Thursday, December 27, 2007



"Our Christmas" with a nature surpise

Goodness, was Christmas wonderful. It's been awhile since I have been able to "do" a Christmas like this.I mean, "lord love a duck, I just went for it this year. Yes, I spent a bit of money, but a lot of my stuff for decorating had been "tucked" away for years. Mostly the outside garlands and such. Hubby really out did himself to make sure I had a great Christmas too. He was just so sweet. Christmas mornings tho, after coffee and the sun finally makes it's way high enough that one doesn't need the headlights, I have a tradition to go to the beach, on Christmas. I've been doing that since the very early 60's, when my mother moved out to California from Chicago. I mean, imagine the people who do vacations at Christmas to visit Newport Beach and Southern Calif. They pay mega bucks to go a view the ocean on Christmas Day. Well, so do I-LOL The Santa Ana winds started blowing that morning about 3:45 am. Being the light sleeper I am, I got up. Cats-one wanted in and the other wanted out! Lowered the umbrella, sat on the stoop had a cig and my coffee. Waiting for dawn.

The berms are in place to keep the high tide at bay as the moon was full also. You can see the winds just pushing back at the waves. It was beautiful. Windy and chilly, but beautiful.

Had to get the birds in there. The Newport Beach pier. The surfers were out and other couples were out strolling too.



I just had to get this kind of shot. With the moon full, during high tide, the waves are 8-10 feet. We are walking on the other side of the parking lot so we had a buffer from the winds.

We got home and opened presents. Oh boy, I got several small boxes from Victoria's Secret. Us girls have to have our "Mona Lisa smiles" which mean only our "lovers" know that that means we are wearing something a tad "naughty" under our clothes. LOL Hubby got me not one but 2 robes. Nice and warm. Love em'. A couple of crochet hard bound books and a beading book. A USC lawn chair, and a couple of tops. My daughter got me "Leopard" for my Mac and the top version of Vista for hubby, WOOT. My sons got me the most beautiful soup mugs from "Mud in your eye" pottery.
I got hubby some newer t's and sweatshirts with great things on them. another pair of slippers, geek light, and a planetary watch.
Hubby also got me a throw in Leopard spots. Oh, I like that-LOL

The turkey came out just perfect, and we ate in the dinning room. We sat at ether end of the table. That was cute. Felt like being in one of those old movies. We just needed the butler to serve.

While hubby was doing the dishes, he got a special visitor. One of our hummingbirds took a wrong turn and ended up in the house. Hubby had to catch her before she really hurt herself on the windows. When a hummingbird is "caught", they won't fight or move to much. They can't afford to use up any extra energy. Also, hummingbirds can't walk. They have to perch or fly Now, these are hubby's hands. His hands shake due to innocent tremor. He was so gentle with this bird. And being nervous, he shakes more. But, this tiny bird just laid quietly in his hands. Truly a Christmas gift from heaven. I took the little bird out to one of the feeders and other hummers. Zoom, she was gone . . .

Spent the rest of the evening watching the first season of Rome. Hubby needed to catch up so we can jump into season 2. and then well, nite nite all. Dreams of sugarplums and wonder

Friday, December 21, 2007

New overnight grip!

Ok, I was laying down with the heating pad on my back, channel surfing when I saw this huge tote on HSC. I admit I don't usually watch those channels, but this did catch my eye. This is from the Iman collection. I got the carmel/python. Now this is a huge bag. It is sitting on one of the patio chairs here.
I really needed a new overnight grip as my old one was a "basket" purse.


I've had this basket tote for almost 25 years. It's been everywhere and been thru just about everything. Now, I will retire it for yarn. It is still in good condition, just a bit faded. I love it as I can just rinse it out, let it dry in the shade and voilla, good as new. It's just that I thought it was time to "move on".



So, here you can see the both of them together. Imagine if I am on the train going up to Seattle. My stuff in the Iman tote, and a crochet project in the basket. Works for me.


But, let me know what you think of my new tote.

Deborah

Monday, December 03, 2007


Munchie . . .P.O.V. . . ."1st Home alone" & what the "staff was doing"


"Well . . .my staff decided to go off somewhere, and here I am "home Alone". Can you imagine! This total stranger came into my house and gave me my breakfast and dinner. He wouldn't let me go outside, and there was NO ONE here to keep me warm when I cuddle up at night. My poor buddy, Bandit, got stuck outside for all that time too. We had rain and some wind. I have to say I was scared. I had never been left alone for so long. 2 days and 2 nights with only that stupid tiny box with noise coming out.
Oh, I heard all about the "staff's little trip . . .

When the "staff" takes off they leave by train in Santa Ana and usually go south to San Diego. Well, good thing it was raining when they left-they deserved that-LOL I guess the train in front of them had broken down and their train had to get all the passengers from the Oceanside stop. But, I heard they had fun anyway. A couple of beers on the train as the ride is almost 2 hours. Then after arriving in San Diego, they got over to their hotel and thats when the fun started, at least for them. Dinner at the on site resturant with a couple of drinks. I heard they were so "tired" by the time they got back to their room, it was just "shut-eye" that night-LOL
Sat morning, they didn't get up as early as usual. Well, that was because I wasn't there to make sure. After showering and getting ready, the hotel's shuddle took them up to the museum. They were going to go see all these really old pieces of paper. Huh . . .scraps of paper are meant to be played with, chewed on, then lost.


Well, that surely doesn't look like much fun to play in if one is a cat.
boy, they better not bring home any of those pets. Dead Sea Scrolls-wonder if there is catnip inside.

I overheard one of my staff say that she saw a writting of the "Ten Commandments" that was older than Jesus Christ. Is that important? I guess. Being a cat, I just don't get some things.
she also said it took till afternoon to see everything. She got a couple of books about it all too.


Afterwards they went here to have dinner and get a few things for their "romantic" evening! the Mexican food was great along with the peach margarita and the peppermint margarita. I like my "malt" hair ball stuff. Nothing fancy for me.
Bath salts and candles. Well, I am certainly NOT going to take a bath, not even with salt from the Dead Sea.
Upon arriving back at their hotel, a beautiful bunch of roses was waiting. How nice! And the rest of the evening was, well, what can I say but even tho I am a cat, I still have discretion. Go ahead and let your own imagination take it from here.

they finally got back on Sunday afternoon and let me tell you I was nothing but a streak of striped fur running out the back door. And I ignored them the rest of the day. It took a lot of "princess pleasing" to get me to come in that night.
But, imagine. leaving me!!!! Oh their friend, who did make sure I at least had some food, told them I was crying Sunday morning. I did not cry. I mearly was asking, loudly, if I could go outside.

But, the staff is home. things are where they belong and I AM NOT ALONE ANYMORE!

Thanks for letting me vent
Munchie

Monday, November 12, 2007

My cyber flowers. . .
Things like this are fun. And it sure helps make me smile.

Saturday, November 10, 2007

Being and Living Green. . .



How many of you just throw in the trash, your coffee grounds, cold coffee, tea bags, cuttings from vegetables, egg shells, potato, carrot peelings, the water used to boil eggs, potatoes, vegetables etc? Now I know some of you live in small apartments and don't have gardens, but do you have house plants? Above you see my kitchen compost. Mostly coffee grounds. But, when I do boil eggs or potatoes, the hot liquid goes in there also. Then ether hubby or myself will go out, grab the little shovel, and bury this around the roses, and/or other plants. When I remake my coffee for the next day, whatever coffee is left goes out also. One way to kind of save a bit of liquid that a plant could use, and the nutrients even in coffee is good for the plants. My rose blooms are huge. My yard looks amazing. Plus I have plenty of worms.
My little "bucket" has a lid, so no one has to look at the stuff inside.
and for all of you who just have a small apartment, but have house plants-use the cold coffee to just water your plants. Your other kitchen waste could be used around your complex if you have bushes, trees, and the like.

There are a few exceptions to what can go out. DO NOT PUT ONION SKINS OR GARLIC PAPERS OUT IN YOUR GARDEN. Most onion skins and garlic paper has a dry greyish powdery mold on. tho this will NOT HURT YOU, this mold will grow in soil and spread thru out your soil. Go ahead and throw these things in the trash.

It's one way to help the old Mother earth and feel good about giving back to her.
What has Deborah been doing?


Here is one purse I am doing for "spring". Don't ya just love the colors-kind of like an Easter egg I think. I used cotton yarn, and the pattern is from "i Crochet" magazine from Lesiure Arts.


My purse for the winter months, except the holiday weeks, I went a bit darker and used novelty yarn for the top. A bit different from what you see on the cover of the magazine. Again this pattern is in this magazine "i Crochet" from Lesiure Arts. I am showing the purse right before I assembled it. The orange bead for the pocket closure is from "2 Roses" in Tustin, Calif. They make the most beautiful beads. And how well is goes with the novelty yarn I used.


I confess, I ordered Beth's book "Amigurum". I think her designs and patterns are "the cat's meow". I finished the monkey and am working on the cat. But, you can see I did change colors and used buttons as embrodry for me is tough. Below are some seperate shots.

Thursday, November 08, 2007


Canadian Super Scoopers.
This Martin Mars Flying Boat is one of two remaining flying in the world. They are based in Vancouver, British Colombia, Canada, and are used to fight forest fires. The aircraft gained fame during the heyday of Pan American World Airways. The recent fires in southern California contracted them for support. They are pure beauty flying. A small lake caused the very low approach to scoop water to dump on the nearest fire. Enjoy

Thank you Canada for your amazing planes and pilots. As you can see these pilots are "VERY GOOD".

Tuesday, November 06, 2007



Mirror. . . mirror on the wall. . .

Our neighbor Joe did a small cap for the fireplace. The only thing that had ever been up on the mantle was the top board with the wavy edge. the rest was always just the bricks. Now, don't get me wrong, I think fireplaces are ok, but I personally don't use it for wood fires. Plus this fireplace was also gas, which still wastes the heat up and out. To much polution and heat goes up and out the chimmey. I had my plummer, Gary, come in and cap the gas line. We took out the old grate and faux logs. Joe took the grate for his patio fire pit and we used the logs to "critter" proof the bottoms of the wood fence.

Talking "green" here, the wood that Joe used was from the root cellar in this house. Old growth Douglas fir shelves had been down there since my parents bought this place. More than likely the old shelving was cut during the late 30's right before WW2. Victory gardens would have begun to spring up and the storage of "root" crops and canned items would have been stored down there. With the explosion population that began in California, and the urban sprawl up to now, the root cellar isn't used anymore, due to flooding, so hubby dismantled the shelves. Joe took the rest of the shelves, but used a couple for the cap. I also decided to have him put the "rough" side facing out for everyone to see.


And Joe being Joe, did the bit of trim on the bottom of the cap. Plus, here you can see a bit of the new fireplace screen I bought. A bit gothic, but when seen with the entire room, it's perfect. I still have to stain this piece to a redbrown. I am slowly darkening some of the wood pieces of furniture that was just coated with varnish way back aobut 25 years. Along with the wonderful glass front bookcase opposite the fireplace, the warmth of the darker wood against the flat white of the walls makes everything just "pop".


Here, Joe was using screws to anchor the top onto the cap. Hubby would love to be able to do things like this, but with his hands that shake, somethings he used to do, are becoming memories. Joe also helps Dave, with things like building new gates. Dave will do most of the work, Joe just kind of supervises, and cuts the wood on his table saws. Hubby loves the help and the "male bonding" thing with Joe. Joe, himself does woodworking. He has built his own kakak, dressers, his island and other various things. He owns his own pool business, and works for FedX not only for the extra income, but for medical and dental.

Thursday, October 11, 2007


Candy Corn crochet purse.
That is a 6 inch ruler next to the purse so everyone can kind of get an idea of how large this purse is!!! It really is so soft after felting!! And remember you can get the "free pattern" at the LionBrand.com!!!!!! I like to show crochet in it's different stages. Kind of gives one the idea of how a pattern is worked.

Well, I went over to the big "speciality market" over by Fashion Island and got a couple of really nice steaks for hubby's birthday on Sat. For the same price as going to a nice resturant, I got "bigger and better" steaks, plus all the trimmings. Poor baby is going to be 58!!! he's a year older than me. But, he has inocent tremor in his hands. It gets worse with age. I guess in several years he will have to "drink his coffee with a straw as his hands will shake so bad he would spill it all over him. No, it's not Parkson's. He does take a medication for it, but it really doesn't make it go away.
I also went over to Roger's gardens. http://www.rogersgardens.com This garden shop is so beautiful. Right now they have a halloween set-up and they have just gotten all the Christmas trees decorated inside the main building. Oh, if I ever hit the lottery-that would be the first place I would go!!! LOL they don't allow photos, so I can't show you the trees. But take my word for it, walking thru all those beautiful decorated trees is heaven!!

Happy Fall!!
TA-DA. I got new chairs for the front porch. And since we are into fall, I added the color. Thought I would share. Just wait till I add the "Halloween" touches. But, hubby's birthday is Saturday and I will wait to do the "spooky" things on Sunday. Hubby will be 58!!!!!

Also, I am getting the photos from the Oakland Knit and Crochet show done. I did get one shot of some of the old buildings, BUT . . . Hillary was going to be doing one of the "political rallys" in about an hour. I thought about it, took one shot of a building, then decided it wasn't going to be worth it to try to explain to Secret service that I was only taking pictures of buildings. Now, to back this up, the next morning at breakfast, a secret service agent was in the hotel's dining room. Yes, it was. It's when they talk into their sleeves that kind of gives them away, plus the shiney shoes. Nothing came of the visit, but since the "former First lady" was in town . . .
Also down the other way from where Hillary was going to be speaking, they were opening an "Obama" political office was opening. No "Obama", but everything to go with it. Just way to many people for me. I just went back to the hotel and watched the Seahawks/San Fran game. "SEAHAWKS" won.
In being able to watch this things setting up, I did notice that both just were looking for donations via their buttons, stickers, placards, etc. I think it would have been better if I was running for a high office, I would have had food and water/soda etc. After all the "monies" these campaigns raise, why do they want the nickles and dimes from regular people. Why not give a bit back. Even grilled hot dogs, chips, and a soda would sure make me think different about who was running. What about you? Now, I don't want to know who you are for or anything like that. But, how would you like to see a rally? Somewhere you have to "pay" to be up front, or mingling with a hot dog and cold soda?? Something on those lines . . .

Tuesday, July 17, 2007


Kind of vacation. My sons seemed to have had fun. Mostly it was doing their on-line gaming of Warcraft". I guess that is kind of a vacation. We did go to the Fair over at the Orange county fairgrounds. I let them know that this fair was mostly shows and food. It's been a really long time since there were a lot of animals there. Today it is mostly sheep or goats. Cattle are prety much gone from here now.
The pictures are kind of those "no, not really into photos this vacation Mom. Just want to do R&R my way. Don't worry, I will try my best to keep the mess down." And they did. Not bad for grown children.

The world is becoming colorful again. All the shades of grey and fading into blooms of color. And I know someone had to have the music I was hearing playing somewhere. I keep hearing those Gregorian chants in my head. Ether that or I am just beginning to go nuts. Cool. I guess we'll all find out when it happens-huh?

the house is nearly finished. Or reasonably so. Just gotta do the mirrors, pictures and the like. Kind of grunt work. At least for me. I just love my stone floor in the kitchen. The color really flows on out to the outside. Gives it that extened kitchen/patio feel. So far it's been great to have coffee outside and just enjoy the early morning and how it wakes up.

Friday, July 13, 2007


together goodby
Originally uploaded by spaceman48
In the whole universe I am still not quite sure how things work, but somehow all things are connected.
I am doing this blog about my sons saying goodby to their grandma, yet I am posting on what would have been my "real" dads 77th birthday. Just fate? Intresting how things work!

I went to visit my sons up in Washington and they drove me back to Calif., so they could have a "vacation". You know, sun, sleep, beer, on-line gaming at any hour you want, kind of a 24 hour resturant vacation. Hey, what the hell, I got a few extra labors out of them too!! Getting and bringing "stepping" stones from my old garden is wonderful. Just the shear difference in color makes a real statement. Tho this yard is quite a bit smaller than the half acre I had, I still made rock pathways to be able to get to the backside of someof the plants. Certain places only needed a "larger" stepping stone. "No stepping on soil if possible.
Anyway, Josh had asked if we could go to the cemetary, as he wanted to say good by. Both boys wanted to do that. So, Wednesday, July 11th we went up to Riverside, Calif to the Memorial cemetary.

This is the final plaque to my Mother and step-Father. . .
"Together Forever"

Wednesday, July 11, 2007


Goodbys and Closure! Both of my sons wanted to go and see the cementary where their Grandma is. She is with her husband at the National Cementary in Riverside, California. and as you can see on the plaque, I had it inscribed with "Together Forever".
All in all it was an intresting day. The drive up there was reasonably quiet as was the drive back. We dusted off the plaque as they were mowing that side. But, it was very touching to watch 2 grown men kneel down and clean a grave marker. They indeed loved their grandma "B".

Sunday, July 08, 2007

All I can say about "marthon" driving is that it "sucks". But, I understand the why tho. My sons wanted to have a lot of thier vacations, so of course, we did 1508 miles in 2 days.
We started out from Bellingham, Washington at 12:45 pm July 5th. The truck was packed. And oh ya, I managed to get Josh to throw in a couple of bigger rocks for my garden. I found the "cutest" tuffet looking rock for a stepping stone!! Also, a "green stone, which when Josh threw it it broke and the most wonderful looking designs came out. I also found a few other things my hubby had forgotten when he had been up there cleaning out before Josh bought the place too.
anyway, off we went. We started at milemarker 250 going south! Traffic even thru Seattle was full of 18 wheelers. Over the Colombia river all the overpasess were filled with semi's.
Josh really gets into his drive. Now, imagine sitting in a Tacoma truck for this long. I gotta say, leg room isn't great! My butt got "numb" a lot. It's really hard to find a comfortable position for 12 hours of driving. Except for gas stops and a couple of "rest areas", it was all drive. Josh did the Oregon mountains at night. Now that is sometime. One can make out the tops of the forest trees against the dark sky. Only other thing is the snaking red tail lights and the brightness of the white headlights going North.
We did stop in one little town and had a great Mexican dinner. Family run, homemade salsa, very hot plates. and just a really big "YUM" factor. !! At about 12:45 am, I managed to get Josh to stop in Yreka to get a room and grab some ZZzzzzz. Not bad for 3-$85. Hey, showers, toilet and a place to get horizontal for a few hours. Josh was out before his head hit the pillow. Robert and I at least got to the pillow before sliding into a sleep coma. I set the alarm for 4:30 and was up, showered, went out for "more coffee" and milk, before the other 2 arose. Tipical Mommie. We left at 5:45 as we were in California and had the skillet run thru the central valley. After Sacremento, the temps were 103 degrees, the drive is fairly flat, and tons of 18 wheelers everywhere. Central California is the "bread basket". Just about everything grown comes from the central valley. Finally, going over the grapvine. The grapevine is the last mountain pass before dropping down into the L.A. basin. And even more traffic. Hey, it was Fri, during a "holiday" week. Those that had to come back to work on Thursday, now wanted to leave for the lakes and such!!! Down the 5 to the 405 cutoff. The 405 makes it easier to make the trek to Orange county. One doesn't have to go thru L.A. The sight of exit signs that I knew were such a relief!! We arrived at the house about 6pm! A bit over the time limit, but with the traffic, especially all those 18 wheelers, we did pretty good.

Wednesday, July 04, 2007

You know when you plan for "travel" you hope that you've everything "taken care" of. I can honestly say, I've never had planning that just worked. It's kind of funny in a lot of ways. First, I managed to talk my sons into driving me back. In payment for their services, I offered to pay for all the gas and food for their "round-trip" driving. I also went ahead and got both guys vehicles tuned up, even tho we are only taking one vehicles. If you got more than one kid, you understand this. If one gets, they all get!! No strange feelings floating around, if you know what I mean. I also got a "Motel 6, for 2 of the 3 nights that I am here. My youngest was a bit "overly protective" about that. But, hey, Josh has 2 room mates and well, I didn't want them feeling uncomfortable with a female around. And a Mother to boot. I told him that hey, I've stayed in much worse places. Try "tent camping" in the back of your pick-up during an all night rain storm in the desert, in the middle of "nowhere"!!!! Ah the joys of being an amateur astronomers wife. But, these are just a speck of what the travel has been like so far.


So, I booked Amtrak, and for the first time I got a sleeper. Usually, I go coach. After getting off the commuter to the Starlight, one now has to have a boarding pass. So, down the ramp all the way to Union station proper. No really good signs ether. I waited in the line that said Sleepers to discover, wrong line. Over to another shorter line and get a boarding pass. I'm "OK-ed" and all the way back and up the ramp to the other side of the tracks all the way up to the 3rd car from the Engine. The tiny rooms are great. 2 beds, upper and lower. The lower is also 2 seats. The porter, takes care of making up the beds if you request and putting them back in the morning. Free coffee, tea and juice. All meals are included in your ticket, plus the parlor car where wine tasting and other fun things for sleeper car passengers. Sure was nice. Tho the dinning car was 6 cars back. Due to holiday they put on an extra sleeper! It's ok as I don't really eat dinner. 2 meals and maybe a piece of fruit in the evening. Great scenery, private space, slept most of the time!! I really needed the rest and 37 hours on a train is a great way to get it. But, I really stress that I GOT A SLEEPER. My own tiny space!! Coach doesn't get that. Sleepers also have showers down the hall also.


Arrive in Seattle at 11 pm, about 2 hours late. This train is never on time! I hail a taxi and go to my hotel for the night. Commuter doesn't leave till the next morning. I'm getting my ticket then. Great room, little pampering touches. Great nights sleep after I let everyone know I was safe and sound via text messaging. I check out at 6am and request a taxi back to the train Depot. Get in line, up to the counter and "REALLY" was the response I gave to finding out that train was full and the next one wasn't until 6ish that night. Out the glass doors, hail a taxi, off to the bus Depot. You just gotta love the "doggy bus". Plus we were leaving the same time as the commuter. What a breath of fresh air in stepping off the bus into Bellingham's Alaska Ferry/Amtrak/ buses depot! Went pee, had a smoke, and voila, the city bus arrived. $.75 cents got me to the top of the hill and into Haggens market I went to surprise my sons who work there. Josh was doing produce and turned his head and "MoM!!!! He was waiting for my call from the bus depot. I said, I just caught the bus. I told him to just do what he needed to do, and I would be in the mini-cafe. Good coffee. The water up here tastes great, plus no bitter tasting coffee. Saw Rob, my other son. He wasn't having a great day. 2 cookies and a cup of coffee later, Josh comes around the the cafe, we're off to the house. He would later that day take me to the Motel 6. Tho, I would catch the bus during the mornings and check in on the Internet. I mean how much more perfect could this be. REALLY alone time to see what and how one handles things that come up. I plan and save over my budget for travel. Then if I don't need to use that extra, "SHOPPING". I love the handmade glass, wood and pottery up here. Most things down south are just to much alike. But, I will describe those later in another blog with photos!!


I also, got Josh to let me take a couple of the smaller rocks I liked. A "tuffet" looking one round with a smooth flat top. Weighs about 30 pounds. Then some of the greet granite broken ones for accent. It's nice to have a few memories, and "only the rocks live forever"


So, today, when Josh gets home, we're going for some "man-meat" (Steak) for him to cook on his monster grill!!!Watch some fireworks, then leave about O dark 30 in the morning!!! So, we should be on the road for 2 days. I am making Josh stop at night to get some rest. Not really to good to be over tired when doing L.A. traffic on a Fri. Tho, with he holiday, most won't be leaving for home till Sat. Cross your fingers the traffic isn't to bad. We are going a tad over 1500 miles south, thru that record heat in the central valley and over the grapefine in to the L.A. basin, a touch west, down the shore line to Newport Beach and up the mesa to Costa Mesa.

Thursday, June 28, 2007


Kitchen counters, backsplash and floor are set. tomorrow they will do the wall where the stove goes. I tried to get some close-ups of the tile so it would be easier to see.
My floor is slate, or stone. it's called mystique green. And from different angles, it looks like it changes colors. The counter top and backsplash are wonderful. And with that little "pencil rail" WOW!!
Tomorrow they will do the wall, grout the rest and Voila!!!
They are working on the bathroom and are having a bit of "fun" with the hexagons. I guess when those mesh things need to be cut, the mesh doesn't want to stay put!! But, they will finish it tomorrow. For tonight we have NO toilet!! Good thing we have a "camp commode"!!!!

Well, enjoy and let me know what you think . . . .

Tuesday, June 26, 2007


New Trap door in floor!
Well, my tile won't be ready till tomorrow, but "Vestermark" went ahead and redid the "trap door" to the old root cellar that is in this house. they had fabricated a new frame from metal and then lined it with wood. This way the new trap is lightweight and will take the tile much better.
Also, there is a new hinge and will be a recessed pull to get the trap up.
Tomorrrow they start laying tile!!!!

No we don't use the root cellar due to when we get the "El Nino" rains. the cellar will flood and we have to pump it out. The cellar isn't very big, maybe 4 feet X 5 feet. One can stand up down there. And there is a light. But, normally one doesn't hear of a "root cellar" in California.

Munch is doing better today. She was "very good" all day. No crying at least. I went in and played with her today for about an hour. then I "hand fed" her some cooked chicken. We found if we kind of keep her very well fed, she does better.

Monday, June 25, 2007


Day one of prep for kitchen.
Well, the kitchen is pretty much prepped. Floor and countertops are ready for tile!!
The tile guys had fun getting up the old floor. As far as I know, that old floor was there when
my parents bought the house in 1962!! So, I really don't know how old it was. But, it was tough and didn't want to come easily!! the old countertops were only 16 years old so they weren't quite so tough to come out.

Poor little Munch. She has to stay in for all of this. the tile guys have their trailor in the back-back, partly thru the smaller gate. Munch has to be cooped up in the baig bedroom all day. We did get her collar and leash for a walk out in the back. She was "NOT HAPPY" with that. Of course, most cats don't like to be on a leash. But, she seems a bit better, if I stay inside with her!!!! A couple three days won't hurt. and then she will have a new slate floor to "run" across!!

Well, more tomorrow . . .

stay tuned!!

Before photos are always fun! Here is my kitchen before!! Nice and bright. Hopefully it will be even better once the tile is finished. I've never had anything like this before. I am a bit nervous.
The bathroom will also be done, white subway tile on the wall and hexagon for the floor!!!

So here we go . . .

Saturday, June 23, 2007


Finally!! Now I have a place where everything is in one room!! Beading, crochet, computer graphics, TV, video games, etc. I use "large" baskets to hold my yarn. Tho, I "splurged" a bit as "Suzoo's is on vacation"!! But, hey, an addiction of yarn and beads can't be all bad. LOL
I'm doing a "baby" blanket for a friend. The pattern I am trying is of that Tiramisu baby blanket. She is having a girl, and she loves "pink", so I am using "Caron"s Simply soft" in Watermelon. It is really coming out beautiful. I am going to get a contrasting ribbon when I finish it.

Monday, the tile guys are coming!! Scarry for me as this is the first time I have ever had tile work done. In the kitchen, the floor, countertops and backsplash is getting done. Also, the wall behind the stove will be done. I am going with a vanilla and mystique green!!!
The bathroom is also getting done. White subway tiles for the walls and a hexagon tile for the floor!! Am I nervous-YOU BET!! LOL

Ok, I will be gone a week beginning June 30th. I'm going North to Washington state. A bit of business, then visit my sons in Bellingham. I did talk my sons into driving me back and we should be back on July 6th!!

Tuesday, June 19, 2007


Well, the little 12 foot X 12 foot bedroom hubby and I slept in is now a "multi-purpose room". When caring for Mother, we kept her in the bigger bedroom due to her might needing medical equipment, visiting nurses and the like. But, now, I have moved in the TV, some futon chairs, 3 drawer dresser for my beads, and this closet/office set up. Beads, yarn, computer graphic books, Wii, are all now in one place. This is the first time I have ever had my "own" working space! For the past 30+ years, I have just "stolen" bits of space in the house. WOW! It's difficult to explain how I am feeling.

I also want to thank everyone for "hanging" in there with me. I know I haven't been around like I used to be. I believe I threw myself into redoing this little house to "work" thru grief and all the stages of it. Even with redoing emotions ran very high. As with the bay window-to see the "old windows open" after 40 years, brought back feelings and emotions like a tidal wave hitting the shore. Growing up in this house were the "best" days of my life as a teenager. I wish my parents could see how all the changes. As I do do some things, I can hear my father, in his soft way, explain techniques of sanding, staining, painting and general home repairs. Never raising his voice, even if I made a mistake. My mother, telling me how to make things safe, such as the "night lights" for the bathroom, kitchen, phone and the like. Securing cabinets with simple dowels thru the handles.
Most of the times when I finish for the day, I can hear and see the gentle "ghosts" of the past. All the love from then, infuses with today to make not only myself comfortable, but anyone who visits.

Thank you all again.

Deborah

Sunday, June 17, 2007


Boy, does the new window make a difference. with the old window, I haven't seen it open since the 60's. I guess my dad had to seal it up due to leakage when it was raining really hard one year. It was a bit emotional to see the old bay window "open" again. And it was really difficult to see it go. But . . . after they got the new windows in, opened the side ones and I felt that wonderful breeze, I was very happy. The new window is double paned, UV resistant, blocks 70% of the noise, and the "grids are between the glass, and is just beautiful.
I will say we will be getting the rest of the house done also. I am really tired of "fighting" with old wooden windows that are 70 years old!!! Sure will be nice.
Well, I am off to "fill" the bookcase. then I have to move some more furniture as the "closet" people are coming tomorrow to do the back bedroom closet so I have desk and cubbies for my office/studio, TV room!!!!

Just been really busy. We are also sanding and refinishing lots of "wood".

Saturday, June 16, 2007

Senior Citizen Payback!

A very self-centered freshman attending a college
football
game, took it upon himself to explain to a senior
citizen
sitting next to him why it was impossible for the
older generation
to understand his generation.

"You grew up in a different world, actually an almost
primitive one,"
the student said, loud enough for many of those nearby
to hear. "We,
the young people of today, grew up with television,
jet planes, space
travel, men walking on the moon, our spaceships have
visited Mars.
We have nuclear energy, electric and hydrogen cars,
computers
with high speed processing and...," While the student
paused to take
another sip of beer, the senior citizen took advantage
of the break and
said: "You're right, son. We didn't have those things
when we were
young.....so we invented them. Now, you arrogant
little shit, what are
you doing for the next generation?"

Thursday, June 07, 2007

bookcases


bookcases
Originally uploaded by spaceman48
My bookcases finally arrived. they are so beautiful. It really was worth the wait. The furniture company even sent a bottle of wine due to the wait.


In the kitchen, the window above the sink has a "night light" that is just going to stay. I love that light for the nightime. Between the cabinets is a wood board upon which the clock sits. Just below that I ordered this piece of stained glass. It will hang on the board to help give the illusion of "curtains" to help improve the area.
I decided on this "sun, star and moon" because my husband is an amature astronomer. The window that this going up by catches the afternoon and setting sunlight. This will be great.

Monday, May 28, 2007


Observe Memorial Day


"...gather around their sacred remains and garland the passionless mounds above them with choicest flowers of springtime....let us in this solemn presence renew our pledges to aid and assist those whom they have left among us as sacred charges upon the Nation's gratitude,--the soldier's and sailor's widow and orphan." --General John Logan, General Order No. 11, 5 May 1868

The "Memorial" in Memorial Day has been ignored by too many of us who are beneficiaries of those who have given the ultimate sacrifice. Often we do not observe the day as it should be, a day where we actively remember our ancestors, our family members, our loved ones, our neighbors, and our friends who have given the ultimate sacrifice:
by visiting cemeteries and placing flags or flowers on the graves of our fallen heroes.

by visiting memorials.

by flying the U.S. Flag at half-staff until noon.

by flying the 'POW/MIA Flag' as well (Section 1082 of the 1998 Defense Authorization Act).

by participating in a "National Moment of Remembrance": at 3 p.m. to pause and think upon the true meaning of the day, and for Taps to be played.

by renewing a pledge to aid the widows, widowers, and orphans of our falled dead, and to aid the disabled veterans.
Also, please consider adding your voice in support of the efforts to restore the traditional day of observance of Memorial Day back to May 30th (instead of "the last Monday in May"). This would help greatly to return the solemn meaning back to the day, and to help return minds and hearts to think upon the ultimate sacrifices made by those in service to our country. Just one day out of the year to honor our loved ones, our ancestors, our friends who died in conflicts and wars -- not to honor war, but those that died in those conflicts and wars.

Sunday, May 27, 2007


Major John McCrae
Canadian Officer

Ever Ask the Question.........

Why are Red Poppies Given out on Veterans Day?
Check the info Below for the Answer.

History of the Flanders Poppies
(Red Corn Poppy)

For many years I have found myself asking what the significance of the red poppies were in relation to Veterans Day. This year that question was asked of me and I had no answer. I did vow, however, to find the story behind the symbol. What interesting information I found.

It has been noted throughout history that after a major war red poppies seemed to pop up in the battlefields and on soldiers graves. It seems that poppy seeds lay dormant in the soil and when the soil is heavily turned or dug up it causes them to sprout. The most detailed of this event took place in WWI in Flanders Field, Belgium. In the craters where bombs fell and on the mounds of rubble, poppies bloomed everywhere. The heavily churned earth and the high concentration of lime from the limestone buildings made the perfect catalyst for the poppies to grow.

Around 1920 an American, Moina Michael, was the 1st recorded incidence of a person wearing a poppy in remembrance of lives lost in WWI. Madame E. Guerin on a visit from France heard of the idea and upon returning home began to make homemade poppies and sold them to help support the children of war. This idea quickly spread around the world. The poppies are sold in many countries with proceeds benefiting many different veteran organizations.

So the next time you see someone with poppies for a donation......dig down deep and give with pride. Know you are saying thanks and helping a worthy cause.......by supporting our vets and vets around the world.

Below, find a famous poem called ‘In Flanders Field’ written by Major John McCrae who was at Flanders Field, Belgium during WWI.

In Flanders Fields



by Major John McCrae
Canadian Officer

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below

We are the dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved, and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

Saturday, May 26, 2007


Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day because it was a time set aside to honor the nation's Civil War dead by decorating their graves. It was first widely observed on May 30, 1868, to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers, by proclamation of General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization of former sailors and soldiers. On May 5, 1868, Logan declared in General Order No. 11 that:
The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village, and hamlet churchyard in the land. In this observance no form of ceremony is prescribed, but posts and comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit.


During the first celebration of Decoration Day, General James Garfield made a speech at Arlington National Cemetery, after which 5,000 participants helped to decorate the graves of the more than 20,000 Union and Confederate soldiers buried in the cemetery.
This 1868 celebration was inspired by local observances of the day in several towns throughout America that had taken place in the three years since the Civil War. In fact, several Northern and Southern cities claim to be the birthplace of Memorial Day, including Columbus, Miss.; Macon, Ga.; Richmond, Va.; Boalsburg, Pa.; and Carbondale, Ill.
In 1966, the federal government, under the direction of President Lyndon Johnson, declared Waterloo, N.Y., the official birthplace of Memorial Day. They chose Waterloo—which had first celebrated the day on May 5, 1866—because the town had made Memorial Day an annual, community-wide event during which businesses closed and residents decorated the graves of soldiers with flowers and flags.

By the late 1800s, many communities across the country had begun to celebrate Memorial Day and, after World War I, observances also began to honor those who had died in all of America's wars. In 1971, Congress declared Memorial Day a national holiday to be celebrated the last Monday in May. (Veterans Day, a day set aside to honor all veterans, living and dead, is celebrated each year on November 11.)
Today, Memorial Day is celebrated at Arlington National Cemetery with a ceremony in which a small American flag is placed on each grave. Also, it is customary for the president or vice-president to give a speech honoring the contributions of the dead and lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. About 5,000 people attend the ceremony annually.



Several Southern states continue to set aside a special day for honoring the Confederate dead, which is usually called Confederate Memorial Day:
Mississippi: Last Monday in April
Alabama: Fourth Monday in April
Georgia: April 26
North Carolina: May 10
South Carolina: May 10
Louisiana: June 3
Tennessee (Confederate Decoration Day): June 3
Texas (Confederate Heroes Day): January 19
Virginia: Last Monday in May

THRU THE BAY WINDOW


In redoing this house, I am finding memories crashing thru my mind. We are going to be replacing this bay window in a couple of weeks. I remember this window growing up. The entire room then was Bob’s office. His huge desk, the stereo playing blues and jazz. And I remember in the 60’s when the center panels opened. The feel of the breeze as it cooled the air during summer. Of course during Bob’s lifetime, the window began to leak and he went ahead and sealed the window shut. Again, in a few weeks, the breeze will return. The new windows that will be replacing these will open. Only this time, it will be the side windows that will open. The front window will be stationary.
Also, in doing the new windows, the new glass will protect from the sun and of course be “green”. I am not really doing the replacements because of “global warming” or anything like that. The memory of the breezes is the goal. In some respects, sometimes, one does get to “go home” again.

Thursday, May 24, 2007



iboob!!! This is funny. A bit off color, but funny anyway.

Monday, May 21, 2007

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

enough money within her control to move out
and rent a place of her own,
even if she never wants to or needs to...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

something perfect to wear if the employer,
or date of her dreams wants to see her in an hour...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ..

a youth she's content to leave behind....

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

a past juicy enough that she's looking forward to
retelling it in her old age...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE .....

a set of screwdrivers, a cordless drill, and a black lace bra...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ..

one friend who always makes her laugh... and one who lets her cry..

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ....

a good piece of furniture not previously owned by anyone else in her family...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

eight matching plates, wine glasses with stems,
and a recipe for a meal,
that will make her guests feel honored...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

a feeling of control over her destiny.

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

how to fall in love without losing herself..

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

how to quit a job,
break up with a lover,
and confront a friend without;
ruining the friendship...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

when to try harder... and WHEN TO WALK AWAY...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

that she can't change the length of her calves,
the width of her hips, or the nature of her parents..

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

that her childhood may not have been perfect...but its over...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW..

what she would and wouldn't do for love or more...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

how to live alone... even if she doesn't like it...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW.. .

whom she can trust,
whom she can't,
and why she shouldn't take it personally...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

where to go...
be it to her best friend's kitchen table...
or a charming inn in the woods...
when her soul needs soothing...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

what she can and can't accomplish in a day...
a month...and a year...





Thank you for the blessings, knowing you have given to my life...

Tuesday, May 15, 2007


Mickey and Minnie Mouse!! While cleaning out Mother's things, I came across this ceramic pair. They are not in the best of shape, have no tails, and their names are on their chests. They are ok, but I'm not into "Disney" stuff. I think they are from the 30's or 40's. I don't know anything about them. If you know anything about them, please let me know.
I've gotten rid of a lot of stuff. I'd say more than half of what used to be in this house is not "gone". Mostly, I gave things away as a "pay it forward" thing. It's not really difficult for me to do this ether. I hear about a lot of people having a hard time getting rid of a parent's belongings. I guess I am not one of those kind of people. I can chalk that up to waiting so long to have my own home again. Plus with having taken care of Mother for so long, and having everything arranged before she passed, it really made things easier. And Mother had the insight to make sure I had enough money to do this house the way I wanted to. Believe me I am not a cold hearted woman, just practical. I saved the really important things of hers. So, now I am really getting things the way I want them!!

Good Morning to anyone who comes to visit my blog. If you do visit, please leave a comment

Today is my 37th Wedding anniversary. Some years it feels like we'ver been married longer, some shorter. Till hubby "retired", he would be away at sea working. He used to work on oil tankers that went to Alaska and back down to California. He did that for 25 years. I kind of got used to not having him underfoot all the time. I also learned how to do just about everything too. Now, with this back thing going on, I am having to "teach" him some of the shortcuts to running a household. Now that has been really a lot of fun.
I don't expect anything from anyone today. Being that I was keeping the home fires burning on my own, I also got used to NOT having anyone even realize anniversaries, birthdays etc. That comes from being the "5th wheel" with girlfriends. Who is going to want a single married woman around some girlfriends husband?? You get the idea, so guess what, I don't really have a lot of girlfriends ether becasue they are so insecure. But, that's life I guess.
Things like that just takes a pause to remember. Girlfriends has always been on the "asking" side when they needed help or whatever. It took a lot to learn not to be be "Johnny on the spot" when people ask for help from me. I am now learning to put myself first. In my case, "what goes around, doesn't come around". I know I sound angry and maybe that's the problem. But . . . at this moment, I really don't care. With Mother's Day, which was really lonely, and now my 37 anniversary today, my wish is for to be like most of the other women I see and hear about-a day filled with just "fun" and rememberance. It's not going to happen, but that has been my wish for these long lonely 37 years.

Monday, May 14, 2007


I bet everyone thought I disapeared! The painting contractor had called us week before last and said he could do our house last week due to another job that was canceled. Of course I said "Sure". Well, hubby and I got busy and had the house empted out over the weekend including getting all the switchplates and such off.
The painters started early Monday Morning. They were great. They laid down all the paper and covered the furniture, then got started on patching, sanding, and the like. John, the boss, began the new mudding of the kitchen ceiling. Plus that was when we had out "mini-heat wave for the first 2 days. The guys did begin the primer and were finished with the second coat of primer on the second day. I should say that this is a smallhouse. 5 rooms and a bath. By the third day, the mudding was finished and the guys were beginning to apply the finishing paint. WOW, what a difference in here. Due to Mother's illness for close to 5 years, we had not been able to do anything. Mother had breathing difficulties and was on oxygen. So, the walls and such were really nasty. I also had the cabinets painted inside and out. By, Thursday the house was finished. Hubby and I waited till Sat to start putting the house back together. Even Mother's Day we worked. As soon as I get the rest of the house put back together, I will take a few more photos to show the finished job!! But, I love it!!!!

The tile job will begin on June 25th. The tile contractor will be getting together with me to pick tile and colors. Of course when they do that everything in the kitchen and bath will have to come out. It will look really cute to see the fridge in the dinning room!! They did say they would help us move the fridge and stove due to my lumbar problem.

I did have a deadline for all that I wanted done and that was by Thanksgiving. So, things are moving right along. I still have to get some window coverings for the bedrooms and living room. Plus I have to get some photos and artwork framed to finish what is going up on the walls. I found a new lampshade for a burl lamp base that my step-father had made. I did have to buy the entire lamp to get it, but it was cheaper than just ordering a lamp shade. I also found 2 ceiling lamps for the bedrooms that were on sale also. The pictures of those will be in the next blog.

Well, I'm off again . . . .

Wednesday, May 02, 2007

Red Hatter lady.


















Various holiday pendants

4 feathers-real turquoise chips in fringe. Lizard has semi-precious stones and rattlesnake vertebra in fringe.

The wavy flag bracelets are fun to do and I have done them in 2 different sizes of beads-size 11 and size 15. I use the size 15's for younger people and smaller women.


The dragon is a wall tapestry. I sold this one and the same person had me do a second one for her as well.



I did this beadwork as I love the quilt pattern "tumbling blocks" I used vintage crystals in the neckpiece.
The dragon is a wall tapestry. I sold this one and the same person had me do a second one for her as well.

NEW STOVE AND FRIDGE!!
Finally, some progress. I did get my new appliances. The old ones were 21 years old. Even tho they were still working great, they just looked really tired and lovingly used. Plus these these new appliances are "Energy Star", so to help save energy. Yea!!






Plus, my gardener, John extended the patio a bit for us with a sidewalk to the "back-back" as we call it. No more wet feet when going to the trash. I also figure that when the inside of the house is being done, we will have some place to be that is reasonably comfortable.