Christmas in July

I made a quick trip to a small town about 25 miles NE from the ranch for extra lunch supplies.  The combiners are coming to try our spring wheat.  I chose this town for shopping because the "Quilter's Corner" is having a 3 day Christmas in July event.  It is 98 degrees and the humidity feels like 98 too.  They were all decorated for Christmas, playing Christmas music and wearing Christmas aprons.  Darn-no camera.
There were lots of new Christmas fabrics, samples and kits.  Of course, I needed some things.  Isn't it our duty to support these small local shops?

I'm a sucker for a snowman.  This is a cute panel of eight.  I bought matching fabric to make simple runners for quick gifts. 

This little kit caught my eye for a quick gift item too.    I love those little pattern cards from Pieced Tree patterns.  I have a couple others that are quick runner patterns.  I have quite a bit of Christmas fabric in my stash.  I'm picturing fussy cutting the main square with a design for some more gifts. 

I picked up this flannel to make some burp clothes to go with our shower gift.   Yes, I do have flannel in my stash, but this was just so nice and soft---love Moda flannel.

Guess what?!  They offered me a job at the quilt shop!!  I really wish I could--what a dream job.  Of course, I know I would spend all my wages there.  lol  I haven't brought it up to DH.  They are looking for someone to fill in occasionally.  I doubt I will.  If I had spare time I'd be sewing myself.  It made me feel good to be asked anyway.

I stopped for a java slush---mmmm so refreshing.   The wheat isn't dry enough, so no lunches to make today. :(

Peanut and I are fighting.  I moved the kittens out of the closet and back into their box.  There was hardly any room  for them in that closet.  I scooted the box under the computer desk.  They have been there all week.   I came home from town and no kittens in the box. 

You can see she's not pleased with this arrangement.  She moved them all to under the bed.  I moved them back to the box.  They are all under the bed again.  I'm not sure what I'm going to do, but they can't be under the bed.   And she does not want them in the box.  We need to come to a compromise that will make us both happy.  Maybe the box in the closet?

The babies are growing like weeds.  Their eyes are open.   It is so funny to watch them fight with each other and tumble around on their unsteady legs with chubby tummies.

Well, back to fighting with Peanut and figuring out a compromise.  Hugs.............................

Book giveaway

I won the book "Whiter Than Snow"  by Sandra Dallas from Sharon's giveaway on her blog.   Thank you Sharon!!  It was a very nice summer read.  It's the kind of book you wish were longer, because you enjoy the characters so much.  If you would like to read the book, please leave a comment.  I will draw a name on Monday, August 2nd and send you the book to read. 

I can't believe how fast last week went! It rained on Friday night, so we spent Saturday and Sunday at the river.  Michelle had the week-end off.  The weather was beautiful too--strange for a week-end.  The fishing was a fizzle, but I read my book and relaxed.

This photo shows the only sewing I did last week.  We sold our pontoon and bought a different boat.  The front canopy on the boat needed to be repaired and reinforced.  I used my older Bernina machine.  It took almost a whole spool of thread by the time I was done. 

DH parked the boat by the deck for easier loading and unloading.  The kittens think we bought them a new jungle gym.

We have been making hay--more big bales for winter feeding.  Today the combiners are coming to try harvesting our oats field.  We hope it is dry enough to get it done as rain is predicted for later in the week.

I picked my first zucchini.  The little bit of garden I got planted is really growing.  Hopefully the season will be long enough to produce ripe tomatoes.  The plants sure look nice right now.

I have been traveling a lot for parts lately.  I really enjoyed the parts run yesterday, because DH didn't need me to come home immediately.  Michelle had the day off.  We met for lunch at a wonderful Mexican restaurant--not a favorite food of DH, so it was a treat.  We then went to the mall for pedicures.  I haven't had one for over a year.  What a luxury!  I had a gift certificate from my little brother and his wife to use.  I love the massage part of the pedi.  The technician even painted little flowers on my big toes.  Now I can wear my sandals with pride.  lol

We shopped for a dress for Michelle.  She has a wedding to attend on Friday night.  We also bought a baby gift together for a shower later in August.  It was so nice to spend time with her.  School will start the end of August, so she will be super busy with work and studies.

Leave a comment to enter the book drawing.  Hugs..............

Too Much Flash?

They are just so cute.  Sweet little faces.  I can't help myself.

The kittens are 1 week old and their eyes are just opening.  Their little tummies are just so chubby.  I just can't resist giving them a little one finger stroke.  Ok, I've been picking them up alittle too.  They are just so adorable.

Peanut said that's enough.  In the night she moved them into the bedroom (computer room) closet.  I have to admit----that closet is a wreck.  I have been meaning to clean it out, but it's mostly Jen's "stuff".  Jen lives in Florida and of course we didn't get it done when she was home in May.   I hate messing with other people's stuff.  That closet also has 2 garbage bags of my Mom's clothes (memory quilt?), my Mom's prom dress and my Uncle Bill's ventriloquist dummy (Charlie McCarthey), Jen's winter coat she wears when she's here in December for Christmas and 2 tubs full of stuffed monkey--yes, stuffed monkeys.  There is also a ton of other stuff in there--folding chairs, card table, tv trays, winter bedding and the artificial Christmas tree in a big box.  I think maybe you have the idea now.   Maybe it's not all Jen's stuff either.  8)

I can see the tops of Peanuts ears way back in the corner through the jungle of "stuff".  I really don't have time to clean a closet today.  I guess she knew what she was doing.  I won't be taking pictures or touching her kids for today anyway.

Rollin on the River

We took the boat motor for a tune-up last week.  We took time yesterday to go and get it.  Michelle worked 6-2 at the living center, so she cruised with us.  BF Jared joined us later too.  This is the capitol building as seen from the Missouri River.  It was a gorgeous day on the water.  It has been a hot week of 100 degree days, but Sunday was 82 F with a light breeze.  The motor purrs now. 

The bridge divides Pierre and Ft. Pierre--also Central time from Mountain time. 

 

Rocco enjoys boating too.   We left the boat in Pierre.  Of course, now that it runs so well, DH wants to sell it.  There are a couple people interested in it.  DH already has another boat picked out.  We'll see it on Wednesday.  "Boys and their toys"--always need to be bigger and better.  We have had the pontoon 22 years.  It will be kind of hard to let it go--lots of memories.  :) 

The kittens are growing.  Their eyes are still closed.  Peanut allowed herself a trip outside the last 2 mornings for about 4 hours each time.  She must wear a watch.  lol  The babies just slept while she was gone.  I was feeling rather sorry for her.  She has always been such a hunter and loves to be outside.  It was strange to see her stay in the house doing nothing.  Puss has become more actively affectionate and sleeping on our bed at night with us again.   I'm sure she's wondering how long these new cats are staying. 

Rocco was such an active part of taking care of the 5 orphans last fall.  He doesn't have much to do with the new babies, but still loves his Peanut and misses her playtime.  I'm glad he has the kids outside to entertain him.  I'm glad you enjoyed the video.  It is like a circus watching them play.  I wish I could get a video of them chasing Rocco and him chasing them, but they all move too fast.  We laugh so hard.

I'm still working on my pinwheel sashings here and there.  I've just about got a flimsy!  I finished another block for the Bouquet BOM.

I just have the finishing blocks to do.  I'm so behind with every BOM.  I don't know what made me think I could do them all.  There is just so much talent and generous sharing in Blogland.  I really don't know how Jenny can come up with so many new designs and stitch them all AND move in the process.  She must be a wonderwoman.   I know she's a wonderful woman--always sharing her creativity.

I know I spend way too much time on the computer!  I also know I will have more time this winter to stitch.  It amazes me how quickly some people accomplish things tho.  I'm not sure I've had a finish this year--let alone two or three a month.  I'm too busy seeing what every one else is doing maybe.  BUT I love to see what you are doing too. 

Gotta run.  Looks like I have to run to town for some parts after lunch.  Have a great week.  Talk to you later.  Hugs..............

Playing on the Deck

Mother and Babies Doing Well

The babies have arrived.  Peanut is such a good mom too.  Isn't this just the sweetest photo?

Thank you everyone for your nice comments.  I'm so glad no one "hated on" me for not getting her spayed in time.  It's a little different on the farm where cats are working animals too.  I totally understand the over population of pets in the cities.  I don't want over population in my house either!  Two cats and a dog were way more than I planned on already.

Now to the cute part...........Peanut had 5 little guys.  Three are yellow, one gray and one black with yellow accents.  lol 

 

 Peanut is an amazing mom.  She spent all day yesterday with them only getting up to eat alittle and go pottie.  She seems very proud of them and loving. 

Rocco seems a little out of sorts.  I'm not sure if he is upset about becoming a grandpa or just tired from the whole birthing experience.  I'm glad he has his playful kittens outside to entertain him, because Peanut is going to be too busy to play for a while.

Puss is not real pleased to have more children in the house.  She liked it best when she was the only pet.  She had finally got used to having a dog in "her house" when the orphans were brought in.  She tolerates the new additions as long as DH's lap is still hers at night.  She spent most of yesterday curled up on the bed in the sewing room.  I'm sure she's wondering just what her future will bring now and what her people are letting happen in her house.                                                             

DH is stacking bales today and I need to get busy.  I've been spending way too much time this morning pet watching.  The kittens were wild on the deck this morning and Rocco was having so much fun playing with them.  He chases them and they chase him.  So funny to see.  It was a long coffee break morning, but a good one for my soul.  I'm still smiling inside.   Have a great day.............. 

The Waiting is Killing Me

Rocco is the birth coach.

Jelly Roll Block #10

I completed Jelly Roll Block #10  of the quilt along at Moose on the Porch Quilts.  I'm getting to the end of fabric choices in my jelly roll.  I am still struggling with the technique where you sew from corner to corner.  I really had to pay attention which way to sew, but I got it done without unsewing anything.  The block didn't turn out too bad tho and I'm liking it better today.

This bird has a critical eye on my non-matching point there, but I decided to leave it.  I'm learning that if I really want to get anything done sometimes I just need to sew and do it.   My striving for perfection or fear of failure is holding me back from just doing it.  I'm sure when I'm covered up on the couch I'll be reading or stitching and not checking my points.  This was the only sewing I got done yesterday, but I "enjoyed the process".

Not sure what today will bring.  We are taking the boat motor for a tune-up today or tomorrow.  If we go this afternoon, we can see Michelle's softball games tonight.  BUT DH is still trying to finish planting some wet areas in one field.  It looks like rain tonight, so he'll have to plant what he can today and leave the rest.  He was hoping for a couple more drying days before this rain. (not complaining about the rain tho--especially in July)  He is planting Sudan grass, which can be hayed or chopped with the corn that is in the rest of the field.  

I better go line up something for lunch.   Have a great day whatever you do!  Hugs..........

A New Week

Monday--again already!  And the middle of July too.  Where does the time go?  Michelle and BF Jared were home for the week-end.  We enjoyed visiting, watching movies and eating--too much.  We had our first watermelon of the summer.  It was really good.  It's always a gamble when you pick a melon--will it be good?  I got it right this time.  I use the ole "thunk" method.  It was nice and red and sweet.  

Sunday I went with my baby sister MJ to a baby shower for my niece's step-daughter's new baby boy--wow, that was a mouthful.   We had a nice visit all the way there and all the way back.  Nice to catch up on everything and everyone in the families.   The new baby received alot of wonderful gifts.  They have such nice equipment for babies now days.  I never had a bouncer, walker or a stroller for my babies.  We ooohed and aaaahed over the outfits and took turns holding the 3 babies in attendance.   Three of MJ's 4 daughters were there and we went out for Chinese after a short shopping trip.   Michelle and Jared stayed home to entertain DH and Rocco.

DH is recovered and back to work today.  He is laying down more hay to bale later this week. 

Rocco and I did pasture checks.  I thought you might enjoy a photo of our cows visiting with the neighbor's cows. 

As they say "good fences make good neighbors" or something like that they say.  I was also thinking this morning that I'm always taking pictures of nice flat ground to show you.  We do have small hills and lots of rocks in places.

Yes, that is Rocco's nose.  :)  He loves to hang out the window.  Don't worry I'm always hanging on to him.

As you can see I have no sewing to share, so I better get busy.  I need to do the next block for the Jelly Roll Sampler and I'm plugging away on the Pinwheels.  I have all the vertical sashing done.  Hugs until I talk to you next time.

New BOM/Wind Power

I've always had a soft spot in my heart for Raggedy Ann.  Kaaren with The Painted Quilt blog is once again sharing her generous spirit and creative talent with fellow bloggers.  Starting 7/21 she will be hosting a free 10 month BOM called Raggedy & Friends.  It will be stitching and patchwork.  She has already finished her quilt.  It is so cute.  I'm looking forward to a new series of stitcheries of one of my favorite dolls.

When we drove to the river last week-end, we passed through the Wind Power Farm on the way.  Do you have wind towers in your area?  I always feel as though I am passing through alien territory with the huge towers on either side of the highway.

 

There are 27 towers in this project.  I'm not sure where the power goes, but I know we have plenty of wind to make them work.   There is another project to the east of these about 15 miles with 12 towers.  We can see the lights blinking on them at night from our house over 25 miles away.

They don't seem to bother the cows grazing here. 

Were you ever pregnant in July?  Do you remember how hot and uncomfortable you were?   Well, Peanut can sympathize!  She just can't get comfortable at all, but when she does she is totally out of it.

We aren't too happy about the pending additions, but it is our own fault.  I had good intentions of a vet visit, but it didn't get taken care of.   We gave away 4 kittens last year, so I'm hoping we can find good homes again.  I'm also hoping there aren't very many.   I'll keep you posted. 

No sewing this week.  DH is still under the weather.  He has antibiotics now, so we are hoping for a faster recovery.  Thank you for all your get well wishes for him.  It has rained off and on all week, so he really hasn't missed out on too much work.  He has been sleeping alot.  Michelle is home for a few days, so  we are enjoying that.  Hugs to all............................

Home from the River

We left Saturday morning about 7:00 am, but by the time we got to the Missouri river about 60 miles away the wind had come up and there were white caps on the water.  This was day 3 of high winds all day.  We fished from shore until noon, but it soon got to be over 90 degrees.  We didn't get any bites, so we packed up.

We checked into the Golden Buffalo casino motel.  Gambling is legal on Indian reservations in South Dakota.  The Crow Creek reservation and the Lower Brule reservation are divided by the Missouri River.  The Lode Star casino and motel on the Crow Creek reservation was booked up already, so we drove about 10 miles further to the Golden Buffalo on the Lower Brule reservation.  This casino is an alcohol-free casino and their food is wonderful in the cafe.  We have never stayed either place before.  DH's sister, her DH, her DD and BF met up with us there.   They came down on Friday.  

DH and I took a nap in a nice cool room until about 4:00.   The rest of the crew were fishing below the dam, but they didn't catch anything.  DD #1, Michelle and her friend, Jared met us for supper at the casino. After supper we gathered in a room to visit. While we were visiting it rained really hard out. Jared got a phone call from a friend about 25 miles to the west that a grain bin had been blown over and a roof on a house lost in a neighboring town to the west.  All that heat and wind made for another ugly summer storm.   

Sunday, the Fourth of July was a gorgeous day.  A beautiful day to enjoy being out on the water.

Sharon and Dennis came with us on our pontoon.  Dixie and Dave went out on his boat.  The walleyes were biting.  :) 

Sharon probably wouldn't appreciate this picture.  lol  (but her nose didn't get sunburned with her hat on)  We got our limit for the day, which was 4 a piece.  We fished, snacked and visited all day long.  What a relaxing fun day! 

I caught two silver bass too, but I had to release them.  Silver bass must be over 18" long in Lake Sharpe before they are "keepers".   They are real fighters and are so much fun to pull in. 

Rocco enjoyed the day too.  We put up the canopy in the afternoon and with just a breeze it was very nice on the water.  Toward 7:00 pm it started to cloud up in the west.  There were really strange looking clouds.

Time to head in!  These clouds moved on north.  We found .70 in the rain gauge when we got home Monday afternoon.   Sharon and Dennis had 2.5 in Aberdeen further north of us.  We ate another wonderful supper and crashed early. 

DH wasn't feeling well.  He had a sore throat and a "funny head", so we came home on Monday.  The river had alot of boats on it when we left.  The rest of the crew stayed to fish again. 

It was so nice to see how green it was down at the river too.  Usually by this time of year the hill are turning brown from lack of rain in July. 

Rocco was exhausted and slept all the way home.  He was so happy to get home and be able to run without his harness and leash.  He played with the kittens, who I think had missed him.  The grass had become overgrown while we were gone and the tomato plants tripled in size.    DH mowed the yard while I did the weed-eating.  It was oatmeal for supper, since we ate way too much while we were gone.  We all went to bed early.  Taking time off is tiring.  lol

DH is still under the weather today.  I am doing laundry and playing catch up in the house.  Since it rained there isn't alot to do outside, but check on everyone.  There is rain in the forecast for tonight and tomorrow, so we don't want to mow more hay down yet.   How nice to have rain in July.  More later.. Hugs.........