too hot, and just not enough time.  I will plant new bushes in the fall. But at least the supplies are here for when I want to start.

Now I am just praying that the fencing Dan and I out up will deter whatever is eating the cucumbers down.  At this point I am ready to give up. But I just can't.

I need to make an appointment to get my nails done some time before the weekend.  They are a wreck. Better put that on my list of to do's. Kelsa called me last night from Twin Falls where she is staying and wanted me to come over and see her.  It was so cute.  Like I can just hop in the car and be there in a few minutes.  It is 8 hours away. She is having fun at dance camp and getting thoroughly spoiled by Auntie Jessie.

Well, I had better get busy, those dresses are not going to do themselves. Will report back tomorrow, so I can be accountable.  See what y'all do for me.  I just know you will know if I just sit on the back deck and enjoy the sunshine.

Have a great and productive day

God is good

Kim

Tuesday, Little engine days!

 I think sometimes I live by this motto. I am very good at hiding my true feelings. What are my true feelings?  I don't really want to dwell on that, so let's get to work!

Dan has finished the second garden bed.  Now I can replant carrots, radishes and beets.  It is only the third time no big deal! The money and the time I have put into this garden area is absurd. But I will win dangit!

Good news and boys from our ward are coming over this evening to finish weeding the hill. I will only have them for an hour, but 8 to 10 boys can pull a lot of weeds.  I am going to set a sprinkler down there this afternoon to help loosen the soil. I hate to waste water on weeds, but the more that come out the less I have to deal with.

Actually, saw a blossom on the cucumber plant, so if it is not eaten off tomorrow, I will know that we are going in the right direction. 

I was able to get my quota done yesterday and I had a bride here this morning and I will finish her dress before I start on today's work.  I need to add some lace to the arm area and hooks in the back to reinforce.  Then I just have to steam, and she is done. Hoping to get all this done in an hour.

I have a mother of the bride dress to hem and a flower girl dress to alter, and I have already ripped out the flower girl dress.  Then I have another dress to hem with horsehair braid so that is my crappy task for the day.  If I can get all this done, I will be on schedule. * Snort*, Kim is on a schedule..... Imagine?

I am in my little engine that could routine.  Here I thought this was my easiest June ever, I had things so under control. Well, that blew by really fast as I swear people are just not planning ahead and coming in later and later to get things done.  It is crazy.  But as I am motivated by money I seem to say yes. I think I can, I think I can, turns into I know I can if I work hard enough.

I have two wedding dresses getting picked up tomorrow, so that is less in the shop, and makes me happy. I also cannot forget that I have a few piles.  They are under all the wedding dresses. Have to get them on the schedule.

Well, that wedding dress awaits and I am going to set a timer!

Have a great and productive day

God is good

Kim

Monday, what just happened?

 Finished another chart last week, onto #12.  Last part of last week is a blur.  So busy, between grandkids, and sewing and all other responsibilities, I was not even sure what day it was. I woke up this morning and asked myself, "What just happened ?"

Signe' took James back home along with her two kids last Friday morning and will stay the week in Twin Falls, which means I have no grandkids, so I have no excuse not to really get things done.  Don't worry I will probably find an excuse. It is one of my many talents....

One poor soul from the church showed up to help with the snake fence, but he had an air compressor stapler. It took two hours for him to fix the fencing.  I went around with the weed eater and cut down all the grass to expose the dug in part of the fence Then took a pulaski and chopped out several large thistle plants. the dug in fence was all secure. Then while he was going around the property, I started weeding the hill.  But after 2 hours my back gave out and I am 1/3 of the way done. I don't believe in asking for help and then watching people work.  If they can work, I can work.  I guess if I was incapacitated, I would sing a different tune. We have a little over 1/2 and acre and 1/2 of that is a steep hill covered in large rock.  Perfect habitat for snakes.

Sissie in the meantime brought up two loads of bricks that had to be trudged across the property to where I will be putting in a blueberry berm. She has all these extra building bricks, you know the large funny shaped stones they are building retaining walls with, all over. They are very expensive, and I will not let them go to waste. After two carloads, I said no more, I had been at the yard now for over 4 hours and I was done. There is still one more load of bricks and they can wait. I took an afternoon nap, and no one needed or deserved one more.

It seems no matter what we do to keep varmints out of the veggie garden it is of no use.  So now Dan and I are actually fencing the individual gardens.  So much work and expense. But we will win this fight as we have thumbs! This is Dan's favorite saying.

So now the marmots cannot get into the yard from the back rocks, but we found a family living under the big shed at the bottom of the property.  They cannot get out of the yard.  I am calling the county for traps.  We will trap them and put them over the fence.  What a lot of work and worry. But I cannot poison or shoot them.

Choir sang yesterday so I played, and I had not practiced for a few days, so I was panicking, but it went fine.  Fingers went where they were supposed to go. I think taking lessons is really helping my confidence.

I have at least two if not three wedding dresses to get out this week. There are 10 dresses that have to be done before I leave in July.  That is if no more dresses come in and I find that hard to believe.  So, my goal is to get 2 done a day during this week. The kids will be back this coming weekend and I need to make hay while the sun shines.

Here is a picture of Kelsa, taken at Aunt Jessies house.  Jethelyn has no girls and spoils her nieces rotten. Kelsa had a princess dress and a wand and a purse and a head band with a braid all waiting for her when she arrived. I love the fake braid. Kelsa's hair goes about 2 inches past her butt as it is, but no we need a fake braid.   The wall behind her is the wall Jess and I papered when I was there last. Jess has an eclectic taste. She manages to put it all together and it looks wonderful. She uses second hand and antique stores and also Facebook marketplace. I love how her ideas come together.

Dan has one garden bed almost completed, and we need to go get more supplies to finish the other.  I will take pictures when we are done.  Then I will plant radishes and carrots for a third time!  I will not give up.  I have to give up on cabbage this year. So frustrating.

Well, I need to get to work. Dan and I already spent an hour outside getting one of the beds surrounded and then he could finish by himself. We will win!!!!!

Have a great and productive day

God is good

Kim