I Can Take Pictures Again!!!

Boy, we sure do get spoiled don't we? I had my first digital camera (Fuji FinePix) for 6+ years and never really appreciated. That is not until it went on the blink. Suddenly, I wanted to photograph everything. Purely, psychological I'm sure. Well, instead of getting it fixed (and I'm still not getting rid of it just yet) we opted to buy a new one.

The new camera is a Canon PowerShot A710 IS. It's actually a pretty cool little camera. It was a tough decision. I was just about sold on a Kodak EasyShare. Alas, the Canon won out.

I've gotten as far as putting in batteries, loading the software to my computer, took a few pictures, and downloaded them. SEE...... (my Paisley Bauble Bag in process)

I'm putting off reading the instructions just because it's a hassle. And to be perfectly honest, I never did read the instruction manual for the Fuji. And that's sad since I never really got to enjoy the full benefits from it. So, with this one I'm going to have to bite the bullet and do it. SHUCKS!

I do like the way it takes close ups. I always had trouble with that before. I still have lighting issues to work out. Well, I guess, DUH...the manual will address those issues.


Well, I guess I better get off the computer. As you can see, I have a lot of work yet to do on my bag. It's due on the 10th.

Another Use for Perle/Pearl Cotton Thread

Easter Baskets

I recently learned that the string (as I call it) that I use to make these baskets can also be used for embroidery. Those who use it know it as Anchor Perle or Pearl Cotton.

This little tidbit bit of information is pretty exciting considering that I have a huge box of this stuff and I just don't make that many baskets anymore.

It's also very cool to keep finding out that so much of the 'stuff' I really had little or no particular use for is so great for crazy quilting and embellishing.

Oh, it's the simple things that make the biggest impact. LOL.


To make this basket:

First, you will also need an area where you can tie a piece of twine onto the top of the balloon and hang it (just off of the floor). Choose somewhere without a lot of traffic. You will also need some plastic (bags, sheets, etc.) to place underneath it. And finally, if you are doing this in an area that the sugar will attract ants or bugs. You'll need some ant/bug spray.

Ok, let's begin... Start by blowing up a balloon. A regular/standard size is best. You can use smaller sizes as well as larger sizes, depending on what size you want and also how much wrapping you are up for.

With the 'string' begin wrapping the balloon. You will need to wrap it heavily enough that it will remain fairly firm after you pop the balloon later on. The balloon will need to be nearly solidly covered. Some gaps, spider-webby or stained-glass looking. It might be a little difficult to get it started but it gets easy after just a few strands are on.

Next step. In a double boiler (or similar pot) heat granulated sugar up to near boiling. I would guess-timate about 1 ½ to 2 cups of sugar per basket (I never measure anything). Let it cool enough not to pop the balloon but not so much that it solidifies again. When it's cool enough to work with (and this is the fun part), take your sugar, your wrapped balloon, a metal or glass pan (large enough to lay the balloon down into), and a wet cloth over to where you will hang the balloon.

Tie a knot with twine to the top/tied part of the balloon. Set the balloon in the pan and begin covering the balloon with the sugar mixture. BE VERY CAREFUL that you don't cause the 'string' to shift or bunch up. When the balloon is completely covered, and don't be afraid to use your hands as a scoop to get full coverage (just pretend you're finger painting), lift the balloon by the twine and tie it onto (or secure it otherwise) to where it will hang. I use a portable clothes hanger from my washroom or sometimes the poles from my quilting frame.

You will need to allow it to dry for 2-3 days depending on where you hang it, the temperature, and the humidity. Don't forget to place a drip catcher underneath it for the excess sugar. And especially don't forget to spray around the area with ant/bug spray if necessary. BUT DON'T spray the balloon.

When the basket is dry it is now a basket. Cut the twine and remove the basket. You will notice that the basket is oval and will not stand on its own. So, set it on a flat surface, preferably about waist high. And somewhere that you don't mind getting sugar flakes on. You can also place a paper towel underneath it to help catch the sugar.

Now, pop the balloon with a needle. Some of it will stick to the sides of the balloon. That's okay, you can peel it away later. With the balloon popped you can flatten the bottom of the basket. To do this press slowly down on the basket, keeping you hands around the basket (just above the middle). Be gentle because if you press too hard the basket will collapse. Remember, it's sugar soaked 'string'!

When you get the bottom to your desired flatness you can cut a hole/opening to the size you desire. Decorate the outside with lace, silk flowers, or whatever. It's okay to use a glue gun to attach items. Put some Easter grass in it, along with some candies and a small stuffed animal and you have a terrific gift that will become a treasured keepsake.

ALSO remember that these are relatively dainty items, meant for show or for gifts. THEY ARE NOT MEANT FOR CHILDREN TO PLAY WITH OR EAT!!!!!

Susie Q's World

I got this link in an emal from a friend. This is a great site. Cetainly something that you should not miss. If you get a moment to stop by Susie Q's World you will not be dissapointed. Be sure to click on the links at the home page. She has done such a wonderful job, you will be glad that you took the time.

Hoffman Challenge 2006 - Winning Dolls

The Hoffman Doll Challenge was a huge success this year, as always. There were many, many entries but unfortunately only a few can be chosen as the winners. Kuddo's go out to all of the artists and doll makers who participated. There were some lovely, creative, and interesting entries.

If you haven't gotten a chance yet to see the winners of this year's challenge please click here.

If you would like to see previous year's challenge winners, click on the links:
2005 Winners

2004 Winners

2003 Winners

2002 Winners

If you are interested in receiving information regarding upcoming Hoffman Challenges, please visit Notes From Jukebox.

For those of you who are new to doll making, would like to try your hand at doll making, or are simply looking for a fun and creative personal challenge, I invite you to stop by The Cloth Doll Connection's Freebies Page.

Overflowing with Heart

I recently completed 2 hearts for a group swap. My first time (no, really) and I had a lot of fun. I spent a considerable amount of time browsing around for inspiration (and embellishing examples), and I began to discover that CQ hearts were everywhere. They are quite possibly the most popular on-going CQ project around.

There is such a wealth of wonderful embellishing being done that it would be quite impossible to even attempt to list it. So, I decided that I would treat you to a sample of some of the eye candy out there just to get you started. You will find that one site will lead you to another, and before you know it you'll wonder where the day went. I dare you not to drool on your keyboard.

Grab a comfortable seat and enjoy the ride.....

Debbie














Iris Susan

Jo in NZ



















Lillian

Melissa











Renea


















Ribbonwiz

My Fur Babies are Celebs!

This is a picture that we submitted to the Miniature Schnauzer Rescue of Houston (MSRH) for the upcoming 2007 Calendar.

There are lots of other much loved fur babies also being considered. And it just doesn't matter to Fritz (right) and Bella (left) if they get their own page or not. We all just want lots of humans to buy the calendar (and other neat stuff) so that the great people with MSRH can keep making happy families.

This is our "Happy Ending" story:

We made Bella a member of our family on July 5, 2006. And we weren't really sure at the time how she would fit into our family. First of all, we had never seen a white schnauzer before and were a little hesitant. We didn't know how another fur baby would change or impact our lives. Especially, our other (current) mini, Fritz - a six year old, 'only child.' Would he enjoy a companion? Would he feel slighted? Or jealous? How would he treat her?

Well, we took the plunge and we could not be happier. Fritz and Bella play together wonderfully! They run, and wrestle, and tug on toys. They sleep together (in our bed, of course), and usually right next to each other. They are constant companions. Bella is such an affectionate, loving, sweet little girl. So eager to please, so willing to learn, and so easy to train. When mommy is running errands or we go out for awhile, she has full run of the house with Fritz. No crating or confining necessary. And they are both at the door barking greetings and wagging their nubs when we come home. We just love her to pieces!

We are so grateful to Karen, Sherry, and Mona for helping us to make Bella a much loved and appreciated member of our family.

Another Car in the Garage

Well, it was bound to happen. But what an eye-opener it turned out to be on Monday when we had to clean out the garage to make room for a 3rd vehicle.

Yes, light-bulb goes off - my baby is going to be 16 in 6 weeks. He’s had his Learner’s Permit for nearly a year and has gotten quite a bit of driving experience under his belt. Yet, when we started car shopping a few weeks ago it never really occurred to me what that actually meant. He’s about to take a head dive out of the nest. He’ll be flying alone! And I’m wondering just how large of a crowbar we’ll need to pry me loose (lol).

The odd thing is that the day started out pretty much the same as the one before. Uneventful. But around noon it started to pick up momentum. The next thing I know, we are on our way to revisit ‘the car’ from last week. My DH grabs the check book, we all pile into my Jeep, and we’re off!

It seems that the next thing I remember is feeling stunned. Why, you ask? Well, because DH decides that right out of the shoot, our son should have the car of ‘his dreams.’ My DH’s rational? “When I turned 16 my dad bought me a brand new 1969 GTO TriPower, and he was still driving an old pick up truck.” So, with eyes rolling and head shaking I think back to how I had to buy my first (very used) car all by my little lonesome. Anyway, as I began to regain my senses, I discovered what the automobile insurance was going to cost. I darn near dropped face first on the floor! And if I was certain that I could get back up, I just might have.

I’m still wondering if I was actually in the Twilight Zone or not. I remember the sales person fueling a 2004, fire engine red, Mustang Coupe as we marched off to do ‘the paperwork.’ I vaguely remember the three of us sitting in the waiting room. My little darling just beaming. Grinning from ear to ear. DH tapping the check book on his knee, and me, with a blank look on my face and still shaking my head.

All too soon the fog disappeared and reality set in. It was a done deal. The kid had keys in hand, DH was climbing into ‘the kid’s car’, and poor befuddled mom is bringing up the rear in her Jeep. Awwwwwww, I’m hoping that this little adventure will somehow help prepare me for when he leaves for college. :)

A Crazy Quilt

They do not make them any more,
For quilts are cheaper at the store
Than woman's labor, though a wife
Men think the cheapest thing in life.
But now and then a quilt is spread
Upon quaint old walnut bed,
A crazy quilt of those days
That I am old enough to praise.

Some woman sewed these points and squares
Into a pattern like life's cares.
Here is a velvet that was stong,
The poplin that she wore so long,
A fragment from her daughter's dress,
Like her, a vanished loveliness;
Old patches of such things as these,
Old garments and old memories.

And what is life? A crazy quilt;
Sorrow and joy, and grace and guilt,
With here and there a square of blue
For some old happiness we knew;
And so the hand of time will take
The fragments of our lives and make,
Out of life's remnants, as they fall,
A thing of beauty, after all.

Douglas Malloch
(Taken from The Romance of the Patchwork Quilt in America)

Quote of the Day

"People grow through experience if they meet life honestly and courageously. This is how character is built."
Eleanor Roosevelt

Memories of New Orleans, 02/04

Those of you familiar with New Orleans will recognize these pictures immediately. But for the benefit of the others:

French Quarter/Bourbon Street Area.














Across the bay at the Mardi Gras float warehouse.










Yes, that's us....
Smile, you're on spastic spotlight!









Anne Rice's home in the Garden District. I believe she has since moved. The home is really quite breath-taking. As are most of the homes in the Garden District. I absolutely love to read anything by Anne Rice.





Saint Louis Cemetery No. 1/Marie Laveau's tomb. I have been fascinated with cemetaries for as long as I can remember. They just never frightened me. I have also been very intrigued by Marie Laveau since the first time I heard the Doctor Hook and the Medicine Show's song about her.