Idle Time…and Chatter

I am still not able to move very well; walking still makes my leg numb so my day is spent at physical therapy, doing my exercises and lately, crocheting and knitting. I completed my shawl :

The pattern called for 2 pockets.  I think they are superfluous when being worn (and ,frankly, it is not real comfy to wear) and so I only used 1 pocket.  I added the ties to keep the darn thing on me.  I don’t think I would waste my time on something like this again.  I would look for something lacier and triangular.

I am also doing mindless crocheting:  wash cloths and pot holders.  I pulled out some scrap cotton yarn and made these:

I am expanding my horizons and going back to sewing very soon (like tomorrow!!).  I have found that sitting in front of my machine is not that difficult if I pace myself at cutting and ironing. 

Granny Time

Yes, I love my grandchildren but this is a little different.  Over at Meet Me at Mikes  Pip is making a granny square a day so I thought I would join her.  I haven’t started yet but here is a granny square blanket that I made a couple years ago:

I want to make the new one a little more colorful and I plan to try some different patterns.  I will post pictures as soon as I have a few.

Speaking of Granny Time I have not mentioned that my oldest, Adrienne and her husband Joe are expecting! She is due in early July and we are very excited.  Time for a new baby quilt!

Something New

At least this is new to me.

Except for going to physical therapy and 2 doctor appointments, I have not been out of the house for 3 weeks.  I do my exercises, I finished my knitted shawl and today I actually did some sewing although standing to cut and iron was tough.  So I have been doing a little retail therapy on line.

No fabric though.  Last week I picked up some notions at Shoppers Rule and today I picked up this stuff on Amazon .com.  Has anyone used this before?  There were no reviews but  it does look interesting. I also picked up this book:

My back is not hurting as badly as before but I am still unable to walk without a limp and numbness in my left leg. My physical therapist says that if there is not marked improvement by Friday, she is going to recommend an MRI to my doctor.  She is thinking I might have a slipped or herniated disc.  My husband thinks I need traction and bed rest.  As if I am not crazy enough.

Looking Forward to 2010

I was trying to think of a cute phrase for a title: something like “From Aching Back to Looking Forward”.  Back…Forward…never mind.

I have never been one for making -or keeping- New Year’s Resolutions but sitting here in pain the last week or so has  made me a little more introspective.

One thing that I have realized is just how lucky I am.  Everyone has been taking care of me and those that are not near have been checking in with me on the phone (Thank you Adrienne and Mimi!)

I also have to admit that I have an abundance of things in my life. This became more apparent while cleaning and re-doing our guest room.  I have too much stuff.  Lots was recycled to the thrift shop; some was guiltily thrown away; and still more is looking for a home in my sewing room.  The saddest part is that I spend more time looking for things than actually sewing. 

So I have decided that this year I plan on using more of what I have and not going to the fabric/quilt store when bored. I really want to say “I am going on a fabric diet this year and will not be buying any fabric.”  The diet will also include no snacking on patterns and unnecessary notions.  I will allow myself to buy thread, needles and batting as necessary.  I will be piecing lots of backings this year!

Can I do it?  I don’t know.  Every year I give up fabric for Lent but I have never tried for a whole year. This is my plan for each month:

1) Quilt 1 top.  Now that I have my Juki and frame, this will be do-able.  Easy ones first, more difficult as my quilting improves.

2)Work on a project that I have already started.  This includes hand and machine work.  I am thinking that I will work at least one full week on my machine pieces (old blocks of the month, borderless quilts,etc) and one project for sitting in front of the tv (embroidery, applique,etc)

3) Work on something I want to do.  If I want to start a new project, I will, without feeling guilty.    

Each month I am going to post my goals on my side bar and I will not what I have –and have not- completed.

Are you planning on reducing your stash this year?  Please let me know how you are doing.  Let’s cheer each other on!

P.S.  Although I will be trying very hard to be more responsible in my buying habits,  all gifts will be graciously accepted!!