Bren's Busy Hands

Past, Present & Rug Hooking

2011-03-06T19:55:00.000-06:00

I can't believe it's been over a year since my last post. And so much has happened, too much to go over. So to catch you up, a brief summary. You remember I ended with a broken wrist, physical therapy and some pain in my shoulder. Ok, I had to have rotator cuff surgery and of course more physical therapy. I'm very happy to say I recovered nicely! But, WOW what a journey that was.
Present day.....I'm getting my groove back for crafting. Tried my hand at rug hooking and absolutely love it! Need practice, but loved it none the less. I needed help and advice and found it through Sally Van Nuys @ http://www.amherst-antiques-folkart.com/. She even took time from her Sunday to answer an email for me, Thanks Sally. I have admired her work for some time, I can only hope to be half that good someday.
I'm looking forward to Spring and the time change! A little more sunshine would suit me just fine as well.
I've been visiting your blogs and trying to catch up there as well, leaving a comment here and there. And being inspired by all of you.
Happy Sunday, Bren

The Road to Recovery

2010-01-19T14:22:00.000-06:00

The road to recovery is the only road I've been traveling on lately. And I must say it's been a long one. I am better, but still not there. I have been in Physical Therapy for the last month and have made Great progress, I still have some soreness and stiffness in my hand and fingers that they say is caused from Arthiritis aggravated by the trauma from the accident. My range of motion and flexibility is much better, but only at about 35% of normal. So more work is needed there. And some issues with tendons in my arm from not being used for so long. And the biggest is my strength and grip, it's just not there, my grip in my right hand is only at 21 where as in my left it's 55.
I have appreciated not having to drive in the winter weather, but I so miss the traveling. And the fact that I haven't been able to be crafty has been very hard! I am trying to do a little crafting, but have pain in some areas of my wrist and hand, so it's been frustrating.
But, chin up, I have been keeping up with your blogs and am sorry for not posting comments like I would like to. Just know I have been visiting you.
Hope that you all are having a Crafty, Productive day! Craft a little for me, too.
Until next time...........Hugs, Bren

Belated Thanksgiving Wishes

2009-11-29T15:58:00.000-06:00

Hello blogland friends. Once again it's been awhile since I posted, still hard with one hand.
I hope you all had a Wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday with family and friends. Filled with Love , Laughter and full tummies.
A lot has happened here since my last post. The passing of my Husbands father and services the day before Thanksgiving. Our daughter and family returning home for the service and staying for the Hoilday. They had planned to visit her husband's family, but the rock slide on I40 changed those plans and they had just planned on staying home. It was nice to have them here, just wish it was on a happier note.
They left for home on Friday morning and hubby left for California then as well. I sorta felt like "Home Alone", lol. I busied myself with putting a few Christmas decorations out, laundry and trying to make a few yo-yo's. Well, the yo-yo's are slow going, it causes me pain in my hand and wrist. So, I make a couple and have to wait a while then make a couple more. it's better than not being able to do anything at all!
I have done a little bit of Christmas shopping. Do you have yours done?
My next Dr.'s appt is on Dec. 8th, I'm hoping for the best.
I have been visiting your blogs, sorry for not leaving notes, but hope to be able to do that again soon, too. thanks for stopping by and visiting my corner of the blogland community. Comments are Welcomed and looked forward too.
Until next time,
Hugs, Bren

Drs. Appointment & A Diagnosis Finally!

2009-11-18T06:07:00.000-06:00

Now we know! I had an appointment with the hand and wrist specialist yesterday. After 4 1/2 weeks, several x-rays, finally going to the specialist and an MRI........it's cracked. That's what he said...the bone in your forearm is cracked. Oh joy! Since it's already been this long, it's a little late to put it in a regular cast, so off to the therapist to have a cast molded to my arm. It's to be immobilized for 3 weeks, the cast is not to come off except for hygiene. At least I finally know! Hubby kept saying there was something wrong because I still have some swelling, bruising and pain. Hate it when he's right, lol. My case worker ask the Dr. how long he thought it would be until I was basically healed and released..............his best guess as he said..........3 months!!
Ok, so lets not get down about this. I normally make gifts for the holidays and have been going crazy not being able to work on anything, well, I won't be working on anything for a while longer. Things will just have to be New Years gifts, lol.
I'm just glad the Dr. found it, now we can start the process of getting better. And as the Dr said, atleast the bone hadn't shifted.
I hope you are all cozy and warm. Thanls for checking into my corner of the blog world. Leave me a comment...you know I love em. I have been visiting your corners of the blog world as well.
Have a Great Day!
Hugs, Bren

Makin' a List

2009-11-10T06:57:00.000-06:00

Good Tuesday morning! It's a little rainy here this morning, but not to last the entire day. Highs in the 60's, I'll take that.
A couple of days and then off to the hand and wrist Specialist. I still have some issues, a little swelling and some pain. Trying to not let this get me down. Since I can't really do the crafting things I want , I decided I needed to get busy doing some shopping for Christmas gifts. Making my list and checking it twice and then I'll be off.
I'm taking the advice of one of the comments left a few days ago. Instead of thinking what I can't do, I'm making a list of what I want to do when I can. That list is getting quite long, lol. And I've added making gingerbread ornaments to my list. I've made the cinnamon ornaments, and want to try the gingerbread. I'll add what things I need for that to my shopping list so I'll be ready.
I hope you all have a wonderful day. I'm trying to keep up with all your blogs.Thanks for stoping by and visiting my little corner of the blog world. I hope to be back to crafting and sharing pics soon.
Have a Great Day.
Hugs, Bren

The Dr. Appointment

2009-11-07T07:40:00.002-06:00

I had my Dr. appt. yesterday, wasn't thrilled with it. He didn't give me answers as to why my hand and wrist are still a little swollen and painful, it's been 3 weeks since the mishap, and he still says nothing is broken. "It was a serious unjury" was his answer, well, if it wasn't broke, it wasn't that serious, lol. Can you tell I have no patience for things like this? What he did say was my x-rays showed I have some Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis, well isn't that just fabulous! And he thinks my finger and thumb pain is from that. Well, it wasn't there before the mishap!
Ok, well it's off to see the Specialist, hand and wrist guy, next Thursday. And they told me to take my brace off and do normal things. Ummm, but it hurts when I bend my wrist, and fingers. Left the Drs office a little confused and unhappy. Even my workmans comp case worker told me I could probably sew and craft. Hello!, could I see your Drs degree, lol. Well, hubby says you should keep the brace on until you see the specialist, just incase there's something there, you don't want to make it worse. So, I won't do much of anything different until I see that Dr on Thursday.
I'll update you after I see the Dr. On Thursday. Have a Great week!
Hugs, Bren

Update on the Wrist

2009-11-02T07:50:00.002-06:00

Good Monday morning blogland friends. Thought I would update you, it's been awhile since I posted. My last post told you about my fall and injury.
I'm still off work. My wrist and hand are still having issues. I have pain when I try to move my wrist and some fingers. hard to explain, but it's not well yet. I went to the Dr this past Tuesday, they did x-rays again, and again say nothing is broke. They say I hyper-extended it, and that can be worse than a break. I was sent back home and told to do "gentle" exercises and return this coming Friday. If I'm not better then off to the specialist.
So, here I am. No sewing, stitching, or any of that fun stuff. It's been hard for me, I'm not a sit around do nothing kind of person. I have read a book, and I do like to read, but that's not what I'm wanting to do right now, lol. You always want to do what you aren't suppose to do when you are told not to, lol.
Hubby was home with me last week, we had scheduled some appointments prior to my little mishap, so had planned on being home that week anyway. He really came through and helped out, cooking, doing dishes and such. Now he's back on the road, on the West Coast where it's warm and sunny. And I'm missing him.
I've been catching up on your blogs, although I've not left many comments. Hard to type left handed, and tiring, lol. Just know I am visiting your corners of blogland.
Hope you all are healthy, happy and busy crafting and creating. Have a Great Day. Thanks for stopping by, leave a comment letting me know you were here, it'll brighten my day.
Until next time.......
Hugs, Bren

Humpty Dumpty had a Great Fall......

2009-10-19T12:46:00.002-05:00

And so did I!!! Last Thursday I fell as I was getting out of the truck. Now I didn't fall out of the truck, but as I was stepping onto the ground. Hard to explain, but I stepped onto large 5 inch gravel which shifted I as stepped on it and already in motion going down off the truck, well I tried to recover and then ended up falling. I tried to catch myself as is normal, but hurt my wrist (right hand), went to the clinic, had X-rays, they said nothing was broke. Put it in a brace and sent me home, no work, can't shift gears. I go back to the clinic tomorrow, sure they will release me to go back to work. I still have some pain, and some swelling, my thumb especially, it looks weird, and sore muscles from trying to catch myself. But all will be well. This is short cause I'm typing with my left hand and it's taking forever, lol. I've been reading your blogs and have left a few comments, but mostly reading and catching up. Wishing I could be stitching or something!
Have a Great Day!!
Hugs, Bren

Thanksgiving Day in Canada

2009-10-12T12:47:00.002-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving in Canada!! We crossed the border into Canada this morning, I had to be sent to the warehouse for inspection. Hubby was cleared with no inspection necessary. So off the road a bit to the warehouse and they had a look in the trailer and then we were down the road. The girls passed inspection with no problems, I was a tad bit worried, but had their health papers if needed.
Well, it's Columbus Day back home, but here in Canada it's Thanksgiving. So we had a turkey dinner in Celebration of their Holiday. It's a nice truck stop here in Salisbury, New Brunswick, Canada. And they have Free Wi-Fi internet, Bless them for that. We had turned our Blackberry phones off before entering so we wouldn't get caught with roaming charges while here, and I thought no internet until tomorrow.
The drive here was spectacular to say the least!! The trees are beautiful and only got prettier as we drove farther north. I haven't seen a moose yet, although there have been several signs telling me to watch for them. Maybe on the way home. And if I don't see one then, well when we come back next week maybe then. Yes, I said come back next week. And if you read the previous post you will remember I said we were going to be off for appointments. When the boss calls and says can you.....well we decided to rearrange the appointments and make the trip back again, to the same place even. So, Pammy it will be the last week of the month now.
So, we'll run home empty, hook another loaded trailer and head back here to the Northeastern part of the world. I was out with the girls last night and the sky was so clear and the stars so bright, it was very pretty. Today is sunny, crystal clear and breezy. Well, maybe a few clouds, lol.
Keep warm, cozy and crafting. Till next time, love your comments!!
Hugs, Bren

Relax & Refresh & Enjoy the Colors

2009-10-08T14:46:00.005-05:00

Warm yourself with a cup of warm cider while curled up in your favorite chair under a warm quilt, and peek into my corner of blogland. Fall really has to be my favorite time of year, although I really like the Indian Summer part of it. And we haven't had that, yet. Cooler weather is around the corner all too soon. I'll enjoy the colors, smells and flavors of fall till their end. Now back to reality, lol........
A couple of days home before our trip to the Northeast has been very refreshing. It always does a body good to be "home". I have done the usual clean out the truck, laundry, give the girls a bath and a trim and home cooked meals. We had time to run a few errands, go to the chiropractor( a much needed visit there) and managed to relax. The truck is almost packed and ready to go again.
I'm crossing my fingers that the fall colors will still be beautiful. And I know the weather will be cooler. I've packed appropriate clothes. We'll be out through the week and return around the weekend. When we return we'll take a few days off, we have some appointments that week. And I'm hoping to get in some craft time. I have worked on a couple of things while I've been here this weekend, nothing finished, just in the beginning stages. I have plenty to work on when I get the time, lol.
Halloween is fast approaching. My favorite time of the year. I'll be gathering my wardrobe for the following week, lol. And I thought is was time to dress my blog for the holidays, and what could be more fitting for me than the witches legs and boots! My BIL would say a "perfect" fit, lol.
I've been catching up on your blogs, loving all I see and read. And I'll have more time next week. Thanks for visiting my little blog, and leave a comment if you like. I love all your comments.
I'm sure this next week will be a busy one, so I'll see you when I have a minute to spare. Hope I can get some interesting pics of our trip to share. Check back to see.
Until then..........Hugs, Bren

Family, Friends and Favorite Places

2009-10-04T20:51:00.003-05:00

Here we are about to start a new week and last week still hasn't caught up with me, lol.
If you're following with me, we were headed for New York last week. It was a pretty drive despite the rain and drizzle, the colors are just starting and are they ever pretty. WOW is all I can say. We made it to new York and did finally reach our destination, although we did encounter a low underpass and the local Police, lol. We were able to get under the underpass even though it was posted 12 foot 7 inches ( we are 13 foot 6 inches) kinda scary for a minute there. And the local Police showed up asking if we needed help, we figure someone in the residential area called and told them we were wandering around, lol. We unloaded and waited for a load.
Hubby has a Foster brother that we knew lived in New York State, and to make along story short we were just a few miles from them. So we took a few hours to visit and they showed us around. It was good to see them. Always good to see family.
We loaded Friday Morning for Upper Minnesota, way up north. Again a rainy, drizzly drive, but still pretty. We stopped in Madison, Wisconsin on Saturday and I had enough time to unhook from the trailer and make a visit to one of my very favorite Quilt shops in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, JJ Stitches & Co. I have not been there for quite a while, so it was good to get the time to visit. The owner, Julie is the sweetest person, I just love her. You may have seen some of her Antique Reproduction quilts in McCalls Quilting or American Patchwork and Quilting. And she tells me she is working on another for spring, I can't wait!! I made my purchases, some wool and a doll pattern. Can't wait for the time to work on them!!!
We continued on northward and tonight are in Superior, Wi. We will head over to Minnesota in the morning and unload. Then I'll head just west of Minneapolis and hubby will go just south of Minneapolis for reloads and meet back up to head back to Iowa. We'll have a day at home to do laundry and give the girls a bath and a trim. Then it's off to Canada!
The weather is getting cooler, I'll grab some warmer clothes while I'm home. Think I'm going to need them. Hope you are all well. I'm still trying to keep up with you all even though I don't get much time to post. Keep warm, keep crafting and be happy and healthy.
I love your comments when you leave them! Until next time.......................
Hugs, Bren

Looking Forward

2009-09-26T11:55:00.002-05:00

The summer has flown by, it's been busy for us. And it continues to be busy. We've had a few days home here and there, but they were few and far between. Such is the life of our jobs.
This week we'll be off for the Northern part of Illinois and then to New York State. And following that we'll be headed for Canada, New Brunswick. I'm actually looking forward to that, I've not been to the state of Maine, so I will be able to cross that off my bucket list. And I'm hoping that maybe the trees will be changing. What a beautiful part of the country to get to travel through at this time of year. Several of us will be traveling that direction, hope we get to travel in groups, it makes the drive seem shorter and the sights more fun to see. Another group of our drivers will be heading to Vancouver, not sure we'll be going there. The lights headed in that direction are for the Olympics. How neat, huh!
This morning was spent taking the girls to the Vet to make sure we had all our shots and necessary paperwork for entering and exiting Canada with no problems. And of course we both have our passports in order, so we can pass through with no problems as well, lol. Something to look forward to.
I've not had time for much of anything except driving lately. But, winter is coming and I will be laid off and will have time for those things then. Atleast that's what I keep telling myself. Will need to do some fall cleaning then as well.
I do read your blogs, sorry I haven't had time to leave you a note, but I try to keep up. I will be able to keep up with my own blog this winter, lol.
Hope you are all well and creative. Don't forget to leave me a note if you so choose, I love hearing from you!!
Hugs, Bren

Life In the Fast Lane, Literally!

2009-09-12T06:56:00.002-05:00

Wow, all I can say is it's been busy this last month! My time at home has been very limited, only home about 24 hours in the last month. I don't like being this busy. I like a little more time at home than that. But such is the schedule, so I have to deal with it . Although I have to say sometimes I don't deal with it very well.
I have not crafted much at all and am having withdrawls, lol. The only thing I have worked on is my needle punch and haven't progressed much.
My computer has not been turned on for weeks at a time! That's not like me, but by the end of my day I'm bushed, and then up and at it again the next day.
In the last month we have been to Phoenix back to back, then Virginia, Indiana, Arkansas and now we are heading out for the Denver area. We have been lucky and run together except for this last trip back from Arkansas, hubby had a reload to Minnesota and I had to go to Chicago. Not one of my favorite places either. We've made a brief stop here at home, do a little laundry, ran a few errands and will leave out a little later today.
The weather here is so much like Fall, the leaves are even falling from some of the trees!! Not ready for this! We didn't have a summer, it was cool and rainy. And now signs of cooler weather are fast approaching! I think I'm sunshine deprived, lol.
I'm so far behind on your blogs I'll take forever to catch up, but I'll try to do better this week and catch up on your worlds.
Hope each and everyone of you are Happy, Healthy and crafting. Enjoy your day whatever you do.
Hugs, Bren

Time Marches On

2009-08-18T05:11:00.002-05:00

Here we are again, and again time has gotten away from me. I guess I have been busy. Let me share what has been happening since my last post and you decide for yourselves.
Ok, we had a little time off to refresh before heading out with the next load. And as always time is always to short, I never get all the things done I want to do. That can be frustrating to say the least.
We headed to the terminal on Tuesday morning, we had loads going to Phoenix, Az. Our loads should have been ready by about noon......but we didn't get them until late afternoon. So we had some miles to go, sort of play catch up. While we were waiting on the loads, I made a stop at my favorite quilt shop for some needle punch supplies. I was hoping she had gotten in the six strand punch needles, thinking I would have some time to try it out, nope they hadn't come in yet. Well, she's so sweet she let me take hers with me, and then I didn't get to try it out as I forgot to take an extra hoop, arrgghhh! So, will plan better this time.
We picked up the loads early evening and headed out, getting a couple of hundred miles behind us. A rest area was our stop for the night, but it's a nice big one in Missouri. Newly redone, large lot, nice grass for the girls and clean restrooms.
Up early Wednesday morning and back on the road, thru Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas and in to New Mexico. We stopped for the night at Tucumcari, got a bite to eat and called it a night. We haven't been southwest for a while so the ride was interesting just looking for changes since the last time we were through the area. the girls aren't big on the southwest......not much for grass. And sand burrs, we deal with them everytime we go southwest, Miss Maile the Diva Dog thinks she has to have grass and Sofie doesn't really care either way, lol. So off to bed for the night. Morning comes too early.
Thursday Morning up and at it early again. Across new Mexico and into Arizona. We make our way to Flagstaff and then start south towards Phoenix. We head into town to Danny's Big Rig Resort, a nice place to stay for big rigs. A truck wash was in order, they had wash and dry them there, then we had the tanks and wheels polished. Looking pretty good now. We had a bite for supper and relaxed while all this was being done. Took the dogs out, it was dark by now, and Sofie got bit by a FIRE ANT, this was not fun. To make a long story short, I put toothpaste on it on the advice of someone who lives around there. It worked, but it was traumatic for both dog and me, and must have been very painful for her. Finally getting her settled down for the night we got some rest. Off the next morning early before traffic to our destination in town to unload. We unloaded and headed out of town for our reload.
We went north and west a ways for our reload to a small place called Bagdad, Az. A copper mine, out through the desert over the hills and winding around it was like a roller coaster ride getting there those last few miles. We loaded for home and were off.
Back across the same states we went down making a few stops along the way. We saw our Indian friends in Laguna, new Mexico , our friends in Oklahoma and finally back in the home area to unload and then a stop at home. A brief stop, laundry, a quick meal at home, sleep and off again this morning.
And what does this week hold in store...............the same thing we did last week. Going back to Phoenix. The same route, and close to where we were last week. Hubby has a friend in the Phoenix area, a friend he met at a Nascar race a few years ago, hoping to maybe get to see him for a day before heading back. Will have to see what happens.
I haven't had time to do much of anything this past few weeks, I have read your blogs to try to keep up, but no time for posting notes to you. I try to keep up with Facebook, but haven't even had much time for that either. Just driving, most days headed this way are 800 mile days.
I hope you are all well, happily crafting. The weather has been so cool and wet this year, hasn't felt much like summer here, think fall is coming early, and not looking forward to the winter. But time marches on and the days slip by before we know it.
Hugs, Bren

Did I get lost???

2009-08-08T21:21:00.003-05:00

I can't believe it's been almost 2 weeks since I posted! Well, it's been busy to say the least, not even sure I remember everything I've done and everywhere I've been. So I'll just give you the highlights I remember.
Let's see, I did the moving thing a week and a half ago, well I did it again this last week. Yep, you read that right, I moved back into my old truck. I like it better anyway. And that's a long story, so we'll just leave it at that. Niece # 2, who is 10 was going with me this week and all started out well, she spent the night with us last Sunday, we were up early to leave on Monday on our way to Minnesota. Had a good day, got unloaded, back to the little truck stop, had supper, watched DVD's and a good nights sleep. Tuesday morning off to reload and meet up with hubby, and then headed back to the terminal. That was also the day I moved back into my truck, she was a BIG help doing that. And she played with the girls out in the yard at the terminal, they loved that. We stayed at the little truck stop there in town, had a shower, and ordered pizza for our supper. We went to bed, all was well until about 11:45 p.m. when she said Aunt Brenda I can't breathe very well. Hmmmm, ok, have you had this before or is your nose just stuffy? Nope she thought she needed to go to the hospital, ok, don't panic I told myself. I called her Mom, we were only an hour from home, Mom says hmmmmm I really think she's ok. Ok, so she call Dad and says can you come get me, well at about 1:20 a.m. she says she feels better, Thank God and Dad gets there at about 2 a.m.. She just wanted to go home, maybe a little panic attack going on there, but when you're 10 if you want to go home, you want to go home.
So, Wednesday we hooked our loads and headed for Boulder, Co. We hadn't been west in awhile, so the change of scenery was welcomed. We unloaded Friday morning, hubby had a reload out of Nebraska and headed for there, I went back to the truck stop and then headed for Nebraska myself. We met up and headed for home. He delivered this morning, we dropped trailers and came home. Home again, home again, jiggety jog. The girls were as dirty as little pigs so they have already had their baths and laundry is going. We are home a couple of days and then will be heading for Phoenix, again a welcome change of scenery.
I went to my favorite quilting store and my friend Kathy showed me how to needle punch like a pro, so I have been working on that every chance I get. She made it look so easy, but it helped me out just having her show me.
How have you all been???? I have missed being able to get on here and post and read your blogs. So I have some catching up to do! Most of all I've missed your comments, so make sure to leave me a note. I'll get some pics of my projects and post while I'm home.
Hugs, Bren

Movin' Out, Movin' In, Movin' On.............

2009-07-28T20:02:00.002-05:00

And so, here we are. It was up early this morning and off for Kenosha, hubby off to Dubuque. I wanted to get through Chicago before traffic, so I was up at 4 and took off at 4:45. Hubby followed until I split off on I294 North, he kept heading west. Traffic was not bad, but there is construction on I294. At least traffic kept flowing smoothly. I arrived at Kenosha around 6:45 a.m. and by 7:45 I was ready to head down the road again. So a quick call in to dispatch and I was headed for the terminal. As it turned out hubby arrived back at the terminal shortly before I did.
I had gotten a call while I was on my way back and was told I had to give up my white truck, they had a Blue one become available. I was crushed, I LOVE that truck. Well, hubby helped me move things over when I got there and he hooked my radios up for me. So, I'm all moved in to the Blue truck. Now it's the same inside, exactly, and on the outside it's the same too, except color. But my white truck had a tiny bit more power than the Blue ones, I was always kidding hubby I was gonna have to push him up the hills. We'll be climbing them together now, lol. Oh well, better to have a truck, than no truck at all. But I have to admit I was down and out on the way back this morning.
Well, all moved in and hooked up and ready to go again. We hooked our trailers and brought them home with us. And will head south in the morning. We'll be on our way to Texas.
I managed a quick load of laundry, a quick shower . Now I'll relax for a bit before bed time.
There ya have it, that was my day. How was yours? And what have you been working on? I haven't been very creative lately, I need some inspiration. I hope you had a Good day.
Until next time.......
Hugs, Bren

Where Did We Leave Off?

2009-07-27T18:48:00.002-05:00

I think I left you with me having a couple of days off. I did enjoy them. I did a bit of cleaning that needed done, and relaxed a lot.
And as they say, "All good things must come to an end" so did my time at home. We left on Sunday morning, headed for Akron, Ohio for a Monday morning delivery. It was a nice drive across Illinois, Indiana, and into Ohio. We spent the night at a Travel Plaza, just about 25 miles short of our destination.
Up early this morning and on into Akron to the University for delivery. And they were very timely in getting us unloaded. Out of there by 8 am. Hubby had just a few miles to go for his reload, and I about 50. Off we went in our separate ways. I arrived in Sugarcreek, Oh. to pick up a load of bricks. I arrived at 9 am and they had me loaded and I was strapped down by 9:45 am, and headed back for the "Big" road as we say. I made a stop for fuel which was a fiasco to say the least, it took me 45 minutes to get out of there. The computer system had gone down, so they couldn't process my fuel ticket. Arrgghhh! Well, anyway, finally I was out of there and headed for I80 West. I met up with hubby at a Travel Plaza and we headed west, he being headed for Dubuque, Ia. and I headed for Kenosha, Wi.
I will unload in the morning and then head back for the terminal. No reload as of yet, so will have to wait until morning to see about that. Hubby will head for his destination and then back to the terminal.
We'll be leaving out again on Wednesday Morning for Texas again. This time we'll take a different route as hubby has a drop to make in Little Rock. So we'll be seeing a bit of different scenery.
Hope you all had a Great weekend and your week is off to a Great start as well.
I'm catching up on all your blog news while I relax tonight.
Until next time..........
Hugs, Bren

Follow Along With Me......

2009-07-22T19:46:00.002-05:00

Get out your trusty old Rand McNally Road Atlas and follow with me to track my last few days.
We left out last Saturday morning for Bowie, Texas, an easy drive as we left early enough to take our time. We left Iowa on Route 218, follow along into Missouri where we take Hwy 61 South. And then at Hannibal we cut across on Hwy 36 West to Interstate 35 South. On through Missouri,, through Kansas City, on through Kansas on I35 South. We stop for the night in Lebo, Kansas at the TA Truck stop. A hot supper and then off to bed. Up early Sunday morning and back on the road. We are still traveling I35 South as it turns into a toll road in Kansas and on into Oklahoma. We stop at Exit 218 in Oklahoma at the Travel Plaza where we see the ladies with the gravy and fries. They were thrilled to see us, and had a feeling they should get the fries ready just before we got there. So now she thinks she's psychic, lol. So we enjoyed breakfast and a brief but good visit. They are so nice, always smiling and full of laughs. The girls get to go out and run a bit in the grass and then back down the road. On the North side of Oklahoma City we stop at the Blue Beacon Truck wash, gotta clean the trucks. That takes about an hour and on the road again. At Oklahoma City we take I44 South and head for Texas. We make our way into Texas and stop for the day in Wichita Falls. It was in the 90's and like an oven outside. No restaurant at the Flying J , just a Wendy's. So that was supper. A pottery place across the street, we walked over for a look. Off to bed , up early in the morning for delivery.
From there we went South on Hwy 287 to Bowie, reached our destination for delivery and proceeded with unloading.
Hubby had to go back up by Oklahoma City for his reload, so when he was unloaded and seen to that I was getting along ok, he took off. I had to wait about an hour and then dispatch called and had a load for me in Fort Worth, Tx. Off I go, continuing on 287 South into Ft. Worth. I found where I needed to go and was loaded fairly quickly and able to get out of town before rush hour traffic got too bad. Both of us loaded we met back up on the North side of Oklahoma City on I35.
Hubby was going into Iowa, North of Des Moines and I was headed to South St. Paul, Minnesota. So we continued on North on I35. Tuesday was spent driving North on I 35, hubby stopping off for his delivery that afternoon, I continued on into Minnesota to the Truck Stop. Hubby met up with me that evening. A nice hot shower and hot supper, then off to bed. I needed to be up early to get into St Paul for an early morning delivery this morning. We left out this morning at 4:45, I going to my delivery point and hubby on up to pick up bases to take back to the plant in Iowa. After I was empty I too went to pick up bases. Well, he ended up having to leave before I got there as they needed him to take a load to Kansas City for delivery in the morning. So we passed each other on the way, lol. I was loaded and headed for the plant. He dropped his trailer, hooked onto the loaded one and headed out. I came in later than he did, dropped my trailer and headed for home. He should be here tomorrow.
Well, that's been my last few days. How has yours been? Hope you're having a Great week, I'm hoping for a little crafting time.
Hugs, Bren

And Away We Go....

2009-07-18T05:58:00.003-05:00

Once again time at home has come to an end, it's time to head out again. I enjoyed my time here, didn't get done what I wanted to, but got done what needed to be. It's always that way, lol. Seems I get the laundry taken care of and running errands, then just want to relax. I need more time?, energy?, hmmmm not sure, lol.
We'll head for the terminal this morning, hook the trailers and pick up the paper work. Stop at the Truck stop to fuel the trucks and grab a drink. Gotta have my Pepsi. And be on our way down the road.
We're heading to Texas, just over the border, so not a long run. We have Monday morning appointments. It should be an easy couple of days driving. No rush anyway. We'll make our way thorough Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma and then Texas. Maybe a stop by our friends in Oklahoma, the ones I've talked about before at the little truck stop, where they have sausage gravy over french fries. They call it survival food or comfort food. Either way it's good.
Hope you have a Great weekend, enjoy it whatever you do.
Hugs,
Bren

Home...

2009-07-16T06:02:00.004-05:00

It's Thursday, but it will be my Saturday. We unloaded yesterday, returned to the terminal to drop our trailers off ( we were a few short miles from where we delivered) and headed home. A stop at the store before coming home, remember I said we don't keep the frig stocked while we're gone. I spent last night doing a couple loads of laundry and catching up on blogs and other places I like to visit on the web.
Today we will run our errands in town. I hope to get things done quickly so I can hurry back home and just enjoy being here. I haven't had time for any of my projects these past couple of weeks, so I want to work on those. And, the girls need their bath as usual. That won't take long as they didn't get horribly dirty this week. Depends on where we go as to how bad they are at the end of the week.
We'll be heading out for Texas on Saturday for a Monday delivery. And yes we've been there many times before, but we have been going east alot lately so it will be nice to head south for a change.
I managed to give my blog a much needed change last night. Not sure if I like it, but will leave it at that for now. Thanks so much for visiting my blog. Leave a comment, you know I love hearing from you.
Hugs, Bren

A Rainy Night in.....

2009-07-15T04:16:00.002-05:00

Illinois. I woke up this morning, 3 am, to the prettiest light show in the sky. And then it got closer. More lightening, thunder, and then the rain. The lights went out here at the truck stop, and it's dark at 3 am. They were only off a short time and came back on, but have went out a couple of times since then again. It's raining and it's raining lots. Since I was up early, I cleaned house, made the bed, that sort of thing. And decided to catch up on my computer.
We unloaded in North Carolina, although where we had to go was not fun getting there. the road was narrow, lots of low tree branches, not good on the trucks or trailers. But we got the job done, and I was glad to get back to the Big road as we call it. So we made our way to Georgia, through South Carolina and I think I passed very close by to one of my blogging friends, Chatty Cathy of Palmetto Primitives. We arrived to load around 3 in the afternoon, and usually we don't have to wait long to get loaded. Not the case this time, there were already 35 trucks ahead of us. There had been a problem at the steel plant, so things were backed up. Well, we didn't get called in to get loaded until 12:30 am. Needless to say, sleep was not good that night. Up early on Tuesday morning, a hot shower, and headed North. We stopped here in Illinois for the night. A few hours and we'll be at our destination to unload.
Not sure what the plans are next, we'll find out this morning after we are unloaded. It's raining hard now, thunder and lightening. My truck needs a bath, so maybe this wash some of the dirt off. The parking lot is flooded, it's raining harder. My most unfavorite part of this business, is waking up in the morning and having to go inside somewhere to use the restroom. And now it's raining, so I'll have to wait a little longer.
I'll go check out your blogs while I wait. I hope while you're here you'll leave me a comment and let me know you were here. And Thanks for stopping by and checking my world.
Have a Great Day!
Hugs, Bren

Just an Update......And if by Chance....

2009-07-12T18:44:00.003-05:00

And so we begin another week. After a brief stop by home, and I do mean brief, we are off and running again. We are headed to Asheville, N.C., where we will deliver in the morning. We already have our reload, steel from Cartersville, Ga.. Just north of Atlanta, and then deliver that in Iowa. Sounds easy, huh? Traffic today was heavy to say the least. Unusually heavy for a Sunday, and not sure why. But we endured as always. Hoping the rest of the trip goes a little smoother.
Last week I was in Tampa, and I understand I was close to one of our blogging friends. Marte from Boggy Creek Primitives lives nearby. How I would have loved to meet her and visit! I love her work! She is an inspiration to me every time she shares pics on her blog. I would love to meet you all. And if I am coming nearby to you and have time, that's entirely possible. But here's the deal. You notice that I don't always tell you exactly where I'm going, maybe just the state? Just a thing with me, to not tell you until after we've been there and gone. But if I'm coming to your state and if by chance you would like to meet, email me and we'll see how close I am going to be. But, you have to come to me. I don't think I could drive to your front door, or that my truck would fit in your drive after I got there, lol. How fun it would be to meet you all!!!
I haven't had time for anything crafty lately. I'm having with drawls from wool, lol. And now, Marte has me wanting to try hooking again. Going to have to find a kit I guess. I hope to find some time for fun things soon.
I hope you had a Super weekend! I know PammyJo did, sitting out back on her "New" deck. Check out her pics on Grammys Altered Life. And you can also see her cute Granbaby Miss M, she's a doll! I hope I can go sit with her and have tea on that new deck soon! It looks so relaxing.
As always leave me a note, I love hearing from you and keeps me connected. Some days it keeps me sane just looking forward to seeing if anyone drooped by, lol.
Until next time,
Hugs, Bren

Have We Lost Touch?

2009-07-10T17:54:00.003-05:00

I can't believe it's been this long since I posted!!! Well, it's been busy is all I can say. We had the kids here last week and then the big family reunion. It's was a fun time, the family reunion was very enjoyable, complete with fireworks. The guys always have fun doing that for us to enjoy. We all visited, the kids all played, we fished, we had fun. And we'll look forward to next year.
This past week I went to Tampa, Fl. and hubby went to South Carolina. The first time we haven't headed out to the same place. I went with 2 of our other drivers, it's a long story as to why we didn't go together. I'll just say it's how things worked out. All turned out well anyway. And I had a rider this week, our 12 year old niece went with me. Not sure she will go again, it's kinda boring for a 12 year old. It's even boring for me sometimes, lol. But it was nice to have her with me, she's a sweetie. We came home empty, arriving this morning. And I've spent my day doing laundry, giving the girls their bath and trimming them up.
We'll leave out tomorrow for North Carolina, unload on Monday and then head to Georgia for our reload back to Iowa. So the week is taken care of.
I have some catching up to do reading your blogs and leaving notes. I hope you'll do the same while visiting mine. I've missed hearing from you.
Have a Great weekend!
Hugs, Bren

Pics to Share

2009-07-04T06:50:00.002-05:00

Happy 4th of July! We have been having fun all week with our daughter and family here. The Girls day out was another memory filled trip as usual. And family fun all week. I wanted to share a few pics with you.
This is my Sweetie.

My Sister-in-law and I made pies yesterday. A total of 8 pies for the big get together! On the menu will be Strawberry-Rhubarb, Peach, Blackberry, Lemon Meringue, Chocolate, and Apple of course. We had so much fun making these pies. I have always made pies and always had trouble with my crust. We are made from scratch cooks. So she gave me a lesson on pie crust, she learned from her Home Ec teacher. I thought , yeah, yeah, yeah, it'll still turn out crappy and fall apart. I was WRONG! I won't be fighting with my crusts anymore. It worked so well, we called our other friend and she came over to have a lesson. It was a fun filled day with memories we'll treasure. Don't those pies look yummy?

Here's the teacher. She's been my friend for over 30 years, and my Sister-in-law . I'm supposed to be paying attention, but had to get a pic.

Thursday evening, hubby's Sister from Seattle arrived and took all the Sib's out for supper. A local restaurant called Big Muddy's. It sits along the Mississippi with a Great View. From left to right around the table, Hubby's sister Linda, second oldest brother Rick, his wife Kim, oldest brother Doug, his wife Lois, Me, my hubby peeking behind sister Linda's husband Kevin. Youngest brother Rob and his fiancee' were not there. A Great time, great food, and a relaxing view. It was fun to have everyone get together.

Our Girls day out included a stop at our favorite quilting shop. Here my two friends, Kim and Carla. They are my Yaya Sisters, we always have a fun time and make memories we'll treasure forever. If you are ever in the Muscatine, Ia. area, this is a shop to die for, ya gotta stop in!Hope you are having a Happy 4th and enjoy the pics. I'll post more later.

Don't forget to leave me a comment so I know you were here.

Hugs, Bren

Oh What Fun it is....At Papa & Yaya's House

2009-07-01T07:07:00.003-05:00

What a busy and fun week it's been so far. Ok, we left off when we got home Saturday night. Everyone got settled in and unpacked that evening. Sunday we ran to the grocery store for needed supplies. As you can imagine I don't keep my refrigerator stocked if I'm not going to be here, I keep a few things on hand for the two of us when we are home on the weekend. So the cupboards were bare in the eyes of a 4 and a 6 year old, lol. Not anymore! We cooked out on Sunday, Papa, Daddy and the boys had water gun fights. Oh what fun they had, and how wet they got, lol. On Monday, we needed a few more things from the store, imagine that, lol. And my daughter and I went shopping a bit. I needed some new tops and it was good to have her with me picking out some new things. I don't like some of the styles and don't think they look good on me, but with her along she convinced me to try a few and to my surprise, I liked them and they looked good!
Tuesday, Mommy, Daddy and the boys went shopping. Papa and I stayed home and did some yard work. I worked in the flowers and did some laundry. After lunch we all packed up and went to Uncle Dougs for fishing. As soon as the oldest grandson's pole was in the water he caught the first fish! And about 4 right in a row after that! How fun is that?! I caught a few, Papa caught a few, Daddy caught a few and even the Mommy caught a few. But the best part was when Mommy caught the BIG turtle! It was lots of fun. Uncle Doug and Aunt Lois have Ducks, Geese, and Chickens on the little farm, and that nice pond to fish in. It was relaxing for all. Home we came and I made a pot of Homemade Spaghetti sauce for supper, with garlic bread and all, yummmmy.
This morning Papa and Daddy and the boys are off for Mark Twain Cave in Hannibal, Mo. I remember going there when I was little and thinking that the cave was HUGE. When we took our daughter when she was little, it didn't seem quite as big, lol. But she remembers it as big. So will be fun to see what the boys think of it when they get back. Mommy has a lunch date with one of her college girlfriends. I haven't decided what I will do. Pick up the house, a load of laundry and then.............who knows.
So far we are all having a Great time, but time goes by so quickly. Before you know it they will going home and we will be going back to work.
How is your week going? I'm still catching up on your blogs and leaving notes here and there. I hope you'll leave a comment while you're here. Thanks for visiting my little corner of the blog world. Have a Great day.
Until Next time....
Hugs, Bren

And Here We Are

2009-06-29T19:51:00.002-05:00

Wow, I really need to catch you up! It's been busy and filled with excitement. I basically left you over a week ago when we were home for the night. So lets catch up on my life for the past week or so.
We left out that Tuesday for Alabama. It was late in the afternoon before our loads were ready, so we made it a couple of hundred miles and then stopped for the night. An easy day the next day and we stopped within 10 miles of our destination, Bessemer, Alabama. My appointment was for 7 am on Thursday morning and hubby was right behind me a 7:30. They were very quick about unloading us. A call to dispatch for our reloads. Hubby had just a few miles to go and pick up his load at a foundry, some castings that went back to Iowa. I headed for Columbus, Ga for my reload. I picked up batteries going right back to our terminal. The company they were for is closed this week, so they will be delivered next week. Hubby reloaded and waited at the truck stop for me to catch up. I made it there, they loaded me very quick, I strapped down and headed back to Birmingham to meet up with him. It was so hot that day! After I made it the truck stop where hubby was, we decided to spend the night there. A hot shower for me and we had a nice supper. Then to relax and unwind a bit. I took the girls out into a nice little grassy area to run and play for a while. And then a good nights rest.
We were about 250 miles from the kids at that point and our plan was to stop by there house and all leave out on Saturday. Well, hubby found out he could deliver on Saturday and not have to wait until Monday. So we made it the kid's and Papa picked up the oldest Grandson (he's 6) and they headed for Iowa. What a big deal that was! The first time Grandson #1 had gotten to sleep over night in the big truck. He's gone for rides before, but not over night. He did Great according to Papa. The next morning when Papa got up, and keep in mind he's an early riser, the Grandson was up as soon as Papa's feet hit floor getting dressed to go too! Too cute. I stayed overnight at the daughter's and we all left first thing Saturday morning. I had Grandson #2 (he's 4) with me, with Mom and Dad following in the van. It's a 10 hour ride from their house to ours. The first part of the trip went well, the little man was fairly quiet just taking in the sights. We made our first stop about 2 1/2 hours into the drive for a necessary stop. On down the road and then lunch, still going well. We made one last stop before the stretch drive home. It just happened to be the same place Papa and Grandson #1 had stayed the night before, and Grandson #2 thought they were still going to be there, lol. We all used the restroom and got a snack for the rest of the trip home. Now the little guy had M&M's and a bug juice for his snack, and at about an hour from my house he wanted Mom & Dad to pass us..........so they did. And then the sugar rush hit!!! He says "Man that van sure does go fast. I wish I was in that van! Go faster Yaya, go faster!" Of course I explain I can't or I'll get a ticket, and we can still see Mommy and Daddy up there. Well, in the last town 6 miles from my house, Mommy and Daddy got through the 4 way stop and out of sight before I even got there!!! You would have thought the road dropped off, catch em Yaya, catch em!" After 10 hours of driving I start getting tired like anyone would and am ready to stopped myself, but this little guy was on a SUGAR RUSH and wanted to be there yesterday. The last 6 miles seemed like a hundred to him. But we made it and all was well. Did help that he knew Papa and big brother were already there, lol. Lesson to be learned here, NEVER give a child M&M's and Bug Juice and then strap them in a car seat in a big truck!! LOLOLOL.
So we're here now and enjoying time with the kids and being home. We're going fishing tomorrow and a day at Mark Twain Cave this week, also. I have a Girls day out planned while I'm off. We need to catch up! And a big family reunion this weekend. Stay tuned for more on the fun we'll have this week.
I hope you all are having a Great week and your weekend was good also. I have some catching up to do reading your blogs and leaving my little notes. Hope you leave a comment for me as well.
]Until later......
Hugs, Bren

What I'm working on (Pics to share)

2009-06-23T12:11:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to share with you what I'm carrying with me to work on when I have a minute. And I have a few minutes right now, waiting for our loads to be finished so we can head down the road.
This a kit I bought from my favorite quilt store. I have all the flowers and baskets cut out. Now to cut the background and iron everything on. And, yes I have my iron with me, lol.

This is another kit from the same store. Love how she has these all made up, I can pick what I want and throw it in my bag. This is a Barn Star Wall Pocket. I'm lovin it so far.

Can't wait to get it finished and put some greens in it.

Next week while the kids are here, I'm sure my daughter and I will make a trip to the store. I need more goodies and she only gets to visit once a year.

Even though it's 90 some degrees outside, I'm lovin working with this wool. I think I'm addicted, lol.

As always, I Welcome your comments and look forward to them.

Have a Great Day!

Hugs, Bren

How Did the Week End?

2009-06-22T18:32:00.002-05:00

I didn't realize I hadn't posted to catch you up! We left off that we were going to unload and call dispatch to see what the plan was.
All went well with getting unloaded, although they did take some time. And it was getting warmer as the minutes ticked by. So, after getting unloaded we called dispatch to see what our reloads were. Amazingly they had 2 loads out of the same place, going to the same place!! That doesn't happen very often. We were reloading in Houston, right near the truck stop we had spent the night before at. So we headed back into town, made it to the plant, they pulled us right in, and then told us the crane was broke down. Ugh! Oh well, nothing to do but wait. It was 1:00 in the afternoon, and we figured we could get loaded, and get a few hundred miles behind us. Not so. It took 4 hours to fix the crane, the temps were in the 100's and by the time we were finished strapping it all down we were exhausted. So we spent the night at the same truck stop again. A nice shower and a meal and a good night's sleep. We headed out first thing Friday morning. We decided to cut up through the country, it is shorter by about 50 miles, but time wise it takes longer. And to top it all off, there was some road construction. We managed, and stopped just short of Kansas City for the night, just a little over 700 miles for the day. We had hopes of getting unloaded on Saturday morning and then going home for a couple of days before we headed out again. We continued on and tried to get ahold of our contact for unloading. We were unable to get ahold of him before the last cut off for home, so we kept going towards DesMoines. Almost there and he calls and said it had rained too much and they wouldn't be able to unload us until Monday morning. Oh joy! We took our break in DesMoines, hubby went to the race track, I went to the store for dog food, lol. We have a niece that lives there, I called, but was unable to get ahold of anyone. So, we just hung out until this morning. We got unloaded quickly, headed for the terminal, found out our loads won't be ready until Tuesday afternoon, so we came home for the evening.
The girls needed baths, and trimmed. And the rest of the sand burr's combed out. And I have a little laundry to do (working on that now).
We will leave out tomorrow afternoon for Alabama. The kids are coming next week, for the week, and we are hoping to stop on the way back and pick up the boys to ride home with us. We'll have to see how things work out.
We all were so worried that summer would never get here and I think it has arrived! It is stifling hot outside. I do need to go out and give the flowers some miracle grow later.
How was your weekend? I missed your comments, hope to have more this week. And I have a couple of things I'm working on I want to get pics of for you to see.
Have a Great week, I'll post again when I can.
Hugs, Bren

We'll Travel Along......

2009-06-18T06:28:00.002-05:00

Singing our song, side by side. Do you remember that song? I don't, but I do remember my mother singing it, lol. Anyway............ we're in Texas this morning at our destination. A brand new high school, and wow is it going to be a big one.
We've had a good trip so far. We left out Tuesday morning, it was raining when we left Iowa, and before we got to Missouri it had stopped. The farther south we went the hotter it got. Thru Missouri, Kansas City and on into Kansas. We stopped just inside the Oklahoma border and saw our friends. The ones I talked about before, and as always they took good care of us. We spent the night at the little truck stop there, it's a nice little place. The only thing I don't like about it is.....SAND BURRS.......they get in the girl's hair! They were covered with them, took me over an hour to get them all out. And it doesn't get any better as we continue south.
Wednesday morning, on through Oklahoma City, and toward Dallas. We stopped and got the trucks washed so we would look presentable once again. Dallas wasn't bad, but of course traffic is always heavy there. And on to Houston, we stopped on the north side of Houston for the night, it was just 100 degrees on the truck thermometer, and up early this morning to get thru town before traffic. Our destination is about 30 miles south of Houston. We'll unload here, call dispatch and see what the plan is after we are empty. It's in the 80's already this morning, so it'll be a warm one again today.
Just wanted to give you a quick update. Hope you are having a Great week! Thanks so much for the comments, I know you're checking in on me. That's a nice feeling after a long day. Looking forward to hearing from you. I'll try to get some pics today. I always think oh that's boring, but I guess it's not if you haven't seen it before.
Until next time.....
Hugs, Bren

Pics to Share & Ready to Go

2009-06-15T19:16:00.004-05:00

Some pics from our trip into the Naval Base at Norfolk, Va. An Awac plane taking off while we were unloading.

A military plane on the tarmac. Not a very good pic, lol, I got more of the side mirror and window.

Following the signs to get there. Thank God for signs!

Hmmmm, a double. Sorry.

The tunnel under the bay. It was very close on clearance for us in there!

I was trying to get a shot of the houses on the other side. I think it would fun to live by the water. In fact, I know I could live there.

Crossing the bridge to the base. A long bridge.

And tomorrow starts a "New" adventure. We'll be heading south to Texas. Maybe we'll have time to stop and see our friends in Oklahoma at the little truck stop. The ones I told you about before, with the comfort food, lol.

Trucks are cleaned. Everything's washed and repacked. Just the basic necessities to grab as we go out the door in the morning. Am I ready? No, lol, always things I think I should have done before we leave. But, they'll be here when I come back.

I have some wool things to work on. I didn't have any time last trip. I have some things cut out that need to be ironed on, and I have my iron packed in case I have time to work on them.

I'm hoping this week is not as rough as last week. It was stressful, traffic wise that is. The east coast is not my favorite place to go because of traffic. People are always in such a hurry and trying to get there before you do. When you are out driving in traffic, just keep in mind the "No Zone" when around big rigs. Those are the areas where "we" can't see you. And remember, if you can't see us in our mirrors, we can't see you either.

I hope your week started out on a good note and continues. I'll post again when I have time. And maybe I'll get some Great pics this week. Keep the comments coming! I so look forward to them.

Until next time....

Hugs, Bren

Close your eyes, Click your heels 3 times....

2009-06-13T18:36:00.002-05:00

And say....There's no place like home, There's no place like home. Open your eyes...............and I'm home!
Wow, does it feel good, too. So where did we leave off? We were getting ready to head for Virginia. We headed out Wednesday. Across the Mississippi into Illinois, then Indiana, south at Indy toward Kentucky. We stopped just short of the Kentucky border for the night. It was storming, and stormed into the night. Up early Thursday morning and back on the road. Into Kentucky, headed east at Louisville toward the Virginia's. West Virginia and into Virginia finally. I had the heavy load this time, almost 41,000 lbs, mostly poles for the lights and some pallets of electrical supplies. Hubby had the easy load, a van full of lights, about 5,000 lbs. We never know until they give us the trailer number and hook on what kind of weight it will be. Most usually they are not that heavy, but it depends on what you have loaded on. There were 3 trucks total going to this job site and the concrete poles had been delivered earlier. Anyway, through the mountains with that much weight was a lot of shifting on my part. So much so that my tendon in my upper arm is really sore. Can't lift my arm above shoulder height without severe pain ( makes it hard to brush your hair, lol). We stopped at a really nice Rest Area about 60 miles from our destination for the night. There were TVs in the Rest area, and a sit down snack area. We have never been in one like that before and we've seen alot. And a nice grassy area for the girls to play in for a while, too. Once again, up early and into town, Norfolk, Va to be exact. We were going to the Naval Base Recreation Area. We found our destination and they were very timely about getting us unloaded. No load to pick up, so we headed out of town.
We stopped in Kentucky last night, and up early this morning for the stretch drive home. I did take pictures, and hubby got some, too. I'll post them later as they are still on our camera's.
We aren't scheduled to leave out again until Tuesday. I am so going to enjoy my time home. I have crafty things to work on, the girls need baths and a trim and the monthly Flea Market is in the morning. I'll be going, lol.
Thanks for all the comments!!! I loved sitting down in the evenings to find a comment left for me. I have some catching up to do, getting to all your blogs and leaving my notes. Have a Great Weekend! I look forward to hearing from you.
Hugs, Bren

Catch me If you Can

2009-06-09T19:15:00.002-05:00

Hi Girls! Ok, where did we leave off...........ummmmm, I think maybe my 34 hour break. anyway, I'll go from there. After a brief, and I mean brief stop by the house, we were off again. I had a load that went to Minnesota, just west of Minneapolis. So hubby called to see if there was a load of wood that needed to go back to the concrete plant where we pick up bases to bring back to the plant. Yes, Indeed there was. So on Monday we picked up his load and headed north. We stopped just short of Minneapolis for the night. Up early this morning, in fact I am usually up by 4, but last night I kept waking up for whatever reason and it was 4:30 when I did get up. I thought I was late!!! I hate that feeling. We wanted to get on the road by 5, we made it! So hubby went to the concrete plant, I delivered my load 7 miles from there and when I was empty I too went to the concrete plant. We both loaded up with bases for the plant back here, these are concrete bases for the lights we deliver. We made it back to the terminal and are stopped for the night. As a treat, we had pizza delivered to the truck. Fine dining as hubby put it, LOL.
We leave out tomorrow with a load for Virginia. I'm hoping to be back by Saturday evening and have a couple days at home. Please cross your fingers for me on that.
And that will wrap the week up for us. Next week it's back to Texas. I don't mind Texas, it's warm there, this morning in Minnesota it was in the 40's.
I'm missing your comments!! Please leave me a comment to let me know you were here, at the end of the day I love to sit down and read your notes and see who was here. Even if it's just a note to say Hi. Makes me feel connected. I miss my girlfriends back home, they called me last week to see where I was, they were all on the back deck under the umbrella................and I was in Boston!! That was so hard for me, lol. How dare they sit under the umbrella without me, LOL.
Have a Great week..........if I have more time I'll post again before the weekend. I do check your blogs in the evenings when I have time, just don't always have time to comment, I'll catch up this weekend.
Until next time
Hugs, Bren

My Day in Boston

2009-06-07T19:09:00.002-05:00

Here's how my day in Boston went. My pics didn't upload in the order I wanted, and they aren't the best, but You'll get the idea.

This is the back side of Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox. Yes, we were in the middle of things.

Another shot of the back of Fenway Park.

Making our way thru the city streets and traffic. The streets in most cities are not designed for trucks of our size.

We just take it slow, watching traffic around us and for the street signs and our next turn.

This is a pic of the houses on the streets we were driving down. I can't imagine living in the city like this. I know it's kinda blurry, sorry.

We found our destination and it wasn't an easy place to get into. And then they took me to their shop about 10 miles away to unload. After we were unload they lead us out to the tollway, Thank goodness............I'd have never found it. I made my way to the first toll plaza and waited for hubby to catch up. I had a load to pick up in Ct., so we made our way there, picked up the load and headed west.

After a 34 hour break, I'll continue on to my destination in the morning and unload first thing Tuesday morning. I'll grab a load for return and head back to the terminal.

Hope your weekend was an enjoyable one. Just a short one here.

Until next time....

Hugs, Bren

As The Wheels Turn

2009-06-04T18:40:00.002-05:00

Well, lets start this week. Here's how it's gone so far.
Sunday, I left Sunday afternoon to head to my destination for Monday morning unload. I was to unload just north of Des Moines, Ia, so I was within 50 miles on Sunday night. It stormed Sunday evening and was windy, so I didn't sleep the best.
Monday morning bright and early I was up (about 4 am), took the girls for their walk, did what I needed to do and filled my drink cup before taking off. Took off around 6 am and arrived at my destination a little before 7. I had on glass beads that are used to put on the paint stripes on the roads, while the paint is still wet, so it reflects. It's weather sensitive, and it was raining, so had to wait a bit before they unloaded me. I was empty and back on the road by 8 am. On way back to the terminal to meet up with hubby. We picked up our loads, this time going to Metropolis, Illinois. The home of Superman! A Tuesday morning unload. A walk in the park, stayed at the little truck stop there in town. Tuesday morning, unloaded, and since you can't just go joy riding in a big truck, we didn't get to see the statue of Superman. Oh well, maybe next time. Back to the terminal for the next load. Going to Massachusetts.
Wednesday, driving across Illinois, Indiana, Ohio. We stopped for the night just shy of the Pennsylvania border.
Thursday, that's today right? Driving across Pa., New York (it's a long way across New York, too) and in to Massachusetts. Right at this moment we are at a little truck stop about 60 miles from our unload destination in the morning. And we unload at a college downtown Boston. Once we are unloaded, hubby has a reload in Pa., nothing for me yet. I'm hoping to get out of town, get a load on the way back and make it home. Running short on hours.
So, cross your fingers and say alittle prayer that all works out. Most of all, Pray that I don't have to go driving around Boston to get a load!!!
Until next time, the Wheels will keep turning.
Hugs, Bren

Make the Most of Your Weekend

2009-05-31T06:36:00.002-05:00

It's been a short weekend, a 34 hour break, so you make the most of the time you have off. Up early yesterday, the girls needed a bath and a trim. and I always get a bath in the process, lol. More like a pre soak, lol. But, now they are clean and pretty, trimmed and smell much better. Laundry had to be done and all the towels from the baths and showers. It is so nice to be home and have your own shower. Most of the truck stops have showers, some are very nice and some I would NOT even begin to think about going in. So when are home we really appreciate our own bathroom and comforts of home.
I decided to just work on laundry and catch up on computer when a phone call changed my mind for me, lol. A cookout around the fire was planned. Off to the store for some supplies. You see, my hubby's little brother decided to fry fish(which is excellent) but he does this at their older brothers house. So between the three of them plans were made, now my SIL was at work and knew nothing about all this, so since no one really had time to fix anything we decided a trip to the deli was in order. I stopped by SIL's work to let her know our plans, then picked up the extras we needed. It all turned out well, good food, laughter, and relaxing.
Today, I will water my flowers outside, take the clean laundry and put back in the truck, as well as the few groceries I picked up while I was at the deli. And this afternoon I will head out. I will make my way to my unload destination for morning. I'll get as close as I can and still have a place to stop for the night.
I did get a "new" wool candle mat pattern and hope to do a little work on that before I have to take off.
So, that's how my weekend is going. How is your's? Enjoy your day, whatever you do.
As always, I Love your comments and look forward to them.
Hugs, Bren

An Apology

2009-05-29T21:17:00.002-05:00

I first must apologize, I did not post at all this week!! I told you I would give you a glimpse into my life as a professional driver. And I meant to post a few times to keep you updated, didn't work, did it. LOL. And I wanted to take pics along the way, that didn't happen either.
Ok, so here's what my week has been like.........
Started out on Tuesday morning, left home and headed for the terminal. It's an hour and half drive to the terminal. Meanwhile, hubby was delivering his load up north. I picked up paper work, a few new straps and all that stuff. Our loads were ready early and we actually got out of town by noon. Ok, so we are Southbound and down! Stop for the night in Kansas, Dorothy's land. And it was storming! Not bad, but you always wonder in Kansas. Didn't sleep well, first night back in the truck. Early to rise and on the road again. Kansas and Oklahoma were both very green and pretty. And then into Texas. Traffic picks up as we get into Dallas, but we make our way through town and keep heading south. Our next stop was to get the trucks washed. We wash our trucks before we go to a job site, have to look presentable. We stayed just to the north of Houston. Up early again and off to the job site. Destination found and they unloaded us in a timely manner. No time to rest, time to call in for reload info.
Hubby goes farther south and I have to go back to the north. I get reloaded for Iowa and stop at a small truck stop to wait for hubby to catch up. After he was loaded and reached my location, we grabbed a quick bite and continued on north. Just inside the Oklahoma border was home for the night. No truck stop, this time a rest area, but nice grass for the girls to run and play in for a while. They were getting cabin fever I think, they played hard.
Up early this morning and back on the road. There's a little truck stop in northern Oklahoma we like to stop at and grab some comfort food. The ladies who work there take good care of us and we enjoy when we can stop and visit with them for a few minutes. With no time wasted we are back on the road. We try to keep our stops to a minimum and our time spent at the stops short as well. Too much time and it just makes the day longer.
And , so we arrived back home this evening.
Whew! I'm beat, how bout you? LOL. Both of us will deliver our loads on Monday morning. Hubby will get his truck serviced, his delivery is closer than mine. I will have to leave Sunday afternoon to be there first thing Monday morning and then beat feet it back to the terminal .
For the weekend, just the usual. A little laundry, relaxation, the girls need a bath and a trim and get ready to go again.
I will try to do better next week. We have a short run the first part of the week and then a turn around to the East Coast.
I didn't even have my computer out of the bag this week. I will play catch up and read your blogs and drop my comments here and there. I LOVE your comments, so please leave one. When I'm out on the road and do have time to pop on in the evenings your comments are a bright spot to my day. And I love to know who's been here.
Have a Great weekend!!!
Hugs, Bren

Can't Get Enough Rugs

2009-05-25T20:06:00.006-05:00

Happy Memorial Day blogland friends. Hope you had an enjoyable weekend. We sure did. It was busy and productive with some fun mixed in. After bringing the truck home, I worked on preparing it with all my comforts of home so to speak. And all of the girls' favorite toys. We'll be heading out in the morning. Once our loads are ready we will be heading south, so be sure to follow along with our travels. And I'll do my best with my posts.

We enjoyed cookouts with the BIL & SIL and sitting around the fire until the bugs moved in. The SIL and I enjoyed some girl time, and we've been falling behind in the deparatment lately. Just seems we have no time. And just sitting around visiting and catching up. There's a "New" baby due in the family, and found out tonight she's in the hospital. Waiting to hear more from SIL.

I packed a few crafty things to work on if I have time. It helps pass the time if we are waiting to unload. I finished my rug. I LOVE how it turned out. And like I said it's the biggest one I have made so far. It measures 21 3/4" by 33 3/4" and looks great in front of the TV. I packed supplies for some candle rugs, they are very portable and quick to pull out to work on. And work up very fast. So I'm ready if I have time.

Wishing you all a Great week! Don't forget to leave a comment. I love your comments and look forward to them.

Hugs, Bren

I Got The Call!

2009-05-20T07:13:00.003-05:00

Good Morning Blogland Friends! Yes, I got the call. The call to go back to work. I have been laid off for three months, four if you count the month we were on vacation. I have gotten a lot of things done that were needing attention. Spring cleaning, sewing, finishing my quilts, almost finished my rug. Am I ready to go back on the road? Yes. I do enjoy traveling, even though my job is not a glamorous job, I love each new day and the adventure ahead. And yet, I have things I didn't get done! Do you know what I mean? Not important things, just little things, lol, it's a viscous circle. When your working you want to be home and when you're home you're ready to be back to work.

So my home will once again be my truck. The girls will be with me, and as always I'll take something along to work on. Gotta get that stuff together. And hubby and I will be traveling together once again. And I'll be on the lookout for interesting things to tell you about, so you can travel a long with me. If you've ever wondered what it's like for Professional drivers on the road, I'll try to give you a glimpse into that life.

I'll be working on getting ready, they have to call me and let me know they have my truck back. And when I get that call, it will be a busy day of "moving" back in, lol.

I hope you have a Great Day! Enjoy the sunshine, I know I will. It's going to be a beautiful warm, sunny day here. Wishing you sunshine and smiles.

Hugs, Bren

Majestic Beauty and a Princess

2009-05-18T06:09:00.003-05:00

I got my pictures in the right place on the computer so I could share them! These horses are so majestic and regal. I loved all the little details on their harnesses, I couldn't get that close for a picture, but they were so neat.

Here they are all hitched up. They were going to the local ballfield for afternoon events there.

They are so well trained, all I kept thinking was "Gentle Giants". They just stood where they were put and waited.

This was inside the tent.

And of course the trucks.

And this is my baby. Today is her Birthday!!! Happy Birthday! Well, it will officially be her birthday at 7:41 p.m. and that's when she'll get my call. Like every year, lol. It's something I have always done. My Dad used to always tell me my birthday wasn't official until around 3 a.m., but he wouldn't call at that time, lol. So, I decided to tell her or call her at her official time and it's just been a tradition. Have a Great Day Princess!! You can stop by her blog at www.primitivemomoftwo.blogspot.com and leave her birthday wishes. Luv Ya Chickadee!

Good Day to everyone!

Hugs, Bren

Just Passing Thru

2009-05-17T19:55:00.002-05:00

Happy Sunday Evening blogland friends!! Hope you had a good day. It wasn't raining here today, that was a good thing. I would liked for it to be warmer and filled with more sunshine, but maybe in the coming week. The weather man said so! I'm going to hold him to it.
Hubby was home for a short time this weekend, just sort of passing through. When he left, I followed him to town. We went for a quick bite of lunch and a stop at the grocery store so he could restock his cooler. While in town, we discovered that the Budweiser Clydesdales were in town. We stopped by the parking lot where they had the BIG tent set up. Inside were the horses in their pens, along with their mascot dog. They took the horses outside and hitched them to the wagon, we watched and I even took some pictures. Well, I took those pictures with my Blackberry phone and then emailed them to myself. When I opened my email and downloaded the photos, they were saved to my Windows Picture Gallery. UGH! So when I went to retrieve the pics for this post, I couldn't get them. I will work on getting them where I can post them for you to see. They were beautiful horses to say the least and of course extremely large, lol. Anyway, I'm posting this with disappointment, as I wanted to post pics.
That was my day. How was yours?
Hugs, Bren

Got Rugs?

2009-05-16T08:40:00.003-05:00

Seems as though I'm on a roll with rugs of all kinds. I recently posted a pic of the crocheted rag rug I finished, gotta love those. they feel so good under your feet. And they look so perfectly prim! And, now, on to a rug I started quite a while ago. It's a locker hooked rug. Fast, fun and so relaxing to work on. Great therapy after a stressful day. And they too are great prim accents.
This is my basket of fabric strips for the rug. I love the colors all mixed together. It, too looks great just setting around.

And my rug. It will be the largest one I have made yet. Even though it is very easy to work on, the bigger it gets, the bulkier it is . Just means you have a lot more in your lap. I have made several different sizes, small rugs, table runners, hot pads, candle mats (LOVE those).

And here's my Penny rug. I posted a pic of some of the pennies the other day. Now, all the pennies are done and it's on to sewing them together. The mat it is on is a 12 inch square. It will Great almost anywhere!! Can't wait to finish it and find a place for it.

It finally stopped raining!! We got 3 to 5 inches of rain, creeks are out, the river is up, fields are flooded. It was water all around the house yesterday. Had to pick the girls up and carry them to a high spot in the yard when we went out yesterday. Needless to say they kept their outings to a minimum, they didn't like all the water. And it's cool, was in the 40's this morning, so cold and damp and the yard is soggy. But the water has for the most part soaked away in the yard. The sun is trying to peek out, although it's only to be in the upper 50's, maybe 60 today. Not going to warm up until next week. I need sunshine and warm weather, so if you have extra Please send it my way.

I started my day with a little cleaning, laundry, and set the oven to clean. I baked hubby a Strawberry-Rhubarb pie and it bubbled over (his Mother would have been proud, lol). He'll be home later this afternoon and we'll cook something on the grill for supper. The rest of my day has no set plans.

Hope you have a Great weekend. I'll be popping in and visiting your blogs and leaving a comment here and there. Please leave me a comment and let me know you stopped by. I love that you visit my little blog, although some days it's not very interesting.

Hugs, Bren

Gotta Love Rugs

2009-05-12T18:55:00.003-05:00

I'm hooked on rugs! I just finished a rag rug. I had started it a while ago and then put it aside. Well, I'm finding this time off is good for getting things done. The rug is crocheted using fabric strips and a large hook. It's very easy and relaxing. I finished this one today and it now has a home in front of my treadle sewing machine. If you're interested in these rag rugs check out http://www.rags-to-rugs.com/ . They have kits you can buy, all you need are your scissors.

And, I'm also working on another penny rug. This one is larger than the last few I've made. I love working with these. Very portable, not a lot of supplies to carry with you. and they work up fast. The picture is of a few I have started for my latest rug. I can't wait to get it done. They are just awesome!

Our weather here was in the 70's today, a bit windy. But still nice. the weather man says rain tonight and tomorrow could be severe weather. Let's hope it's not too severe. My flowers could use a drink, so rain would be welcome. But not the winds and hail they say might come with it.

My day was busy with making sure everything is done here in case I get the call to go back to work. Thinking it won't be too long. And, I'm ready at a moments notice. Well, almost, lol. My bags are packed and centrally located for easy access, lol.

What's on your craft table? Be sure to leave me a comment, I love to know what everyone is working on. I love comments!! I'll be visiting your blogs and leaving comments here and there. Hope you had a good day and the rest of your week will be a good one.

Hugs,

Bren

Happy Mothers Day in the Garden

2009-05-10T06:20:00.003-05:00

Happy Mothers Day!!! I hope you all have a Wonderful day. It's a cool morning here, but atleast it's not windy like yesterday. I do think it's to be a nice day, no rain anyway.
This year I put in a Perrenial Garden, a small one as I had this little bit of space to do something with. And there were iris' there already, so I just added too that. I took more pics of my outside flowers, but for some reason they weren't on my card when I went to download them. The card may have been full and I didn't notice. So I'll take more again later.
I finished my flannel quilt!! It didn't take long to sew the binding on. I have the binding on my pink quilt and will work on it next. I hope to have it done before I get called back to work, hubby seems to think it won't be long. He will leave out later today with his load, but atleast he will be here for part of the day.
Enjoy your day what ever you do.
Hugs, Bren

The Princess and The Quilt

2009-05-07T19:44:00.002-05:00

Good Evening, it's a nice evening here, temps are in the upper 60's. It has started raining and I'm happy for that as my flowers needed a drink. I did water, but there's nothing like a nice rain shower. Relaxing to sit here and listen to the rain and thunder, the lights did flicker a couple of times, but no severe weather.
Thought I would share a few pics with you. Here's Miss Sofie, relaxing by hubby's chair. I think she's wondering where he is.
And here's the Princess! Miss Maile has every toy from the basket drug out, if only she would learn to put them back. But she has fun. They both are really good little dogs. Still a bit puppy, running and tearing through the house in the early evenings. Completely housebroken, the best little lap dogs in the evenings.

And here's a couple of penny mug rugs I finished. I'm working on a larger one. I just love wool pennies!

Do you remember a while back I posted a pic of my flannel quilt top? Well, I took it to the quilt lady to be quilted, she does a Great job!! It will be so warm and cozy in the winter months.

Here it is laid out on the floor. I have one side of the binding pinned and have started the hand stitching. It really shouldn't take too long to finish it.

I wanted to take pics of the flower beds, but didn't get it done before it started raining. I'll try tomorrow. I'll have to get someone to come and water when I get called back to work. Or all that work I put into getting them done will be quickly gone.

I've been visiting some of your blogs, leaving comments here and there. I love seeing what you all have been doing. Be sure to leave me a comment, I love to see you've been here and reading your comments.

Have a Great evening.

Hugs, Bren

A Monday in May

2009-05-04T19:55:00.002-05:00

Happy Monday!! It was a good day, weather was warm although a bit cloudy until late afternoon. I worked outside most of the day. Over the weekend while hubby was home he helped me get the edging around the flower beds, and I worked the soil. I used one of those claw thingys, lol. I think that's what it's called. You stick it in the dirt and turn and it work the soil up. Well, it's my sister in law's, anyway, I borrowed it and worked all my flower beds. Today I planted flowers, after I worked the dirt a bit more. It looks so nice, sorry I was too pooped to take pics.
I had the girls outside with me. Now they still are on leashes, still a bit in the puppy stage, and quite the social butterflys. So, I put their leashes on them, but let them have a bit of freedom by just dragging them around. I keep telling them I don't want to have to use a leash forever, lol. They did pretty well, I only had to bring back in range a couple of times. I keep a close eye on them as we live right by the highway, but they did good. So a good day for them as well.
Hubby left yesterday for his destination. He successfully unloaded and got reloaded all today. So he had a good day, too.
I'm still waiting on the call to go back to work. Waiting keeps me from getting involved in things too much, I know if I do that call will come and then I'll be fretting over something I've started and won't be able to finish as soon as I would like.
Tomorrow will be another busy day. I'll clean house and make sure all is in order should I get the call. My bag is packed and ready to go, lol.
Hope you all had a Great day.
Hugs, Bren

Sharing, Smiles, Special Friends, and Sunshine

2009-05-02T06:42:00.001-05:00

Happy Saturday! I wanted to share some of our recent pics. But, first I want to wish my Friend Pammy Jo a Happy Birthday!!! It's her day today and I wish her a fun filled day. Drop by www.grammysalteredlife.blogspot.com to leave her a birthday wish.

And some pics from our recent Talladega trip. If you are a Nascar fan, and I mean a fan you are familiar with the Nascar Channel on Sirius Radio. The man in the picture above is "The Godfather" of racing, so they call him. His name is Dave Moody and he hosts the afternoon radio show. We enjoyed our afternoon of visiting with the gang at the MRN trailer.
And if you watch Nascar, you may recognize the man in the pic above. It's Jeff Hammond and we are in the Hollywood Hotel. Hubby had met Jeff a few years ago. We had a Great time with everyone there, Chris Meyers, Jeff, and hubby's friend Ben. Thanks Ben for everything!! We look forward to seeing everyone at another race in the future.
Now for the sunshine. Please send sunshine my way!!! It's been cloudy and on the cool side for several days. Everyone needs 10 minutes of sunshine a day and I have been deprived the past few days, so if you have any extra sunshine I could use it.
A quiet weekend here, hubby is home but will leave out tomorrow. I will go to the "Pigeon Show". It's a big flea market sort of thing. I' ll be looking for some things to use in decorating my yard. You never know what you'll find.
Hope you all have a Great weekend.
Hugs, Bren

The Sky is Falling!!

2009-04-30T06:14:00.002-05:00

Good Morning blogland friends. I thought the sky was falling last night. We had thunderstorms move through our area in the early morning hours and the thunder shook the windows. I wasn't sure what was going on at first, but thought the windows were going to fall out. Made me think this must have been how chicken little must have felt, lol. The storms have passed by, but our yard is a swamp! Water everywhere, the girls didn't want to go through the water, lol, the little princesses! It was bad enough I had to open the garage doors and go around to the grass, by passing the water.
We were able to attend the Nascar race at Talladega. The weather was perfect both days, warm and sunny. Hubby is friends with several people behind the scenes at the races, knowing people from the Fox Crew of the Hollywood Hotel, and MRN racing network. We had a great time, I was able to meet his friends and Ben truly showed us a good time. We hung out with them in their transporters and also toured the transporter of Tony Stewarts car, Tony passed through as we were chceking it out, gave us a nod and a "How ya doing". On Sunday, hubby had to leave to continue with his load on to Florida and I headed back to Tennessee to the kids'.
I have not gotten anything crafty done this past week! I had taken my quilt with me thinking I would get the binding on and work on hand stitching it down, but not. Imagine that. I had other things to do with the kids. Now that I'm back home I'll attack that job. and I'm working slowly on another wool penny mat. Since it is not the kind of day to work outside, I'll work on things inside.
I still haven't gotten the call to go back to work. Hoping that comes soon. Ok, so what have all of you been working on? I have missed reading all your blogs, so will try to catch up today and leave a comment here and there. Be sure to leave me a comment and tell me what you are working on. I love your comments!
Have a Great Day!!
Hugs, Bren

Making It Happen

2009-04-24T10:56:00.002-05:00

Are you a "Make It Happen" type person or a "Let It Happen" type person? I would have to say I'm a "Let It Happen" type person. You know the old saying "Everything happens for a reason", I guess I think if it happens it was meant to be. And, I don't think things out enough I guess. My hubby on the other hand is a "Make It Happen" type person, and I LOVE that about him!
Most of you know we have been laid off from our jobs. And, because of that we went to spend Easter with the kids and had planned to stay awhile and attend a Nascar race in Alabama this weekend. Well, hubby got the call to go back to work, I have not gotten that call yet. So our plans were changed and we headed back home. But, we still wanted to go to the race, we had everything set up to go! Ok, Mr. Make It Happen went to work. The load he was given was going south east, but not directly through Alabama, and wasn't scheduled to be loaded until today. And since I am not back to work I decided to go back to the kids in case things might work out that we could still make it to the race. A conversation with the right people and the promise of a Nascar hat got him loaded last night and he was able to get started on the way down. So, I will meet up with him later today and we will attend the Saturday race and then on Sunday he will continue on to his destination and I will return to the kids' and then probably head for home next week. You could say if there's a will there's a way, or it was meant to be, or being in the right place at the right time...............but I call it "Making It Happen"!
I have not been very crafty lately. Too busy enjoying the boys and my daughter. She and I did sit down and make some jewelry, she made an awesome necklace and I made a charm bracelet. She's an inspiration to me when it comes to jewelry making. I had picked up our quilts from the quilt lady and brought them with me this trip. My intentions were to cut the binding for mine and get it sewed on so I could start hand stitching it on, but that hasn't happened yet. Probably will be more apt to get to it when I am back home. And I brought my wool pennies with me, of which I have not worked on either, LOL. Imagine that.
My friend Pammy Jo from back home called to check on me this morning. We hadn't talked all week. She's the one who always checks on me and I Love her for that. It makes you feel good when a friend calls to see how you are, and she always says "are ya ever comin" home". I love it when she calls, and I Love your comments. They make me feel as good as her calls.
I hope you've all had a good week and hope your weekend is warm and fun filled. I know mine will be!
Hugs, Bren

Happy Anniversary

2009-04-19T06:46:00.002-05:00

It seems I have been neglecting my blog lately. I have no excuse, just life in general. We spent Easter with the kids and had planned to stay a while since we are laid off work. Well, hubby got called back to work!!! Yay, I have not got the call as of yet, but probably won't be much longer. And I'm kinda sad that he will heading off alone, but one back to work is better than none. So we cut our visit to the kids short and headed back home. Hubby picked up his truck and has been busy getting it ready to go this week.

Glad he didn't have to leave before the weekend, as today is our Anniversary. No real plans, we'll just see what the day brings. And how long have we been married? 34 years! I don't feel like we've been married that long, time goes by soooooo fast.

I have not been doing much in the way of crafts lately either. I have worked on my penny rugs, love those. And my daughter showed me how to make jewelry, I need to post some pics. I just picked up my quilt from the quilt lady and need to get the binding on. It's an all flannel quilt, imagine how warm and cozy it will be. I love it.

What have you been working on? I have been visiting your blogs and leaving a comment here and there. Hope you have a Great Day!!

Bren

Happy Easter

2009-04-11T12:22:00.002-05:00

Wanted to wish all my friends in blogland a very Happy Easter. We will be spending our Easter with our family in Tennessee. I hope you all will be spending yours with family as well.
The weather here is cool and has been rainy. And yesterday there were severe storms in the area. Tornandos were very close here and destroyed many homes and businesses in the Murfreesboro area. More storms are forecast for tomorrow evening.
I have been working on more penny rug mug rugs, I just LOVE them! My daughter and I are going to make a purse, she has already made one and has fabric leftover, so I get to make one, too! She has been showing me how to make jewelry. I have been having a blast! Check out her blog at www.primitivemomoftwo.blogspot.com and from there you can go to her Etsy shop. She has some fabulous jewelry there! I just might have to make more. Oh, and she made me a really cute keychain, with a jasper stone...........I told her it looked like a "lima bean" but it is really cool.
So it's my "lima bean" key chain! I'll take pics of everything later and post so you can see. Maybe I'll have my purse done.
Until later......................Joyous Easter!
Bren

I Love Penny Rugs!

2009-04-06T15:26:00.002-05:00

Happy Monday blogland friends. It doesn't seem that Spring wants to come out in full bloom. It has been windy and cold the past couple of days. So, I stayed in and did something fun. Remember all those wool pennies I posted about awhile back? Well, I got them all out and stitched this little Penny Mug Rug. It was so fast and fun. I can't wait to make another one.

Remember that my friend from www.ragamuffincollectibles.blogspot.com is where my pennies came from. You should pop over to her site and check it out. And if you're interested in making a penny rug she has all the things you need.
And while you're visiting other blogs, be sure to visit my selling blog. Click on the picture in my sidebar to be taken there. I've added some "New" items.
Hope you have a Happy Day.
Until next time.............ThinkSpring

Whatcha Workin' on Wednesday

2009-04-01T13:12:00.002-05:00

Happy Wednesday!! The sun is shining and in the 40's although slightly cooler than I like it. But, no complaints, the SUN is shining. I have been finishing up some small projects and getting ready for the goodies I told you about.
Click on the small picture in the right hand corner for my Surprise. It will take you to my "New" selling blog. I had told you earlier last month that I was "spreading my wings" and this is part of it. I'm so excited. I'll be adding more things later today, but wanted to post about it. So be sure to stop by and leave me a comment. I love hearing from you.
Until later...........Blessings

Time Marches On

2009-03-31T15:42:00.002-05:00

And March is about to march out. Tomorrow is a brand new month, and April 1st. Do you play April Fool's jokes? We used to, but not so much anymore.
Our warm weather is not so warm anymore. It's blustery outside and the temp is falling. Maybe a snow flake by morning. But, I will not complain, we are not enduring what they are dealing with in Fargo, ND. I do hope for the best for them.
I have no pictures today, I feel bad. But, tomorrow will be different. Full of Surprises! You'll want to check back to see what I have in store. No Foolin'.
I've been visiting some of my favorite blogs, dropping comments here and there. I wanted to share with you one of interest, over at www.kankerdoodle.blogspot.com , she is going to make a wool throw, month by month, and share her progress month by month. She invites us to join her. She posted a pic of the throw on her blog, I love it, love the whole pic. So I'm thinking....do I need to start something else? No, but how fun to do something with someone. I just need wool. So, I'm debating. Go on over and check it out.
Have a Great evening, and create memories.
Bren

Happy Friday!!

2009-03-27T16:01:00.002-05:00

Wow, the week has flown by! And I have not been very good about my posting.
So, to catch you up. I've been finishing some Spring cleaning, trying to take advantage of this time off. Yes, still laid off, and probably till next month.
I have to admit..........when you work all the time, you want to be home because there is so much you want to get done, but, not that I'm bored, but I miss the traveling! I didn't realize I did. We're never happy! So I keep telling myself, enjoy this while you can.
I took the quilts to the quilt lady and have finished up some UFO's that I posted in an earlier post. I have a few more to do, and a quilt I need to put the binding on. I've told myself not to start any thing new until all is done, lol. Like that's going to happen! But I'm trying really, really hard.
Our warm weather is getting colder. And the weather man says we will get snow tomorrow, 4 to 6 inches! I know it will melt the next day, but still. I'm just so ready for Spring!!
I hope you all had a Great week.
Keep Creating memories.
Bren

Finishing Out the Week

2009-03-22T09:26:00.002-05:00

Good Sunday Morning. A cool wet morning here. We had a little rain shower, and I thought the weather man said no rain today. I finished out the week finishing up some projects. I had this pile of things that needed minor finishing touches to be done.....................and now I'm done.

I made another bunny pillow like the one I had on my header, it's just a smaller version. And 3 pinkeeps, I really like the quaker cross stitch one, it turned out nice. My addiction to pinkeeps seems to be getting worse, lol. I look at everything and think, pinkeep?

And these bags I finished. Well, except for the blue one, see the pins? I need to stitch the handles on, but wanted to include it in the pic. And I need a button. The little bags are some of my favs to make. They are so prim and functional as well.
It looks as if it will be quiet day here. A roast in the crock pot for supper. Hubby will be involved in the Nascar race and pre-race shows. I have some things to work on to keep me busy. What are your plans for the day?

Have a Super Sunday and Create Memories.

Hugs, Bren

It's Here!!!!

2009-03-20T07:16:00.002-05:00

SPRING that is! And I welcome it even though it's only in the upper 20's this morning. Just knowing that warm weather is coming in the next few weeks instead of months is uplifting in itself. The weather man said in the 50's today, yippee! A few pics to share this morning.

Prim Easter coasters I made. They are backed with homespun.

Daffodils, my favorite Spring flower. These aren't real, but add a bright spot to the little corner where I sit and craft.

A little Spring chick penny rug. I love this little chick!

Not sure of my plans for the day. Have things to do , but not sure which direction I will go.

Thanks for stopping by and visiting my blog. I love your comments, so be sure to leave one.

Have a Super Spring Day and Create Memories!

Bren

Creativity, Inside and Out

2009-03-17T16:51:00.002-05:00

What a Great day! Fresh air and sunshine always does a body good. I spent some time working in the yard, picking up small sticks and raking some leftover fall leaves. So, I was creative cleaning out the flower beds and grooming the yard. And you feel good after you finish, just knowing its ready for Spring when it arrives.
Now I can work on something creative inside. I have a small pile of things to finish and something to start. So I can keep busy the next couple of days. I don't think our weather is going to stay this warm, not cold, but more normal temps.
Were you creative today? What did you work on? Hope you had a Great day, too!
Create Memories!
Bren

Pics to Share

2009-03-16T18:45:00.004-05:00

I told you I would post pics.......... and here they are!

Here is "my" bunny pillow. I designed the pattern. I did make the one in my header photo, but that is NOT my design.

And my Spring chick, I designed this pattern also. I thought I needed some little chicks with my eggs and bunnies.

Look at all those wool pennies!! A friend from Canada needed a little help while we were on vacation in the Islands. I was able to help her out and as a Thank You she showered me with wool pennies. I am so excited, and can't wait to make something. Stop over and check out her blog and Etsy Store @ http://www.pennyrugsandmore.blogspot.com. Thanks again Colleen!

I made the little hare, you also saw this the other day posted on my blog. While making chicks I designed this Spring Chick Pinkeep. And the coaster is my design as well. I used wool for the carrot and it's backed with green check homespun

Just a closer picture, so you can get a better look at detail.

Ooppsss, LOL! Looks like this little Chick snuck in on me again.

Ok, now you've seen some of my latest goodies. Having this time off has been good for me creatively. Thanks for stopping by, Please leave me a comment, you know how I Love to hear from you.

Oh Yeah, one of the above items in the pics will be in a give a way in the near future!

Each day Creates a Memory.

Bren

Spring A time to Grow

2009-03-16T07:20:00.002-05:00

Good Morning Friends!! It's shaping up to be a beautiful Spring day, weather man says temps close to 70!! WooHoo! I'm so ready. The weekend wasn't so bad, weather was warm and seemed to help my creativity flow. As Spring is a time for all things to grow, it's time for me to grow as well. Follow me as I spread my wings in the creative world. I'm not ready to tell everything just yet, but I hope to inspire you along with me.
As I sit here typing I realize I forgot to take pics of somethings I made this weekend. I'll take them and post a little later. You'll want to be sure to check back and take a look. One of the pics just might be of something I'll be offering in a Spring Give-A-Way!!
Have a Great day!
Bren

Hare it is!

2009-03-12T19:12:00.002-05:00

I finished my little bunny or hare, which ever you think. I sort of like him. I think I'll make a few more to fill a bowl or basket.

I did organize my sewing corner today. So another thing from my Spring cleaning list to cross off. I have a couple of little fabric bags to sew, will try to work on them tomorrow, and post pics when I'm done.

Just wanted to post the pic, I said I would if I liked the end results. I have a couple of other things I want to try, just need to draw the pattern.

Tell me what you think. I love comments.

Bren

It's Thursday and A Few Pics

2009-03-12T07:37:00.005-05:00

It's Thursday already. Where has the time gone? It's cold today, but the weather man says it will warm up. I'm still looking for Spring around the corner. My back is finally feeling more like it's back to normal. Not sure if I told you last week or not, But we were laid off from our jobs. Both of us. This is only to be a temporary lay off, not sure when we'll return to work. Thinking maybe next week. I've taken advantage of the time off and tried to do some Spring cleaning. I've finished the closets and major dusting. Whew! And I've tried to do a little crafting.
I've finished Tulip Time a freebie offered by Betty at http://www.primitivebettys.blogspot.com/ . It was fun to stitch up and kept me thinking Spring is on it's way.
The bunny pillow is one I did a while back, it's one of my favorites. And I tend to leave it out, not just during the Spring time.
An old ceramic roaster I filled with grungy easter eggs, my chocolate bunnies, and fabric carrots sits in front of a little quilt top I made. And the basket of ivy, I made the basket a long time ago, but it too is one of my favs.
I have a few more things I'm working on. Some bunny bowl fillers. I felt creative yesterday and drew a little bunny on some muslin, stitched it up and am now making it look grungy. If I like the results I post a pic later. And I'll organize a few things in the sewing corner today.
Hope you are all having a Great week. Until later.........

Simply A Saturday

2009-03-07T16:21:00.003-06:00

Just another Saturday. A little cooler than the past couple of days and a light rain has set in. It was to be raining all day, so glad that it hasn't though. It's been dreary and cool.
After 3 visits to the chiro this past week I think my back is going to be alright. Just a little twinge every now and then.
You might notice some "New" little graphics on my side bar. I LOVE them! I searched and couldn't find what I wanted, so I called in a Pro. Jenn over at http://www.thevillagepeddler.blogspot.com/ is fantastic with graphics. I told her what Iwas trying to find and Wa Laaaaaaa! Thanks Jenn, your'e the best!
I've been stitching a little today. And of course the usual domestic goddess chores had to be done.
I'm sorry this isn't much of a post. Not much going on here today, but wanted to post something.
Have a Happy Weekend!!

Thursday News & Finished Goods

2009-03-05T07:14:00.004-06:00

Good Morning Blog Land Friends!!! I think I'm recovered from jet lag, lol. But, have been down in the back. I did something last Saturday, not quite sure what, other than bending over to pick up one of the girls. Anyway, I was in pain most of the weekend, hubby took me to the chiro first thing Monday morning, and found I had 2 collasped discs, YUCK!! Had a treatment and was sent home to lay flat on my back, not fun and I'm not a back sleeper! Went back yesterday and the chiro reset my rib, OUCH! Well, atleast I can breathe and it doesn't hurt now, but my back is so sore. I hope it gets better as time goes by, I do feel better than I did just not 100%.

I did finish some of the stitching I had been working on. All 3 are Stacy Nash designs, love her primitive cross stitch designs. The framed stitchery is a Skeleton Tree, lov it. Then there is Sarah's Hanging Pinkeep and Emma and her pony sewing roll. All stitched up fast. I have another one to start, maybe I'll work on it today while I'm still restricted on what I can do. No reaching up, and no pushing, pulling, or dragging.

The weather is warming up, already in the 40's this morning. And they say in the upper 50's maybe 60's. A few nice days, and rain in the forecast. then of course cold weather in the future. Where oh where is Spring? I've seen a robin in the yard, can spring be just around the corner?

What's on your plate today? Is it warm in your neighborhood? What are you crafting?

Thank you for stopping by and visiting my blog. I love your comments, so don't forget to leave one so I know you were here. Comments always make my day!

Prim Blessings

Home

2009-02-28T07:41:00.003-06:00

After a long flight, we made it home. So nice to be here, you know that feeling you get after being gone a while and you arrive back home and walk in. Jet lag has set in. By the time we arrived home we had already been up over 24 hours. And then you need to unwind. After relaxing and unwinding it hits you. So it will take a few days to get back on schedule.
Today I will go get the girls and see if they remember me, lol. I'm anxious to see what they do when they see us. Will they remember, will they be mad, will they be ready to come home, lol?
And of course there is no food in the house, so a stop at the store is first in order after that. So with that I'll leave you for now. I'll post again later after I've returned .
Have a Great Day!

Departure Time Has Come

2009-02-26T11:21:00.002-06:00

The time has come for us to depart and return to the real world. We spent yesterday picking up last minute items at the Aloha Swap Meet at the Stadium and saying our goodbyes to our friends there. We connected with our friends from San Francisco that arrived on Tuesday, having coffee and walking around the market place in Waikiki. A few last minute goodbyes and back to our condo to think about getting packed.
Now packing and hoping to not be overweight! And waiting for time to head to the airport. It's cool and very windy here today. But those winds will make for a nice tail wind on the way home helping to push us along.
I'm hoping the weather will be decent when we get there, not in the cold, cold, cold digits anyway, lol.
and so, We say Aloha Nui Loa to Hawaii.....until we meet again.

Aloha, and see ya back on the Mainland!

Countdown to Home

2009-02-23T22:37:00.002-06:00

The time grows near for us to return to the cold and frozen tundra we call home. Am I ready? NO! But yes, does that make sense to you. I am not ready to leave the warm tropical weather, not ready to return to work and driving in the cold frozen weather, but I do miss the girls. I fear they will have forgotten me by the time I get back. I've called home to check on them, and I know they are being very well cared for. And of course you always miss your own home, it just needs to be here, along the beach, lol. So we will spend our last few days saying goodbye to our friends, eating one last time at the Shrimp truck and eating apple bananas one last time. Then we'll board the plane for the long flight back to the mainland.
I have no pictures to post today!! I did have, we're not sure what happened to them. I went to download them to the computer and it said the disc needed to be formatted again, and by doing that I would lose my pictures. Hubby tried to solve the problem, but I had no choice but to reformat it. Well it was no big deal, I had taken a few pictures of some of the different trees here on the Island. I thought you might be interested to see, but then again, maybe not, lol.
I took a little time to update my blog. I thought it was time for a different header picture. Well, since I didn't have a really neat one like some of you have (where do you get those anyway), I used one of my own. It won't be there long, lol. I'll search for a better one!
I hope you are all warm, healthy, and happy! Don't forget to leave me a comment, I love hearing from you.
Aloha................until we meet again

Just another day in Paradise

2009-02-17T10:46:00.003-06:00

No real plans for our day yesterday, so we hopped in the car and set out for whatever struck our fancy. We stopped for breakfast at hubby's favorite place, McDonald's, LOL.

Makapu'u Beach, a favorite beach for the locals for Boogie boarding. You can see Rabbit Island in the background. and you might be able to see Turtle Island in the background to the left, so named because it looks like a turtle. Also where Turtle Bay is located.

A stop at my favorite beach, Sandys Beach. Also the beach where President Obama went body surfing. But I go for the relaxation, and looking for treasures. Our daughter and son-in-law will remember this beach. Son-in-law and I found lots of treasures when we were there.

The Byodu In Temple. Located in the Valley of the Temples. It's really beautiful. Peaceful and serene in it's setting.

The scenery along the way. this is actually part of Kualoa Ranch. Lots of activities to do on the ranch. Horse back riding, movie set tours and so on. The TV show Lost is filmed on this property as well as some scenes from a few popluar movies have been shot here.

This was the sunrise yesterday morning taken from our lanai. Our weather has been warm but breezy. Today, Big Surf expected on the North shore so we will go take a look. We had a rain shower last night. So while it rained, I watched from the lanai while I finished up a cross stitch project.

Hope you are all having a Great day.

Mahalo (Thank You) for visiting my blog. Leave me a comment so I'll know you were here, and I love your comments!

Aloha Nui Loa............With much love

Aloha Kakahiaka--Good Morning

2009-02-15T10:53:00.004-06:00

Good Morning from the Islands. It's breezy this morning, but nice. A quiet morning, I've been whale watching from the lanai and gathering my thoughts. We have no plans for today, it's the beginning of the Nascar season and hubby has plans for watching the race. So, I'll use my time to visit your blogs and leave a comment which I haven't done much of recently. Not that I haven't visited them lately, I just haven't taken the time to post you a comment.

While on Maui, I went to the Maui Quilt Shop. A cute little shop, with lots of great fabric crammed in a small space. I purchased the quilt kit pictured below. The pic doesn't do the batik fabric justice. It's a 2 fabric applique quilt. Something new for me and I'm excited to start it. I have plans for it to hang in my bathroom. The pattern is from the Pacific Rim Quilt Company. they hav a site http://www.prqc.com/ if you wanna take a peek.

I also took some time this morning to get my ipod straightened out. I have always had my daughter help me with this, because for some reason I have a mental handicap when it comes to ipods, lol. Well, she's not here, and my ipod didn't work! Wouldn't do a thing, I thought it needed charged , still didn't work. Well, I ended up going on line, reading the manual and TaDa! It works again, amazing what you can do if you read the directions. And, I even learned how to take off the songs I didn't want on there anymore and put different ones on. So proud of myself, lol. Want to download a few new ones to add. Maybe a little Island style music.
Well, that's it from the south Pacific this morning. I hope you have a Great Sunday. I think a walk on the beach and maybe some beach combing are on the agenda for me today.
Leave me a comment................I love hearing from you! Even though I miss family, friends and the girls (Maile and Sofie), I already don't wanna come home. It happens everytime, lol.

A hui hou..........................until we meet again.

Happy Valentines Day with Aloha

2009-02-14T10:43:00.002-06:00

Happy Valentines Day with Aloha! In case you didn't know, Aloha means Love. I've posted a couple of pics of some beautiful Hawaiian flowers for you. The first one is of the Hawaiian Shell Ginger, one of my favorites and then a beautiful orchid. I hope you all have a Great Valentines Day.

Congratulations to hubby's little brother and his love.............he popped the question!!!

Until later........................Hugs and Kisses

Whatcha Workin' on Wednesday in Maui

2009-02-11T23:54:00.002-06:00

Well, today I worked on my tan. We are Island hopping, that's what they call it here, and we landed on Maui. You board the plane, take off, level out, and begin your descent. A very short flight between the islands. We arrived and checked in to our hotel, The Pioneer Inn in Lahaina on the waterfront. A quaint and very cozy inn. Next on the agenda a whale watching cruise with The Pacific Whale Foundation. We went on this same whale watching cruise last year and throughly enjoyed it. I'm posting a couple of pics.

This was taken on our way back to the harbor, and it appears the whales are heading right for the boat. Near as we could tell it was a mother, a calf (baby whale) and an escort. The baby whale, a brand "New" 2009 model as our guide said, is probably just days old. And the escort, the next wanna be Daddy.

It's awesome when they surface and you can hear the air and see the spout. And then you see the whale gracefully come up out of the water. And if you're lucky you might see a tail. We did see tails, and fins. We were lucky enough to see them breach (jump out of the water) and slap their fins on the surface, many times in a row.

Remember you can click on the pictures to see them full size. It was a beautiful day for a whale watch, despite the one who got sick on our boat.

We met the nicest, cutest couple in our group. Yvonne and Ronald from Zurich, Switzerland. They sat in the front with us. They are on Holiday around the world. A stop here in the Islands and then on to the mainland. We wish them safe travels and look forward to hearing from them soon. And I'll check their blog for the latest updates on the trip.

We'll be heading back to Oahu and our beachside condo tomorrow. They had a tornado on Oahu today, not anywhere near where we stay, but very rare here. More rain and gusty winds are headed for the islands and this weekend could get very windy. Hope you are all warm and cozy, enjoying the nice weather that has been there since we left. It always does that, lol.

Until next time..........Aloha

Lions, Tigers and Pro Bowl Football

2009-02-07T21:51:00.003-06:00

Aloha once again. This was such a hard post to decide what I wanted to show you, I have so many pics and wish you could see them all, lol. We went into Waikiki yesterday.
With the Pro Bowl here in the Islands for the big game tomorrow, which did get sold out so will be televised here locally, there is always a big fun day at the park. Meet some of the players, get autographs, and be entertained by the mascots. There is always local entertainment at the bandshell, and this year the group "Kapena" performed. They have been a favorite of ours since we first heard them, and we have gotten to know the group so it was good to talk to them again. And of course we took in the sights around Waikiki, too. Maybe some of you have heard of the "Royal Hawaiian Hotel", one of the oldest hotels on the Island. Pink in color and Grand on the inside, a must see if you are ever here.

The "Royal Hawaiian" was one of the first things travelers would see approaching the Islands.

Ae you ready for some Football???!!! Lots of fun at the park. Tonight a Block Party in Waikiki, the streets are closed down to traffic. Food tents with some of the most fabulous food you'll ever eat are in the streets. As well as band stages throughout, 5 stages this year and awesome music at each one. It's always hard to decide which one you want to go to and how long to stay so you don't miss someone else.

Can you see me?? LOL! The mascots are so much fun. They have to be sweltering in those costumes out there in the sun. But they some how endure and entertain everyone. And if you're not careful, you too may be part of their entertainment!

Aren't they cute!!! The new Sumatran Tiger cubs at the Honolulu Zoo. We always go to the zoo. It's relaxing, lots of animals, even a petting zoo for the Keiki (children), but I also like the petting zoo! We enjoy it all and go often.

So, there you have it. The Lions, Tigers and Football in the Islands this weekend. I hope you are all having a Great weekend. So far I am......I spent a good part of the day at the beach soaking up some much needed sun. And I see the temps on the mainland have warmed up a bit.

Until next time.....................Sunny Hugs

Fun in The Sun

2009-02-05T23:35:00.002-06:00

Aloha from the South Pacific! A gorgeous day here today, in the 70's, startedoff with a few clouds and then sunshine all around. We drove to the local fruit stand for fresh pineapple, yum, sweet and juicy.
We spent some time on the beach today. I looked for shells, my favorite thing to do on the beach. And I did find a few nice ones. Most of the shells that make it shore are small, the bigger ones get broken up on the reef by the surf before they can get to shore. And we saw this little sand crab in the picture above, look hard he's in there. Sorta look between the grass. See him now?

And, a Man of War Jellyfish, pictured above. Just glad I saw him before one of us stepped on him. Even though it's not in the water it's still able to sting you. I have never been stung by one and don't want to experience it either. I remember the first time I ever saw one, it was described to me as a piece of purple bubble gum floating in the water, but the stinging tentacles are really long under water.

We stopped at Waimea Bay. They have cultural Activities, a waterfall, native hawaiian plants, lots to do and see. It's really an amazing place. When we drove in this peacock had just perched itself on the hood of this car. Hawaiian style hood ornament, lol. I'm planning on going back next week, they let you get involved in the making of hawaiian crafts and have a demo of Kapa Cloth, made from the bark of the mulberry tree. You get to make a piece of cloth. I want to try this, so will go back next week one day.

A message for someone back on the mainland. And after the tide came in it was gone.

We are enjoying this much needed vacation. It's nice to see old friends. We always feel like we've just come home when we are here.

Hope you all are warm and safe. Keep thinking spring. More later.

Until then...........................Aloha

Aloha My Friends

2009-02-04T09:31:00.004-06:00

Aloha. Now the "Secret" destination is out. We are in the Islands for our getaway. Even though it has been cloudy and rainy the temps are in the 70's. I'm not complaining, I know it's been in the single digits back home. We are in the "country" part of the Island. As we usually stay in Waikiki, this time we are on the North side of the Island. It's very quiet and peaceful. Our condo is right on the beach. Here's a picture of the view from our Lanai (balcony).

The sounds of the ocean are very soothing and relaxing. We spent the day in Waikiki yesterday, seeing old friends and checking out what's changed since we were here last. The newest thing, Jimmy Buffet has opened a grill in Waikiki, of course it's called Margaritaville. Fit's right in with the Island flavor. It was Great to see all our friends and catch up on each others lives. My friend Judy is no longer on the Island, she moved to Seattle, and it seem strange her not being here, I miss her.

Short post today, I have many blogs to read and catch up on. Today no real plans, whatever. I will take more pics to post for you later. I hope you all are warm and safe.

Wishing you all a Great Day. Until later.......Aloha

Friday, Fabric, Floss, and Flying Away

2009-01-30T17:46:00.003-06:00

Happy Friday! A cold but sunny day, temps I think were in the upper 20's and the sun felt warm. A short work week for the both of us, we are preparing to take off on vacation. To a much warmer climate. I'm so ready.....I'm not a cold weather person. And I don't enjoy driving in the bad weather. So a break will be welcomed. And maybe it'll be spring already when we return, lol. One can hope, right. So the preparations have been made for the trip, bags packed, the "Girls" (the dogs) have gone to the sitter. Or to "Boarding School" as hubby calls it. And we are ready!

I have been productive! The little pinkeep is a free pattern by The Sampler Girl for a group I joined. It stitched up very quick and I decided to make a little pinkeep, it could very easily have been framed and just as prim looking. It's stitched on Osnaburg. And the Scissors Case with the wool pennies on it was a very easy and quick pattern to stitch up. Not much, but something considering all the other things I got done domestically, lol.

Hoping you are all warm and cozy. Be sure to check back for pics of vacation......the destination is "Secret" for now.

Until Later....................Blessings

Simply Stitching, Stitch with Me

2009-01-27T09:43:00.003-06:00

I'm so addicted to this prim sampler stitching! As soon as I get one done I want to start another. This is a Freebie pattern from http://www.primitivebettys.com/ . I love how it turned out. It stitched up so quick and easy, perfect for my Valentine tree. I stitched it on Osnaburg fabric, I love how primitive it makes it look, then stained and baked it awhile, stuffed it and made a hanger from strips of torn fabric. I attached the hanger using rusty safety pins, and added an old button to the front.

So what are you stitching? Grab your needle and floss, some fabric and a design and come stitch with me. It's so relaxing, and a great way to lift your spirits when you see the finished result. So, this made for a bright spot in my day.

I've been spending some time visiting blogs of other prim sisters, leaving a comment here and there. Checking on what's been happening in your days. And I've been visiting some "new" and interesting blogs. A "New" year and the making of "new" friends.

Thanks for stopping by and visiting my sometimes not so interesting blog. Love your comments.

Have a Great Day. Until next time.............Blessings

Here Comes the EaSter BuNnY

2009-01-24T07:41:00.003-06:00

Good Morning Blog land friends! It's a cold morning here, the temp said a BIG Zero, and I don't wanna know the wind chill. I'll just tell ya it's cold out there, thought I was gonna freeze taking the girls out this morning.

Since I was up before the crack of dawn I got busy on the BuNny project. Stitched up a few bunnies and started the stuffing process. I got so excited about seeing what they would look like when they were done, I went ahead and grunged one of them up. I think he turned out pretty good. Check out the pic. And that's Emma's Sampler I finished up last night. I'm happy with how it turned out, too. The BuNnY project is a free pattern I got last year from http://www.tennesseeridgeprimitives.com/. I never got around to getting to it. I should have after seeing how cute they are gonna be. And too easy to make. So, I'll finish up the others and then find something else.

Not planning on much today. It's too cold to go out. Tell me what you think about the bunnies. Have a Great Day!

Until next time...........BuNnY BlEsSiNgS

Find Me Friday

2009-01-23T20:17:00.002-06:00

And you would find me at home. Today was a good day. a trip to town for the usual errands and a trip to the Chiro. Chinese for lunch from our favorite Chinese restaurant and back home.
I worked on finishing my sampler I was working on, stained it and framed it. I think it came out pretty well. Can't wait to start on something else. I think my project while I'm home is to be some bunny bowl filler ornies. And again this will be a team effort. I'll do my part the sewing and stuffing and hand them off to Team member #2 for her part in the painting. It's really a fun way to do it, she's not the sewer and I'm not the painter, but we both get what we want in the end. I'll post a pic of my Sampler tomorrow.
The weather is turning colder against my wishes. And maybe a little snow coming our way? Oh, how I wish it were over already.
Stay warm, dry and cozy until next time.

A Day of History

2009-01-20T17:07:00.003-06:00

Here we are, Tuesday already. We unloaded in Indiana this morning and hubby had to go to Michigan to pick up a reload and I headed back to the terminal. And in the morning we'll head back out for Indiana again. Atleast we know where we're going, lol. And it's not Maryland.
Today was a day for the history books. Our first African-American President took Office. I listened to it on the radio. Did you watch or listen to it? And what were your feelings? Truly a day to remember.
I'm going to work on my stitchery tonight. I want to get it finished and start another one. I've been looking for more patterns. I just love Stacy Nash's patterns. Do any of you know of others that I might like and need to go check out? Let me know.
How's your week going? Hope you have been creative and productive. What's your latest project?
Thanks for visiting my blog, and leaving me your comments. Makes my day.
Until next time.....................Blessings

Sunday and it's Snowing

2009-01-18T18:54:00.002-06:00

Yep, again with the snow. We headed north this morning and even had a bit of sunshine. So much for that. We encountered a little freezing drizzle and then snow. It's still snowing, one of those we aren't supposed to get much but only morning will tell. Kind of bummed me out. I'm really tired of cold and snow, who isn't, huh? I'm truly a fair weather flat lander, lol. Just give me good weather and I'm fine, but cold and snow and I'd rather stay home warm and cozy and sew.
Anyway, we unload in the morning. Just down the road and then head back to the terminal for a load that goes to Indiana, turn around and head right back for a load that goes to Maryland. It snows alot in Maryland. Ok, so not looking forward to this next week. Cross your fingers for good weather for us.
Almost have my stitching done. Can't wait to start on something else. Hope you all had a Great weekend. We got to stop and see the kids for a short while. Made for a good weekend for us.
Until next time............Warm wishes and blessings

My Traveling Home

2009-01-17T05:03:00.003-06:00

Good Morning all my blog land friends. It's a cold one here in Georgia again, woke up to 15 degrees, pretty cold for here. I know it's not as cold as back home though, and if you're in that cold weather, stay warm and cozy until it's passed by.

We unloaded in Seneca, S.C. yesterday. I posted a couple of pics of our trucks. And reloaded in Cartersville, Ga for back home. Took all day to get loaded though, hate that. On our way back north we'll stop and see the kids tonight. That's always a fun stop, for us and them. The girls love playing with the boys as much as they love playing with them. And the boys love to get in our trucks and talk back and forth to each other on the radios, lol.

While sitting to load I did have some time to work on my stitching. I'ts coming along nicely, maybe I'll get it finished while we're stopped.

All that time sitting yesterday made me think I need to "Prim my Pad", lol. Kinda like "Trick my Truck" only prim it up a bit. Not sure what I can do though, lol. For those who have never seen the inside of a big truck I'm posting a couple of pics of my traveling home. And it is indeed my home away from home. Driving a Big Rig is not a glamourous job by any means, and some times I don't like it at all. But I do love to travel and see the country, and I would not have seen what I have so far if not for this job. I sometimes wish for more time at home, with friends, and more time at my sewing machine. wonder how I could fit one in here, lol. But I do what I can, when I can, and make the best of it. I guess the best part of this job is getting to stop and see friends we have made all over the states, even if only for a short visit.

I hope you're off to a Great Saturday. I know we are. Leave me a comment if you have any ideas or suggestions for my making my home prim, lol. I love to know you stopped by and visited my little corner of blog land.

Until later.......................Blessings

Time to Stitch

2009-01-15T18:23:00.004-06:00

We headed out Wednesday, after the snow had stopped and my trailer was loaded. Once we were out of town the roads weren't as bad as I had thought they would be. We made our way south and the roads cleared up after a relatively short way, Thank goodness. So today has been "just another Thursday". Sunshine was abundant, but the temps have been cool. Here in Georgia tonight it's 32 degrees, but going to get down to zero.

I have a little time tonight to work on my stitchery. I'm getting excited about getting it done and I think I'll frame this one. And I'm already thinking about what I will stitch next.

Not a very exciting post this evening, I apologize for that, but still am glad you come to visit and leave me a comment.

Have a Great Friday! Stay wam and cozy.

Until later.....................Hugs

The View from my Window

2009-01-14T07:58:00.002-06:00

Good Snowy Morning! The view from my window this morning is snow white. We left home last night to drive to the terminal since we live a distance away, thinking it would be better to be here with the trucks ready. So here we are, waiting for it to quit snowing and the roads to get in decent shape before we set out. My trailer isn't even loaded yet. I'm posting a few pics of what I see from my window. If you look close in one of the photos you'll see hubby's truck in the background, he's going over to hook his trailer. It's 7 degrees right now, earlier it was 14 degrees, so brrrrrrr. The snow is deep enough the girls had a hard time walking through it, so I had to trample it down a bit for them to be able to take care of business, lol.

I also posted a pic of my next cross stitch project. It's a Free pattern by Stacy Nash, you can get it over at Patternmart. and check out baskets n prims blog, she did the same one and has hers finished. And she is a very talented gal, check out her goodies shes made.

Hoping you all have a Great day! Whatever you do I hope it's creative, productive and warm and cozy.

Until later.............warm hugs

Stitch with me & A Giveaway

2009-01-13T14:47:00.004-06:00

My latest creation. This prim stitching is addicting, but be warned cheater glasses and all you may go blind, LOL. Not really, but they are tiny little stitches. I'm loving it though, not sure how well I can do it in the truck. Maybe I can attach a book light to my hoop. Anyone ever tried that? Well, the lighting isn't always great in the truck, especially for tiny little things. I want more to do. this has a piece of fabric for hanging attached with rusty pins. Not sure you can see that in the pic, but a great idea for attaching the hanger.

And a Giveaway to tell you about! The Village Peddler is giving away a Custom Blog Header! I've seen her work and she's awesome, I've also known her most of her life, lol. Hop on over to her blog at http://www.thevillagepeddler.blogspot.com/ to get entered.

Cold and Windy Tuesday

2009-01-13T09:09:00.003-06:00

A very cold morning here, and below zero wind chills doesn't make it a pleasant day. I'm planning on staying in and keeping warm. I finished my little cross stitch I was working on, as soon as I'm finished with the staining and baking I'll post a pic. Now I want more patterns! but I'm having trouble finding a resource other than patternmart. Patternmart has some nice patterns, but most are Christmas and I'm wanting something springy or more everyday type. I really need to run to the store and get some linen to work on so my eyes won't be so buggy, lol. I've been working on the bag I had started, but the lining doesn't want to cooperate, so I put it aside for awhile again.
So, what are you working on? And are you knee deep in snow and frigid temps?
We leave out tomorrow for South Carolina, hoping to go south out of the cold and snowy weather and then head east. I'll work today on getting my goody bag ready to take with me.
Where ever you are stay warm and safe. Wishing you a productive day.
Hugs, Bren

Simply Satisfying Sunday

2009-01-11T17:45:00.004-06:00

Sunday....a day to rest and catch up. And that I did. I just dinked around the house, did a little laundry, worked on a few crafty things. Put a roast in the crock pot for supper. Yummy, the smell is intoxicating, lol. You know what I mean, as it's almost done and your taste buds taste it before it's even on your plate. And the girls got their bath, and as usual I got one in the process, lol.

I'm posting a few pics. One is of the mountain in Flagstaff, Az., as we were coming in to town from the west we could see it in the distance and the snow tops were beautiful. Hubby snapped the pic for me since my camera was not in reach. My new project I'm working on, prim cross stitch on osnaburg. Basketpam, suggested to give it a try. I like it, she just didn't tell me I'd go blind doing those tiny little stitches, lol. But I can't stop! My Valentine tree and the girls looking pretty.

We still don't know where we will be headed this week. Hopefully somewhere warm as it's going to get bitterly cold. By the end of the week it's suppose to be way below zero! I want to be way down south, lol.

Hoping you all had a Great weekend.

Until later........................Warm Hugs

Home Safe and Sound

2009-01-09T19:32:00.002-06:00

Home again, Home again. How sweet it is. Well, I woke up this morning to SNOW!! That nasty white stuff. I waited until daylight and made my way into Chicago. Starting out the roads were just wet, no problem. Then a traffic back up and slush on the road, most of the way for the last 20 miles were at 5 to 15 mph. I was 2 hours in traffic. Since the roads were bad I guess it was a good thing we all had to go slow. I made it to my drop off point, unloaded and headed home empty. The roads were just wet by the time I headed out of town, I made it back to the home terminal and waited for hubby's return from Mn. He also encountered some weather issues, but mostly just wet roads. We unloaded our bags into the car and headed home. It's nice to be here, but I feel exhausted!
We don't know where we will be heading next. So will just relax a couple of days. I have an eye doctor appt. in the morning and a chiro appt. on Monday morning. I have a bag I was working on before we left and want to get back to it, need more interfacing so will pick that up tomorrow. And want to find that exciting next project to fill my goody bag with.
I have some pics of our last trip to get downloaded and posted for you. I will try to work on that tomorrow.
I want you all to know I really appreciate you stopping by my blog. And I so enjoy the comments. It's always a bright spot in my day.
Later.

A Short Note

2009-01-08T19:09:00.002-06:00

Happy Thursday to all out there in blog land. I'm back in the north, praying it doesn't snow until I'm empty in Chicago and back at the terminal waiting for hubby. It seems like it's been such a long week and it really hasn't. I haven't gotten much done on the stitcheries I brought with me. I guess I'm looking for something more exciting to work on. What are you working on? Inspire me.
Not much here, just driving. Hope you all have had a Great week so far.
Until later..........Warm hugs

Express Me to Vegas

2009-01-05T07:57:00.003-06:00

Greetings and Salutations from Las Vegas. We started our journey here on Friday the 2nd of January, making our way south thru Illinois into Missouri on into Kansas. Saturday morning as we left in the dark and continued on we saw several falling stars out across the prairie, passed through Liberal Kansas, Dorothy's home and on into Oklahoma, Texas and New Mexico. We crossed into Arizona and did encounter some snow around Flagstaff, the roads not being too terrible we ventured on. Kingman was our stop for the night, We arrived in Vegas early Sunday, and relaxed until this morning and time to unload. Both unloaded with no problems, hubby has a reload for home and I'm still empty. So we continue to wait until morning and the possiblity of a load for me too. Time will tell. It's cool here in Vegas, only in the 40's today.
Hope you all had a Great weekend and may your week ahead be a creative and productive one. I have a stitchery I'm working on.
Until next time..............Blessings

Happy New Year 2009

2009-01-01T10:11:00.002-06:00

Did you all stay up to usher in the New Year? Not me, lol, don't usually. It always comes whether I'm up or not, so I just let it do it's thing. I'm not making any resolutions either, don't seem to be able to hold up to them. Someone else said they made promises instead, I like that idea so I think I might try that. I'll start with, I promise to be a better blogger.

With that being said, I've been trying to give my blog a facelift. The pic at the top as my header is of a few of my favorite things. An old trunk my Aunt had given me years ago and I had refurbished. Quilts I have made, baskets I have made, rugs I have made and a couple of pillows I stitched. But the pic doesn't fit the space, arrggghhh! Ok, so I still have to learn how to do this right, lol. Give me credit for trying.

I've been going through my stash and found a couple of stitcheries I want to do for Valentines day. A purse I've been putting off making, cause I thought it was too complicated, and I found the fabric I need to complete my rug. I'm posting a pic of the last rug I'm working on, just a couple of rows and it's done.

So nothing much here today. Doing my domestic chores in preperation of the Express pulling out in the morning. We'll be headed in a southwesterly direction.

Enjoy your day. It's a beautiful sunny, but cold start to the New Year here.

Until we meet again.......Blessings

New Year, New Project

2008-12-30T19:29:00.003-06:00

I hope you all had a Wonderful Christmas. We were fortunate enough to spend several days with our grandsons and had a blast. On my last post I had said I would be around more, giggle, well I never even got online! We were just having too much fun.I did get the binding on one of my quilts and I made another crocheted rug using fabric. Those are so fun and relaxing. So now it's time for?, not sure what. It's a New year, or almost and I'm searching for something to do next. My bag of goodies to take along is empty. I'm open to suggestions if you have any. I have a couple of days home before we start rolling again. And I'm planning on making a trip to town tomorrow. So if I need supplies for my next project I can pick them up, but gotta have a project.

The snow is all gone, and it was 40 degrees today. But tonight the winds are howling, the temps are dropping and the lights are flickering. I've lit some candles in case we lose power. The weather man says it going to be cold tomorrow and then on New Years day it will start getting warmer. We'll be home for New Years and then be heading to the Southwest. While I'm home I have some catching up to do, reading all your blogs, posting a comment here and there and visiting my favorite board. I Love this little blog land we are all in, I look forward to you stopping by and checking out my adventures both in my travels and my crafts. And I'll be checking to see what you are all working on too. Thanks for stopping by, I've met some of the nicest people through my blog and hope to meet more in the New Year.

The Christmas Express

2008-12-24T05:39:00.002-06:00

We started the week heading south, toward warmer weather. We had good roads, thank goodness. Well, it wasn't that warm in the south. And we were down in the Gulf by Biloxi, Mississippi. But it wasn't the sub zero weather and the wind chills they were having to deal with back home. After making our destination and unloading we were sent back north towards our Christmas stop.
Up early and on the road, alittle bit of rain, temps were cold but we did ok. The phone rings..........it was the oldest grandson(he's 5) he said "are you driving?' of course I said yes, "to our house?" again yes, "how long before you get here?" I tired to give him as close a guess as I could on our arrival time. Next the youngest one gets on, "what's taking so long!?" by this time I'm in stitches over the excitement of these two and wishing I had recorded this phone call.....it was priceless! From then on time stood still or so it seemed, giggle. Just knowing they couldn't wait for us to get there. We arrived, they were excited, the pups were excited, giggle. An afternoon of just hanging out, a pot of spaghetti and homemade sauce for supper, Yum, Yum.
Today we'll be baking cookies to leave for Santa. And whatever else we can think of. Planning on a fun filled day, hope you are too.
The Express will be stopped here for the Holidays, to enjoy time with our family. I wish you all a Holly Jolly Christmas. Enjoy your families, friends and traditions.

Until Later.....................Hugs

Where oh Where

2008-12-19T17:57:00.002-06:00

Where oh Where has the Express been? Over the snow and thru the fog! We started out the week with snow, the roads were patchy covered. Tuesday morning and we were off again the roads were much better, thru Illinois, into Kentucky where they had some snow and don't normally get much so they aren't the greatest about cleaning the roads. but we endured! Into Tennessee and drizzle and light rain, but the temps were good. On into Alabama, the temps were rising the rain was increasing and the fog was thick. We unloaded on Wednesday morning in Alabama, hubby had a second drop, so I made my way to a truck stop and fueled up and grabbed a sandwich. Our reload was back in Kentucky, so off we headed North. Fog and rain, temps were good. Into Tennessee, the temps dropping, still drizzle and fog. Best part we got to sop and have supper with the kids, a surprise for them, fun for us. Woke up to fog and drizzle, no surprise there! The roads were good, so off we go to pick up our loads, we got loaded and made it all the way back to Iowa before the weather turned bad. Thank goodness!!!

So after unloading this morning and getting back to our terminal, the roads were slushy in spots and snow packed in spots, we picked up our next load and headed for home. Just stopping by to pick up some things and head out in the morning.

We'll be heading south again into warmer weather and leaving before the next storm blows in. And on the way back we'll stop by the kids for Christmas and a few days off. Looking forward to that. Have some fun family things planned, baking cookies to leave for Santa for one, giggle. Not being the bad weather driver that hubby is, I have really had a pretty good week and endured with a minimum of stress, Thanks to him. I was really hoping for a mild winter, giggle.

I hope you have all had a Great week, have been warm and safe, and are gearing up for your Holiday Gatherings.

Thanks to all who stop by my blog, even though sometimes it's not very interesting. And I love your commemts! Like I said before, it makes me feel I have contact with intelligent life form. Consider what I sometimes have to compare it to! Giggle.

Check back often, nexst week I will have more atime to post.

Until then....................................Warm hugs

Woo Hoo A Package at My Door!!

2008-12-13T14:32:00.002-06:00

Happy Saturday! A little warmer out this morning, but it means some rain coming in and then colder temps and snow.

I was up early this morning and off to the store. Got that taken care of and upon returning home but what did I find on my back door?! A package! Seems as thought the elves from down the road had visited my house. OMGosh, what a Great package I found. The cutest little snowman plate and the most adorable ornie. The little ornie is a lollipop made from needle punch, how clever is that! I'd like to Thank that elf from down the road, PammyJo, you are the best! Check out the pics of my goodies. And I'm also posting pics of my snowman runner completed, yes I said completed and my gingers. Aren't they cute, I just love em.

Hope you are all having a Great day. I'll post more later.

Until then........................Warm Fuzzy Hugs

Express Update

2008-12-12T18:42:00.002-06:00

I can't believe I didn't have time for a post all week!! Well, it's been a busy week. As you know we headed south, Florida to be exact. An uneventful trip down and the weather was of course nice when we got there. So, we unloaded and waited for a load. Hubby was sent to north of Atlanta and I was sent to the west side of Georgia. Off we went, I had planned my stop for about halfway to my reload point as there were not many places to stay and nothing in the town I was going to. Made it there, and it had started raining, then thunderstorms and lighting and downpours. Next morning it's still raining, I'm off towards my reload point and it gets worse. The wind is blowing, things flying in the air, little twigs, leaves and other debris on my truck, water on the roads. Just great, hubby calls and says how ya doin', I say ok I guess, my tractor is in the left lane and my trailer is in the right lane, he says well you're doin' ok then, giggle. Oh, I made it there and got loaded, it stopped raining and the sun came out. So<>
Well, we're home now. It's cold here, but suppose to warm up and rain, then turn to snow Sunday evening. We don't leave until Monday afternoon, so hopefully it'll be better by then.
I have a couple of pics I'll post tomorrow. Hoping for a productive day tomorrow.

Until then........................Warm Hugs

Southbound Express

2008-12-09T19:00:00.002-06:00

I'm keeping with the Express theme for a while as my grandkids think it's cool, giggle. So we are in the south. We slipped out of town before the bad weather got there, Thank goodness. So while it's snowing and blowing and cold back home we are in the southern part of Georgia and the temp was 70 degrees when we stopped. For those of you who are in the cold and snowy weather, I'm not rubbing it in, but I'm loving every minute of it, giggle. If it makes you feel any better, we will have to turn around and head back north where it's cold.

We will unload in the morning and then wait for a relaod and head back in a northerly direction. Back into reality. I have some things with me to work on if I get a minute. Some things I need to work on when I get back home, whenever that might be. And I'm in the mood to make another quilt.

I'll be popping around to other blogs to see what you all have been up to. It also makes me feel I have contact with other intelligient life form, giggle. Now that I'm ginger ornies are done I'm looking for inspiration for what to make next. Inspire me!

Until then.........................Prim Blessings

An Express Stop

2008-12-07T12:11:00.000-06:00

The Express has parked for a couple of days. Nice to be home, but as always it's too short of a stay, giggle. Seems I just get things sorted out and get ready and it's time to get going again. I've taken advantage of my time here to relax. Nothing exciting on the homefront, the usual domestic goddess chores, laundry, cooking, fa la la la.

A snow flurry every once in a while outside, still cold. The kind of cold that goes right through you. Hubby says tomorrow it's suppose to rain, so that means it will have to warm up! We'll be headed out tomorrow, to warmer weather. I'll finish what I can today and then get everything ready for travel.

I don't have much today, but wanted to pop on and post something. I'll be visiting others and leaving a comment here and there. Love reading everyone's posts and Thanks for visiting my blog and leaving me a comment.

As the Express gets ready to pull out, I'll be posting in a day or so.
Until then............................................Warm Hugs,

Frozen Express!!

2008-12-04T18:03:00.000-06:00

OMGosh it's cold!!! I think the temp right now is about 12 degrees. Last couple of days have been cold, cold, cold and yucky weather. Yesterday around Kansas City we ran into snow and crappy roads. Then woke up and looked out at 4:45 this morning and it was snowing! So needless to say the roads weren't all that great. And all this bad weather has had me thinking about my BIL (you know which one you are), He started a new job a couple of weeks ago and part of his job is snow removal. Just wondering if he put his expertise to use, giggle. Well we made it through and all is well. We are still in Minnesota and will reload in the morning and head back for the home terminal. And maybe home for a day, I can only hope. The girls need a bath and I have some sewing to do, giggle.

Hoping you all are warm and safe.

Until the Express rolls in again..........Warm hugs

The Express Rolls On

2008-12-02T11:06:00.000-06:00

Happy Tuesday! Greetings from the Ginger Man Express........as we merrily roll on, giggle.

We unloaded yesterday in Texas. Hubby had to go to Houston for a reload and I had a load to pick up in Ft. Worth. So off we went. I picked my load up yesterday afternoon and headed back to the truck stop and am waiting for hubby to come back by and we'll head north to Minnesota. We both deliver in the upper part of Minnesota on Friday.

So I've been working on the little Gingers while I wait. I am posting these pics of the progress. And of the Ginger Queen, giggle. Ha, Queen she's not, she's a thief! Everytime I turn my head she takes one and tries to hide it in the kennel. And it's not just her, it's her sister too! and they look so sweet and innocent, giggle.

The weather is in the 50's, but it's a cool 50. The wind has been blowing strong for the last couple of days and it's almost bone chilling. Very chilly for the south.

Hope you all are having a Great week.

Until the Express rolls in again.................Prim Blessings

Ginger Man Express

2008-11-30T18:52:00.000-06:00

Welcome aboard the Ginger Man Express, giggle. I'm totin' the little gingers with me and I stuffed a few this afternoon. I can't wait to get them finished and see how they all look.
We left home yesterday, headed south. All was well the first hundred miles or so, then we ran into rain. The rain turned to a mix of rain and snow, then snow, then rain and snow again. Cloudy, dreary, dark, you know the kind of day I'm talking about. The temps in the low 30's, but above the freezing mark although barely. By the time we stopped for the night we had ran out of the snow and the rain ended shortly after we stopped. I know we had snow at home just not sure how much or if it is still there. Maybe my BIL(you know who you are) will post me a comment and let me know the weather, giggle.
Here in the south it's in the low 50's, kinda cool, but I'll take this over snow anyday. Thinking about calling work tomorrow and just telling them I'll see them next spring, lol. Hoping you are warm and dry where ever you are.
Will find out what the week will be after we unload tomorrow. Check back to see where the next adventure will be.
Until then.....................Prim Blessings

A Finishing Friday

2008-11-28T18:24:00.000-06:00

I used my time today to "finish" up odds and ends. I'm not a die hard shopper, so I stayed home and let the ones who live for it, go for it. And after hearing on the evening news that a Wal-Mart worker was trampled in New York by shoppers today, it just reinforces why I don't go. How sad that someone has to lose their life over shopping.

I am loving my peppermint ornies that I teamed with my friend PammyJo on. We are so good. Well, I want more, giggle. More ornies that is. So I found the cutest little "prim" ginger man and set about making him a reality. I sewed one to see what he looked like finished, and then started a dozen more. I will cut them out and stuff them, take them along on this trip and hope to sew up the back and add either bells or buttons down his front. Isn't he a doll, giggle. My tag team partner and I are thinking our next project might be tree ornies. Hmmmmm, I wonder what could be after that?

It's back to the real world tomorrow for me. I've had a few good days at home. I have some of my shopping finished and a few more items to get. Hope you all had a wonderful turkey day, we did. Always eat too much! Have a Great week ahead!

Until later.....................Prim Ginger Blessings