May 9 through June 4 with CS and Linda
Ann Ludford Garvey May 9 at 7:13amGood morning Ladies! Happy Mother’s Day to all! This be the day, right? This is the day we appreciate when our kids remember us! Like the sounds of that!
It’s nice to have you home again Linda – we look forward to your posts and I’m super impressed that CS is right on the mark as to responding back to and writing posts this week. Nice job CS! It’s about 7 am at the time we’re writing this. I think we’re going to wake up Rich so he has enough time to wake-up … we’re going to breakfast with Joe and Cari. We saw them yesterday when they and Maury stopped by to get his stuff from the house. It sure was nice to reclaim my space back both with this studio and the kitchen. There are plenty of pictures posted so you can get the idea of what’s been happening. I’ve just got about 6 more packages to bundle in brick form and I’ll be done with what CS has sent me. I’ve left plenty of notes as to taking on some more kits. I’d like to think that eventually I could go through the kits and cut them up proper.
There’s other projects too of course. Rich has been seeing me organize so much he’s wondering if we’re ever going to just turn on the sewing machine. I think we’re almost there.
Ahh just snuggled up the man of the house … he’s almost to the point of waking up, but not quite. I’m pretty excited that today is only Sunday and we’ve got Monday off. So happy, so happy – oh yeah CARF is DONE … Can I say this enough? I’m a little on the excited point of starting things off fresh. I’m going to incorporate the time line with the Outlook program on the netbook. We’ll probably ask sister to pay for the Mobile Me program so I can access the calendars and to-do lists on all my devises – that would include the computers at work, my stand-up here at home and the netbook – oh and the iPod. Maybe this doesn’t make a lot of sense at this point, but believe me it’s pretty cool – just a $100 for the year to connect everything.
Think we’re going for it.
Ok, that’s about enough work for the day. The rest of the day – we’re just playing along!
Remember how special you are on this day and all the rest!
Love you guys,
Ann Marie
Ann Ludford Garvey May 12 at 9:03am
Good morning. Nice to be reading from both of you as I signed on. I set Rhapsody to be playing easy listening so they included the present "uska Dara" from Eydie gorme. Not sure I signed up for THAT much easy listening. Linda Q is the shortest title for my position. More fully it's now been changed to QSP meaning "Qualified Support Professional" It's a cross between psychologist and social worker. Both the other Q and I both hold a caseload of about 24 people, but from there on our positions change. She does something with a program called Home Base - which means she does Q work for a different funding source - only 6 clients though. We both do groups, but they are different in make-up. She helps to open doors during lunch and after the secretary leaves. We do the 3 year CARF accreditation, program development and staff training.
That's pretty much it in a nut shell. Sister is VERY unhappy with her work. She talked to me about it yesterday, but has settled down since she'd talked to Rich. There's supposed to be a meeting today at 1 pm to clear that all up again. I told Sr. she had to reprimand her in private and then make Rich trace her work to make sure its getting done. She has to be accountable for SOME-thing! That's the part of work ... there is always something on, you'd rather not be a part of. I'm doing good enough too so that it's making the other look bad, like I do all the above and have my monthly client progress notes up to date. Holly the other Q only managed to have 3 of her clients up to date. It's pretty bad.
We're into a new track in our job since we don't need another "test" for 3 years - Pshwoo! Immense pressure off. I've enjoyed coming to work the last couple days and getting more into work as to setting up new systems. June through November is my busy season in that I have annual meetings for all my clients pretty much once a week. It means extra paperwork. Yesterday I schedule 4 appointments and stiffened my back. It's NOTHING like CARF pressure. But, I'm like you Linda in that I like lists of things and to be able to check things off - I'm redoing my Microsoft Outlook files to get a better grasp on scheduling work. I do the type of thing that has deadlines, but Sr. pretty much leaves everything else up to me ... just gotta get stuff done on time.
I talked to CS last night ... I am planning to come up there over the next 3 day weekend - I got all Mondays and a few Tuesdays off from now til end of June. BUT, I'm not sure if we should follow through because I've had a sore throat and cough since Friday. I'd like to think it's more over than not, but might depend on what kind of risk CS wants to take with me. I could go either way. CS where do you stand?
I'm pretty impressed with the two of you for having plans that are altruistic in the making of pillowcases. Anything sewing would make the day especially productive. I'd like to be on the eating end of that spaghetti dinner. It sounds fun too having a group of old friends to be meeting. Hehe you sure do get around Linda! I'm not sure if you are going to have time to go back to work!
I was pretty knocked out last night. I came home, ate, sat down on the couch in the studio and promptly fell asleep. Rich came home at some time - he said his game was canceled due to rain, so that he was going to get some groceries and start the laundry ... we fell back to sleep again and I guess when we woke it was about 10 and he said we needed to take our medicine and go back to bed which we did. We woke up about 4-4:30 am as normal, fed the cats, made the coffee, and THEN fell back to bed for another 1 1/2 hours. YEEKS! Pretty zonked!
CS I still haven't gotten the applique backing and the calculator. I thought you mentioned that it had shipped. Did it have an arrival date? Maybe it will be there tonight when we get home. We'll have to start thinking about what's happening this weekend if I come up. There's your studio arranging - do you want me to bring anything back to your place? Thinking fabric bricks - or should I keep them here? Do you want me to take more home? Should I bring some cellophane your direction? I'm thinking that if you were to start selling them we could get some mailing envelopes or boxes and then send them from work ... not sure do you just call fed ex or the mail guys and have them pick up or do you deliver them to them somewhere? I wouldn't mind taking some picture inventories up there AND, maybe we could work on getting the pictures taken from our place into a couple of albums. It would require that we'd be printing out a lot of colored pictures. I only have black and white printing at my house. Too we could be gathering them in some format that we could put stuff on the web page - if that is your choice.
Hopefully, by then we can work on the petals - but that shouldn't take too much time. I have Joe's quilt I would like to continue working on. If I got it that far - I would love to quilt it on your sewing machine if you could afford the time to let me use it. I'm thinking in all honesty the project could be finished by the time I return on Monday. I've got 3 of the 8 rows done and it didn't take a VERY long time to do it. It's kind of fun. Maybe I'll have some more done too by Friday morning when I would be packing up. I'm thinking I'm going to need bringing my sewing machine this time. If you would like I could also focus on sewing Sr.'s Quilt on your machine if that would be your preference. Again ... you just gotta show me how.
There's always your retreat quilt too ... not sure where that is at, but I'm thinking we both have enough work to do over the few days I'm there. What do you think? Are you going to be up to things? I'd like to finish some projects :)
Our love,
Ann Marie
Ann Ludford Garvey May 13 at 9:13am
Wow!!! That's really good news Linda ... so then today be the day. Let us know how it turns out. It doesn't look like there is too much time for the sewing today ... the time in on those meatballs is darn right encompassing! CS sent a not yesterday or the day before about instructions for sorting out some of the group work. It was like ok Connie Sue ... did you REALLY take it out of the bag yet? It just has to be looked at with a serious eye! Think all the worker bees are getting pretty busy working to do paying work, but then nothing is needed immediately - just looking for step forwards.
I did get the sticky paper yesterday in the mail after work. I started cutting out petals. I think I figured somewhere else there's about 840 petals to cut out. I've got the colored fabric all ready and have the system down. I brought it out in the living room yesterday so I could work and talk with Rich at the same time. This is when it's still nice to have the drafting table. Just a whole lot of repetition. Kind of nice to settle down one's thoughts at the end of the day.
We also got the new Quilting calculator from CS in the mail. We sat down and read/computed everything from the start of the instruction book to the end. Everything makes sense. There is a cheat sheet or two in case I need to refer back, but the idea now is using it productively. It does a whole lot of calculating and is very intuitive. They were giving us word problems which gave a really good idea about the kind of things it could be used for. Sweet!
Back at work now. Sister was pretty easy on Holly the other Q. But, it was a hard session to sit through. We've got one more inspection - this one on Holly's back. It is the first of the kind and Holly just sat there sputtering ... well, this is new I didn't know we had to do that before! HMM? Like you didn't know you'd need a copy of rights and the annual report with the case file? It went a lot like that and was disgusting. Holly's favorite thing is to say ... I was just going to do that. Blah Humbug!
I think we're leaving poor CS in the dust. You don't know why you have to be organized? Shoot, shoot ... I give you a priority and you just forget? That's a bit scary. I think I'm going to scan purple, blue and red diagrams through email. I was saying something like its been 6 weeks in making Emily's label. You got to set yourself a deadline for like Friday or so ... and just do the best you can WITHIN the time line. Hmm? And, the division of the group project? Don't want to come down on you, but its been almost 2 weeks on that project. Let's not think of this as pressure, but more like a gentle guideline. We do this because we love you and want you to find pride in getting things accomplished. I know that you are sick a lot, but there has to be a bigger purpose whether it's sewing or something else - or your likely to just be "surviving" illness. Sewing was something we could do together, remember? Not looking for total organization, just a good step forward Something has to progress even if its a new thought as to what impedes the more obvious progress - Maybe we're going to need logging things that get in the way of our crafting. Then we can work on budgeting time for it. Remember ... at least an hour a day. Even with the pain you should squeek out that much, hmm? :)
Love you guys!
Ann Marie
Ann Ludford Garvey May 14 at 9:00am
Linda … so happy to see that the job interview went well. I’m looking at my clock and am thinking … WOW … she’s already at work! I hope the first day went well and you packed a good lunch. BTW – How did the girl’s night turn out? Was there any extra meatballs? Leftovers? We’re going to have to put you in the Emily column with 40+ hours. Yeeks! I used to work long hours and take stuff home, but at some point in time that just gets old! I know what you mean about the relaxing part with sewing at the end of the night. It seems to put things in perspective. Last night I came home and took a cat nap, and then I got up and went to work on the petals -makes me feel a lot better like coming home from work was worthwhile.
We have policies about letting old employees come back to “Help out.” Usually things change pretty fast for the new company and the old employee so that it’s not the best match-up. Sometimes too old employees can pass on their disgruntled viewpoints, or ask to be caught up on the office politics causing an avenue of gossip.
We had one employee try continue to contact one of the clients … Boy … the client’s mother sure wasn’t for that idea! I’m betting the current team is going to pull through for you – but if we’re voting … I’d let the old employee go until she’s back on the books! Ok, that was unasked for, but feel like we’re being cautious for you.
It’s just nice that you are back to work. Waiting to hear you’ve made the job YOURS!
Maybe I’ll have to make a design board and attach goals and then you can pick and choose with CS … me too. I guess I am kinda goal orientated. It comes from doing goals with clients and me – to get me off the couch. I remember coming home 10 years ago from work and reaching for the couch and I didn’t want to be budged from there all night. Just that when I had to get up there was a lot of resistance, and I felt that my life was a bit empty. Just a lot happier when I can make myself do the quilting. There’s a sense of peace at the end of the day like I really did something good for me.
CS – I’m not up to writing code for the military – although we did send Thom to Japan to crack Intelligence code of the enemy.
Maybe something is in our blood. We can work on dividing the projects when I get up tomorrow. Each of the squares – small and large are in their own bag and I believe I left one of my directions there, but I will bring another copy and look to see if I brought any other paper work home – as to putting the blocks together. I try to keep that together, but we’ll have to see which home. It gets a little more confusing when discussing putting together parts from the Dancers Quilt parts 1-3 and putting together the group quilt parts 1-3. Maybe this is what is confusing you. We really do have multiple projects, but then that would be in our nature.
As to housekeeping … I think that cleaning a kitchen floor more than twice a month ambitious and generally go longer than that.
Rich does spot clean it and that helps. Sometimes he just brings a wet paper towel around the floor molding to catch kitty fur that’s gathering up a council against it. I think you are trying to make your place look like it doesn’t have dogs. Rich and I have our tasks and the harder ones are on him. Mine is to do kitty litter, dishes, pack up the garbages going out, folding and assisting Rich hang clothes, dusting (yikes), and general pick-up. He does the shopping and cooking, takes the garbage down and does the floors – oh and brings the laundry up and down from first to third floors.
If there is an error in the system it’s usually us. Some of the tasks are done daily like dishes and garbage and littler – usually that happens first thing while making coffee before Rich gets up … after that
– It’s OVER for the day! Clothes assistance is once a week usually toward the weekend or there about if we’re going to be out. Two people = one Rich load, one Ann load, one white load, and one dark load – maybe. Towels and linen are put in other loads to fill them up. General pick-up happens as we go. Not too much gets messed up … generally where we each sit in the living room – Rich likes to spread out bills YEEKS! I try to clean up the sewing stations as I finish projects for the night or before going to work.
Usually after I finish something – AND before work, I like to take pictures so I can connect home with work after getting to work.
Besides bringing things out to the kitchen – we eat in the living room a lot – Things pretty much are just for fun when we get home.
If Rich makes me work after a hard day at work, we get CRANKY!
Same goes for the weekend. Rich and us will talk about the weekend usually by Thursday and we’ll each have our separate stuff to do. If and when Rich wants to do laundry – he SCHEDULES a time we can work together on it. If he doesn’t plan ahead … we get CRANKY! Rich does a lot of late night ball games so a good portion of his work happens in and out of the day. He’s in half retirement. It’s the advantage of doing your own business. I just sigh of relief when he says stuff at St. Rose like – I’m leaving at 1:30 pm – I’m going to stop of at the grocery store … we’re going to have ham next. I’m like OK! It feels easy that way … I usually NEVER request dinners – just eat what’s there and we have a list on the fridge of anything we might need to have him pick up … It’s like a system we’ve worked out. You don’t ignore as much as plan and schedule so that domesticity doesn’t interfere with the “living part.”
Now that I’m older I sometimes fall asleep an hour after dinner so that I can meet Rich when he gets home and not be over-tired. I find to that if I get a cat nap … I’m not dragging myself to the sewing projects I come at them refreshed! Another point especially when Rich is away is to mute the TV. I still like looking at Anderson Cooper, but I don’t mind LISTENING to Sarah Brightman or some other Rhapsody playlist. Feels then like a PARTY!!! It helps that I can look forward to home time!
CS … no spaghetti – anything else. Rich leaves stuff for me so that I do get a lot of left overs, especially when he’s gone … he cooks EVERYthing before leaving and if he’s short he leaves take-out money for sandwiches or Chinese. BUT, we’re going to be coming off Spaghetti for 3 days now … that’s enough thanks. I do like the idea of doing one meal at the Texas place. BUT, if we schedule for 5 or 6 pm or whatever … and you all are still sleeping – then all bets are off. I need a schedule so I can plan my playload. One thing of being a multiple is keeping things as regular as we can.
Rich used to nag when he felt it was time to go and we settled things by saying … Just tell me when you want me at the door and I’ll be there. I can schedule myself like that. If he wants to leave 10 minutes early or 10 minutes late … forget it CRANKY! My minutes are too important to have me sitting 10 minutes watching someone looking for something or tying his shoes. YEEKS! No SURPRISES! I don’t work on … we’ll go when Mark gets up.
That’s just cruel and unusual punishment … if he can’t wake up on time … he can paddle his own boat! Yeeks … too much energy … better get back to work.
I do have the DVDs and know where they are at. I’ll bring them with me. As to Don … I think he just likes talking to you. Hmm?
I’m more about doers than talkers. I’ve been hearing the same thing about – GETTING to some project for about a year now. Just let me know when something happens. *sigh* Are we CRANKY???! Sorry! It's all about communication for multiples.
Our love,
Ann Marie
Ann Ludford Garvey May 16 at 9:33am
Good morning!!! We’re up and at’m. We've been up since about 5 am. It’s about 9 am now as we start to write. We’re just taking a petal break. I’ll make sure in a few moments that some of the updated pictures make FB. Linda this is a reminder … finishing a pillow case is a good time to take some pictures. I’m so happy the first day of work went well and it seems you’ve already started “handling” the new situation. Just think you worked, did two loads of laundry AND had a nice little party at your place, plus made a pillow case. Talk about multi-tasking!
We’re not getting much rest around here because we’re too busy sewing. Well, maybe CS is sewing and we’re like tracing, cutting and ironing. I’m having the best time! Lot of good catching up yesterday with CS as we were both working through our various projects. We both worked to split up the group project, and then she went out on errands and I finished up. Then I went over to work on the petal project and she went to ordering the 3rd of the three dancer’s project. She started doing a little sewing on that.
I had started the tracing at home about 40% and now we’re done with the tracing cutting part. I started to iron down the petals on the light background and now CS has switched over to the petal project by starting to sew down the petals and stems. That’s CS part of the project … she has to sew down ALL the petals – I’m not sure if Dee is going to help with that, we’ll have to see.
The biggest cool thing of the day was that as we started the work yesterday, I had said something off the cuff to CS that the next thing we were going to get was a light bright. I told her that I thought it would work well for tracing. She looked at me and then stated matter of fact-like, "I have a light box." What, what?? You gotta be kidding you do??!! Oh man that's so cool. Well that just made my day ... It works really well for tracing and we had a LOT of tracing - 840 petals and 60 stems. I was just so happy! And, the other nice thing is that it sits at a bit of an angle so it's easier to manage the project ... AND, it's got a nifty ledge for my marker. Well, needless to say ... happy as a clam!
We discovered a few things yesterday one was that I was talking to CS about the fabric I’d ordered through Jinny Beyer for the sewing studio curtains. CS picked it up A LOT fast than I had … I had said there was 4 panels each 4 foot long and so I’d ordered 18 feet. CS was like umm feet or yards?
Oh-oh … well long story short … we’ve got coming in 18 YARDS of curtain fabric. It was too late to call it off but we’re going to make the best of it. I’m going to make a table curtain around the sewing tables held on by Velcro and we’re going to use the fabric – it matches my living room curtains – to sew long corners on my couches. If they aren’t covered with something the kitties scratch the couch. We’ve been using mismatched sheets, but we can do better
If there’s more after that – We’ll turn it into a coordinating quilt to match the room. Eh … glad I really liked the fabric!
My goal of the day is to get all the petals ironed down so CS has PLENTY to do. I’ve got to cut a few more pieces for the group distribution. I had miscounted something. Eh just one project at a time. Linda there’s still time after your napping if you want to join us for dinner. You were right we’re going to Texas Roadhouse. Sometime later … we’re both too busy now. It sure is nice to work with company!
Well spose I should get back to it. I want to check my picture updates and then we’re back to piecing and ironing. Hope you are all having the best of a nice Sunday off!
Ann Ludford Garvey May 18 at 5:59am
Sweet! I always enjoy getting back to the computer to find there has been conversation happening that I get to catch up on. Poor CS … I’d try to disagree, but I’m familiar with “that look” I give her. *sigh* I know she will probably have to catch up on some lost sleep, but I’m hoping that some of being more productive wears off. She’s really got a LOT to be working on. The sewing around all the petals is going to take her quite a bit of time. I don’t think also that Mark wants to see her do a quilt a week, I think he just finds comfort when he finds CS working rather than staying bed rest. But, I will give you a day of peace for such good work over the weekend ;)
Linda I’m living through every word of your posts. I don’t think anyone with their right mind can remember the first couple weeks of work after they are a couple years in to their job. The only thing I remember is that Sr. told me soon on that she didn’t like my attitude … before I learned just to say … yes ma’am I’ll do that right away … I guess I’d given her a little more argumentativeness. Pswhoo. Glad we got that straightened out … no one wants an angry nun on their back!
I feel empathy with you for trying to figure out the boss and reaching that status of equal appreciation. I’m so proud of you for doing what you are doing. The nature of work is that it IS WORK!
Hehe I think that’s the same thoughts I had of CS this weekend. After a good amount of time I was more willing to say … if you need a break, but she kept at the work. I can appreciate that one wants to enjoy the act of doing whether it’s just hard or work work, but I think sometimes … You just have to bite the bullet and say that … I’m going to feel a whole lot better for getting through this. I always thought the hard part wasn’t in doing the ACTUAL work – it was balancing oneself with all the work personalities of people around you. Pswhoo. That’s an art form! The part of being interrupted while your trying to accomplish tasks – Yeeks that’s all part of the difficult people transactions.
I think we were more apt to talk on Saturday when there was more to be catching up on. But, I have to admit that sometimes I need some peacefulness to my mind when things become more the challenge to just working through some of the monotony. It seemed to really help when we figured out to put some music on. Maybe that was part of the difference on Saturday we didn’t have the TV on, but on Sunday it was on non-stop so it was a little harder to concentrate on … the combination of TV and talking was a little harder when I was less fresh. At home, I seem to do more turning TV on, but muting and then putting music on it helps me flow better without demanding. I had to remind myself when CS took one nap was that the singing I was doing was OUT LOUD!
Yeeks!
There was another nice part of the weekend though in that as I’d written the blog we’d thought to take care of something that’s been on our mind for a while. I think we wrote a little of it there, but we got CS a new program to her that copies things off the computer screen so you can manipulate the images or pictures. After we got things up and running I asked CS to come over for a lesson. She might have been tired, but she’s usually pretty cool about learning new stuff. I think it feeds her creativity. We went through the paces and I was very happy that she seemed to be catching on and figuring that she could use the program for many things. I always have it up on the start-up menu to give it easier access. I’m really not kidding when I say I use the Snag-it program for snagging pictures every day … Linda when your ready for it we can send the disk home with you for your husband to load or just have you download and we'll send over the code … I’d be more than happy to give you a few lessons. I think Tony would like it too if he does anything at all with pictures. It’s really easy and can do so much! I forgot to ask too … do you use a computer for your new job?
Well should probably get going … I just took my shower and other various things. I got about ½ hour to be in the sewing room and a ½ hour with Rich before we go. Yup, yup … he had surely missed us a bunch! He left on Thursday morning and we got back last night. He made it pretty clear he could have used a back rub Sunday night, but he’s learning girls just have to play too!
Take care of the day!
Our love,
Ann Marie
Ann Ludford Garvey May 18 at 6:05am
WooHOO!!! Mystery solved! Thanks CS!!! This is handy info!
------Original Message------
From: Karie Hougard
To: Connie Sue Tscharner
ReplyTo: Karie Hougard
Subject: RE: Drop
Sent: May 17, 2010 5:16 PM
Hi, Connie --
"Drop" probably refers to the amount of a quilt that hangs over the edge of the bed on each side. A typical drop used to be 12 inches, but with the newer, extra thick/plush mattresses, a larger drop is usually preferred.
Remember, too, that there is usually a drop on only three sides (not on the top of the quilt where the pillows would be).
Hope this helps!
Karie
Ann Ludford Garvey May 20 at 8:31am
AHA! Responsibility! Way to go Linda! You must be on the right track because they are trustin you with the golden goose! Hehe … I got plenty of drinks anytime you wanna stop by. We’re up to askin Rich for cheese, salami and nuts. He started to give me one of those looks, but we said, but we’ve got an empty fridge shelf! I told him I’d stop eating the peanut butter on tortillas with cinnamon sugar. I might make some ground there. Like the idea of having protein.
I love the pictures of the flowers! You are doing soooo good! I’m impressed with not only making the flowers, but taking pictures of them! We’ll have you up to speed in no time flat! Sounds like both you and CS are doing some nice hand sewing. I’m not to that point yet because it seems I’m never sitting still long enough and I’m getting so much enjoyment out of planning and sewing with the machine. I think it must take a special bit of patience to hand sew. I keep thinking that if I started it would be at the level of Laura Ingalls Wilder when she was 7.
CS … seems like the doctor impresses some more self care. It must be now then toppling in on your head so much you’ll be needing showers 3 times a day! I think the problem comes in – like with most of us where you do what you WANT instead of doing what you SHOULD! I’m pretty sure my diet and exercise fall in that category. BUT, we’re real happy you’ve had a good week with the sewing instead of the extra bed rest. I know it’s harder and sometimes hurts, but if you can do it in moderation you will really be ahead of the game. CHEERS to YOU!
No word from this direction on reward systems. I’m too fully immersed. I’m absolutely sure Rich isn’t going for the Milky Way for the new fridge.
I’m glad I had the extra old desk chair that I hadn’t thrown away yet. It was headed in that direction, but then got hung-up in the haul. It wasn’t a great chair, but it’s full, comfortable, and cat approved. It had long since lost its arms by the way all chairs eventually lose them and fingers. *Sigh* It’s sad. BUT, now the chair feels good about standing its ground and is now a very useful contributor in the sewing room!
You’ll see through the pictures on FB and the blog entry for the day basically, on what we’re doing with the day. I’m going to encourage both to remember that the blog is there and waiting for sewing news. Linda – really good place to post your new picture! AHEM … CS pictures? Maybe new rules of taking at least 2 pictures a day! I’m really in favor of you getting a computer for yourself Linda. It’s so much a part of being caught up with this decade and century for that matter.
Sometimes Rich and I have to share a computer or two, but it’s always inconvenient. He’s got a pull-out lap-top stand in the living room where he checks his computer and I’ve got the stand-up on the desk in the living room, and then we have the small one for the sewing room and extra for work – for my outlook and taking notes at meetings. Then we have this stand-up on the computer desk at work. Sometimes it’s a bit of effort keeping everything working and up to date, but it all seems VERY necessary. You’d find yourself doing a lot on the computer AND it gives you and Tony that much more to talk about! You’d be sharing the same interests!
Ann Ludford Garvey May 22 at 9:28am
4 BLOCKS OF MY PETALS DESTROYED??!!!!!
Ann Ludford Garvey May 22 at 3:07pm
Whimpering ...
I am thinking it's the glue on the petals they are attracted to. It's the only thing in the element of all that's changed. The package doesn't list ingredients as it ISN'T supposed to be eaten, but it does say that Steam-A-Seam 2 poses no chronic or adverse effects when used as intended and conforms to LHAMA Regulations ASTM D4236-94. Testing is in accordance with guidelines specified by the Consumer Products Safety Commission in 16 CFR 1500.135.
HMPF!
Not in the mood for talking yet. :*(
I did finish the top part of the quilt ... mostly - see pictures. I couldn't get right the inner corners of the thinnest border. Size wize the 45 degree angle seemed to work - my first, but after 3 times of trying to shore up the corner ... I figured I'd save it for CS. Maybe we can set some time to be sandwiching it when I get there next. I feel pretty accomplished but have that nagging affect I'm not getting it. I can't make it lay flat without puckering :*(
I'll try to respond to some of the other notes later. I'm on a roll and want to get the sewing room curtains and 3/4's of the table skirt done. I will save the ruffling for when I'm up north. Otherwise South Spruce is good ... On a 3 day weekend, but Rich is going to make me stop to go visiting tomorrow *more whimpering*
Ann Ludford Garvey May 23 at 9:18am
So … finally have a few moments. I was going back to sew, but thought guiltily that I hadn’t really been very observant of where the two of you are. Somehow in my mind we’ve left things hanging. I think I’m coming out of petal shock … made me pretty cranky though. Can’t have dogs eating projects off the table! Maybe though we personalized too much the petal project – all 840 pieces of them – you can tell Macy to straighten up or else. I’m still thinking though it’s the glue she’s interested in on the sticky paper. It was a new brand and the trouble has started since bringing it to your house. I do too good a job cleaning my hands over a dozen times throughout the day to think its food residue. I'm pretty obsessive with that sort of thing. I’m not so likely to lean on the thought they were being helpful! Hmpf!
I hope everyone is having a quiet weekend – though maybe Emily is having a rumbling weekend! And at least for you CS the sanding should have stopped - either that or bring your sleeping bag with you to church when you go in to clean. CS … Mark having the camera – one or two days for PART of those days is no excuse not to be putting up some pictures. If all else fails you can use your phone camera. You all aren’t giving me much to confirm my imagination. However, I do appreciate Linda you put in an excellent effort toward photog this week. I think thought that office of yours needs a couple friendly quilts! I hope you have a chance to make it yours. AFTER the first couple weeks stress is over of course! I have faith in your computer skills, because you are an excellent learner!
So how was the wedding Linda? Did it rain? Did you avoid getting sick? Seemed a lot of fun for the wedding to be dressing down or maybe laterally, however you want to look at it. See now that would have made a nice picture … You and Tony with the top down! Also did you get a chance to sew the pillow case yesterday? It thrills me to hear someone else too using the words, “I cut out two last night!” It makes me feel jittery inside to know that the three of us – AND Emily are working on sewing and that we sometimes think positive thoughts to one another in the process. CS I’m sure that Emily will be ok with the square in time … It’s a lot to take in, but you did really nice work with it. You showed a lot of care.
CS we’re closer than ever to hanging the blanket with the house in it on the big kitchen wall. It took a lot of “negotiating” to get Rich’s help. After he starts he’s pretty steadfast, but likes to stand a position and then say, get me this, get me that. So I feel like a squirrel scurrying about. We got in something called magnificent quilt hangers or something close to that from the quilt show. It was a lot more expense then the materials would seem to suggest worth. We still have to get a flat metal piece to hold the blanket. I pinned it on top and bottom because it was so long, but I believe from side to side the quilt is 95” and we had like 104” of wall to work with. WooHOO! We actually got the magnets holding on the wall just need another devise AND maybe a couple of drywall nails if the sticky stuff doesn't hold.
Rich said I could run a tab … I mean list of stuff needed at the hardware store. So far we got drywall screws for the design boards, metal rod, light bulb for over kitchen sink, and one more thing … I forgot … it LOOKS LIKE!!!!! Rich seems to have taken the list with him!!! He’s got a game that should start about 9:30 am and he’ll be back after that. We’re getting MUCH closer … I’ve got a little wall hanging momentum and a bit of a commitment! Been since when January? I’ve been using the quilt since it got cold out, but the weather is warming up and this will give it something to do over the summer ;)
I don’t have too much to say about the cleaning, except it’s something that gets done periodically. It seems we’re most apt to do it when Rich is still sleeping. So far the recent trend is good.
There was a bad part though. Rich had talked MAYBE about getting a stacking washer and dryer with the St. Rose bonus money. He’d wanted to go half way, but I found that he could do it on his money - they were selling for about $1000, but within a day or two Rich lost his bonus to his general slush fund. That was really disappointing ... at least we got a nice sewing room plus accessories like steamer and glasses out of ours. I can’t tell you how exciting getting a washer and dryer would have been for us.
I guess it’s still on the list, but we’ll try not to lose sleep over it. As a substitute I asked, “Can we at least get a Swiffer Duster?” It’s too early to tell but we’re going to be positive!
Is everyone up and at’m!??
Our love,
Ann Marie
Ann Ludford Garvey May 23 at 2:33pm
Left you all a message on the blog ... left a note at the bottom the blog has a follower who's NOT me!
Ann Ludford Garvey May 25 at 6:28am
Good morning. Linda … I don’t know what to say. I read your last post right before going to bed and then again about an hour ago as I was trying to wake up. I can’t imagine the feelings you must be going through … I didn’t know how to respond because I’m feeling hurt for you. I’m so sorry that things have worked out as they have with your position. I’d like to think that things work out as they may so that in the end everything is how it should be. It’s just that you’d put so much emotional energy into getting the job and doing it right. I’m so sorry for this last turn of events. Please keep up your optimism that things work out as they will for some universal ulterior reason. Keep posting … it’s a good thing to think it through out loud. We believe in you!
Ann Ludford Garvey May 25 at 10:48am
Good morning. It seems like everyone is already up and accounted for. CS sounds like you have some adjustments to make with using your body more. I know this is hard because I’m going through it too. I get temperamental just thinking of the 2 block walk to the Dr.’s office each week. You’ve of course got medical problems ALONG with the weight to be working with. It seems that has stabilized now a bit.
As much as you most likely don’t like the vacuuming it might be just right assistance rather than working out at the gym which costs instead of pays. I know your response already … you are going to reaffirm your medical problems, but the weight is a consideration as to that as well. Now I’m gonna duck! Be of good cheer … Rich and us both have arthritis too so we know that round as you.
I’ve gained back a lot of weight as you can most likely see. I’m afraid of the gym because of low ability now to be standing or walking. It’s going to take some courage and determination. At least we’re presenting to Dr. Marvin now that CARF is over that we SHOULD be STARTING to think about it. We’re not allowing Rich to argue with us about it, but on the positive side, he’s lost between 30-35 pounds himself and is looking real good and getting better! That’s very encouraging. He’s officiating almost every day.
Linda I wanted to add that other than the times we come up for the first Saturday of the month, we are also trying to get up when Rich goes fishing which he does each month – though on varied weekends. I should probably get his schedule. It be cool to see you up there. CS and us push each other to get a grip on our sewing tasks. We seem to do a series of checks and balances to make sure life is going further ahead – and it works both ways. It looks like I have a staff meeting at 10 am the weekend of the 5th and the Thinking group at 1, but then I get off at 2 and don’t have to be back on work til Tuesday the 8th. We’ll see which direction everything goes closer to that time. Chances are though I’ll try to leave here that Friday, so I’m ready to be with the group Saturday morning :)
This next time I’m going to want to get ruffles in the table skirts – I finished all the preliminary work on them last night. I’m also going to want to sandwich and possibly quilt Joe and Cari’s quilt also on CS machine if we can manage the time. Lastly, we’re going to want to take a look at those small stars for the group quilt. I was going to try and figure that out last night, but I don’t get how to sew the two small triangles onto the larger one. The edges don’t match up to the same size … so I’m thinking there might be an overlap, but I tried and then took it apart 3 times … fraid to try anymore because I’ll unravel the fabric. CS had volunteered to do mine in exchange for help with the petals. I don’t know maybe I’ll just wait for the weekend up there and hope she can straighten me out. I don’t want to be a slacker.
Without the curtains, skirt, group project and wedding gift to work on … I’m thinking maybe I should really pull together the fish project this next bit of time and see what we can do about finishing it. I’ve got the fabric scattered a bit, so I’m going to need some backbone! I don’t remember even what we were doing with it … just that we needed to finish 4 colors. I think I got a bit confused in them needing to be trimmed and not knowing consistently how they were all going to match up - might take some GOOD amount of patience to get that house of cards in order.
I hope the day goes well for you at work. I’m thinking that you are just going to be in the middle of the emotional turmoil the company is going through these next few days. People will want to talk about what’s going on and making plans for the future and complaining about how bad things are. Have you already canceled unemployment, or will you be able to start fresh with that, or are you still in the same situation where it was ready to expire?
This just seems so unfair. They must have been banking on something to pull them through it, but that didn’t work out. It didn’t sound like your trainer knew about it because she wouldn’t have given you such good instruction on how to do the job. I’m thinking something caught the company by surprise and it was probably already standing on shaky legs. How many people are going to lose their job? Will the company compensate them in any manner? I know they were giving Rich some compensation – maybe for vacation days not taken – for about 6 months after he lost his main job with JVS last year. It wasn’t top of the line money, but it was pretty major.
He had just settled his divorce alimony payments, and then he lost his job when they closed down the three workshops he managed. I think with the ex’ benefits like him paying at minimum 50% alimony, insurance, appliances, lawn care, etc … she’s making more than him by far … Just like with your situation … nothing seems fair. We’re going to be living in an apartment for a very long time … BUT, at least now we have our new room and the situation seems fairly stable. I like that part of you … you are steady and almost always looking at the brighter more upbeat side!
Some of these more positive thoughts have to become like Mantra’s or positive affirmations. BUT, if you want to throw rocks off a railroad trellis at passing logs or something, I’m in it with you! Just let me know and I’ll start stone collecting!
This week is that goofy week where we’re off Monday and Friday and on Wednesday and Thursday we’ve got out of town meetings … blah! It means driving a bit before and after and smiling at strangers. It also means we’re going to need getting ready for two IN-House meetings we’ll have next week for a couple of clients by today. I had 22 clients, sister gave me another last month, there’s a new one I’m getting then next week, and she just gave me the paperwork this morning for the 25th client. It means I’ve got more than the other Q and that at this rate I’m going to hit the maximum of 30? I don’t know … never had over 24, but this last one coming in has special problems – liver replacement, 85 pounds and unstable on his feet.
We’ll see, we’ll see I guess his body is letting ammonia into his bloodstream. I’m hoping he’s not on dialysis. . It was enough that Sister didn’t want Holly doing it although she was cautious of asking me to take on more.
In this economy the best hedge is to make yourselves as valuable as you can. Linda I sure do feel your pain! Unfortunately, part of that response is … at least it’s not me, but that seems pretty darn selfish.
Just nothing is for sure and we’re looking to get bumped too soon because state is not wanting to fund Developmental disabilities. They consider it “frivolous spending.” YEEKS! Carrying on my person my personal resume! State is backed up about 5 months without paying agencies for work already completed with clients. Just gotta wait it out… Luckily Sr. has always been frugal. She saved for rainy days.
Our best,
Ann Marie
Ann Ludford Garvey May 26 at 12:48pm
Hi guys. Just reading over a few things, but CS I'm going to want to read in full soon everything that you wrote about in the blog. Just on first pass through, I have to say that I'm very proud of you for taking a bit of time and really writing out as you had. It gave a story that was interesting for me an probably others to hear about. It was like … ok here I am pluncked down in life and we're sitting here at this garbage vessel … and this is my life - welcome to it! Hehehe … I think that almost everything we do is a series of stories. I used to be preoccupied with having a story of my life, but I learned through Dr. Woollcott that all life historyies are like myths. I figured ok, if that were the case I would do the best I could at remembering, but the filling in of details would be mainly my treat to self. It's like saying I am important enough to listen to even as I evolve. I think it goes to anyone who takes the time to sit down with there thoughts.
It seems there's been added in some union talk as to whether your company stays open or closes. Wow … I've seen it in the movies, but have not experienced. This one is going to be a nail-biter, but speaking as one who went many years without a hair color I recommend that as a treat to yourself whichever direction the rest of your world twirls. I just got my first hair coloring a couple of months ago for a big seasonal party for Rich's fishing buddies. It was a hard thing, but it's been nice. I realize some of the gray is appearing again, we'll have to see how that goes. Nothing really ever gets purchased the first two weeks of the month and we're used up of the second two *sigh*
I'm almost done with lunch now. It's nice the guy gave us 1 hour and 15 minutes. You better believe I was happy with that. I brought in my computer and my mi-fi card so that I could have Internet. I think I was the first one and this guy had had a lot of people through training, but the first one that brought their 500 page book as it was ON-LINE. It was just ridiculous to print it all out. If I need it again … I'll just look on-line where its as close as any one of my computers. Sweet. He complimented me on it as soon as he figured out what I was doing, and then he came back two more times to say something about it. I'm about to the place that too much attention is a little unnerving. But, it's pretty cool anyway. This is a refresher course so it is what it may be, but in general I just like taking notes. I have tendencies to talk as people talk … that just be the way this buggie wobbles!
Hope the days been good to the both of you!
Our love,
Ann Marie
Ann Ludford Garvey May 28 at 8:13am
Wednesday Lunch - while at meeting
Hi guys. Just reading over a few things, but CS I'm going to want to read in full soon everything that you wrote about in the blog. Just on first pass through, I have to say that I'm very proud of you for taking a bit of time and really writing out as you had. It gave a story that was interesting for me an probably others to hear about. It was like … ok here I am pluncked down in life and we're sitting here at this garbage vessel … and this is my life - welcome to it! Hehehe … I think that almost everything we do is a series of stories. I used to be preoccupied with having a story of my life, but I learned through Dr. Woollcott that all life historyies are like myths. I figured ok, if that were the case I would do the best I could at remembering, but the filling in of details would be mainly my treat to self. It's like saying I am important enough to listen to even as I evolve. I think it goes to anyone who takes the time to sit down with there thoughts.
It seems there's been added in some union talk as to whether your company stays open or closes. Wow … I've seen it in the movies, but have not experienced. This one is going to be a nail-biter, but speaking as one who went many years without a hair color I recommend that as a treat to yourself whichever direction the rest of your world twirls. I just got my first hair coloring a couple of months ago for a big seasonal party for Rich's fishing buddies. It was a hard thing, but it's been nice. I realize some of the gray is appearing again, we'll have to see how that goes. Nothing really ever gets purchased the first two weeks of the month and we're used up of the second two *sigh*
I'm almost done with lunch now. It's nice the guy gave us 1 hour and 15 minutes. You better believe I was happy with that. I brought in my computer and my mi-fi card so that I could have Internet. I think I was the first one and this guy had had a lot of people through training, but the first one that brought their 500 page book as it was ON-LINE. It was just ridiculous to print it all out. If I need it again … I'll just look on-line where its as close as any one of my computers. Sweet. He complimented me on it as soon as he figured out what I was doing, and then he came back two more times to say something about it. I'm about to the place that too much attention is a little unnerving. But, it's pretty cool anyway. This is a refresher course so it is what it may be, but in general I just like taking notes. I have tendencies to talk as people talk … that just be the way this buggie wobbles!
Hope the days been good to the both of you!
Our love,
Ann Marie
Ann Ludford Garvey May 28 at 8:14am
Thursday Lunch day 2 …
we're pretty much running through this group. The teacher or trainer is pretty good … his material isn't hard, but he's covering it efficiently and he's got the whole group entertained by his fun loving and knowledgable personality. He'd done good. He's one of those people like the CARF surveyor that it's always hard to say good bye to, but he's stated to the group that this is just the beginning of his relationship to us.
It was kinda funny but during the group this morning, he directed himself to one of the women across from me. There's only 11 in the room and the woman had been going on about several things making herselves indispensible to her agency and being called at night and such. She's pretty much a control freak. Gary took a look at her and said I'm very worried about you and then he froze that space and the woman knew what he was going to say though she really didn't know how to handle it. She said you mean your worrying that I'm going to burn-out. And Gary said yeah. There was a real warm conversation and he'd talked about what he said to his wife basically in that she needed to slow down. He didn't go into a lot of detail, but you could pretty much read the woman's situation like an open book.
Then later about a half hour into the next part of the training, he looked at me and then he said … now Ann here … I talked to my wife about you too. Holy corimbo! His wife is the assistant director of DD for the state. She's pretty high up on the wow factor. He described his thoughts and feelings about being blown away with us on two accouns. The first was because of how much we are taking on at our work and how nice our place sounded. He said something like we had gone throuh it pretty simply yesterday, but we were taking on a whole lot. We interrupted him and said,
You know it's not like Cassie though … we go home at 4-5 pm and we pick up our quiting which we love to do. When we got home from work, we didn't do work, we did relaxation, because if there wasn't separation, you could not appreciate either work or home properly.
Then he went into talking about our electronics and again how he'd talked to his wife. He prefaced by saying I know I'm a geek, but and then he spread his hands over our spread. Then he went one at a time over all our gizmos like he had to study each one. We had the netbook, the headphones, the iPod, the phone, and the Mi-fi. We didn't have our camera out, but that was the next thing. If I get a chance I would like to take a group photo or if the others are uncomfortable maybe a photo of at least him.
Hmm, that reminds me sister wanted me to write up something about the center for the newspaper. They want to do a little success story about St. Rose Center. Maybe I can put something together with bullets so that the writer coming over tomorrow will be able to pull something he can write for himself. I'll have to think of it tonight or maybe better yet first thing in the morning. Then we can email it to sister before she forgets we haven't turned
something in. It was something off the cuff for her.
Hmm, just about forgot to talk to Dr. Marvin. We should have had an appointment today, but it will be inerrupted with me being here. And, then next week I believe he will be gone. Hopefully he will be able to write me back an email and we can work out an alternative date.
Any other business? I feel a little confused too in that I think Rich wants to do something with me tomorrow because we are having a day off. I don't think I showed enough excitement about fishing … we'll have to think of this some more. I know that we felt too busy to do much quilting over the next couple of days.
We did do some quilting yesterday in that we finished the second day of sorting through all the fabric and work we'd done and had left to do with the fishes. We progressed it so much - Rich wasn't home until 8:30 pm, that we actually did some sewing. WooHOO. Linda wrote that she'd done some work with her group squares, and she showed a picture of them. They looked so good and she didn't seem to have any trouble putting them together. This was good, because there wasn't any directions. WooHOO!!! Someone will have to teach me. Maybe it would help to build up some of my confidence. I don't want to put more on CS. We'll have to see how it works out in that balance.
Hmm, we forgot we were saying something about the group meeting here. I think we left off with taking a picture or two. Just I won't have a place to put it other than where I know it will go on our blog. We'll have to work that through … If I just took one of him I could say naturally, you might guess with all this computer I am going to blog about this experience, right? I think he'll give me a break! He's pretty cool.
After he had put so much attention on us for being techno savvy, then later we gave it back to him. We told him that we had been talking to OUR boyfriend and we told him how impressionable the trainer was in using his Internet… We said you just think of something and then you whip it out. Wow! That was cool.
Ann Ludford Garvey May 28 at 8:14am
Thursday Lunch - part 2 of 2
There were a couple other funny things happened too … well more because in general there are three of us women having a great time with him and the others … maybel less the three guys are really having a good time. But on one occasion we corrected him in that he was saying the food pyramid had changed and now they had some bars or something. And, we said, no there were like 11 different versions but that the main one revolved around a 3-d pyramid with stairs.
He wasn't sure of that, so then he went back to teaching and then we went to the Internet since our computer was still up and we went to mypyramid.gov which is the federal site for the food pyramid through the department of aggreculture. Hehehe wow … won that because an inch down from their heading was the food pyramyd we described with the steps. He studied that for a moment because we turned around our computer for him. And, then he went back to the group and gave a little lecture on correcting himself. He also wrote down the website. I know he will check into it … he's that kind of a thorough mind.
Another thing that happened was that he had gone to DSMIV-tr last night to settle the question as to Autism being either on the first or second axis. I had thought it was on the first axis because of them putting it under a clinical diagnosis. But, I backed up because he was pretty sure that it was axis two on developmental disabillities, but turns out it was under two but had been switched over in the newer version to axis 1 … so that was like wooHOO … another point.
Then there was one more small one where we caught him today … by now I have sort of a reputation, but not so uptight my points aren't for anything more than just fun. He had just figured out that one of his epileptic clients had probably had a seizure do to the flickering of an old reel movie he had been showing some people. Then later he said, "I caused this." We just stopped him mid-speech and said you mean, "The machine caused it." He argued his own demons for a second … He felt responsible, and we could see he might, but there was a more fluttering … basically we said something to the affect of having control over somethings and not others. We told him he was taking a lot of responsibility on. We didn't have to say much because he was figuring out his situation.
I don't mean to be "smart," but it really is fun having smart people around you and in general the class is pretty smart. I am enjoying the people. I remember seeing the African once before, but hes' much more on top his game, and then there is Leonard who is quieter today, but had a lot of important things to be saying yesterday. The other guy was the white guy who is older and didn't like games. You can read his discomfort. He's a little more active today after being "undressed" yesterday, but he and his partner the lady that's too invested spend a lot of time out in the hall. He should put his phone on hold for the meeting, but he keeps getting up to answer it.
Yesterday we made the point of saying that our DSPs were trained to handle anything and they had the back-up of the administrator if we were in if things concerned the clients. We also explained looking for symptoms from our clients, but then calling them for their families to call a doctor if there were problems. Most of the group have CILA's which is in-house housing for people with DD. Our group live primarily at home with their parents. We're just Day Training.
So that's pretty much of the training. We had a pretty good night with Rich when he finally came home. He had to call the game because of light, but he'd gotten stung by a hit. He came in the door saying I need an ice pack and a Margarita. We were like … Ok, we could do that! We fixed our baby up in a flash. We got a chance to talk. His daughter and son were both having problems in that Chris was back into the hospital with seizure problems, but this time most likely due to the medicine his throat was swelling up and he was having troubles breathing.
Then his daughter called, because she'd gotten further pushed out from living with her girlfriend. They've been an item for like 8-10 years. Jillian is coming home after she finishes school tomorrow - she's a gym teacher and will be home for the month, and then she has to go somewhere like a month and then her apartment will be ready. She's going to be staying in New Mexico where her work is. Rich almost jumped on a plane today, but Jillian called back and decided she could handle it. Rich and our idea was that she should take all her stuff out this weekend before driving up and that Rich could fly to her and drive back with her. She thought she'd take care of some of it and drive back next Tuesday and then finish when she returned. I told Rich she was having trouble separating and cutting off that part that's getting over. I know though there's a transition period so she has to make the calls. Just worry over her. She's going to be more worried of her past life at home knowing she has to go back into it. It would have nice for her to have a clean break.
Ok, that's enough of Ann's soap opera. It's about time to transition back to the room, we'll want to get our stuff plugged in and use the washroom. I think we can do that in 13 minutes and be ready to start on time … This is kinda fun taking a break. I'd like to know Gary for a long time in coming.
Ann Ludford Garvey May 28 at 11:11am
Good morning/almost afternoon. Well Linda are you feeling almost more like we’re catching up. Sorry to leave you hanging. We had written both of the last two days, but our world was a bit out of order so we weren’t processing it to the FB as we usually might.
Sorry! You weren’t alone! We kept up with our reading during breaks while we were out. Both days we got 2 – 20 minutes breaks and than an 1 ¼ hour for lunch. Now I can imagine why things really don’t get done with the state. Man – they got wild hours! That’s like 75% work and 25% play … and the work just isn’t that hard.
This morning between leaving notes here and now we went over our notes. You know we like to type them during meetings. It becomes like minutes. So we went over them made some corrections – mostly typos which we don’t stop to correct when taking notes. There were 28 pages single spaced of all the stuff that happened over 2 days. Pswhoo. Lucky I have very strong fingers, they didn’t yesterday, nor today feel tired in the least.
BUT, MAN-O-MAN would we grumble if something happened to our fingers!
Last night we got home about 5 pm and Rich was home. He’d made a small turkey dinner. This is how God must have meant guys to be! Through dinner and after we talked and then he got massaged as we were watching “The Mentalist” because he knew it was one of the shows we tolerate. I knew how that was going … he said I thought you’d like to watch the Mentalist … and I sized him up and said … AND get a massage. I’m not sure if he really blushes anymore, but pretty much we got his number!
Afterward when he went to bed about 10 pm, we stayed up another hour and did some sewing and ironing of patches. We left pictures to show you our progress. It was a nice calming night, but we fell asleep on the couch again - Just so tickled to be me. Rich and us talked again this morning and we agreed on our schedule for the weekend. He’s going fishing MAYBE this afternoon with Bob – we sorta begged off because we want to do some sewing. Then maybe the guys will pick up chicken dinner and we’ll eat over at Bob’s tonight.
Rich has a couple games tomorrow morning, but then later in the day we’re going to go to Navy Pier and watch an IMAX movie – Shrek Returns or something. He says we’ll watch Grand Torino here at home later tonight. After dinner we’ll go out to a shrimp place or something … I like a good meal out on the dock, but usually just get a drink and an appetizer. Then we’re going to watch fireworks. If he’s feeling really frivolous which for a Bohemian doesn’t happen often … we might get him back on the Ferris wheel!
Tomorrow we’ll go to his Mom’s in the morning and Rich will take Bud fishing while I hang with his Mom, and then we’ll do a dinner after the guys have been out 4 hours. I told Rich we’d commit to making potato salad. WOOHHOO! His mom will be so happy. It’s the only thing she holds wrong with me … SHE’S a cook and doesn’t like that I’m not cooking for her Ricky. Awe … BUT Rich cooks for me and I CAN appreciate the talent she passed down!
I’ll be edgy from being out so long, so I’m sending Rich back out to fish with Bob for the day. I could have gone with him, but was like hmm, too long away from computer and quilting. I’m such a dud But then that night he said he’d make some ribs and corn and maybe leftover potato salad. I’ve still got two bottles of wine, so we might open one. With my on-line shopping I got some bottle corks, because neither of us can finish a bottle in one sitting. I do appreciate how the two of you don’t drink … sorry if I’m being offensive.
Tuesday back to work, Wednesday client AND administration meeting, Thursday staff training, and Friday 2nd client meeting and then the Thinking group. YEEKS I’ll be all meeting’d out before I can get back to WI. Rich is going to be gone fishing that weekend, so I’m thinking of trying to get up to your place CS on Friday … Just have to pack before work. Payday is this weekend so it shouldn’t interfere with a run to the bank.
As to sewing … I’d really like to progress the fish. I’m starting to put together a drawer of stuff going to CS’s. I don’t want to forget, but it seems there is a lot on the table. Oh that’s something. I forgot Rich is going to try with new screws to do the quilt and design boards again to walls. That will be a big excitement WITH washing clothes WooHOO!! <<-- easily pleased.
I will look forward to the both of your updates. I’m pretty sure you’ll be writing satisfied enough with my recent contributions.
Heaven forbid the day I run out of things to talk about!
Later!
Ann
Oh the picture is Gary the presenter over last two days meetings. Doesn't he look patient!
Ann Ludford Garvey May 28 at 8:44pm
Hey Linda! I just saw you in my email box … seems the note didn't get overly cold. I'm empathizing with you on your trip. I was the fuddlety one though this time, Rich wanted to do more, but I got scared seeing my whole sewing weekend fading away. This night we got in a bit of a little scuttle. Day after day he kept putting of the few things I needed him to do - mostly revolving tools like drills and saws. Really out of my league. So finally today he committed and then spent 2-3 hours out doing errands … and he came home with like 6 drywall screws and the job required 8 and I was like ridiculous … you mean you couldn't have gone out for a full DOZEN!?? I was pretty insensed. I wanted the design boards up - been over a half year, I wanted the quilt up, and I wanted the 3 boards cut to fit my shelves above the little fridge. Man … we were both fuming because he though he'd given up half his life to do as much as he did. Like Right.
So we both went to our opposite ends … I went in the kitchen and left a note. I REFUSE to leave the house until these three tasks are done. It hadn't helped because after 8-10 years of not cooking I decided to make a potato salad and dessert for his Mom's I NEVER cook! So he said write down what you need, and then when I gave him the list he started complaining how much things would cost. Wow! Too much! But, then he came and told me my dinner was ready, so we had a break. But, then he was short because I interrupted Rockford Files YEEKS! So back to our corners.
Wow … low blow … he made popcorn. I'm going to have to go make up … See you soon :) :) :) :) I'll let you know how it turns out!
Ann Ludford Garvey May 29 at 5:32am
Morning all! Looks like there's been some definite activity here! Linda were sending some extra happiness vibes too you! Our situation turned out pretty good, but we haven't corrected the main problems. You had said yours was communication … I think ours is like fighting some invisible ghosts. Rich does a lot around here, but as to basic handyman things around the house … it's as if his ex-were standing in the bathroom throwing "well ya know." He's got goblins about this sorta stuff. How many years did I hear him talking about cleaning out his garage or basement before. Yikes! That kinda stuff is still happening.
I've talked to his Mom before … she said that Rich never did that kind of stuff and that her and Mark, Rich's youngest brother were the ones to do the house handyman stuff. She redid their basement … stud making and all! She also said Rich had hit her with a hammer to the head … It was accidental, but thinking all that has to do with his ghosts.
It seemed a little touchy, but didn't take too long after the popcorn that he was on the couch again with me and that afterward we went to bed in peace. Three of the four projects had gotten done. He still has to get through the part of getting the boards done. Now the feelings are more worried for him. This seems like something that's is more toward Dr. Marvin's territory. Then you add the progress of the sewing stuff from my end and it's like yeeks electrical fire! So in this respect I'm not doing such a hot job of helping him - too emotionally entwined in whatever makes me excited about getting this kind of thing done. *sigh*
In the meantime, or at least somewhere in-between, we made the family recipe for Blueberry Delight. So I wonder whatever happened to my graham cracker chopper upper thing? I'm pleased to report there's not much wrong you can do with that recipe! Mmm! Maybe we do it next weekend? Not sure that be like lightening happening twice in the same week to the same spot … ok, let's edge away from that cliff slowly!
Hmm, thinking maybe I better get back to those fish squares and triangles. I got the 4th to the last fish done yesterday and started work on the third to last. I'm up to the part of ironing my first sewing set. It's a lifestyle right? You know last night I remember being in the groove and thinking what about this is giving us this much satisfaction. I think there is one side story there in that I really like the TV view off to the side … CNN likes to print out the headline so with a quick glance I can catch up and in the meantime … sure have been enjoying Sarah Brightman in my ears.
Oh, CS I thought you might enjoy this … I finally sent a note to Becky. It's been about 7 years. It was a very brief note asking specifically that she send the recorders home and the cards from Sandy's funeral, but in the meantime she sent a just as short note back. Linda she used to be my best friend in high school, but made me angry 7 years ago. Anyway … turned out she had a child 5 years ago, so she's a 50
year old mother of a 5 year old. Her husband left her she said 1 1/2 years ago. I have to figure out how to respond now, but thought you might appreciate that news. See when you think you've got it bad … you can think of old people like us raising kids, yeeks!
Our love,
Ann Marie
Ann Ludford Garvey May 31 at 7:55am
Good morning,
It's just me. How are you doing this morning CS? And, Linda sooo happy to hear you were getting out. I hope you got a chance to do a little browsing of those quilt shops … that part sounds fun. I should have gone out with Rich on Friday, but I had thought … Saturday would be enough.
I'm glad we got it in, because after being at his Mom's house with him Saturday afternoon, Rich got on a plane about 7 pm last night for New Mexico. It turned out that his daughter needed some help with the drive back here to Chicago. I was glad he could go. It's a lot less worrisome knowing they are driving back together. She had to drive, because she had things she was moving out of her old house and she has two kitties. Hehehe it should be an interesting trip back! She'll stay here for a month, so people here are pretty happy about that.
Christina is pregnant?!! Wow And Celine Dion is pregnant with twins! Christina is my favorite business reporter on CNN. Those CNN people first it Cambell Brown, and then Ericka Hill Anderson Coopers partner and now Christina Romer. Wow maybe they are giving bonuses!
Ok, ok … this wasn't where we meant to go … maybe a bit of a distraction … on the CNN News circuit … after Anderson Cooper gets over at 11 (his second hour is pretty much a repeat of his first hour at 9 pm), then it's all repeat until 5 am in the morning. So this last 45 minutes we've been listening to NEW NEWS! It's a little more captivating. Hehe just thinking of it being the same feeling with being in a hospital and nurse care. Sometimes you just couldn't wait for the next shift. The bone-hours were the worst because there were only a couple nurses and they expected you to stay in bed AND be sleeping!
Ok, we don't necessarily want to go there either. SOOO Good Memorial Day to all. Linda are you home yet? CS? If you want to call me when your up maybe we can chat a bit today … It's been a while now and I'm sure we got things to go over toward the weekend.
Hmm, we've been over at FB for a bit now … we had some catching up to do as to what was happening to our links and to things connected with being Memorial Day. It's really on our mind. I suppose though that I should be moving along … just that especially being over at the site for fallen soldiers - It's a lot to comprehend how many lives have been affected and how hard the sacrifices. Thinking of you CS and figuring today you've got the flag out. I wish I had one now to hang as well. I hadn't really thought of it before, but maybe we should think of it. I'm not sure … we'll have to figure that out.
Hmm, ok we're good here. We just did a bout of housekeeping things. We had started the dishwasher and now we've emptied it, done the litter box and garbage. I think we're pretty much good to go. I had forgotten before too to be starting the coffee so now that's done as well. I feel pretty much good for the day as to how all that goes. Good Ann!
Not sure if we have too much else to be saying. I'm looking around as to the projects next in the studio and bar. Ok, well, we'll probably drop the bar line, but for now … even though we're on water and Mountain Dew this morning … well, couldn't then we consider it a breakfast bar? Hehehe. Still missing the salami and cheese though. Ok, though we're progressing.
AHA! There was Rich … It's 7:30 am our time and 6:30 am his time and he's been up for a couple hours. I guess his daughter is supposed to meet him in a half hour. He's such a cool guy - AND, good father! I knew that for sure last night when Jillian called and made sure he had enough gas money, because she didn't have any. Yeeks! I wonder what she's planning to do for the month up here without money or job? Yeah, ok, we know what's going to happen there! Hehehe … he's a good father :)
Hmm, we're not getting far … and what were we going to do sewing related? We should get credit for being at least in the studio. I think the projects that are on the hot list … are to continue work with the fishes, and then there is the bags Rich finally brought up for me from CS' place last time. I sort of feel drawn to that project in that it's something I could feasibly get done today since there won't be any interruptions. It's still before 8 am and we don't expect Rich until very early hours tomorrow morning, unless we can convince him to stay over on his way home … He doesn't want to spend the money, but safety first. Ok, any other projects?
Hmm, we have to get some more supports under some of the boards up already. On the one side I'd have to move a couple dozen bags and the other side the board is empty, but both boards are up at the top and difficult to reach. Sigh. Ok, one thing at a time. I was real happy about the ease of the cloth edges going up on the shelves. It's a nice color and looks a bit like marble. I cut 3/4" strips and it worked really well putting glue on a piece of tin foil and using CS sponge brush. Just gotta get those ruffles done on the skirt? CS have you figured out the spacing yet? I want to take the current length down by a 1/3.
Oh, I know too … I wanted to update the design boards. Maybe though concentrate on CS extra bags to go up on that top shelf storage. I think we're good … we've got a couple rolls of cellophane - well mostly. Rich didn'te NECESSARILY say we couldn't use his roll ;)..
So how are the two of you doing? What's happening at your homesteads today?
Our love,
Ann Marie
Ann Ludford Garvey May 31 at 1:05pm
Well hello? Anyone out there? It's now the afternoon. We got done with the last project with the four bags of kits that needed to be catalogued and wrapped. Feeling pretty good about it. I've got 15 minutes more of rest and then we're going back to fishes.
We've been listening to Harry Chapin all morning. I've got about 186 tracks or 14 hours of music before hearing the same song a second time. Might have to cancel work tomorrow! Wow if I didn't think Rich was coming home, I'd even might try. Hehehe. He's a stickler about that kind of thing. I should go to work so that I can keep having Monday's off … today was a freebie.
I've seen a couple picture responses to know CS has been about, but sometimes she comments or make comments on pictures that make me think she's not on today's page. *sigh* A sister will just try and try to keep her up…
Oh you were listening? I see, I see … so you want to go down to Navy Pier? I have nothing new to comment on because I don't think Linda is back and CS you haven't said anything. What are you up to? Working on the sewing room? Maybe doing one of the quilt projects? Cleaning house, pre-resting before helping Mark? I'm going to need some kind of report. I've about run out of alternatives. I know you're around … I call these times … avoid Ann Marie time. OHHHH, I know what your doing … rainy weather … are you reading again?
Oh yeah you know I'm workin! Your not just sluffin are you?
It's kinda cool now though … I'm not sure of up north, but down here it's been raining for quite a bit. President Obama is in the Chicago area and had to put off his Memorial Day Speech because his people were being drizzled on. It just goes to making the studio bar warmer and more cozy especially with the "hard-working Ann Lights being a beacon of good spirits."
Part of the coolness is that I really like my room's atmosphere. It is still new enough to seem neat and orderly, has room to grow, and just teases of projects to come.
Oh cool they are doing an oil solution show and tell. The guy put oil in a aquarium, and then threw in some dirt like stuff and then he put his hands in and scooped it all up. That was after he dipped a feather duster in … No sound, so I don't know what was up about that. But, he gets to be on National TV playing in water. That seems good to me. I like follow that track.
Maybe I should lay on the couch for a bit and dream some more. I fell asleep last night right after Rich left at 5:30 pm. Got up to use the washroom, but pretty much slept through the night. I was yawning and his Mom's I could and probably will go back to fishes, just want to lay there steady to see if I'm inspired Hehehe. Have to think after taking fishes off the wall and design board, it's going to look a bit barren. Hmm…
Mi
Sew ... what are all the other studios doing today?
Ann Ludford Garvey May 31 at 2:54pm
AHA! Linda's back! WooHOO!! Hehehe you got in visits to both kids?!! That's one heck of a weekend. We had rain down here too ... it seems to have let up so we can imagine you are getting your bbq. We're biting on the taking it easy part. We laid down for 30-45 minutes. We had been making observations of the room --- you know what next, and then our eyes drfted off. Not before having some ideas though ... the main one was what to do with the fish spaces. We figured now we were going to have to SERIOUSLY do the months of the year ... We're good for November.
Ann Ludford Garvey June 1 at 10:24am
We're up and at'm this morning. We left a long entry in the blog before work so won't go into much here. Just wanted to say we were here. Linda I'd say check on CS for something to eat, but rumor is she's eating McDonald's out of trash bins. I tell her she could do better, but it's of no use. She's determined to send Mark in there up to his chin for her. *sigh*
Ann Marie
Ann Ludford Garvey June 2 at 9:37am
It’s encouraging that you continue to do the hand-sewing and squares Linda. And, CS … wows 50%. That means since I’ve been up you have progressed 25% because you had 25% done before I left. I’d like to think you are saving your energy for when we’re up because you KNOW you are going to be put to the wheel. I’m looking forward to Saturday though I haven’t started the squares. I was thinking CS at first because she’s the one to teach me stuff, but Linda looks like you are the pro on squares. I loved your pictures!
It sounds like everyone is busy … like to have some track of Emily. Maybe we’ll get some evil relative stories - nah not Emily’s type of communication, but she’s probably a bit relatived-out by now. Linda I don’t feel like I’d want to be you as to waiting on job news. I’m not very good with patient stuff, especially with so much in the balance. I’m being encouraged with CS patience and her new work load. I’m proud of you for trying to help Mark although I know it’s very hard and you’ve got to account for physical set-backs. I’m trying not to push on sewing noticing you need recovery time.
I wouldn’t have a problem looking at the Excel program a bit, but I’m not as good at it as Word or OneNote. I can get around and do basic calculations and graphs, plus the stuff to make it look a little nicer. I would love to try Magic Cookie bars – Yes! As to the lunch – I can cover it for my one weekend treat out as long as we’re doing something reasonable on cost like last time. It can be my trade-off for not baking, pop shopping or cleaning house for guests. :) I really liked the sandwiches and thought they were a nice break from Subway. Maybe we can save Texas for when we can get Mark to dinner CS. I get ancy when everyone is together for sewing … I want to be in the middle of the activity! AND, I would love to have a dish cloth – just wouldn’t want to get it dirty. I have to admit I’ve been using your hot pad Linda for my cold drinks so they don’t sweat on the table. Whatever sewing thoughts on hand piecing has settled back to just enjoying the fruit of YOUR labor hehehe. It makes me flash a feeling of you when I pick-up or put the glassware down. I’m content!
As to scheduling I see it sort of like this CS …
We’ll get there about 5-6 pm on Friday night … Maybe pick up Arby’s or something if you haven’t made anything, then try to wipe my sorry self off the couch by 7:30-8:00 and maybe take a trip downstairs to look at sandwiching Sister’s quilt. Then, maybe sometime next between Friday night and Saturday morning, you can help get out those rough corners with Joe’s quilt. Maybe then Saturday night or Sunday morning, I can put Joe’s through the sandwiching too because I’ll know how. I would like to be taught as soon as one of them get done how to quilt on your machine so when you take naps I can work on it. I’m thinking of doing that Friday night after you go to bed or Sunday.
Linda can teach me the squares on Saturday morning and I’ll work on squares while everyone’s there – for encouragement! I’m going to need a little more training time CS – maybe after people leave – to be doing the ruffles. That way I can work on that project before you get up on Sunday morning? Besides these projects that will be mostly training for me or working on while you’re sleeping – mostly I’ll just be working on the squares and trimming the petals for you. Most of your free time should be on petals and talking for fun.
So, summary?
Friday
7:30-8:00 pm Sandwich the big St. Rose quilt
9:00 pm or so you can train me how to quilt with your machine
After You can go to bed or help in next 24 hours to fix corners of Joe’s quilt – dumb corners!
After CS in bed Ann Marie to work on quilting of St. Rose Quilt
Saturday
First thing AM til Cs get back from class Ann Marie to continue working on St. Rose Quilt
When Linda gets there Ann Marie learns to do little squares
Girls all sew probably a lot of work going to happen from different parts of sewing group quilt?
Lunch
Dinner
After dinner Sandwich Joe’s quilt
After that Learn how to ruffle table skirts
After that CS to bed and Ann Marie to work on one of three projects – most likely work on ruffling
Sunday
AM Finish ruffling or continue work on Sister’s Quilt while CS is sleeping
CS gets up Ann Marie to work on Group squares, CS to continue either Sr.’s quilt or petals
When CS naps Ann Marie to continue Sr.’s quilt or start on Joe’s
Lunch
Work to 4 pm Dream of finishing Sister’s quilt … will there be hand sewing on this (if so CS WORK! ;)
Extra My time when we’re both up will be group squares and trimming your petals
So that’s about it as to the basics. I didn’t get done any sewing last night because Rich was home and needed babying time. It turned out for our “date” he just wanted me to watch him sleep. Sheesh! Tough date! I tried to be patient. But, I ended up sleeping in the sewing room to get some time in there afterward. I’m being terrible.
Well not so terrible I can’t watch sweetie looking like an angel hehehe!
Should be preparing for the meeting next – we moved Administration meeting up to 10 am and then we’ll do the First annual meeting of the year at 1 pm. Maybe in-between time we can sneak in CARF time.
Sure would love that … Oh and I have to check out the State’s portal to make sure we get staff registered on the health care registry. Man is that project draggin! Better get to it then … See you all soon.
Our love,
Ann Marie
Ann Ludford Garvey June 2 at 2:58pm
I was planning on leaving by 4 pm on Sunday ... should I leave earlier?
Ann Ludford Garvey June 2 at 10:41pm
I agree on doing just a little bit ... I figure that I have to make at least a little progress in touching the projects. We did a little with the fishes and will try just a little more before going to bed. Tonight is Rich's night (once a month) to play poker with the guys. THAT MEANS ... Ann gets to stay up late without being scolded :)
Go girls!
Ann Ludford Garvey June 4 at 7:08am
Good morning. This is me. We just have 15 minutes before we leave for work. We're pretty much good to go … just have to close up the computer. Think we're then good to go. I'm glad there is some more time on your job Linda. We're thinking that the longer it goes on the more serious is the negotiations. A couple more weeks gives people time to calm down. Maybe, I don't know how the company is going to go if they cut down their customers … it might show them a lack of confidence in the company IF things work out and it stays open.
It also didn't fail my attention that there's some really good food conversation going on here between both you and CS. I'm pretty sure my job then is going to be "chief eater!" Can't go wrong there! So looking forward to the weekend, and then I'll get back here on Sunday - Rich will come home, and then we have Monday off to recooperate in the studio. Happy, happy.
Nothing much going on here that you don't already know about. I have to admit a couple days of not sewing. Larry King first had Bill Gates two nights ago, and then had President Obama last night. Both times I laid down on the couch to watch, and then both days fell asleep. Hopefully, I'll see both over the weekend up north. You just know they are going to re-run them.
AHA! I know what I forgot … MONEY!! Hold on. Good good - got it!
Well, suppose I should get going … will be happy to have both meetings over … and you just gotta know we're looking forward to seein you all!!! Linda I'm usually up by 5 or 6 am … c'mon over anytime! I promise even to be showered by 8:30 :) Beside that pj's rule the morning! See you soon.
Ann Marie
Ann Ludford Garvey June 4 at 12:16pm
Afternoon! We're about there. I did some Qnotes, the first meeting and lunch. Well a few more things and we met with Sr. Theresa. She's worrying that the guy we'd gotten as a psychologist backed out. I had run him off a ton of training material, but the guy was a no-show yesterday. Maybe he was supposed to come after next week, because there is only 6 more days left. I know that because the Mom at my meeting this morning was a crossing guard. Nope, usually don't keep up with that sort of stuff. I'm hoping there wasn't anything else I have to do besides the notes and the last meeting now.
Hmm, notes say follow-up on UIC for Lilyana … nope they're supposed to call me, get computer code - yep, can't call Stephen's mom to set appointment … she's in after 2 pm, already looked at outcomes for Blowitz grant, won't have time to do CARF Strategic planning, but have that with me just in case, 6 page annual report? YEEKS not on a Friday! Newspaper article yup yup and took care of psychologist orientation, AND half way through Qnotes. Good-good … nothing pressing I'm almost out this door! Hmm, Robyn's having a late lunch today. Wonder what's up with that? Feel responsible for her when she doesn't come back after lunch every other Friday.
Best be the one setting the good example. Let's finish the Qnotes! About now I'm thinking of sailing down the road with the sunroof open and Leo teaching me the electronic ropes. I'll call when I get close to see what CS you want to do for dinner. Good good...
See you soon and we'll drive nice and easy ;)
Ann Marie
posted by Ann Marie @ 6/13/2010 12:55:00 PM
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