Sorry to keep you all hanging but I have been waiting to hear back from the MD before I wrote anything. Still haven't heard back officially, but while we were there at his office he was pretty sure that Gillian doesn't have leukemia or any other form of cancer. She still needs to go for her colonoscopy to rule out colon cancer, but I am no longer worried about this. Whew. I do have to say that there is nothing quite like walking into a Hemotology outpatient clinic. The first thing that I saw was a little bald headed boy hooked up to his medication and my heart just sank. I just started to bargain with God saying, "Please, please don't let Gillian had leukemia or cancer, or, or, or..." and when the MD said he was 99.9% certain that she didn't, I actually felt guity along with the relief. How many parents didn't get that news and walked out of there overwhelmed and devistated? We did go for more blood work and we actually sat with the MD at his microscope and looked at Gillian's blood under the scope with him. She still has a high eosinophil count, probably due to her Ulcerative Colitis and she's still anemic, but they will follow her and try and figure out the anemia and keep an eye on the eosinophil count. She has a new diagnosis to add to her list.....Eosinophilia. Just basically a high eosinophila count.
I am continuing to sew. I made a halter top to go with the skirt below, but it still needs some tweaking. I bought some elastic thread to try my hand at shirring, so I will let you all know how that works out. I do have to admit that I haven't worked on "the" Easter dress. At which point does one throw in the towel? Well, too many people have helped me gain valuable expertise on this dress, so no throwing in the towel for me! I will tackle it again tomorrow. I also started working on a mystery quilt. I only had to go out and buy 1 yard (1/2 yard of 2 different fabrics) that I didn't already have. I must be building quite a stash as they say. I bought a purse pattern to use some of the fabric that I have that I don't want to sew clothing with and want to try my hand at that.
I had another exciting thing happen tonight, but I am not ready to share yet. All I can say is that there are some exciting things in store for me apparently. Stay tuned...
Wendy
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Why I haven't been online!
I have been working in this skirt!
While I love the colors, I think it's way to short. I haven't put the elastic in yet, as I am waiting for Katie to get home from school to measure her waist. I bought this pattern from
You Can Make This and the directions are excellent. The problem is that the length of the skirt comes from the top tier and I was afraid that one pattern would over power the skirt so I only cut it to what it said. I measured and remeasured, but they were accurate, so I think the next time I make this skirt, I will add 2 more tiers and get more length that way. The problem is the tiers are so tightly ruffled together that they bunch up and that takes away from the length. I think I will also add some cute ruffle accents next time too, now that I know how to put the skirt together! The bottom ruffle alone is almost 3 feet long before ruffling!
Which brings me to the magic of the ruffler foot! It's a special foot for your machine that creates ruffles and pleats so there is no more pulling strings and trying to get things just right. You can even go to the above mentioned web site and DL a free tutorial on how to use a ruffling foot. Came in very handy for me.
The other reason I haven't been online is that Gillian has been sick. She is severly anemic and had a really funky blood test result that could mean many things, one of them cancer so we are going to the hemotology dept at the local Children's Hospital today for an appointment there. If you are a praying person, please send prayers our way that this is something else and not cancer. Good thoughts, positive energy, etc would be gratefully accepted too. I am scared out of my mind!
So, how's that for an update? Sorry to keep you all hanging, but it's been a zoo and I feel like the monkey!
Now, back to the Easter Dress.....yes, you read that right. Maybe it will be ready for next Easter?
Wendy
While I love the colors, I think it's way to short. I haven't put the elastic in yet, as I am waiting for Katie to get home from school to measure her waist. I bought this pattern from
You Can Make This and the directions are excellent. The problem is that the length of the skirt comes from the top tier and I was afraid that one pattern would over power the skirt so I only cut it to what it said. I measured and remeasured, but they were accurate, so I think the next time I make this skirt, I will add 2 more tiers and get more length that way. The problem is the tiers are so tightly ruffled together that they bunch up and that takes away from the length. I think I will also add some cute ruffle accents next time too, now that I know how to put the skirt together! The bottom ruffle alone is almost 3 feet long before ruffling!
Which brings me to the magic of the ruffler foot! It's a special foot for your machine that creates ruffles and pleats so there is no more pulling strings and trying to get things just right. You can even go to the above mentioned web site and DL a free tutorial on how to use a ruffling foot. Came in very handy for me.
The other reason I haven't been online is that Gillian has been sick. She is severly anemic and had a really funky blood test result that could mean many things, one of them cancer so we are going to the hemotology dept at the local Children's Hospital today for an appointment there. If you are a praying person, please send prayers our way that this is something else and not cancer. Good thoughts, positive energy, etc would be gratefully accepted too. I am scared out of my mind!
So, how's that for an update? Sorry to keep you all hanging, but it's been a zoo and I feel like the monkey!
Now, back to the Easter Dress.....yes, you read that right. Maybe it will be ready for next Easter?
Wendy
Sunday, March 09, 2008
Procrastination
I am supposed to be working on Katie's Easter dress, but instead, I am finding all sorts of things I don't really have to do and doing them anyway. I got the collar on (with a lot of help from my MIL)and I have to trim the excess away and start the sleeves. I am not looking forward too it. I know what I have to do, I just don't know if I can do it. I can't do the spacial stuff, like sewing on the right side to right side and see it come out right. I think I like quilting much more, and don't ask me why it's so much easier to do that. Maybe because I actually pick patterns that I can do instead of something that is way too hard? Well, it looked easy and pretty on the package anyway!
On a good note, I won a prize from Fabric Bliss and am really excited. You see, I have all these grand plans in mind when it comes to clothes and yes, they do come out cute when they are finished. It's just getting them finished.
So, before I go and play an online game, let me close this out, get up from the computer and go to the sewing area and get that dress done! Keep your eye out for pictures!
Wendy
On a good note, I won a prize from Fabric Bliss and am really excited. You see, I have all these grand plans in mind when it comes to clothes and yes, they do come out cute when they are finished. It's just getting them finished.
So, before I go and play an online game, let me close this out, get up from the computer and go to the sewing area and get that dress done! Keep your eye out for pictures!
Wendy
Friday, February 29, 2008
The most AWESOMEST fabric on the net....
Come from Fabric Bliss ! I just got 4 more yards of some sumptous fabric and am waiting on a Euro order so that I can finish some great summer outfits for Katie. I know that some of you have asked where I find such great fabric and this is the place. I've never had an order messed up and I always love what I get. And if you are looking for the best price around, this is it.
So? What are you waiting for? Head on over and buy some fabric!
Wendy
So? What are you waiting for? Head on over and buy some fabric!
Wendy
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Happy Birthday Katie!
Although Katie wasn't feeling well, we went into school just to share snack with her friends and then came home to rest. After that, we took her for a day of beauty! She has always wanted to go to L*bby Lu's and so we fulfilled her wish. She wasn't feeling the best, but had a shake at J*hnny R*ocket's and then off we went to have the makeover. Grandma S came with us and that just made it extra special. She wore the shirt that a friend of ours made for her to match a pair of pants that we already had. As you can tell from the pictures, she definately was "princess for a day"! The only thing she didn't do was go through with getting her ears pierced (which I wasn't really disappointed with truth be told). Gillian was 5 when she got hers done and we told Katie that she could have hers done too. She got another W*bkinz from Grandma and some money to buy anther one! Pretty soon we won't be able to keep up with all these critters on the puter.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY "BABY"! I love you sweetheart. I can't believe 5 years ago yesterday I was hearing your first cries and nursing you for the first time. You are growing into such a sweet little girl. You have a heart of gold and are such a good friend. You care so much about people's feelings. You love school, are already adding and subtracting and learning to read. Everyday you say or do something that just makes me shake my head in wonder at how smart and cute you are. I look forward to another year of watching you grow. I love you!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY "BABY"! I love you sweetheart. I can't believe 5 years ago yesterday I was hearing your first cries and nursing you for the first time. You are growing into such a sweet little girl. You have a heart of gold and are such a good friend. You care so much about people's feelings. You love school, are already adding and subtracting and learning to read. Everyday you say or do something that just makes me shake my head in wonder at how smart and cute you are. I look forward to another year of watching you grow. I love you!
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Now it's my computer
That died that is. Cheryl went out and bought me a new one, so I am in business again. But, with the dead computer went all my favorites which I am trying to restore, so if you would be so kind as to send me your blog links so I can add them to my favorites, I would greatly appreciate it. Please send them along to wendy6gill@aol.com I am going to try and see if I can get anything off the other computer before we have someone look at it and try and restore it. I can't seem to keep a computer for more than 2 years before they bite the dust.
Anyway, I don't have much energy to blog about anything else. I am still grieving pretty hard and don't have much to say right now.
I will be looking for your blog address's though....please do send them along as I am missing my friends and really want to check in with you all! Thanks
Wendy
Anyway, I don't have much energy to blog about anything else. I am still grieving pretty hard and don't have much to say right now.
I will be looking for your blog address's though....please do send them along as I am missing my friends and really want to check in with you all! Thanks
Wendy
Thursday, February 14, 2008
In Loving Memory
Of my Beloved Grandfather
Raymond R. Walters Sr.
February 13, 2008 Raymond R. Walters Sr., 83, of Baldwinsville, passed away Wednesday, February 13, 2008. Born in Syracuse, he worked as a supervisor for the Syracuse Housing Authority for many years. He was a member of the Elmwood Fish & Game Club. He en-joyed his summers fishing at his camp in Canada and his winters at his home in Steinhatchee, FL. He was a staff sergeant for the Army Air Corps during WWII and also served in the Air National Guard, Syracuse. Survivors include his wife, Thelma M. Walters of 61 years; two daughters, Patricia A. Walters, Sharon J. Walters; one son, Raymond R. (Nancy) Walters Jr.; two sisters, Virginia Hobson, Betty (Dick) Bassett; two brothers, Ronald, Robert (Lottie); 11 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Calling hours will be Sunday, February 17 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Butler-Badman Funeral Home, Inc., 4504 W. Seneca Turnpike (Rt. 175), Syracuse. The funeral will be Monday, February 18 at 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at White Chapel Cemetery, DeWitt. Butler-Badman Funeral Home, Inc. ONONDAGA HILL
I couldn't even write this yesterday. Even something so expected is incredibly hard. I go from being numb, to sad, to numb again. I know that I have mentioned more than once that my grandfather was like a father to me. My father died when I was 10 and my grandfather has always been there for me. I miss him so much. My heart aches with how much I miss him already.
On Friday he was admitted to the hospital with pneumonia and it was grave. I was traveling to a children's museum with Cheryl and Katie, Gillian had just left to go out of town. When we got back, I raced up to the hospital only to find him sitting up eating! I breathed a huge sigh of relief when my cousin John said that he'd probably be released in a couple of days. But his poor body and lungs just couldn't take it anymore. He'd had a rough night Monday night and by Tuesday couldn't come off the CPAP machine. Discussions with my Uncle, Grandmother, my mother and Aunt has already been had about no DNR and no mask. On Tuesday around 3PM my sister called me to tell me that my mother was getting picked up to go up to the hospital to say her goodbyes. Not long after, my mother called me saying that Grandpa wanted us all up there. I went up there and got to say goodbye. I thanked him for everything he'd done for me and told him that I was so thankful to have such a wonderful grandfather. He said "I tried" and then told me that he was proud of me and who I had become" He told me to tell Cheryl, Gillian and Katie Jo that he loved them.
The hospital was wonderful. They brought us food and took such good care of him. They were compassionate and caring. After everyone got to the hospital and said their goodbye's, respitory therapy came in and took off the mask, much to his relief. They already had him on a morphone drip and he was comfortable. They changed him over to a regular mask just giving him oxygen and made him comfortable. Little by little everyone said goodbye and went home. I think for me that was the most painful part. Knowing it was the final goodbye. I cried as I went to pick Gillian up and when I got home, went to bed, waiting for the phone call. That phone call came at 6:45am. He died at 6:15AM with my Uncle and Grandmother by his side. He passed peacefully. Right now, I have so much pain inside, but as the days go on, I will be blogging about the wonderful stories I have about my grandfather. It's just too painful to do right now. Please keep my family in your thoughts and prayers. Especially my Grandmother who just lost her husband of 61 years and my Mother, Uncle and Aunt who lost their father and of course the rest of us grandchildren and great grandchildren who just lost one of the most precious people in our lives.
Wendy
Raymond R. Walters Sr.
February 13, 2008 Raymond R. Walters Sr., 83, of Baldwinsville, passed away Wednesday, February 13, 2008. Born in Syracuse, he worked as a supervisor for the Syracuse Housing Authority for many years. He was a member of the Elmwood Fish & Game Club. He en-joyed his summers fishing at his camp in Canada and his winters at his home in Steinhatchee, FL. He was a staff sergeant for the Army Air Corps during WWII and also served in the Air National Guard, Syracuse. Survivors include his wife, Thelma M. Walters of 61 years; two daughters, Patricia A. Walters, Sharon J. Walters; one son, Raymond R. (Nancy) Walters Jr.; two sisters, Virginia Hobson, Betty (Dick) Bassett; two brothers, Ronald, Robert (Lottie); 11 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Calling hours will be Sunday, February 17 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Butler-Badman Funeral Home, Inc., 4504 W. Seneca Turnpike (Rt. 175), Syracuse. The funeral will be Monday, February 18 at 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at White Chapel Cemetery, DeWitt. Butler-Badman Funeral Home, Inc. ONONDAGA HILL
I couldn't even write this yesterday. Even something so expected is incredibly hard. I go from being numb, to sad, to numb again. I know that I have mentioned more than once that my grandfather was like a father to me. My father died when I was 10 and my grandfather has always been there for me. I miss him so much. My heart aches with how much I miss him already.
On Friday he was admitted to the hospital with pneumonia and it was grave. I was traveling to a children's museum with Cheryl and Katie, Gillian had just left to go out of town. When we got back, I raced up to the hospital only to find him sitting up eating! I breathed a huge sigh of relief when my cousin John said that he'd probably be released in a couple of days. But his poor body and lungs just couldn't take it anymore. He'd had a rough night Monday night and by Tuesday couldn't come off the CPAP machine. Discussions with my Uncle, Grandmother, my mother and Aunt has already been had about no DNR and no mask. On Tuesday around 3PM my sister called me to tell me that my mother was getting picked up to go up to the hospital to say her goodbyes. Not long after, my mother called me saying that Grandpa wanted us all up there. I went up there and got to say goodbye. I thanked him for everything he'd done for me and told him that I was so thankful to have such a wonderful grandfather. He said "I tried" and then told me that he was proud of me and who I had become" He told me to tell Cheryl, Gillian and Katie Jo that he loved them.
The hospital was wonderful. They brought us food and took such good care of him. They were compassionate and caring. After everyone got to the hospital and said their goodbye's, respitory therapy came in and took off the mask, much to his relief. They already had him on a morphone drip and he was comfortable. They changed him over to a regular mask just giving him oxygen and made him comfortable. Little by little everyone said goodbye and went home. I think for me that was the most painful part. Knowing it was the final goodbye. I cried as I went to pick Gillian up and when I got home, went to bed, waiting for the phone call. That phone call came at 6:45am. He died at 6:15AM with my Uncle and Grandmother by his side. He passed peacefully. Right now, I have so much pain inside, but as the days go on, I will be blogging about the wonderful stories I have about my grandfather. It's just too painful to do right now. Please keep my family in your thoughts and prayers. Especially my Grandmother who just lost her husband of 61 years and my Mother, Uncle and Aunt who lost their father and of course the rest of us grandchildren and great grandchildren who just lost one of the most precious people in our lives.
Wendy
Monday, February 11, 2008
Medical woes
I try really hard not to talk a whole lot about medical stuff here, but it's really the only place I have to talk about it. I can't even remember if I mentioned that I spent 5 days in the hospital the week before last with no feeling in my right leg. It just went. It was the scariest thing I have ever experienced. My back surgeon (who did my laminectomy and fusion) says that although there is some imflamation in L5, that didn't cause the lack of feeling. Apparently it doesn't matter that I have had pain in this leg since the surgery. It's not coming from his surgery! So, they sent the neurologist in to see me and they did an MRI of the back, the brain and upper neck. Nothing. I had to be doped up pretty good to get into that machine, but it really was OK. I guess I am just getting more and more used to things that I wasn't able to tolerate before. The neurologist is ruling out MS by getting all my previous records, but there doesn't seem to be any findings of that.
Where is Dr. House when you need him? I really need someone to figure out why I never really recovered from this back surgery. I do have the feeling back in my leg, but there is some permanent loss and I can tell because of the pressure foot of the sewing machine. Not enough to impede my driving though right now. I had PT coming out 3 days a week and I keep doing my exercises faithfully, because when they were talking about seeing if my insurance would cover a wheelchair, well, I just wanted to die. At least that isn't something that I need to worry about now.
I do think it was the babysitting that did me in. I guess I really can't work. It's very difficult for me to accept. I need to be productive. I need to be someone again. Not just the pieces that I feel I have become.
Where is Dr. House when you need him? I really need someone to figure out why I never really recovered from this back surgery. I do have the feeling back in my leg, but there is some permanent loss and I can tell because of the pressure foot of the sewing machine. Not enough to impede my driving though right now. I had PT coming out 3 days a week and I keep doing my exercises faithfully, because when they were talking about seeing if my insurance would cover a wheelchair, well, I just wanted to die. At least that isn't something that I need to worry about now.
I do think it was the babysitting that did me in. I guess I really can't work. It's very difficult for me to accept. I need to be productive. I need to be someone again. Not just the pieces that I feel I have become.
Another Kady Dud creation
Catchy eh? I have decided to call the clothes that I make Kady Duds! I thought it sounded cute and well since they are for Katie it just made sense. Anyway, here is the latest that I have made. I am starting the Easter dress today...while making a quilt in the process! Enjoy!
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Sorry....
I really meant to be better about blogging. Lots of things going on right now! Katie is getting over bronchitis. Gillian should be on her way home from NYC right now and I suspect she will be a bear when she gets here because she hasn't had much sleep. I can't wait to see her though. I missed her while she was gone!
And my grandpa. He's sick again. Really sick. I don't know much right now about whether he'll pull through, but he's got pneumonia and he's in the hospital and the DNR's have been signed. So, it's in his and His hands right now. Watching him decline like this has been hell. I want to remember the Grandpa who was strong and vibrant. Not the one wasting away and gasping for breath.
And there is church. Lots of stuff there to keep me busy, but nothing I can talk publically about right now. When it's resolved, you'll hear.
I did finish another twirl skirt for Katie and am about to go and sew the shirt for it. It's going to be a cute one. Then I have to get to work on the Easter dress. I am scared to do that one, and I suspect that MIL will be getting a lot of calls for help! I am also in the middle of making a quilt for Katie's bed too. Then I will get a start on Gillian's quilt.
Oh and Feebay! Anyone hear about what is happening over there? Needless to say I am done selling with them. Unless they change their minds about the things they are implementing, I am done with them too. Which brings up the question....where will I sell my kids clothing to make money to buy the next batch? Looks like I will be doing a lot of sewing huh? Too bad for them!
And my grandpa. He's sick again. Really sick. I don't know much right now about whether he'll pull through, but he's got pneumonia and he's in the hospital and the DNR's have been signed. So, it's in his and His hands right now. Watching him decline like this has been hell. I want to remember the Grandpa who was strong and vibrant. Not the one wasting away and gasping for breath.
And there is church. Lots of stuff there to keep me busy, but nothing I can talk publically about right now. When it's resolved, you'll hear.
I did finish another twirl skirt for Katie and am about to go and sew the shirt for it. It's going to be a cute one. Then I have to get to work on the Easter dress. I am scared to do that one, and I suspect that MIL will be getting a lot of calls for help! I am also in the middle of making a quilt for Katie's bed too. Then I will get a start on Gillian's quilt.
Oh and Feebay! Anyone hear about what is happening over there? Needless to say I am done selling with them. Unless they change their minds about the things they are implementing, I am done with them too. Which brings up the question....where will I sell my kids clothing to make money to buy the next batch? Looks like I will be doing a lot of sewing huh? Too bad for them!
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Is this what hell feels like?
Since I last reported in I have had a whirlwind time. I was admitted into the hospital on Wednesday last week and was released on Sunday. At least I think those were the days. On Tuesday night I couldn't feel my leg and on Wednesday I was in screaming pain in my back. I had started babysitting on Monday and am pretty sure that all the lifting and carrying of a 12 pound baby did me in. And it's the leg that I have had trouble with since my back operation. Now the ortho who did my surgery swears there is nothing showing that this leg issue has anything to do with the back and that it's neurological. But all the neuro tests they have run show nothing. Where is House when you need him huh?
So, I have been mighty depressed over goings on in the house and now my increased disability. Which by the way we still have no date to go before the judge. I am so tired of this. I was hoping to pick up some extra cash to pay off the sewing machine I bought to start making Katie's clothes! HA! Nothing like life to bite one in the ass.
Starting tomorrow, I am sitting at that Machine and going to start creating. I am not going to sink into depression and I am going to make some of the most fabulous clothes you've ever seen. I refuse to let depression get the better of me!
My church family, internet family and friends (who are like family) have been wonderful. My poor mother is probably afraid to answer the phone lest she have a crying daughter on the other line, but she does and she listens and sometimes, that is all I need.
I am still going to meetings at church, and although I am not driving yet, people have been wonderful about driving me around.
So, keep your eyes open for more cute clothes coming your way! I am going to sew and it's going to be great!
Wendy
So, I have been mighty depressed over goings on in the house and now my increased disability. Which by the way we still have no date to go before the judge. I am so tired of this. I was hoping to pick up some extra cash to pay off the sewing machine I bought to start making Katie's clothes! HA! Nothing like life to bite one in the ass.
Starting tomorrow, I am sitting at that Machine and going to start creating. I am not going to sink into depression and I am going to make some of the most fabulous clothes you've ever seen. I refuse to let depression get the better of me!
My church family, internet family and friends (who are like family) have been wonderful. My poor mother is probably afraid to answer the phone lest she have a crying daughter on the other line, but she does and she listens and sometimes, that is all I need.
I am still going to meetings at church, and although I am not driving yet, people have been wonderful about driving me around.
So, keep your eyes open for more cute clothes coming your way! I am going to sew and it's going to be great!
Wendy
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Everyone's E-bay selling
Sung to the tune, everyone's Kung Foo Fighting.....and I am too. This is your chance if you want to score some really nice summer (and a few winter items too) at a great price. I am getting ready to list a ton of Hanna Andersson Play all Day sets (size 110), some Lilly Pulitzer summer dresses (size 6), a Biscotti Tulle Skirt (size 6) and some Mulberribush (also size 6). The last 2 are new with tags still on. There will probably be some Gymboree thrown in and maybe a little Naartjie to round things out. I am still going through all the summer stuff from last year to see what won't fit and what will! Keep checking back if you don't see something you like now, chances are you will tomorrow. My e-bay ID is gandksmom1967 Feel free to ask me any questions!
So, besides being busy listing (I am only doing it twice a year now if I can help it) I also am trying to start Katie's Easter dress. I decided that I can make those cute outfits that I find and also have the satisfaction that I made it! I am also in the middle of making her quilt. Then I have Gillian's quilt to start. I just wish that I could make her clothes too, but what 15 year old wants her mother to make her clothes?
Still lots of stress in the house, trying to get through it. Loving thoughts for everyone in the house is greatly appreciated. Thanks and look forward to some pics of the Easter dress sooon!
Wendy
So, besides being busy listing (I am only doing it twice a year now if I can help it) I also am trying to start Katie's Easter dress. I decided that I can make those cute outfits that I find and also have the satisfaction that I made it! I am also in the middle of making her quilt. Then I have Gillian's quilt to start. I just wish that I could make her clothes too, but what 15 year old wants her mother to make her clothes?
Still lots of stress in the house, trying to get through it. Loving thoughts for everyone in the house is greatly appreciated. Thanks and look forward to some pics of the Easter dress sooon!
Wendy
Thursday, January 17, 2008
As promised, Matilda Jane Clothes!
As promised, the gifts that Denise over at Matilda Jane Clothing sent us! The first outfit is a cute little knot dress with flare leg leggings that are just too cute!
And here she is sporting a very adorable furry little jacket that actually goes with another outfit that we have. When she wears it again, I will take more pics.
Thank you again Denise! If you are interested in these incredibly cute clothes, please visit Denise's site at the above link and tell her I sent you! Take some time to read her blog, since it's quite facinating. I never imagined all the work that goes into starting up a new business! Also, she carries some great women's clothes too! Thank you again Denise, from the bottom of our hearts! We love you and MJC!
Wendy (and Katie)
And here she is sporting a very adorable furry little jacket that actually goes with another outfit that we have. When she wears it again, I will take more pics.
Thank you again Denise! If you are interested in these incredibly cute clothes, please visit Denise's site at the above link and tell her I sent you! Take some time to read her blog, since it's quite facinating. I never imagined all the work that goes into starting up a new business! Also, she carries some great women's clothes too! Thank you again Denise, from the bottom of our hearts! We love you and MJC!
Wendy (and Katie)
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Creating.....
I know that I started a new blog for this kind of thing, and it will find it's way over there too, but here is the skirt I made for Katie along with my first try at appliquing. There are mistakes, and I have learned a lot, but it's still pretty cute I think! The last dress is the newest from Hanna Andersson for Spring! I was able to get it because an outfit that I bought a while ago ran and they gave me a nice credit. I didn't think I would like it at first, but it really looks cute on!
And in my next post....I was the lucky recipient of Denise, the brain child of Matilda Jane Clothing! She handed out some random acts of kindness and sent Katie some beautiful clothes. I will post those pictures here and over at the other site I have for all my sewing and kids clothes passions! Anyway, off to start work on my next creation!
Wendy
And in my next post....I was the lucky recipient of Denise, the brain child of Matilda Jane Clothing! She handed out some random acts of kindness and sent Katie some beautiful clothes. I will post those pictures here and over at the other site I have for all my sewing and kids clothes passions! Anyway, off to start work on my next creation!
Wendy
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Starting New Years with a BANG!
I don't really talk much here about stuff going on at home, but I am just so tired of it all. I really am. Yesterday starts with Gillian (15) telling me all the ways that I have failed as a parent, how she hates living here and could she please go and live somewhere else. There is a run away shelter, but I would hate for her to go there. And I don't want to take her there, because I feel as though the message she would be getting from me is that I don't want her here. Which is not true. I love her, but her actions and attitude are really out of control. She told me yesterday that she hates her sister, which I have pretty much known since she was born.
I feel as though I am at the bottom of this big hole. I feel like everyone in my family is making me choose between each other. I feel as though it would just be better if I left. But of course I can't do that. I have to stay. Because responsible people just don't leave their families. And I do love them. All of them. But I am so tired. So tired of dealing with it. Tired of dealing with kids who think they know everything, tired of fighting with my partner over everything. It feels like all of the joy in my life has gone away. This hole I am in is BIG and I don't see a ladder, rope or anything else to help me climb out of it. I feel stuck. I am mad. I am sad. I am just a big puddle of angrysadmad feelings and I don't know what to do with them.
Yes, we are all in couseling. I am working on issues. But I don't think it's enough and I don't think we have enough time before a big implosion happens.
I guess it's good I got out of bed today. Because I have to be responsible right? I hate responsible. I wish I could just lay in bed all day and cry and not be responsible. But I can't do that can I? Darn.
UPDATE: I have decided to start a blog dealing with my depression. I want to keep this one about my family and the good things in life. If you are interested in reading about my journey through depression, let me know and I will give you the link.
I feel as though I am at the bottom of this big hole. I feel like everyone in my family is making me choose between each other. I feel as though it would just be better if I left. But of course I can't do that. I have to stay. Because responsible people just don't leave their families. And I do love them. All of them. But I am so tired. So tired of dealing with it. Tired of dealing with kids who think they know everything, tired of fighting with my partner over everything. It feels like all of the joy in my life has gone away. This hole I am in is BIG and I don't see a ladder, rope or anything else to help me climb out of it. I feel stuck. I am mad. I am sad. I am just a big puddle of angrysadmad feelings and I don't know what to do with them.
Yes, we are all in couseling. I am working on issues. But I don't think it's enough and I don't think we have enough time before a big implosion happens.
I guess it's good I got out of bed today. Because I have to be responsible right? I hate responsible. I wish I could just lay in bed all day and cry and not be responsible. But I can't do that can I? Darn.
UPDATE: I have decided to start a blog dealing with my depression. I want to keep this one about my family and the good things in life. If you are interested in reading about my journey through depression, let me know and I will give you the link.
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Good bye 2007, Welcome 2008!
Gillian and her mom!
Visting with our friends from Israel - Susan and Noa and their children too!
Learning how to ride my new bike (thank you Mommy's IFAP Loopie friends) with Grandma and Mama
Happy 84th Birthday Grandpa
Happy Easter!
The quilt I made for Grandpa!
My cousin and I!
Merry Christmas!
Lots of pics didn't make the cut, but as I get them ready for the computer, I will add them. I realized that I never uploaded the ones from my 40th birthday! They will eventually make their way over here! I have lots of Katie, a few of the camera shy Gillian and fewer of Cheryl and virtually none of me! LOL! Funny how that happens!
Happy New Year everyone!
Wendy
Visting with our friends from Israel - Susan and Noa and their children too!
Learning how to ride my new bike (thank you Mommy's IFAP Loopie friends) with Grandma and Mama
Happy 84th Birthday Grandpa
Happy Easter!
The quilt I made for Grandpa!
My cousin and I!
Merry Christmas!
Lots of pics didn't make the cut, but as I get them ready for the computer, I will add them. I realized that I never uploaded the ones from my 40th birthday! They will eventually make their way over here! I have lots of Katie, a few of the camera shy Gillian and fewer of Cheryl and virtually none of me! LOL! Funny how that happens!
Happy New Year everyone!
Wendy
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Tee Hee
I just went to look and see who has been reading me and some of the inclicks are too funny! One person found me by googling "Butches and Nursing"! No clue how they got to my page but it wasn't about any kind of discourse on my part about butches and nursing. But if you are reading, I am glad that you found me! I didn't realize that there were so many of you reading but not letting me know you dropped by! Hey, let me know when you drop by again would ya? I'll come and visit you if you do!
Wendy
Wendy
Life.....
::Life loves to be taken by the lapel and told: " I am with you kid. Let's go"! ::
By Maya Angelou
I know it's not the New Year and I can't promise wisdom everytime I write, but I thought I would start out the after Christmas rush with some words of wisdom from some of my favorite authors!
No more waiting around and waiting for life to happen here! I am ready to go! It's a New Year soon with a new start. And new starts can only mean that we have another chance to get it right. With whomever we need to get it right with.
Wendy
By Maya Angelou
I know it's not the New Year and I can't promise wisdom everytime I write, but I thought I would start out the after Christmas rush with some words of wisdom from some of my favorite authors!
No more waiting around and waiting for life to happen here! I am ready to go! It's a New Year soon with a new start. And new starts can only mean that we have another chance to get it right. With whomever we need to get it right with.
Wendy
Sunday, December 23, 2007
The year 2007 in review!
Well, the year 2007 has been a long one. I will try and recap for all of you who love to know how we are doing.
Cheryl - Continues to work her butt off at Upstate to put a roof over our heads, food on the table and keep us all in clothes. She has been there over 10 years now and recently did a project that got national attention at the Cytotech Conference in Texas! I am so proud of my sweetie! She continues to teach at the medical school and contines to be the best partner and parent that I could ever imagine. Thank you sweetheart for taking such good care of our family!
Gillian - Is 15 and has been working hard in school and her grades have reflected this. She is in the 10th grade and makes high honor every semester and is on track to graduate with her class in 2010. Some of you know that she has struggled with learning disabilities and at first we thought it might take her an extra year. She is one smart girl and has moved herself right along. She continues to be pretty proficient in sign language and will be taking classes in the new year to become a certified sign language interpreter. She is taking a break from Karate right now to focus on school extra curricular activities, like trying out for the spring musical! We can't wait! Gillian has lots of good friends and they all get together to work on various causes. She is the head of her GSA and works really hard on keeping that group active!
Katie - will be 5 in 2008! Where oh where has my baby gone? Katie is in the 4 year old program in our school districts pre-K and get's to take the bus everyday to school. She loves taking the bus and loves going to school. She has already mastered simple addition and has begun reading already. She can read some simple books and has recently discovered the American Girls series! She is my girly girl all the way through. She has decided to be an Art teacher when she grows up and practices by doing Arts and Crafts everyday. She loves to draw, paint, color, etc. She has been doing ballet and had her first recital in June. I have to admit that I cried seeing her up on stage! She continues with ballet and recently started Cheerleading too! Her first game will be in January.
Wendy - Well, I had back surgery (laminectomy and spinal fusion on 2 levels) in hopes to solve my severe back pain. Unfortunately, things haven't gone as planned and I continue to have lots of pain. I had to give up the part time job that I was working because I haven't been able to sit more than 2 or 3 minutes at a time. I have been selling on e-bay and making some money doing that as well as learning to sew. It's a talent that I never knew that I had. So far I have been making quilts and clothes for Katie. My plan for 2008 is to continue to make custom outfits not just for the girls but to sell. I will continue to quilt also. I go into Katie's class on Friday's to help out when I can. I have been volunteering at church and am grateful to my church family for the love and acceptance they have showered on our family. I belong to several women's groups there and continue to learn about God's love through book groups and other groups the church offers. I hope to learn more about sewing this year and really get some cute outfits and quilts out for folks to see! As you can tell, I am quite excited about this!
I hope that all of you who read me have a wonderful New Year. I do believe that 2008will be a great one!
Wendy
Cheryl - Continues to work her butt off at Upstate to put a roof over our heads, food on the table and keep us all in clothes. She has been there over 10 years now and recently did a project that got national attention at the Cytotech Conference in Texas! I am so proud of my sweetie! She continues to teach at the medical school and contines to be the best partner and parent that I could ever imagine. Thank you sweetheart for taking such good care of our family!
Gillian - Is 15 and has been working hard in school and her grades have reflected this. She is in the 10th grade and makes high honor every semester and is on track to graduate with her class in 2010. Some of you know that she has struggled with learning disabilities and at first we thought it might take her an extra year. She is one smart girl and has moved herself right along. She continues to be pretty proficient in sign language and will be taking classes in the new year to become a certified sign language interpreter. She is taking a break from Karate right now to focus on school extra curricular activities, like trying out for the spring musical! We can't wait! Gillian has lots of good friends and they all get together to work on various causes. She is the head of her GSA and works really hard on keeping that group active!
Katie - will be 5 in 2008! Where oh where has my baby gone? Katie is in the 4 year old program in our school districts pre-K and get's to take the bus everyday to school. She loves taking the bus and loves going to school. She has already mastered simple addition and has begun reading already. She can read some simple books and has recently discovered the American Girls series! She is my girly girl all the way through. She has decided to be an Art teacher when she grows up and practices by doing Arts and Crafts everyday. She loves to draw, paint, color, etc. She has been doing ballet and had her first recital in June. I have to admit that I cried seeing her up on stage! She continues with ballet and recently started Cheerleading too! Her first game will be in January.
Wendy - Well, I had back surgery (laminectomy and spinal fusion on 2 levels) in hopes to solve my severe back pain. Unfortunately, things haven't gone as planned and I continue to have lots of pain. I had to give up the part time job that I was working because I haven't been able to sit more than 2 or 3 minutes at a time. I have been selling on e-bay and making some money doing that as well as learning to sew. It's a talent that I never knew that I had. So far I have been making quilts and clothes for Katie. My plan for 2008 is to continue to make custom outfits not just for the girls but to sell. I will continue to quilt also. I go into Katie's class on Friday's to help out when I can. I have been volunteering at church and am grateful to my church family for the love and acceptance they have showered on our family. I belong to several women's groups there and continue to learn about God's love through book groups and other groups the church offers. I hope to learn more about sewing this year and really get some cute outfits and quilts out for folks to see! As you can tell, I am quite excited about this!
I hope that all of you who read me have a wonderful New Year. I do believe that 2008will be a great one!
Wendy
Sunday, December 09, 2007
Happy Holiday's From US to YOU
I wanted to pop in for a minute to wish everyone a Happy Holiday! It's been a long couple of weeks, these past few ones. I will try and bring everyone up to date and them thrill you all with pictures we had taken that came out great!
First off - Katie! School is going well and she really loves being in the 4 year old class. She was letter expert for the letter S the week before last and had to bring in some things that start with S. She also got to read a book to her class! I went in to listen to her read...what a treat! My baby, reading all by herself to her classmates! She got to talk about S, draw the letter S and teach her friends about the letter S. Last week she was friend of the week and it was all about Katie. She got to talk about her family, and although there were a couple of children who kept saying that Katie has a Daddy in her family, she very proudly told them that she had a MAMA! And I am happy to say that there wasn't anyone who said "You can't have 2 Mommies"! She got to wear a crown all week and we brought a special snack in one day. We being myself and Grandma Schmidt! Grandma got to listen to her read also! It was a very exciting week, ending with Thursday being a PJ party! Katie was thrilled to wear her PJ's to school. Outside of school, it was also busy with our regular activities, but it was also Cheryl's birthday and Cheryl asked her mother for tickets for us all to go see the Nutcracker Ballet. Given that Katie is taking ballet, we thought she would really enjoy it. Instead she played lap bingo between me, Grandma and Cheryl. She was more interested in knowing when it was going to be over, than actually watching the Ballet. But we adults and Gillian liked it a lot! Katie and I also attended a Teddy Bear Tea that same weekend which turned out to be one for the baby book! She got all dressed up and it was soooo fancy. It was just her and I and we were dressed to the nines as were all the other little girls. Mama even tied a fancy bow onto Fairy of the Dust(Katie's favorite bear) and everything. Well, have I ever mentioned that Katie is afraid of big, dressed up characters? Yep, you guessed it! We spent the entire time we were there with her screaming and running away from the bear. I have never seen her so scared in my life. They finally assigned a security guard to us, hid us in a corner so we could eat and then escorted us out "the secret tunnel" and we left ahead of everyone else to have our own Teddy Bear Parade over to the museum where we saw the festival of tree's. All the while I was frantically trying to get ahold of Cheryl to come back and get us because she dropped us off and ran errands. After we got to the museum, we saw the tree's and Cheryl called and I said, "please, please come and get us!". So, she did and we didn't see that bear again I am glad to say!
It was this same day that we had out portraits scheduled. We get to JC*enney and were told that they were running 30 minutes behind! Greeeeeaaaat! I do have to say that both girls were great in waiting and I was so proud of them. That place was a mad house though. I will think twice about getting pics done there again.
Gillian - Is doing great in school. I got a call the other day from her English teacher asking permission to move her up to a higher English class! Hooray! I am so proud of her. She is working so hard to overcome these learning disabilities! Now, if she could put some effort into common sense, we'd be all set. We are having some troubles, that I am not going into here for privacy reasons, but suffice it to say, raising a teen is so hard. The biggest news is that Gillian decided to stop doing karate for now. There are a lot of reasons both that include the Dojo she is at and personal, but she is missing out on so much high school life for karate and is wanting to move in other directions. She is going to be taking sign language classes in January (we think) that will get her ready to take interpreters classes and then work on being a licensed interpreter. Then she can get hired to interpret at different functions and get paid. She also wants to try out for the Spring Musical at school and is looking forward to that. Cycling for her black belt the past 9 months has made it impossible for her to do anything but karate. So, we just keep her moving! She is planning to go to the cotillion this weekend, so be on the lookout for pictures of that!
Cheryl - I wrote a huge post on Monday about Cheryl's birthday that apparantly Blogger ate! I apologize hun! My love turned ** on Monday! It also decided to storm that day so we had a very small party here at home and I made her her favorite dinner - Veal Marsala and her Mom made her her favorite Peanut Butter Pie! Yummy! I am so lucky to have been able to spend the past 8+ years with this woman. I know it hasn't always been easy, especially raising a highly sprited teen, but I do believe that God led us to each other for a reason and I am so very thankful that He did. I love going to bed next to you every night and waking up next to you the next morning makes life so much easier to face! So, thank you for another year love! And HAPPY BIRTHDAY you old lady you!
Finally - ME! I have been in a pretty solid funk lately. I have been reading a lot. Right now, I am reading The Almost Moon by Alice Sebold, but am also in the middle of the now famous, Eat, Pray, Love (can't remember the author and the book is upstairs). I also recently The Wednesday Letters (again, can't remember the author offhand) and I also highly recommend this book. So, as I tend to do, I immerse myself in reading to escape and I have been pretty successful in doing this. Of course that comes with a cost, and that is I haven't been quilting or doing other things that need to get done...AKA SHOPPING! Thankfully Cheryl has picked up the shopping end of this so there will be a Santa Virgina! I am going to quilt tomorrow when Katie is at school. I also have some fabric that I want to make a skirt for Katie out of. I would like to make something for Gillian, but am at a loss as to what to make. For those of you who sew, would you throw me some idea's on what to make a 15 year old who prefers mens/boys clothes? I am thinking of getting some flannel for her and making up a bunch of different pillow cases for her bed. Maybe even make some pillows out of left over fabric that I have from my quilt. We'll see.
So, that brings you all up to date. And without further ado....PICTURES!
First off - Katie! School is going well and she really loves being in the 4 year old class. She was letter expert for the letter S the week before last and had to bring in some things that start with S. She also got to read a book to her class! I went in to listen to her read...what a treat! My baby, reading all by herself to her classmates! She got to talk about S, draw the letter S and teach her friends about the letter S. Last week she was friend of the week and it was all about Katie. She got to talk about her family, and although there were a couple of children who kept saying that Katie has a Daddy in her family, she very proudly told them that she had a MAMA! And I am happy to say that there wasn't anyone who said "You can't have 2 Mommies"! She got to wear a crown all week and we brought a special snack in one day. We being myself and Grandma Schmidt! Grandma got to listen to her read also! It was a very exciting week, ending with Thursday being a PJ party! Katie was thrilled to wear her PJ's to school. Outside of school, it was also busy with our regular activities, but it was also Cheryl's birthday and Cheryl asked her mother for tickets for us all to go see the Nutcracker Ballet. Given that Katie is taking ballet, we thought she would really enjoy it. Instead she played lap bingo between me, Grandma and Cheryl. She was more interested in knowing when it was going to be over, than actually watching the Ballet. But we adults and Gillian liked it a lot! Katie and I also attended a Teddy Bear Tea that same weekend which turned out to be one for the baby book! She got all dressed up and it was soooo fancy. It was just her and I and we were dressed to the nines as were all the other little girls. Mama even tied a fancy bow onto Fairy of the Dust(Katie's favorite bear) and everything. Well, have I ever mentioned that Katie is afraid of big, dressed up characters? Yep, you guessed it! We spent the entire time we were there with her screaming and running away from the bear. I have never seen her so scared in my life. They finally assigned a security guard to us, hid us in a corner so we could eat and then escorted us out "the secret tunnel" and we left ahead of everyone else to have our own Teddy Bear Parade over to the museum where we saw the festival of tree's. All the while I was frantically trying to get ahold of Cheryl to come back and get us because she dropped us off and ran errands. After we got to the museum, we saw the tree's and Cheryl called and I said, "please, please come and get us!". So, she did and we didn't see that bear again I am glad to say!
It was this same day that we had out portraits scheduled. We get to JC*enney and were told that they were running 30 minutes behind! Greeeeeaaaat! I do have to say that both girls were great in waiting and I was so proud of them. That place was a mad house though. I will think twice about getting pics done there again.
Gillian - Is doing great in school. I got a call the other day from her English teacher asking permission to move her up to a higher English class! Hooray! I am so proud of her. She is working so hard to overcome these learning disabilities! Now, if she could put some effort into common sense, we'd be all set. We are having some troubles, that I am not going into here for privacy reasons, but suffice it to say, raising a teen is so hard. The biggest news is that Gillian decided to stop doing karate for now. There are a lot of reasons both that include the Dojo she is at and personal, but she is missing out on so much high school life for karate and is wanting to move in other directions. She is going to be taking sign language classes in January (we think) that will get her ready to take interpreters classes and then work on being a licensed interpreter. Then she can get hired to interpret at different functions and get paid. She also wants to try out for the Spring Musical at school and is looking forward to that. Cycling for her black belt the past 9 months has made it impossible for her to do anything but karate. So, we just keep her moving! She is planning to go to the cotillion this weekend, so be on the lookout for pictures of that!
Cheryl - I wrote a huge post on Monday about Cheryl's birthday that apparantly Blogger ate! I apologize hun! My love turned ** on Monday! It also decided to storm that day so we had a very small party here at home and I made her her favorite dinner - Veal Marsala and her Mom made her her favorite Peanut Butter Pie! Yummy! I am so lucky to have been able to spend the past 8+ years with this woman. I know it hasn't always been easy, especially raising a highly sprited teen, but I do believe that God led us to each other for a reason and I am so very thankful that He did. I love going to bed next to you every night and waking up next to you the next morning makes life so much easier to face! So, thank you for another year love! And HAPPY BIRTHDAY you old lady you!
Finally - ME! I have been in a pretty solid funk lately. I have been reading a lot. Right now, I am reading The Almost Moon by Alice Sebold, but am also in the middle of the now famous, Eat, Pray, Love (can't remember the author and the book is upstairs). I also recently The Wednesday Letters (again, can't remember the author offhand) and I also highly recommend this book. So, as I tend to do, I immerse myself in reading to escape and I have been pretty successful in doing this. Of course that comes with a cost, and that is I haven't been quilting or doing other things that need to get done...AKA SHOPPING! Thankfully Cheryl has picked up the shopping end of this so there will be a Santa Virgina! I am going to quilt tomorrow when Katie is at school. I also have some fabric that I want to make a skirt for Katie out of. I would like to make something for Gillian, but am at a loss as to what to make. For those of you who sew, would you throw me some idea's on what to make a 15 year old who prefers mens/boys clothes? I am thinking of getting some flannel for her and making up a bunch of different pillow cases for her bed. Maybe even make some pillows out of left over fabric that I have from my quilt. We'll see.
So, that brings you all up to date. And without further ado....PICTURES!
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