Thursday, I don't want to sew addition!!!!!

 Yes it has walked off and it does not want to come back.  It needs to but boy am I having a hard time convincing it that it is just for today.

I have two if not three wedding dresses I can complete.  Or 7 prom dresses.  I can't do both but really need to stick to wedding dresses to get quota done by the time I leave,  It is just that Prom dresses are due out next week.  So eenie, meenie .....

Okay still do not want to sew.  Now what do I do!

I can make a list and ignore it.  Or I can make a list and do it.

Decisions, decisions.  So hard.

Okay dresses won, as in less hand work.  

So 

1. purple hem

2. rust hem

3. pink hem and make a slit

4. navy blue darts

5. peach/hem

6. purple sleeves and godet

7. grey hem

I think that is doable.  But really need to finish a couple of wedding dresses.

Argh!!!!!

Kim 

Wednesday, I am doing it

 Thaks for the lift up I so needed it. Life is just hard and I have a bad case of the I don't want too.

My neighbor just text and she is sick, so I ran over saltines and cold 7up, as she is not keeping much down. Poor darling. 

It is all about watching out for each other, isn't it?

 What a great group we have here. 

I got everything done yesterday I wanted to in the shop.  Realize that I can only sew for about 4 hours before my joints give up and start screaming.  They love to scream.  Little buggers.

I worked for about 2 hours in the rock and then went in search or cardboard to put under ground cover I am laying.  I got a huge pile at Home Depot.

But my shoulders and wrists were so sore, and I keep thinking I will eventually get stronger, and things will not hurt as bad, but so far other than really improved arm muscles, I am still so sore at night.  AGE.....?

SO today I will do wedding dresses and then if I can get two of them done before 2 I will do three more prom dresses.

I still have wedding dresses coming in for June and I am telling them I will not get them done until I get home from Sissie's as I have 9 that I want to get done before I leave.  That is a lot of pressure, but at least the prom will be over.

Back to the Salt Mines

Kim

Tuesday, Keeping on

 Do you ever feel like just getting up and getting dressed is an accomplishment?  I know I do. 

I was proud to me because I stuck to my guns and got my piles done yesterday and it was a busy day.

After Kelsa fell asleep last night, I cleaned up the house not that you would know it right now.

We also went to Walmart for a few supplies for the yard.  I do not get to use them until I have my quota done for today.  Because I would just spend all my time outside and not get any sewing done. 

So today it is prom dresses, and I will do hand work on a wedding dress this evening after it gets dark.

I think I had better make a list as I am just not very motivated today.  Need me some motivation.  How about this?  You need to pay your bills.  Ah who cares it is only money. My regard for money right now is very low. I need to have an attitude change.

Anyway, I digress.

1. purple dress back and lining

2. teal dress hem and darts sew up slit

3. red dress hand work

4.brides maid dress shoulders and hem

5. black dress hem and shoulders

I am missing Joel terribly and it is making my life very hard. You would think I would be in my first year and I am not. I just want to run and escape, and I don't even know where I would run.  Silly I know. If Sissie was not coming I think I would sell this house and move away.  Where ?  I don't know.  I want away from the pain, but I know it would follow me. Every day is a struggle and I just have to make myself keep going. 

I need to go change the thread on my serger.  I don't like doing that but here I go.

Have a good day while I try to.

Kim

Monday, Home again!

 Had a lovely weekend with family.  James was baptized and we all celebrated his 8th birthday.  I was able to see my sister-in-law who has cancer, and she looks great but is not through for a long while with treatments.

We flew down and rented a car and then flew home.  It was lovely.  No 18-hour drive.  Plus, we were able to pick up Joel's mom and bring her with and it was so nice to see her.  She is pretty darn amazing and will be 96 on her next birthday.

Now I have to face the music of getting all the wedding dresses done for June before I leave for Sissie's house in May.   It will come fast.

I need to straighten the shop today and also hem about 12 pairs of pants.  I have prom dresses coming in like crazy as the prom for both local schools is May 4th.

I have a wedding dress to finish from last week and I need to start on another two.  It is doable if I concentrate and don't go have fun in the yard.  The yard is a work in progress with the rock work about 1/2 done.  Once that is finished, I can get the sprinklers turned on and figure out what to do about the law as it is 1/2 dead. It is always something isn't it?

Kelsa is here today and tomorrow, but I am really working with her on allowing me to sew and not interrupting me constantly. She is very good.  She plays and sings and is a joy most of the time.

On the way down to Boise I put my hand in my purse looking for a pen and pulled out a dead angle worm.  It was hard.  I think it crawled in there to escape Oliver.  Proof that I am a boy Grandma.  The clerk laughed so hard when I showed her.  I did not search for rollie poly carcasses because I did not want to know.  All I can tell you is do not accept chewing gum from the bottom of my purse.

Okay, off to the salt mines I go. 

Kim

Tuesday, What happened to Monday? edition

 How is it I can miss a whole day?  I mean I knew yesterday was Monday, I mean I mailed my tax checks in, and I ran around all day. 

The shop was crazy busy as in a non stop stream of brides and prom dresses. 

I was so pleased as I had a dress that I had to make bigger by putting gussets in the sides and it fit perfectly!  Now that does not happen every time.

I have a wedding dress to hem today and then get to work on my Bunnie outfits.  I have I think 8 pieces. 

Oliver is here today, and Kelsa comes later.  We have already been outside and dug up rollie polies. Because I need to have those crawling all over the house.  But when you have a three year old boy you have priorities. 

I am turning down work and also telling people I cannot do it until next week.  I have enough with this wedding dress and the 8 custom pieces I have to do.  See I am getting better.

Well I am off to get some fun or NOT!

Kim

Friday, No day off here

  Remember the Friday was my day off thing.... Well, it ain't happening this Friday. And it is so beautiful out and I want to be outside all day!!!!!  So, I am a little cranky.

I really should not be as I had a specialist appt. this morning and all my blood work was great! That does not happen too often.  So, I don't have to see Rheumatologist for another 6 months. 

I have so much to do in shop and I can't let myself not get a few things done.  I did really well yesterday, so I hope I have the same determination today.

Wednesday got away from me as I had both kids, and I just took my house back. I cleaned my closet and switched out summer and winter shoes.  I also culled all the kids toys and sent home bags and bags of things that belonged to the babies. The closet was a nightmare with all their stuff that was left here.

I also put away Easter which was sad as I hardly got to enjoy it, but the house does look fresh and clean. SO that is a plus.

Today it is two prom dresses and two wedding dresses.  After that I can play.  Oh, I also have to make a slew of phone calls which I hate to do. Can't wait to get Sissie here, she does much better phone than I.

Okay, okay I will get to work but I don't want to.

Kim

Tuesday, Playing with worms

 This picture was taken years ago, and just sent to me by my sister-in-law.  We were out moving sprinkler pipe in potatoes up by West Yellowstone. 

This is Cindy (Joel's little sister and her son Bo and me in the middle). We headed out really early to get this done so TY (brother-in-law could go with us to get some fun as we say. I think those muck boots were way too big for me, but I sloshed along.

Oliver is here today and last night I worked for about 2 hours in the rock.  We found many worms and Oliver was thrilled. I made him leave them outside.  So, this morning we had to go find more worms.  Who knew this would be so fascinating?

Finishing up a wedding dress today and continuing to sew on prom dresses.  Just so much to do.  But I am determined to get a little rock work done every day. 

Took Auntie to the airport this morning and I will sure miss her.  She has been here just short of two months. I hope she can come again next year. She gets around amazingly well for someone her age.

Oliver just dropped his worms on the shop floor. Yikes!

Kim

Monday, My forehead is peeling

 My oh my took the red eye home from Hawaii.  I was so tired driving the two hours home from the airport, but we made it.  Had a lovely time, so many good memories.

I sunburned my forehead more than once, even though I tried to keep a hat on. 

I am home now, and I have to concentrate on all the June wedding dresses as I want to get them out before I leave for Sissies on May 9th. 

Auntie flies out tomorrow.  I am sending her to Denver as my oldest cousin (her daughter is having surgery). She was supposed to fly home Tuesday, but I switched the ticket to Denver.  That saves me a 4 hour round trip back to Spokane. 

Kelsa is here and she missed me and I will pick Oliver up tonight so things should be rocking around here for a while. 

Did anything happen in blog land as I have no time to go back and read?  Hopefully all are well. 

The yard is a wreck and I really have to figure out a schedule to work on it. I worked for an hour this morning and hope to work again this evening for an hour.  Pulled tons of weeds.  It is just an ongoing project. Nate mowed yesterday but I want him to teach me how to use the mower so I can do it.

Today it is about Prom dresses and a few wedding dresses.

Here I go.  No rest for the wicked.

Kim  

Wednesday, Sewing

 

I am trying to be happy as I will be in Hawaii in just a few days.  I will not be grouchy because I have a cold.

I will not be grouchy because my model added a last minute outfit.

I will not be grouchy because I have three more suits to alter and one dress.

I will not be grouchy because I have had to change pants twice today . (sneeze....  *&^%$#)

Today:

1. finish skirt

2. finish top

3. alter mens coat

4. patch suit and alter coat

5. alter military uniform

6. hem first communion dress.

Then I am done!  I have turned down a ton of work this week.  Asked three brides to call me back when I get home and sent many others over to another seamstress.

No new work this week,......well except the unexpected 4 outfit from the model.

Here Kim goes, she is going not quickly but going none the less.

Kim

Tuesday, Busy have a Cold!

 

How I feel.  What I am doing.... Going to Joanns for lining.  I will wear a mask.

Kelsa giveth but does not taketh away unless it is your sanity.

Aunty and I both have cold, but at least we will be over the worst by the time we leave.

I have way too much to do. But I will plug along, with my kleenex in hand. 

I had a wonderful birthday and thank you to all who wished me happy birthday.

The kids made it special and Kelsa was so funny. Love that kid.

Well I am off. I wish my nose would quit running.

Kim 

Thursday, Enjoying Life

 Okay this is mean toward men, but I thought it was so funny. I am bad I know. But I just could not help it and had to share.

This afternoon I am taking Aunty in for a pedicure and me for my nails.  Next week I am going in for a pedicure and dragging my girlfriend with to also have her toes painted for our trip to Hawaii!  You know who you are as I know you read this blog so get ready, I already made the appointment.

Look threats by blog who knew?

Aunty and I are going up to daughter's house in Colton to stay with kids overnight as she is doing a ride along with her husband. We will come home in the morning early as I have a bridal at 10.00.

It is overcast today and looks like we are going to get some cooler weather.  But my weekend will be so busy it won't matter.

Lil Sis bought Aunty and I tickets to the show Menopause at the opera house in Spokane, for my birthday so we are driving up and back on Saturday.

Then Sunday the kids will be down as it is my birthday.  Nate is supposed to power wash the deck and furniture, but I don't know if the weather will cooperate. Oh well I will still have a rainbow cake and balloons, as that is what Kelsa told me I needed.

Party planning by Kelsa.

I have been working and not hard enough on these bustier's. They are only 4 pieces, but those are cut out 4 times and assembled plus all the boning (not bondage) silly people. I need to really track myself and see how long it takes me to do one and quit messing around.  Kim's inner evil twin voice: (but, me likes to mess around). 

Okay I am off to get some fun.  I will work tomorrow.  By the way I owe about $1500.00 to taxes and $350.00 to accountant.  Then last week I paid $1400.00 for a new machine at the rate I am bleeding money I might have to get a job.  

I think Cheryl just fainted, quick someone from the community check on her. 

Kim

Wednesday, First Day of Spring

 

It is beautiful outside!  I have the first of the bulbs I planted blooming.  Kelsa and I went out and picked a few daffodils. It got up to 70 yesterday afternoon and I worked in the yard for about an hour.

The shop was busy all day and the day just kind of got away from me. 

My model came by, and I have a couple of designs to get done for her, so I will work on those today and then take Kelsa to Dance later this afternoon.

I don't know how that kid does it but the minute she hits the house it looks like an explosion takes place. I just ignore it until she leaves, then pick up otherwise it is a lesson in frustration.

I have been so aghast by the cost of sewing items.  We only have a JOanns here and it is small.  Plus, you all who sew know how expensive they are. I usually get most of my major supplies from a wholesale catalog. But sometimes I have to go to the store here to get ripped off.  Boning for a corset I was making was 3.99 a yard.  I needed it immediately and I bought 2 yards and needed a little more.  So, aggravating. Then I remembered I had a roll of cream twill tape that I keep on hand for costuming, and when Signe' dropped off Kelsa and said she was going to Home Depot, I asked her to find me a package of the longest zip ties they sold. I swear boning is just a zip tie encased in cloth. Walla I can make my own, for pennies on the dollar. 

I thought this was funny.  Yes, they are all in the room with me, even the sparkly unicorn named Tess.

I bought this new suit this year and had never worn it.  So, I decided St. Patrick's Day was perfect.  But I hated the way it felt at the neck.  I am surprised I did not notice this when I bought it.  It has a stand-up collar that is very itchy and uncomfortable.  So, I went into my shop and tailor tacked it back so it would stay down.  I am going to remove the collar when I get time. Also shorten the sleeves a little even though it is a petite.

Well, I am off to sew, and rip a bustier apart that I don't like the fit of. Fun. Fun...

Kim

Monday, Crazy weekend

 

For someone who worked most of the weekend, this is really how I felt.

Thursday, I spent all day and I mean all day doing hand work.  I had to finish up a wedding dress that needed so much hand work.  Like hours of it and I sat in front of the TV and did this until evening when I finally finished.  Well that meant that I had not really moved my right shoulder but had used the muscles around it causing it to flair and stiffen. So, I was in pain and frustrated, as I knew better but did it anyway. The damn dress is done!

Friday, I spent a good amount of time in my yard, working on my rock project.  Actually, too much time as I really over did it.  Can you imagine me overdoing anything?

I have been having some problems with my left foot as in severe heel pain.  It is Planter fasciitis, which is common for those who have RA.  But Friday morning it attacked my right foot, and I was limping pretty badly.

It will usually abate if you keep moving but if you stop and take a break it comes raring back. So, the whole day as I was working my butt off in the yard I was also dealing with a painful set of feet.

When I came in for the day I could hardly move.  Kelsa was spending the night, and we went and got Pizza. I was worried that I was going to be very sore on Saturday, but other than my feet I was fine. I started to cut back the grape vine that was over taking the back part of the fence and I just created another mess in the yard.  But I was taking a break on the rock work, as I had broken the screen I was working with, and I just wanted to give my shoulders and arms a break. 

I came in about 2:30 and started to get ready for company.  I had the corn beef to start, and I made a dessert, and some soda bread.  I also really cleaned house. Nate and Signe" came and picked up Kelsa and Nate fixed my screen and did a couple of other honeydo jobs for me.  But as the afternoon wore on and company was expected, I became really weary and sore.  Like arthritis flaring through my whole-body sore. It was pretty terrifying.

We had a good dinner, and I think I fed everyone too well as we all went into food comas and got through just one game, and then all retired early. Auntie was ready to drop, and I did the dishes as quickly as possible and took two kinds of pain killers and went to bed!

Got up Sunday and did not feel too bad.  Woke at 10:30 and went to church then back home to take a three-hour nap. Then we went to Lil sis's for dinner and then back home to bed early.  I did play the piano for about an hour. I just felt that I needed sleep, and my feet are fine today, and I feel good. So, what was all the pain about this weekend?  I mean it was scary bad.

I can get emotional when I am in severe pain and kind of doomsday like. This is it!  It is the end! I am not going to make it! Now I am thinking... I don't know what I am thinking.

What do you think I should be thinking?

Kim

Thursday, Getting warmer

 I know a one hour time difference should not be so hard but for some reason it is for me.  Or I am just using it as an excuse to stress myself out about not sleeping.  More likely the later.

It is a beautiful day here and I am so hoping it will stay that way and not overcast.

Most of the day will be spent on hand work, pants to hem, Wedding dress I should have worked on yesterday to finish.  I also want to pull the last wedding dress for May and get that done before I leave for Hawaii.

I really want to do some yardwork tomorrow if it is nice.

I am pretty proud of myself with the shop.  There is still lots to do considering I have to do a major amount of work next week for my model person.  Isn't that a great title?  Model person.

My house really needs love.  Like the cupboards and my closet.  But I will wait for Sissie to come and scream at me.  It helps a lot. I say a lot, a lot.

I am getting together Saturday night with friends and Auntie to celebrate St. Patrick's day.   Having corned beef and cabbage and I will make soda bread.  Then a nummy pistachio dessert.  We are going to play games and cards after dinner.  We must wear our funny hats as it is tradition. Then out come the Easter decorations!

There is only two weeks between St. Paddies and Easter this year so I am afraid the Easter will stay out longer. I guess spring can be bunnies and things, right?

The bulbs I planted last year are all coming up and I can hardly wait until they bloom. But we just need a little warmer days.

Kim 

Wednesday, Plodding along

 I bought a lemon last night at the store.  No particular reason other than to be aware that I had a lemon in the fridge.  Just in case.....

Today I have a set of Military dress blues to alter.  They are ripped and ready.  Then I have a formal to hem and a wedding dress to finish.

If I can get through all of those I will be happy.

I have to pick the kids up this afternoon about 2:30 as Nathan goes to work and then take Kelsa to Ballet.

So I will plod through the uniform and then on with the show.

Kim

Tuesday, Yesterday was plain awful!!!!!!

 I'm telling you I do not want to relive yesterday. Now on a scale of 1 to 10 it really was not that bad, just so aggravating. 

I had 10 pairs of pants to remodel for my little person, which is not an easy job. But doable. When I started out my machine decided it did not like the knit fabric of the first pair.  So, I switched to a knit needle, still hated them. I don't like to use a knit stich as it is so tiny and a double stitch at that.  Very slow.  (Linda, I know you are with me here).  But nevertheless, this was the only thing I could do. SO, I crawled through three pairs of pants, frustrated the whole entire time.

As I broke one of my sergers last week, I had to run it to the shop and see if it was worth fixing.  After three painstakingly slow pairs of pants, I needed a break.  Well of course it was not worth fixing compared to buying a new one.  Prices have really jumped as I knew they would. I ordered and paid for a new serger that thread automatically!!!!!  They had a good sale, and it was worth the price difference. Should be here in about a week.

In the meantime, William got the pukes at school and Nathan was called into work, so the kids were delivered just as I arrived home from the sewing machine store. Too much red dye at a birthday party and he was down. I went into shop and turned on my machine and it had cast out it's evil spirit and sewed fine!!!!!  Now what was that all about.  However, when you are down to one serger you have to keep rethreading back and forth which is a pain.

Nothing is more frustrating than equipment that won't work.  Whether it is a nail gun, or a computer. I was about to tear my hair out. Sissie called in the middle of it, and she could tell by my voice I was ready to blow. The kids were angels and that helped a lot..

Aunty finished her quilt top, and she was happy to be done with that project. She was over tired also.  We both quit about 5 and went into slug mode.  (No offence my dear Slugs)

By the way anyone who thinks Slugs and Dan should move here please vote!  My girls love them, and they are deniably plausible, so will be well cared for out west.  Airplanes can get you back east in about 5 hours. It is less expensive out here in many ways, plus just think of the trouble Slugs and Sissie and I could get into.  Anne comes out to Portland and that is only 6 hours away by car.  Oh, the fun that can be had.  Plus, the Dan's could fish, and mess around together.  I think it is a wonderful plan. 

Well, I had better get to work, the piles are a waiting, and the shop is a mess.

Kim

Thursday, making headway

 

I had an appointment this morning to get my soon to expire driver's license renewed. Then home to deal with Kelsa. She was so cranky last night.  E-GADS.  SHE PLAYED HARD ALL DAY WOULD NOT NAP AND THEN HAD DANCE LESSONS. Talk about a grouch.  I put her to bed early and she fell asleep thank goodness.  She is usually such a happy little thing. But now we know what lurks beneath that smile. 

Ran to the store last night to get milk and juice and raisin toast for Aunty.  My goodness raisin bread is pricy.  I am going to try and make some.

I bought chicken legs for .69 a pound limit one and I have them in the crockpot to make broth and some chicken salad. I am making a big pot of navy bean soup tomorrow with the ham bone I cooked last Sunday. 

The wedding dress I had to take the zipper out of fit perfectly and I was so happy.  I have so much hand work left on it, but I will wait until next week, as I have to get to the piles.  They are quickly taking over. I would really like to work in the yard tomorrow if it is nice.  There is so much to do on the rock project. 

I have a funeral on Saturday, and I really need to get up the hill to Signe's to help her with the house!

Always something.

Kim

Wednesday, Sunny and Cold

 

" As the days get longer the cold gets stronger." That is what is going on here.  We finally get sun, but it is frosty and cold outside. Which really is okay as I would want to be outside if it was warm and I have no problem staying in the warm shop.

Aunty is busy quilting and having a ball.  I hope... She is using a satin material, and it is harder to work with. But the quilt is beautiful!

I have two more wedding dresses done and ready for pickup and I have another that will have a fitting this afternoon.   It is very hard.  I had to take it up in shoulders.  This meant removing the cap sleeve and putting it back in.  I also had to remove and take in a zipper which I almost always refuse to do but there was no other way. Don't worry Anne I am charging.!!!

I have one more dress due out for May and then I will start on June dresses. There are 30 pairs of pants in here to shorten and I have 6 pairs for my little person and those always take much longer as they have to be tapered.

Kelsa is here today, tonight and tomorrow.  Spring breaks are coming up for schools so I will have the kids more this month.  I want to get somewhat caught up in shop, ha-ha so I can do some fun things with them.

Kim

Tuesday, Keeping it all straight

 I think the hardest part of my life is my confusion.  I get confused easily.  It is hard for me to keep things straight, with so much going on all the time.  I really think it would be for anybody, so I don't beat myself up too much.

I have three wedding dresses out and I have to keep track of what bags they go in, it is easy to lose track.  I have piles of pants and I have to keep tickets pinned to them that tell me what to do.

I have to get all the correct info on a bridal tag so I know what and where.  This is what Sissie will do for me.

I love to sew and create but I hate all the paperwork and organization that goes with it. 

I did get all the things the accountant needed delivered yesterday.  I had to wait for the State of Idaho to send paperwork.  So that is one thing off my mind.

I just contacted and made my last payment for our Hawaii trip this morning.

Doing book work or being in charge makes me nervous.  That is why traveling with Slug is so nice as she keeps me straight and in line.

Yikes do not put me in charge!!!

Kim

Monday, Paying bills!

 

Ran all over town this morning with Signe' paying bills and going to different banks. The phone I swear has not stopped ringing all day.  Of course, three clients came while I was out running around.  Poor Auntie had to deal with that. But I feel like I get no time to do the things that I really need to do until everything is closing. So, I just went out and did what needed to be done and now I don't have to worry for the rest of the month. 

Don't worry the clientele will return as there is no, one else. I would like to work on wedding dresses today, but the piles are starting to stack up again. My little person has 8 pairs of pants that need to be done before this weekend, and I have a military uniform and a business suit that are also due out Friday.  Plus, I think there are at least 12 pairs of pants and a coat to shorten, before I can get to dresses.

I have found making appointments for brides to return forces me to get things done faster.  As in they are coming you had better get your butt in there and finish that dress!

Anything to motivate me. I have continued to turn away work that I just don't want like zippers in coats. Or odd things that would be an irritation. 

Just had a client bring me 11 yards of 60 inch wide Pendelton wool, in three different patterns.  It is beautiful and she no longer sews.  What a gift.  Then another client gave me 15 completed quilt blocks that are hand embroidered.  They are enough for a queen size quilt.  Her hands are too arthritic to put them together.  Such lovely gifts, and someday I will have the time to use them. I have to make myself believe that.

I need Sissie so bad.

By the way Kittie 9, Nate 0, the war goes on.

Kim

Thursday, LEAP day!

 

So fun.  Once every 4 years, we get to leap into March. 

I was so busy yesterday with kids and grandkids, both Auntie and I were exhausted after everyone left. We both went down for naps. We needed them badly.

Auntie had a headache yesterday most of the day but today we are going out to dinner with my bestest buddy.  That will be fun.

Signe' and Nate are trying to get settled at their new place.  They have an 8-month-old female calico kitten, that seems to love her new home.

She keeps bringing in voles from across the street where there is farmland. She is quite the huntress. Nathan could smell something dead in the house and knew it was a vole she had brought in, and they did not catch her.  He has looked all over for where she hid it. Then he caught her two more times coming in with them and chased her out.  The day before yesterday he heard a thumping sound in the front room and went to investigate and found her tossing dead vole around.  So, he bought a belled collar for her so he would know when she came in the house. 

  

Now he is in the computer room and again hears thumping and goes out, cat with another dead vole, and no collar.  I told him to give up.  She was only trying to feed the family.  She had talked the vole into helping her take off the collar in exchange for freedom and then changed her mind.

So, Nate buys a fancy electric heavy dog door. But I am pretty sure I saw her reading the installation directions, with a drill in her paws.  Well that lasted one day, because she just waits for the dogs to go through and then comes in between his legs with the vole. 

Nate spends $700.00 on a timed dog door so nothing can go out or in at certain times.  This morning, he asks Signe as he lets the dogs out, where is the cat? Well, she comes prancing through the door with a dead vole immediately on the tail of the dog that just went out. How did she get out? 

Last evening she was throwing a dead vole against the front door so they would let her in. Nate opens door she runs in between his legs with a vole.

I will keep you informed of this contest of wills.  SO far Cat 7  Nate 0.

Really, she is just trying to feed you Nate you ignorant primate.

I am sewing today with no interruptions it will be so nice. I see a couple of wedding dresses biting the dust.

Kim

Tuesday, I did it!

 I think this has worked for me in the past.  But believe it or not I have 4 going on 5 wedding dresses that will be ready for pick up by 4 this afternoon.

Now to be fair a couple of them were really easy, but I did get them done so they count.  I am very proud to me, and I have to say I almost feel normal.

I have not felt normal for a long, long time. I don't know how long it will last but I will take it.

B is down here with Oliver visiting Aunt Anne and I think she will spend the night, so that will be fun.

Nate will drop Kelsa off after her gymnastics so they can play and drive grandma crazy.  But don't worry it is a short drive.

I just pulled meat out of the freezer so I can make dinner, which will include mashed potatoes because the babies love those.

Stay tuned for more grandma drama...

Kim

Monday, I am on a roll of wedding dresses

 That was last week, I am hoping for a better week this week. Auntie and I are having fun, probably too much fun.  She could live here forever, and I would love it.  We are so much alike.  She is a joy.

We helped my middle daughter Signe' move all weekend. SO much to do.  I think I worked harder last Friday than I physically have in a long time. I was very tired. I kept Kelsa Saturday night into Sunday so they could sleep better and then back up to help unpack the kitchen.  I feel like I worked and worked, and I got nowhere.  But that is how it is moving.

They did get the house they left cleaned so that is done, now to just concentrate on the new home.  I so want to help more but I have to be here to get things done.

This week it will be a couple of piles and then wedding dresses. I want to get at least 4 done today. We will see. I have already turned down two other jobs today.  I just have to, I need to concentrate, on what I have in the shop already.  See Kim is learning, slowly.

Hopefully tomorrow I will be able to report that I have 4 wedding dresses ready to go.

Don't hold your breath, but I am seriously going to try.

Kim

Thursday, the piles!

 Or it could be your sister. (Kay)  as in Good Grief. She is getting ready for her big move and every day she emails me all the things she has gotten done. I am proud to her.

Last night I took Kelsa to dance and had two clients waiting for me when I got home.  One was a bride and the other a police officer that works with my son in law.  He had 3 pairs of pants and a zipper replacement, and a formal dress for his daughter all are due out next Tues.  But he brought me a MC Donald's gift card, so he was forgiven.  Feed the Kim diet coke money and she will do almost anything. 

Today I have 4 pairs of pants to hem, a zipper on a dress to replace, darts to put into a dress and then a mother of the bride two-piece ensemble to resize. This woman wore it to her daughter's wedding and now she is wearing the same thing to her granddaughters. Isn't that sweet?  But she has lost over 100 lbs. so big alteration.  Shoulders, sides, arms, hem.  I have to take the arms out of the jacket. I ripped it yesterday so that is the first thing on the pile today.

Tomorrow I am helping daughter move into her new house.

Kim

Wednesday, The rack is done!

 Have you ever had this problem?  I suffer from it terribly and it gets me into trouble.

Finally got that rack done for model.  Love that kind of creative sewing but it takes so much out of me.  I was exhausted and headachey after she picked up.

I am working on piles today and then onto wedding dresses. I also turned away two jobs yesterday, I just don't have the time for things that aggravate me, like putting zippers in sweaters.....

Kelsa is due in later today.  I have to take her to dance and then she will stay the night.  She just loves her Great Aunt Anne.  They are so cute together.

I am watching my friend's little dog, and she is so cute. Like a little black and white furball. Roscoe just ignores her.  Unless I am petting her and then he is jealous, so he is right there.

Anne in the Kitchen, was on me to raise my prices and I have on wedding dresses, and no one has batted an eye. This is why need our bloggers friends.  They look out for us.

Kim

Tuesday, Sewing, sewing

 You know even though I am very busy sewing and I have way too much to do, I still enjoy sewing.  It actually is relaxing to me.  I don't like the stress, but each time I finish a project whether it be a simple hem or a large order of custom things I get a shot of adrenaline.

I keep waiting for the day that I just hate it but so far that has not happened.  I think it is the creative process and of course the money.😁

I am almost done with the rack just one more skirt to go, but I do need to hem a couple of pairs of pants before I start on the skirt.  Then I want to clean up the shop a little as it looks like a bomb went off. 

Then I will do piles today and when they are done, I will get to wedding dresses.

I have no excuses not to get things done as I have no kids to interrupt me. 

Auntie is enjoying her time here, she just got done vacuuming, so I think she wants to help me. I have not started her on quilting yet as I want her to have some rest.  She is kind of like me busy all the time.

I went to make scrambled eggs this morning and I am out of eggs.  I see a trip to the store this evening.

Kim

Monday, Back and busy

 

Does this remind you of someone? 

We had fun in McCall.  Caught up with old friends and stayed at their cabin. William scored two goals at the tournament, so he was happy.

We ate good food and enjoyed each other's company.

I am going to sew hard today to get this rack done and then onto the piles and the wedding dresses.

Also, carb dieting which I hate but I can't be seen in a swimsuit like this, too scary.

Trying to exercise but just too busy and tired at night, need to figure out another solution.  Like any solution. 

Anything exciting happening in blog land?

Kim

Friday, Off to Mc Call

 

My life right now.  But I am hanging in there. Sissie is furious with me as I can't email or blog and she wants the old me schedule before Joel's death and I can't seem to get there.

I try but the new me just screws it up. I am very busy in shop.  Auntie is here.  I should have had her come in next weekend as we are going up to McCall for a hockey tournament and staying at a friend's cabin. But oh well we make do.  Thanks goodness she is used to cold weather.

I am frantically trying to get this month's rack done for my client and then onto bride dresses.  There are 18 in the shop right now.  

I have decided that when Sissie gets here I will probably only do brides and let her do all the mending and hemming and pressing.  That way I can keep up.  She is a very good seamstress just has not done it for a while.

There are 7 women going to Hawaii now and I am sure we will have a ball.  Auntie is so looking forward to it.  

I need to schedule her for a pedicure next week as her poor feet have now been done since Sisi had them done last fall. 

Kelsa remembered Aunty and went right up to her and is so happy she is here.  IT was just so cute.  I took Aunty into her ballet class and Kelsa just ran to her.  So precious.

I had both Kelsa and Oliver the last couple of days and nights as Braunwyn's father in law has covid.  So, the house has been a jungle, but I am able to get a lot more sewing done when both are here as they entertain one another.

Alsa having another adult around helps. Hopefully that will rectify itself soon.

So many changes happening around here.  I am really anxious to get Sissie out here also.

But I am alive and hope to soon be able to keep up with all of you.  I miss you all and the interaction.  I think and pray for you every night.

Kim

Wednesday, Still sewing

 Went to book club last night and they all enjoyed the book I chose.  Imagine that?  As all the other choices since this mess started have been should I say not fun.

I had them read A Tree grows in Brooklyn.  I was surprised none had read it.  Next month's choice I have already read so one last thing to have to do.  Book club is more about social for me than reading as I read all the time anyway.

Wedding dresses keep pouring in and I find myself turning down many zippers and things of that nature.  Because I just cannot do everything.

Kelsa and Will are both here today.  Will is not feeling well and you can tell by looking at his eyes that he is sick.  Poor little guy. So, lots of handwashing and disinfecting going on.

This is my lists for the day, I so hope I can get these things done.

1. finish black coat

2. finish blue coat

3. put sleeves in wedding dress and call client

4. fix sleeves in two white dresses

5. take sleeves out of a wedding dress for refit tomorrow

6. clean my desk

7. get all tax things in a box (not do them, just corral them)

8. Call Slug

9. call Anne

Can I do this? I have my doubts....

Kim

Monday, I am going to do this

 I am so behind.  I am a behind. I need to get the behind busy.  

I think this belongs on a pillow.  Where is my embroider kit?

Anyway, I am determined to get things done this week, and I doubt I can catch up, but I am certainly going to try.

I did get tickets booked for Hawaii and paid way more than I wanted to for them, so I have to work hard and get the money together before the CC bill is due.

Now that is a motivation. Our middle daughter Signe' is closing on another house today, so it will be crazy this next couple of weeks dealing with that.  

Plus, Will has tournaments. I have wedding dresses that are due out this week.  No chance of getting a lazy day here.

Braunwyn just called and needs a sitter for Oliver on Saturday, so I will have to bring him down to spend the night as I have a weekend bride.  Which is unusual? But good friend of mine from church and her daughter will be in town just for the weekend.  Kim to the rescue.

I was able to take 3 mile walk on the levy with the dog yesterday it was sunny and beautiful.  But I noticed he was limping this morning.  Those short little legs of his. 

Well, I am off to set a timer and see what I can get done. What are you guys doing this week. Please do not list anything fun as I get jealous, and my unicorn quits working and just sits in front of the mirror combing his mane.

Kim

Wednesday, Brides!

 

My oh my, am I busy. Besides Kelsa just everyday life keeps me going.  SO much to do. The car is a mess the garage needs to be cleaned out, I have not put-up Valentine things, but did pull the box from the garage and Kelsa and I will do that tomorrow morning. She loves to decorate with grandma.

I have two wedding dresses that I need to put long sleeves on.  That requires so much hand work to embroider the lace to the tulle sleeve.  I spent last evening getting one set done.  It all has to be done by hand before it is sewn into the dress.

Also have a model that does a photo shoot once a month and I am doing her rack, which is good money but takes me about 3-4 days just on her things.

The house constantly need love and here it is the end of the month and I have to pay bills again.  Blah!  But January is over and that makes me happy.

Did not get tickets purchased for Hawaii yesterday. I might just have to call a travel agent. Dang.  Will try again today.  I did not try late last night, and I will see if that works.

Six more brides scheduled for next week.  I also have turned away some business as I am just too busy.  Like coat zippers!!!!! 

Kelsa has dance tonight and I am taking the missionaries and my best buddy out to dinner. That will be fun, then home to sew, sew, sew.

Kim

Tuesday, Back and raring to go, I think.

 

I had a great time at my daughters although her trial settled the morning of, so there was really no reason for me to be down there!  You have no control over the court system.

I had a ton of phone calls for wedding dresses while I was gone, it is going to be a busy season.

Kelsa is here for the next three days and I sure missed her while I was gone.

THERE IS SO MUCH TO DO IN THE SHOP, AND I NEED TO START WORKING ON THE TAXES.   Yikes!

Every year it is the dreaded tax season. 

I ordered my Aunties ticket to come here, and I am going to work on our tickets to Hawaii today if I can get through.  I might just put the phone on speaker and wait it out.

Anything important happen in blog land while I was gone.  Please tell!

Kim

Thursday, getting ready to go!

 

I have to take a wedding dress with me down to southern Idaho as I need to match the lace so I can add long sleeves for the bride.  As I am flying that means not a carry on but a big honking suitcase.

Kids were here again last night, as the weather is so foul.  Spitting frozen snow.  But they both took a sled out last night and played and played in the dark on the hill leading to the chicken coop.  They had so much fun.

The cans of food in my garage are all frozen or at least partially frozen I wonder if this will affect them.  Signe' opened a can of chicken noodle soup last night when the kids came in from sledding and she had to pry it partially frozen out of the can.  

It is cold.  The animals I am watching seem to be fine, but I did find one dead chicken.  Probably from old age. Well, I hope it was from old age.  It is funny they have coops to go to but will roost all together out in the open with their feathers all fluffed up, so they are twice their size. Strange, but I am not a chicken.

I have pants to hem today and people to call, laundry to do and some housework. I also need to clean up the shop a bit.  I don't want to come home to an unorganized mess.

SO here I go.

Kim

Wednesday, trying to keep up

 

I had two wedding dresses come in yesterday and there will be two more coming in today. This is just a weird January. That puts 6 dresses in the shop, unheard of. One should go out tomorrow.

I was going to drive to Twin Falls this weekend and stay for about 5 days, as Daughter has a big bad trial, and son in law has to be out of town for court. But the weather keeps getting worse and worse and the forecast looks dismal.  So decided after being pestered by kids to fly down and back. But to get a good rate I have to leave earlier and stay longer.  It is what it is.

Now that will put a fire under my butt. Just trying to keep up with Kelsa messes is a full-time job.  She has dance tonight and I need to go to the store and also get a prescription. Daughter has been here two nights and may end up here again, if the prairie does not get better.

I was able to get chicken food last night and my bestie ran a heated water dish over for my cat, so that is helping.  I can fill the chicken feeders before I leave, and they will be okay until my neighbor gets home on Saturday. Kim's crazy schedule.

Well, I am off to get some sewing done. 

Kim

Tuesday, Snow Day

 The sun is shining it is 7 degrees outside, Joel used to do all the shoveling. This is hard.  Don't know how to start the snowblower.

Nate is working overtime on the prairie with all the accidents.  Both kids are here, and daughter stayed the night and will likely stay again tonight as the roads are so bad.

I did get out yesterday to pay a few bills and then realized it was a national holiday, stopped to feed the farm and realized she is out of chicken feed due to the amount the birds are eating, so will run get a bag from the feed store when I take the kids to gymnastics.

Planning on making a large pot of German sausage/potato soup with homemade biscuits for dinner. 

Garage cats water bowl keeps freezing, so I am out there several times a day putting in new water. Just realized I need to add cat chow to the feed store run. 

Roscoe loves the snow.  He goes out and rolls and plays in it.  The cold does not seem to bother him. But then again, he can come in whenever he wants, so maybe that would be a different story if he had to stay out. 

Well, I need to get some sewing done so off I go.

Kim

Monday, In trouble with Sissie again!!!!!

 

Sissie curls her lip just like that!  I have not emailed I have not blogged, I have not called, I have not, not, not.

So, what have I been!  Well very busy. Between the shop and grandkids just busy.

It has also snowed and turned very cold here and it is very icy.  Our town has no way of plowing or really caring for the streets, so everything just shuts down. 

I am again taking care of the neighbor's menagerie as she is in Can Cun.   I have about killed myself getting down to her place on this ice, then the back yard is steep and covered in snow. Animals need more feed in the cold as that is what warms their bodies. Food troughs that were supposed to last a week all need to be filled again and that means carrying buckets up and down that icy back yard.  Let me tell you an adventure every day.

I have Kelsa for the next three days and she has gotten into the really messy stage of the three-year-old.  Not destructive but she like to play with messy things.  One thing that helps is she loves to clean up and we sing the clean-up song, and she helps.

I need to go on a diet, and I don't want to. Potatoe chips are just so good. So are cookies and cold cereal. Don't forget chocolate!.

Well Kim is going to get to work.  What is going on with you?  What have I missed?

Kim

Tuesday, Let's get stuff done!

 

Yesterday was less than productive, due to a headache and a Kelsa. Kelsa is a virus that takes over your life and makes a mess in every room in your house, but you embrace the germ anyway. 

I did get a few things sewn last night and I will continue to work hard today.  I think? 

We had quite the windstorm here last night The cold is coming into the region finally. We really need to get some snow in the mountains.

I also really need to get to work, and I think I know how. Trying for inspiration. 

Okay what inspires me about my work? Money, yes, getting stuff done and out of the house, yes, having less guilt about not having stuff done, yes.  This is how my brain works or doesn't work.

So, I guess I really have no choice, Let's get stuff done!

Kim 

Monday, So blasted tired.

 

Just could not sleep last night.  Nothing is worse than insomnia in my book.  I have so much to do, and I am just dragging.

Lil sis came over this morning and cut about 6 inches off my hair and it so needed it.  My year of mourning and not cutting my hair is over.

Kelsa is here and making messes as fast as she can.  I always say to her don't make a mess and she says ,"Okay."  Then comes to me and say, "Granma, I make mess."

Eldest called and I have to come up with 1200.00 to fix her car bumper.  Oh well it could have been worse.  I am going there on the 22 to watch boys for a few days, as she has a huge trial and Paulk is out of town.  I told her I would just bring her cash. Remember the family Mantra was no one died....

I am going to start out with hemming as many pairs of pants in this shop as I can. I think there are at least 15 pair and a few piles of other goodies.   Also have two bridesmaids to get done and a wedding dress before I can even start on a special project that is due out on Friday. Eeek!

Of course after Christmas I have a huge pile of little person clothes to alter, and you all know how i love those.

I am blessed by work.  Just keep telling myself that.

Kim

Friday! What happened to yesterday?

 I was so busy yesterday, between clients, and Kelsa, I was always running behind.

The shop was so busy, and I have never been this busy in January before.  IT is crazy.  January has always been so slow and then by February I am panicking. Not this year.  And of course, because I am me, I want it slower.  Always what I don't have....

I have a wedding dress to finish today, and I just had a few custom pieces picked up.  I need to hem stacks of pants.

William has started Hockey, and he is on a team, and we have a tournament this weekend, so lots of ice rinks in my future. My daughter even bought me a sweatshirt that says Gramscicle.  That is a grandmother who sits at the hockey rink. Or better yet chases Kelsa all over the hockey rink.  We will see.

In between clients when Kelsa was being Kelsa, I did take down the Master bath and get the Christmas linens off the beds.  The house is still a mess, but getting more Christmas put away everyday helps.  I think the last of it will be done this weekend.

I was trying to get a blog post up and then when I got to the computer this morning here I had not even posted.  Then I remembered just how busy I was, and it got left in the shuffle. 

My girlfriend called me as she had locked herself out of her house.  It was 44 degrees out and she was out in shirt sleeves. I put Kelsa in her car seat and was just about to start driving and she had to go potty..... So out of the car seat and into the house.  I turned the heat up in the car full force to warm it up for my friend as I knew she would be shivering.  Back into car seat and over to house.  We tried to jimmy door with tools, no worky.  But she did have a dog door that I thought I could squeeze through.  After a struggle and scraped knuckles, I finally got it open and crawled through. Quite the experience. Another brother from our church showed up to help and then watched me crawl through the dog door.  The stories they must tell in men's group. Anyway, crisis averted, and the car was so warm Kelsa fell asleep as soon as she got home!!!!! I was able to get some things done before I ran out of steam.

So Kim is going to sew, and then spend the Friday and Saturday, watching 7 years olds figure out which end of the ice rink is theirs.

Kim

Wednesday, 2024 Goals, *splat*

 Sent this to my sisters, they deserved it. I have so much to do and I am not doing any of it quickly.

I have Kelsa tonight and have to take her to dance lessons this afternoon.  We have tea parties and play, and I get nothing done.  But I play very well.

I gained 5 pounds over the holidays. Shhhh, don't tell Sissie, she will lambast me. But the cookies and candies were great.

So happy to hear from so many of you, I do miss you and I am so very grateful for everyone that has stuck by me through this awful mess I call my life.  

I was so excited to see the SAM had started a new blog, I hope that Hilogene, SAM and I can all heal through our trauma and loss. Because it is trauma.

I had so many goals last year and not one of them was posted.  I was lucky to get by day to day. I just so remember all the things I had written down in a journal while we were on our cruise.  I got home and I don't even know what happened to the notebook.

Anyway: Here is to 2024!  A better year, because it just has to be.

Goals:

1. read scriptures everyday

2. attend Temple once a month

3. start an exercise program and do 5 days a week. I really fell off last year, just not enough energy or will, and I am so weak it is scary. I am 2 days in and so sore.

4. Pay an extra $1000 a month on home equity loan.

5. Pay cash for all travel

6. save all my $5.00 bills.  I have $1515.00 saved already for Hawaii trip.

7. save all my spare change.  This will take a hit with no more going to Mcd's almost every day.

8. Keep the saving charts I used to but got away from last year, when my brain refused to work

9. I was thinking of saving all my tips in a jar.  I do get tips several times a month but need to put this into action.

10. Learn to play pickle ball

11. Get out more.

That is enough and I think these will be easily done. But I will have to work hard.

Did you people have any goals for the year? If so what will be your hardest one to keep?

I think mine will be the exercise, as I have grandkids so much and they keep me at home. We will see.

I have to get to work now.....

Kim

Tuesday, A day late

 Oh, Kim you are so naive. I waited and slugged, and drug myself through the first year kicking and screaming because the second year it gets better, right? Not really. But I am still here.  I am determined whatever that means.

Had a great Christmas, except I backed into eldest daughters brand new car right after she got here, and I also lit the outdoor Christmas tree on fire.  Which was a big hit with the grandkids.

But our motto for the week as a family was, "No one died."  Yes, we are sick like that. 

So, looking forward to the new year, new goals, new feelings, new life.  So far same feeling, same life, but let's work on that.

Slugs and her husband were with Sissie over the holidays, and I am so jealous.  They had a great time and slugs is so thin you can see through her. Well, we have always been able to see through her eyes to the back of her skull so nothing new. That is what she gets for having fun without me.

I made a reservation for a trip to Hawaii that last part of March so looking forward to that and saving my money for fun. I am also going up to Quebec with my daughter and her family in June. Sissie is moving here in May, and I am going with eldest daughter to Rehoboth beach sometime this summer.  Besides the normal driving to Twin Falls and Nampa for Joel's mom it will be a whirlwind year. 

The shop continues to be busy much to my chagrin. Which means I have to do the work. Dang! Where are the elves when you need them.

Aunty will come and stay for a month or two and I am taking her with me to Hawaii, plus my good buddy, and others are coming along for the fun.  I have to really stick to a travel budget.

I also want to see Slug and Anne this year sometime, and I need to get that into the line-up. This girl is not going to sit around and mope.  Okay maybe a little.

Also, I have a major crisis in my life as Mcdonalds raised their diet cokes to $2.01.  No way I am going to pay that.  I have to find another source for my habit.  It is so sad.

SO how is everyone as I am so out of the loop.  Please advise in the comments if I need to know anything important, that I have missed, because you know last year was a little messy.... This year maybe not so much.  I hope!!!!!!

Anyone have goals for the year?  I do. Last year my only goal I think was to survive.

But today is not the day, for me to disclose all my important goals, as I have too much to do in the shop plus, I have to go and face the CC bills for Christmas and get things paid.  Scary!  Anyway, stay tuned for tomorrows, exciting post of Kim's goals........ (after she figures out what they are ) (also be prepared for them to be extra ordinarily hard and impossible to keep) (Also let her think she can do them and only laugh at her when she is not in the room)

Kim