The cummins roads
2005/09/05
A Busy week....
It's a gorgeous sunny day, as I look out the window of my shed, the I'm surrounded by white and pink blossom on the fruit trees....My doves are taking advantage of the sunshine and I never get tired of watching them they soar pure white against the blue sky. The cleaners are cleaning my house so I remain in the shed writing until I can collapse on the lounge for a rest.
I returned home just a few hours ago from Cummins
My week began last Monday with a new venture in Sydney. I had 3 days visiting with the most delightful young folk who are forming our ideas in quilting...I am in awe of their professionalism and dedication. We had a wonderfully busy time... Our days began at 5.45am and I returned home exhilarated to the hotel round 7.00PM each evening.
It was a great experience and all will be revealed early next year.
I returned home on Thursday, went to Guild in the evening and left again on Friday for Cummins on the Eyre Peninsula.
As I was flying over, I was offered the most wonderful views from the plane window. As I sat there, champagne in hand, nibbling cheese and crackers I thought "this is an amazing way to travel to work"
Josie cooked us casserole and home made strawberry cream sponge and my hostess Carmel and I sat and chatted late into the evening.
The class was held in the local school and the facilities were super... Carmel worked on the sustenance and we worked on the quilts...
On saturday evening carloads of gals came from Tumby Bay, Port Lincoln and Coffin Bay for a presentation... and I had to turn off the lights on those who were still working late in the evening...
There is another side to this story. This small community has been shattered by the devastating bushfires earlier this year. I guess we can't imagine the fear, the desperation and sadness that an event like this brings. 9 people lost their lives. 80 houses lost.
Quilters donated 300 quilts to those who were caught up in this terrible tragedy. Yesterday,in the early evening, I was taken on a ride through the affected area. Miles and miles of devastation. The Mallee trees now look like fields of lace in the sunset as they begin to regenerate... the earth is green once again, hiding the sadness in it's beauty. "This was where I grew up" says one gal as we pass a pile of rubble... "It's all gone, it's all gone..so is this house, so is that one..." her voice carries the sadness and helplessness that we all feel in such a catastrophe.
However, the community are stoic, the land s regenerating and I was able to read a letter delivered the day of the class from a family who had lost their Dad... thanking the group for their wonderful quilts.
Quiet, enfolding love surrounding the family in their time of grief.
I returned home just a few hours ago from Cummins
My week began last Monday with a new venture in Sydney. I had 3 days visiting with the most delightful young folk who are forming our ideas in quilting...I am in awe of their professionalism and dedication. We had a wonderfully busy time... Our days began at 5.45am and I returned home exhilarated to the hotel round 7.00PM each evening.
It was a great experience and all will be revealed early next year.
I returned home on Thursday, went to Guild in the evening and left again on Friday for Cummins on the Eyre Peninsula.
As I was flying over, I was offered the most wonderful views from the plane window. As I sat there, champagne in hand, nibbling cheese and crackers I thought "this is an amazing way to travel to work"
Josie cooked us casserole and home made strawberry cream sponge and my hostess Carmel and I sat and chatted late into the evening.
The class was held in the local school and the facilities were super... Carmel worked on the sustenance and we worked on the quilts...
On saturday evening carloads of gals came from Tumby Bay, Port Lincoln and Coffin Bay for a presentation... and I had to turn off the lights on those who were still working late in the evening...
There is another side to this story. This small community has been shattered by the devastating bushfires earlier this year. I guess we can't imagine the fear, the desperation and sadness that an event like this brings. 9 people lost their lives. 80 houses lost.
Quilters donated 300 quilts to those who were caught up in this terrible tragedy. Yesterday,in the early evening, I was taken on a ride through the affected area. Miles and miles of devastation. The Mallee trees now look like fields of lace in the sunset as they begin to regenerate... the earth is green once again, hiding the sadness in it's beauty. "This was where I grew up" says one gal as we pass a pile of rubble... "It's all gone, it's all gone..so is this house, so is that one..." her voice carries the sadness and helplessness that we all feel in such a catastrophe.
However, the community are stoic, the land s regenerating and I was able to read a letter delivered the day of the class from a family who had lost their Dad... thanking the group for their wonderful quilts.
Quiet, enfolding love surrounding the family in their time of grief.
2005/08/25
On the road again
The heater is glowing, 3 globes have blown in the shed and I'm too short to reach the 25 ft ceiling... So I'm working in a rosy glow of limited light....
I was asked by a gal following the blog if I was met when I arrived home? I made mention that Husband Keith was unsure if he could pick me up when I arrived home because of the footy finals!!!! Thankfully he was joking and yes I had a great reception...
It's been a busy week and I've had enquiries why I haven't written the blog.... Simply, just not enough time. I was home four days then flew to Victoria and taught at the Ballarat retreat all weekend. I enjoyed it, 20 great students, good food, good company and I get paid... what more can I ask?
Tuesday, friend Di came down from Queensland for some R&R, lots of laughs and a little business. Now the hard work begins. I have to design, make and write up a new quilt and pattern then fly to Sydney on Monday...However, the project is not public knowledge yet, but all will be revealed in the next month or so...just let me say it's a new venture and I have to have my hair and makeup done!!!!!
It's so nice to be home.. a bit cold, but still it's just plain nice. I can lay on the settee with dog Ralf on my chest and fall asleep until the early hours. Grandson Kodi has been a constant visitor as has Grandson Jordan, who loves my cooking... Last night we had a treat.. Son Josh, decided to cook, folk his meal was heaven... garlic mash topped with melt in your mouth rib eye steak, topped with baked prosciutto and caramalised shallots and blue cheese sauce.... I had dinner ready in the fridge... but my soup and salad, took a back seat with this offering. By the way, he is a chef..... I love those impromptu meals...
Husband Keith is off at the local Quilt Guild Committee meeting tonight and I'm about to begin my drawings for the next few days work.
What's on for the next few weeks? I'm off to Cummins in the mid north to teach, then a few days home and off to Perth... a few more days home and off to Toowoomba... then England and France... The feet are moving fast folk...
Take care...
The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.
- Augustine (354-430)
I was asked by a gal following the blog if I was met when I arrived home? I made mention that Husband Keith was unsure if he could pick me up when I arrived home because of the footy finals!!!! Thankfully he was joking and yes I had a great reception...
It's been a busy week and I've had enquiries why I haven't written the blog.... Simply, just not enough time. I was home four days then flew to Victoria and taught at the Ballarat retreat all weekend. I enjoyed it, 20 great students, good food, good company and I get paid... what more can I ask?
Tuesday, friend Di came down from Queensland for some R&R, lots of laughs and a little business. Now the hard work begins. I have to design, make and write up a new quilt and pattern then fly to Sydney on Monday...However, the project is not public knowledge yet, but all will be revealed in the next month or so...just let me say it's a new venture and I have to have my hair and makeup done!!!!!
It's so nice to be home.. a bit cold, but still it's just plain nice. I can lay on the settee with dog Ralf on my chest and fall asleep until the early hours. Grandson Kodi has been a constant visitor as has Grandson Jordan, who loves my cooking... Last night we had a treat.. Son Josh, decided to cook, folk his meal was heaven... garlic mash topped with melt in your mouth rib eye steak, topped with baked prosciutto and caramalised shallots and blue cheese sauce.... I had dinner ready in the fridge... but my soup and salad, took a back seat with this offering. By the way, he is a chef..... I love those impromptu meals...
Husband Keith is off at the local Quilt Guild Committee meeting tonight and I'm about to begin my drawings for the next few days work.
What's on for the next few weeks? I'm off to Cummins in the mid north to teach, then a few days home and off to Perth... a few more days home and off to Toowoomba... then England and France... The feet are moving fast folk...
Take care...
The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.
- Augustine (354-430)
2005/08/17
Home at Last.
Three nights in my own bed... Well sort of, last night was spent in the upstairs room with Grandson Kodi. I never have a problem with Jet Lag when I go to the USA... But I can guarantee that on the third day home..... I crash, and today was said day. But I have managed to prepare for class Friday, organize 2 more plane trips, post off the business info, do the shopping and washing, cook the meals and entertain the troops.... So I guess it's no wonder that I crash....
I'm actually writing this to make the evening longer... I end up falling asleep too early and wandering around in the wee hours.
The weather is super, 21 deg and I'm in shirt sleeves... it's hard to go back into sweaters...Goodness me I was Teaching in California last week, it was in the 90's....and then relaxing in Disneyland...!!! The world sure is small.
Well the bags are packed for Ballarat on the weekend... class notes completed just need the haircut and I'm ready... two more days will get rid of the jet lag... and I'll be firing...
"A child on a farm sees a plane fly by overhead and dreams of a faraway place A traveler on the plane sees the farmhouse and dreams of home" - Carl Burns
I'm actually writing this to make the evening longer... I end up falling asleep too early and wandering around in the wee hours.
The weather is super, 21 deg and I'm in shirt sleeves... it's hard to go back into sweaters...Goodness me I was Teaching in California last week, it was in the 90's....and then relaxing in Disneyland...!!! The world sure is small.
Well the bags are packed for Ballarat on the weekend... class notes completed just need the haircut and I'm ready... two more days will get rid of the jet lag... and I'll be firing...
"A child on a farm sees a plane fly by overhead and dreams of a faraway place A traveler on the plane sees the farmhouse and dreams of home" - Carl Burns
2005/08/12
Going Home
Two and half months on the road is an interesting and enlightening experience. After every trip I return home with an envelope full of lessons in life...
I've just been down to breakfast. I shared the lift with a young African American boy, about 12... He was dressed immaculately. "I just had to go back up to my room to do my hair" he said with a huge smile... enough to melt your heart.... I laughed as I got out of the lift. His hair was cropped to about 1/6th inch.... What does he have to do with his hair...? There are lots of young people here at the Holiday Inn. Its school holidays and many come in groups to visit Disneyland. I'm impressed by their demeanor, and by that I mean their presentation, both in the way they present themselves in dress and speech.
I came to Orange County to Teach for the Guild and I was given a wonderful welcome. Tuesday evening was a pot luck dinner...imagine my surprise when our table was set with fine china, beautiful silver, white napkins and a silver centerpiece supporting chocolate dipped strawberries and chocolates.... It was such fun... It seems that they have a competition for the best dressed table.... I think we won hands down....I delivered my lecture and they seemed to be in stitches for some reason... I also give a 15 minute presentation of inspiration with beautiful photos, (some 250 actually) and play it to an unusual combination of a flamenco guitar and didgeridoo. You can hear a pin drop in the room... and believe me students get more inspiration for quilting in that 15 minutes than in an entire class.
However, my class was super and I was impressed by the students innovation and talent.
I had the added benefit of having some time off so I went to Disneyland. It was hot and sunny...
It's a wonderful family environment... But it's also a place you can visit on your own and still enjoy the sounds and sights presented with so much care....
Now to pack the case for the final time this trip... I'm an expert I can tell you...
This time next week I'm off to Ballarat.... so the pace continues...
The rewards of the journey far outweigh the risk of leaving the harbor. - Unknown
I've just been down to breakfast. I shared the lift with a young African American boy, about 12... He was dressed immaculately. "I just had to go back up to my room to do my hair" he said with a huge smile... enough to melt your heart.... I laughed as I got out of the lift. His hair was cropped to about 1/6th inch.... What does he have to do with his hair...? There are lots of young people here at the Holiday Inn. Its school holidays and many come in groups to visit Disneyland. I'm impressed by their demeanor, and by that I mean their presentation, both in the way they present themselves in dress and speech.
I came to Orange County to Teach for the Guild and I was given a wonderful welcome. Tuesday evening was a pot luck dinner...imagine my surprise when our table was set with fine china, beautiful silver, white napkins and a silver centerpiece supporting chocolate dipped strawberries and chocolates.... It was such fun... It seems that they have a competition for the best dressed table.... I think we won hands down....I delivered my lecture and they seemed to be in stitches for some reason... I also give a 15 minute presentation of inspiration with beautiful photos, (some 250 actually) and play it to an unusual combination of a flamenco guitar and didgeridoo. You can hear a pin drop in the room... and believe me students get more inspiration for quilting in that 15 minutes than in an entire class.
However, my class was super and I was impressed by the students innovation and talent.
I had the added benefit of having some time off so I went to Disneyland. It was hot and sunny...
It's a wonderful family environment... But it's also a place you can visit on your own and still enjoy the sounds and sights presented with so much care....
Now to pack the case for the final time this trip... I'm an expert I can tell you...
This time next week I'm off to Ballarat.... so the pace continues...
The rewards of the journey far outweigh the risk of leaving the harbor. - Unknown
2005/08/08
Life's Interesting.
Late Sunday evening and I've prepared for a 4.00 am early morning call for a 7 am flight. I usually get up early, but the early hours are beginning to take their toll. I've averaged 5 hours sleep a night for the past week because I'm working on projects and research. I will be traveling all day tomorrow and I know I will be able to sleep on the plane to LA...
Just 5 days till I go home.....
I had great classes at Quilt University aided by patient and thoughtful students and supportive organizers. Class went so quickly today I didn't even get an opportunity to take photos.
The time spent with fellow Tutors has been wonderful, we laughed at shared experiences both good and interesting!!!!!!
My life here in the USA is hard for my friends back home to understand, but as Traveling Tutors we share common interests.
Highlights this past week have been being welcomed with a big bag of luscious goodies in my hotel room.
The surprise of a spa in my room.
Shared breakfasts at Big Boy in a convertible booth.
Assisting the window cleaner of Big Boy with his allotted task.
Dressing in my glad rags and giving a lecture where I had a runway to perform on.(I was in heaven)and I used to be shy - Truly.
Relaxing in the spa, with chocolates and the TV on, then I realized it was the weather channel instead of something interesting.
A Phone call arrived while I was in the spa... I told the caller I couldn't talk as I was in the spa with the Weather Man... The phone hung up.....eek there will be more rumors to add to the piercing and the super glue stories...
Just 5 days till I go home.....
I had great classes at Quilt University aided by patient and thoughtful students and supportive organizers. Class went so quickly today I didn't even get an opportunity to take photos.
The time spent with fellow Tutors has been wonderful, we laughed at shared experiences both good and interesting!!!!!!
My life here in the USA is hard for my friends back home to understand, but as Traveling Tutors we share common interests.
Highlights this past week have been being welcomed with a big bag of luscious goodies in my hotel room.
The surprise of a spa in my room.
Shared breakfasts at Big Boy in a convertible booth.
Assisting the window cleaner of Big Boy with his allotted task.
Dressing in my glad rags and giving a lecture where I had a runway to perform on.(I was in heaven)and I used to be shy - Truly.
Relaxing in the spa, with chocolates and the TV on, then I realized it was the weather channel instead of something interesting.
A Phone call arrived while I was in the spa... I told the caller I couldn't talk as I was in the spa with the Weather Man... The phone hung up.....eek there will be more rumors to add to the piercing and the super glue stories...
Visits with students in the common room after dinner who sat patiently and waited for their turn for a massage. The place was buzzing with talk, show and tell and smiling faces...
This evenings meal at Red Lobster and a large Margarita with friends.
An email from a student from last year who said how much my class had meant to her.. I told her she could do it... and she sure did....
My quilting buddies back home who held a quilt show with our combined quilts and raised $2000 for the Local Nursing Home....
Ok, Ok, sure there was one interesting incident that I have never encountered before... and I'm going to keep you guessing...I'll just say we had security on alert for a few days...!!!!
This evenings meal at Red Lobster and a large Margarita with friends.
An email from a student from last year who said how much my class had meant to her.. I told her she could do it... and she sure did....
My quilting buddies back home who held a quilt show with our combined quilts and raised $2000 for the Local Nursing Home....
Ok, Ok, sure there was one interesting incident that I have never encountered before... and I'm going to keep you guessing...I'll just say we had security on alert for a few days...!!!!
Happy Birthday to Daughter Callie....
2005/08/07
2005/08/04
Super Glue again!!!!!!
It's late in the evening and I have Battle Hymn of the Republic by She-Daisy playing very loud, followed by a little Bach. Another 20 young men were killed in Iraq again today. What more can I say... Whatever your religious persuasion is please pray for the families of these young men. I had a heavy heart as I watched their faces appear on the TV screen this evening. Most of them were only 19.
The past couple of days have been a whirl of experiences... These are the first days I've actually had on my own... I intended to do so much, but to be honest I achieved just the basics.
It was sad saying farewell to my Minnesota family. I'm always miserable and tense the day before I leave and I must admit, I slept very little.
I gave the legs an stiff workout yesterday. Have you ever got into bed and your legs keep working? I didn't think I was going to be able to walk today... This all stems from miles of walking in 96 deg heat changing hotels... The one I booked online was a smoking room (even though I booked non) Oh well, that's the way it goes. Win some loose some.
I intended to go to the Minneapolis Institute of Arts today. However, after a late start due to the build up of business mail. The writing of a new lecture etc... and of course I had to have the nails done...
For those of you who know me well, two more Thelma and Louise sparkles were added...!!!! Now the gal in the beauty shop slipped a little and she stuck my finger to hers as she was fixing yet another of my troubled nails... Neither of us noticed for some time. Then we realized we were joined. I envisioned having to cut the finger.. but we pried them apart after 5 minutes. She was embarrassed, I was trying to stifle my laughter. Can you image being joined at the finger to a middle aged Vietnamese gal half my size?
So I didn't get to the Art Institute. Borders was a good alternative and I was lucky to purchase two reference books on my next project. So I curled up in a corner of Ruby Tuesdays, munched on salad and read my books... Wonderful.
I love the Mall of America. You can sit in one spot and see the whole world go by.
It's used by the newly retired as therapy and exercise. Families come for days and get passes to Snoopy Land....On the shuttle yesterday, the banter was as excited as when I visited Disneyland. I passed an elderly Amish couple holding hands and walking through the main doors... I was tempted to follow them and watch their reaction. Mexican families dress for the occasion and Grandparents have grandkids in tow. There are groups of youth with their pants hung from invisible braces under their shirts. They seem to defy gravity. Everyone is well dressed, polite and smiling and you can walk for miles... and I sure did.
The past couple of days have been a whirl of experiences... These are the first days I've actually had on my own... I intended to do so much, but to be honest I achieved just the basics.
It was sad saying farewell to my Minnesota family. I'm always miserable and tense the day before I leave and I must admit, I slept very little.
I gave the legs an stiff workout yesterday. Have you ever got into bed and your legs keep working? I didn't think I was going to be able to walk today... This all stems from miles of walking in 96 deg heat changing hotels... The one I booked online was a smoking room (even though I booked non) Oh well, that's the way it goes. Win some loose some.
I intended to go to the Minneapolis Institute of Arts today. However, after a late start due to the build up of business mail. The writing of a new lecture etc... and of course I had to have the nails done...
For those of you who know me well, two more Thelma and Louise sparkles were added...!!!! Now the gal in the beauty shop slipped a little and she stuck my finger to hers as she was fixing yet another of my troubled nails... Neither of us noticed for some time. Then we realized we were joined. I envisioned having to cut the finger.. but we pried them apart after 5 minutes. She was embarrassed, I was trying to stifle my laughter. Can you image being joined at the finger to a middle aged Vietnamese gal half my size?
So I didn't get to the Art Institute. Borders was a good alternative and I was lucky to purchase two reference books on my next project. So I curled up in a corner of Ruby Tuesdays, munched on salad and read my books... Wonderful.
I love the Mall of America. You can sit in one spot and see the whole world go by.
It's used by the newly retired as therapy and exercise. Families come for days and get passes to Snoopy Land....On the shuttle yesterday, the banter was as excited as when I visited Disneyland. I passed an elderly Amish couple holding hands and walking through the main doors... I was tempted to follow them and watch their reaction. Mexican families dress for the occasion and Grandparents have grandkids in tow. There are groups of youth with their pants hung from invisible braces under their shirts. They seem to defy gravity. Everyone is well dressed, polite and smiling and you can walk for miles... and I sure did.
2005/08/02
2005/07/31
Small gems
Don't you love those times when you enter into a conversation with someone you don't know and come away with information that is an absolute gem. My lunch conversation yesterday was one such little bubble of time. Said gals Mother died a week earlier... In her 90's she was ready to "Go" She died in her sleep sitting on the settee. I commented.."That's surely the way to go". "Yes" was the answer. "She had her curlers in and was well prepared" Seems Mum had had a scare a few weeks earlier... In fact she actually had a heart attack, but took the time to put on her good clothes, her lippy, did her hair and walked the 2 miles to the hospital in 90 deg heat... and then was disappointed she didn't pass away. The faces of the rest of the gals at the table were a classic... how I wish I had a video camera... however my people watching skills held me in good stead. Mother finally succumbed to the call and laid down on the settee and passed away last week... not before she had laid out the most exclusive underwear and clothes to make her final farewell presentation in....
Seems Mother was a collector... how about 2000+ Styrofoam take out containers, all washed and saved for future use... As the conversationalist recounted the method of disposal of her Mothers possessions I winced, imagining the wonderful fabric she must have stashed and made a mental note to begin organizing my stash, my quilts... put down the ideas in my head and store them...!!!!!
Next adventure was a visit to a sewing machine business. Dear friend Lori is in the market for a new machine for quilting... so I wanted to show her the Janome 6500. The gal at the shop began her speal... I sat quietly and had to sit on my hands to prevent them from flexing due to impatience... There were sideways looks and a little nudging and the gal did really well in her demonstration, but was dismayed when I casually asked if I could "have a go" my friends smiled as I took off in a world of my own, quilting, stippling, appliqueing. She nearly had heart failure when I explained I didn't drop the feed dogs.... Joan explained that I did a bit of quilting and had been published... "Oh yes, I remember the name" said the gal.... I could tell by her face that she had no idea (or should have) as to whom this smart allec gal dressed in frog green and red glasses was who had taken over her machine...
Yes, Lori is impressed by the machine, but we can get it cheaper... however it was an interesting experience.... A small bubble of time...
"Opportunities always look bigger going than coming."
Seems Mother was a collector... how about 2000+ Styrofoam take out containers, all washed and saved for future use... As the conversationalist recounted the method of disposal of her Mothers possessions I winced, imagining the wonderful fabric she must have stashed and made a mental note to begin organizing my stash, my quilts... put down the ideas in my head and store them...!!!!!
Next adventure was a visit to a sewing machine business. Dear friend Lori is in the market for a new machine for quilting... so I wanted to show her the Janome 6500. The gal at the shop began her speal... I sat quietly and had to sit on my hands to prevent them from flexing due to impatience... There were sideways looks and a little nudging and the gal did really well in her demonstration, but was dismayed when I casually asked if I could "have a go" my friends smiled as I took off in a world of my own, quilting, stippling, appliqueing. She nearly had heart failure when I explained I didn't drop the feed dogs.... Joan explained that I did a bit of quilting and had been published... "Oh yes, I remember the name" said the gal.... I could tell by her face that she had no idea (or should have) as to whom this smart allec gal dressed in frog green and red glasses was who had taken over her machine...
Yes, Lori is impressed by the machine, but we can get it cheaper... however it was an interesting experience.... A small bubble of time...
"Opportunities always look bigger going than coming."
2005/07/30
Drama in the backyard.
The town of Long Prairie is a small rural retreat. 3000 residents make this a unique mid western town. Rolling fields of golden wheat and tall corn stalks fringe the houses…yesterday we passed a property just down the road owned by Amish folk. It was late evening and the sun was low in the sky. The houses and barn are bright red and completely surrounded by tall green cornfields. The scenery is spectacular. A feast for the eyes, I’m living in a documentary.
I’m sitting in the Gazebo this morning, the sun is already high and yellow and each morning Joan and I watch a small squirrel that has a physical disability…. We feel very protective of him…He has difficulty with his balance and as he sits and nibbles the sunflower seeds… he suddenly falls over and lays on the ground…not missing a beat or dropping the seeds he holds in his hands… At first we were horrified at seeing his problem, but after weeks of watching him we feel he copes quite well. Suddenly a huge hawk swooped down from the trees right before our eyes… his talons just missing our little friend as he scampered under the outdoor chairs and away from certain death.
Today is a day for finishing projects, talking to students and a quick ride into town…
I am experimenting with very fine hand dyed wool for use in needle punch embroidery… I have a project to complete for a student, samples to finish for class and computer projects to complete…
But one can’t be certain as to what will happen during the day…..
“The 50-50-90 rule: Anytime you have a 50-50 chance of getting something right, there's a 90% probability you'll get it wrong.”
I’m sitting in the Gazebo this morning, the sun is already high and yellow and each morning Joan and I watch a small squirrel that has a physical disability…. We feel very protective of him…He has difficulty with his balance and as he sits and nibbles the sunflower seeds… he suddenly falls over and lays on the ground…not missing a beat or dropping the seeds he holds in his hands… At first we were horrified at seeing his problem, but after weeks of watching him we feel he copes quite well. Suddenly a huge hawk swooped down from the trees right before our eyes… his talons just missing our little friend as he scampered under the outdoor chairs and away from certain death.
Today is a day for finishing projects, talking to students and a quick ride into town…
I am experimenting with very fine hand dyed wool for use in needle punch embroidery… I have a project to complete for a student, samples to finish for class and computer projects to complete…
But one can’t be certain as to what will happen during the day…..
“The 50-50-90 rule: Anytime you have a 50-50 chance of getting something right, there's a 90% probability you'll get it wrong.”
2005/07/28
Plane travel
I've just spent the past hour checking my flights.... Did you know you can organize your own seat, and print out a boarding pass..? You can upgrade and almost cook a meal for the flight on the internet. I actually lost a flight, so a little conversation through email re-confirmed my e-ticket.
I had an interesting trip home from Arizona on Sunday. The plane was late out of Flagstaff because it was overloaded... So they took four people off (poor things) and left half an hour late. That meant a little juggling... I had to sprint to catch my next flight in Phoenix.... the computer bag clutched in my hand whizzed along the carpet and my red sneakers really came in handy... I caught the plane as it was boarding.... then of course you hope like hell that the luggage has kept up with you... but there is was in MN. Once again... I had just half an hour from landing to catch my shuttle... so this time I ran with 130 LB of luggage behind me... Needless to say the dislocated finger is now a little worse for wear and has to be strapped....but I caught the shuttle. I must say I slept a lot on the trip. Heat, overwork and altitude all took it's toll.
I got out of Flagstaff just in time... They shut the Uni because 80 folk came down with the Norovirus... !!!!Goodness me.. I just seem to be a little ahead of the interesting stuff, needless to say 2000 folk left the Uni campus in a hurry and we quilters were at the head of the queues.
We converted Joans house into a mini retreat over the past few days... It was super... 5 gals shared lots of chat and laughter... and after the UPS man delivered a wonderful contract yesterday, the margaritas and wine flowed freely.!!!!!!
In the evening I was guest at Little Falls and we shared a fantastic pot luck dinner, a visual and musical presentation and with a little encouragement, some of the delights of a Traveling Quilter.
Today was a business day and I also got to visit several quilt shops in Brainerd... and flapped the cheque book a little.
Life is sure interesting...
"If you look like your passport picture, you probably need the trip."
I had an interesting trip home from Arizona on Sunday. The plane was late out of Flagstaff because it was overloaded... So they took four people off (poor things) and left half an hour late. That meant a little juggling... I had to sprint to catch my next flight in Phoenix.... the computer bag clutched in my hand whizzed along the carpet and my red sneakers really came in handy... I caught the plane as it was boarding.... then of course you hope like hell that the luggage has kept up with you... but there is was in MN. Once again... I had just half an hour from landing to catch my shuttle... so this time I ran with 130 LB of luggage behind me... Needless to say the dislocated finger is now a little worse for wear and has to be strapped....but I caught the shuttle. I must say I slept a lot on the trip. Heat, overwork and altitude all took it's toll.
I got out of Flagstaff just in time... They shut the Uni because 80 folk came down with the Norovirus... !!!!Goodness me.. I just seem to be a little ahead of the interesting stuff, needless to say 2000 folk left the Uni campus in a hurry and we quilters were at the head of the queues.
We converted Joans house into a mini retreat over the past few days... It was super... 5 gals shared lots of chat and laughter... and after the UPS man delivered a wonderful contract yesterday, the margaritas and wine flowed freely.!!!!!!
In the evening I was guest at Little Falls and we shared a fantastic pot luck dinner, a visual and musical presentation and with a little encouragement, some of the delights of a Traveling Quilter.
Today was a business day and I also got to visit several quilt shops in Brainerd... and flapped the cheque book a little.
Life is sure interesting...
"If you look like your passport picture, you probably need the trip."
2005/07/23
What's it like to be a traveling Quilter?
I carry 120 lb of luggage in two cases and a carry on. I can piggy back the 20lb case on one of the large 50 lb ones and effectively walk with 3 bags at the same time..
The 20 lb carry on, contains a digital projector, a large camera... Numerous cords, a computer and the mouse etc. Add to that my GPS for the car and speakers and essential papers.
One large bag has clothes and work paraphernalia.. and the other is purely work. I ship, patterns, books and pens....
I need to keep the batteries charged on the camera's, phone and Ipod.. so all that stuff comes too...
I can't even begin to explain the weeks of preparation that goes into a tour.... I won't even go into organizing the fare, contracts etc...!!!!
Class papers and supplies need to be prepared a week or so in advance... Clothes organised carefully and co-ordinated...And there is rarely time to shop so you need all your personal items on hand.
Health is important.. You just can't get ill on a tour.. So I take lots of vitamins and get plenty of exercise. An average day ends late and begins early. For instance, tomorrow I will get up around 5.00 and make sure I have everything ready for my class. I spend an hour or so listening to my favorite music on the ipod or the computer as I go over the the days class. I catch up on the news from home, talk to the family and attend business mail.
Breakfast is often a non event for me as long as I have coffee, but here at the University we mix it with the Bagpipers, the returning students and the numerous camps occurring during the holidays.....
Class begins at 9.00 but I usually check the room I'm teaching in around 6.30/7.00
The students generally arrive around 8.00. I begin formal teaching at 9.00 but inevitably the class begins with the first students arrival.
The class we're doing is intense and the students are eager so it will be an early start.
The day goes so quickly... I always wish for more time... but class ends around 5.00 and I have to repack to catch an earlyflight at 7.00 am Sunday morning.. It will probably be a late night due to the farewell dinner and lingering conversations with fellow Teachers.
There are inevitable adventures during plane travel...Tomorrow I catch a small prop plane to Phoenix, then one from Phoenix to Minneapolis, next a 3 hour shuttle to Long Prairie...
It's been one hectic week and very exciting... but what a way to go....
"Not one shred of evidence supports the notion that life is serious."
The 20 lb carry on, contains a digital projector, a large camera... Numerous cords, a computer and the mouse etc. Add to that my GPS for the car and speakers and essential papers.
One large bag has clothes and work paraphernalia.. and the other is purely work. I ship, patterns, books and pens....
I need to keep the batteries charged on the camera's, phone and Ipod.. so all that stuff comes too...
I can't even begin to explain the weeks of preparation that goes into a tour.... I won't even go into organizing the fare, contracts etc...!!!!
Class papers and supplies need to be prepared a week or so in advance... Clothes organised carefully and co-ordinated...And there is rarely time to shop so you need all your personal items on hand.
Health is important.. You just can't get ill on a tour.. So I take lots of vitamins and get plenty of exercise. An average day ends late and begins early. For instance, tomorrow I will get up around 5.00 and make sure I have everything ready for my class. I spend an hour or so listening to my favorite music on the ipod or the computer as I go over the the days class. I catch up on the news from home, talk to the family and attend business mail.
Breakfast is often a non event for me as long as I have coffee, but here at the University we mix it with the Bagpipers, the returning students and the numerous camps occurring during the holidays.....
Class begins at 9.00 but I usually check the room I'm teaching in around 6.30/7.00
The students generally arrive around 8.00. I begin formal teaching at 9.00 but inevitably the class begins with the first students arrival.
The class we're doing is intense and the students are eager so it will be an early start.
The day goes so quickly... I always wish for more time... but class ends around 5.00 and I have to repack to catch an earlyflight at 7.00 am Sunday morning.. It will probably be a late night due to the farewell dinner and lingering conversations with fellow Teachers.
There are inevitable adventures during plane travel...Tomorrow I catch a small prop plane to Phoenix, then one from Phoenix to Minneapolis, next a 3 hour shuttle to Long Prairie...
It's been one hectic week and very exciting... but what a way to go....
"Not one shred of evidence supports the notion that life is serious."
2005/07/21
No more tattoos!!!!
I have a two day break and my dear friends Lisa and Karla traveled through 3 states for us to spend time together here in Flagstaff.
Three gals, in high pressure jobs... and it takes very little to entertain us, we value our time together...and we have a ball. It's an incredible logistic feat to get together at least once a year...
Last year we had our eyes tattooed in El Paso Texas and it was a legitimate quilting expedition. As each one of us had our eyes beautified... The rest of us sat around quilting and annoying the technician with comedic banter...
So how do we better that...? Well I'm going to admit to having a piercing...!!!!!
Lisa had a makeover by cutting her hair real short and we spent two hilarious hours in the beauty department of the department store, Dillards as Karla had a beauty treatment. She discovered that she actually had lips !!!!!
By the end of the time, we had made lots of new friends who wanted to be part of our "Ya Ya Sisterhood" act... "You're so lucky to have friends like that" several of the assistants said... they left their posts and joined in the fun....
So we all bought ankle bracelets and walked out of the Mall at 5.00 laughing after spending the entire day there with cheap entertainment.
We have another day today to explore... goodness knows what will eventuate today....
"If you must choose between two evils, pick the one you've never tried
before."
Three gals, in high pressure jobs... and it takes very little to entertain us, we value our time together...and we have a ball. It's an incredible logistic feat to get together at least once a year...
Last year we had our eyes tattooed in El Paso Texas and it was a legitimate quilting expedition. As each one of us had our eyes beautified... The rest of us sat around quilting and annoying the technician with comedic banter...
So how do we better that...? Well I'm going to admit to having a piercing...!!!!!
Lisa had a makeover by cutting her hair real short and we spent two hilarious hours in the beauty department of the department store, Dillards as Karla had a beauty treatment. She discovered that she actually had lips !!!!!
By the end of the time, we had made lots of new friends who wanted to be part of our "Ya Ya Sisterhood" act... "You're so lucky to have friends like that" several of the assistants said... they left their posts and joined in the fun....
So we all bought ankle bracelets and walked out of the Mall at 5.00 laughing after spending the entire day there with cheap entertainment.
We have another day today to explore... goodness knows what will eventuate today....
"If you must choose between two evils, pick the one you've never tried
before."
Flagstaff Arizona
Flagstaff in mid summer is delightful. It's hot during the day and cool in the evening. It's situated at a level of 7000 ft above sea level in a valley surrounded by huge mountains and I noticed small amounts of snow present. There are many stories surrounding the manner in which Flagstaff got its name. Perhaps the most commonly heard story refers to a lofty pine stripped of its branches and used to hang an American flag with rawhide strings for a Fourth of July celebration. The flagstaff became a symbol for the valley and could be spotted miles away. It was said that those journeying west were told to travel straight west, until you come to a flagstaff where you will find a good place to camp.
The famous Lowell Observatory was built in 1894. Dr. Percival Lowell chose Flagstaff for its great visibility. This proved to be correct when the planet Pluto was discovered at the observatory in 1930.
The Arizona Teachers College began in 1899, becoming Northern Arizona University in 1966.During the 1920's, Route 66 was built and passed right through town.
Quilt Camp in the Pines is held at NAU and we are joined by Scottish band retreats, young athletes, scientists and of course 100's of quilters....
The famous Lowell Observatory was built in 1894. Dr. Percival Lowell chose Flagstaff for its great visibility. This proved to be correct when the planet Pluto was discovered at the observatory in 1930.
The Arizona Teachers College began in 1899, becoming Northern Arizona University in 1966.During the 1920's, Route 66 was built and passed right through town.
Quilt Camp in the Pines is held at NAU and we are joined by Scottish band retreats, young athletes, scientists and of course 100's of quilters....
2005/07/19
My adventure with super Glue.
Yesterday I had one of those days... and in the shower that night one of my newly attended finger nails, just dropped off... Darn it. So at lunch time I raced down to Target and purchased some super glue amongst other essentials.
It wasn't until the evening when I was about to go out with my students for tea, that I decided to stick the nail back on... they were waiting for me in the lobby... OK, I still have time to attend the nail... Whoops no scissors to open the glue with.... So God gave us teeth.. but he didn't figure the glue would end up sticking my lip to my teeth.... All I could do was laugh.. I envisaged teaching and lecturing in a most unfortunate way...
After 5 mins of prying.. I freed the lip.. and continued to visit my friends with no untoward effects..
The temperature is still very high and the classroom like a furnace yesterday... I had to do a two day class in one day... I can tell you, at dinner they served me a Margarita in a large coke glass and it sure went down well.
It wasn't until the evening when I was about to go out with my students for tea, that I decided to stick the nail back on... they were waiting for me in the lobby... OK, I still have time to attend the nail... Whoops no scissors to open the glue with.... So God gave us teeth.. but he didn't figure the glue would end up sticking my lip to my teeth.... All I could do was laugh.. I envisaged teaching and lecturing in a most unfortunate way...
After 5 mins of prying.. I freed the lip.. and continued to visit my friends with no untoward effects..
The temperature is still very high and the classroom like a furnace yesterday... I had to do a two day class in one day... I can tell you, at dinner they served me a Margarita in a large coke glass and it sure went down well.
2005/07/18
Arizona
It was 119 deg in phoenix yesterday. As I walked onto the tarmac to get on the puddle jumper that was to fly me to Flagstaff, I almost baked. The heat shimmered up from the tarmac enveloping all who ventured out there.
I'm teaching at Quilt Camp in the Pines, my second year teaching and third visit... It's and interesting experience.
I left Long Prairie at 7.00 am, but the eyes and brain had been on the go since 4.30...
I have to take a shuttle ride to the airport which got me there at 9.45,and then of course there are the long lines to get your boarding pass and security.
MN airport is huge and you need to take a skytrain to get from place to place.
It's a 3 1/2 hour trip to Phoenix and it was cool and comfortable on the plane. I worked on my research which often triggers my fellow passengers interest, I have the priviledge of sharing my excitement with others...
Phoenix was the first opportunity I had to eat for the day. I had a 3 hour wait and in one respect, I relished the opportunity to stretch my legs, people watch and do a little work. There is an unwritten law in airports, I'll call it the "Computer Junkies Juxtaposition" You need to find an empty seat next to a power outage. I refuse to sit on the floor like some others. I have a method of propping my carry on baggage with the back pack on top and then the computer... It's quite comfortable really.
As I mentioned the plane was one of those little puddle jumpers.... My seat was 9E... A man of huge proportions sidled down the aisle and settled in one of he 5 seats along the back of the plane..Then two more men of equal proportions sat the other side of me and a gal in the window seat... 5 of us at the back of the plane. Folk I had 8" of space to sit in... These poor fellows looked like the cousins of Harry Potters relatives... The plane pitched and rolled the entire way... One guy in the corner was absolutely green. Wedged in as we were, I was sure anxious at what he may do. It was unbelievably hot. I was soaked, the perspiration dripping down my face and even off my nose... This is the glamorous life of a Traveling Quilt Teacher.
I arrived at the University, 10 mins before the Teachers dinner, no time to shower and I must say, it was an interesting meal.
The pressure didn't end there as I had to attend a "Meet the Teacher"... and the deadline was abandoned when I couldn't unlock my case with my clothes in.... an innovation with a paper clip did the job and once again I arrived at the venue exhausted... I sure slept well that night...
I'm teaching at Quilt Camp in the Pines, my second year teaching and third visit... It's and interesting experience.
I left Long Prairie at 7.00 am, but the eyes and brain had been on the go since 4.30...
I have to take a shuttle ride to the airport which got me there at 9.45,and then of course there are the long lines to get your boarding pass and security.
MN airport is huge and you need to take a skytrain to get from place to place.
It's a 3 1/2 hour trip to Phoenix and it was cool and comfortable on the plane. I worked on my research which often triggers my fellow passengers interest, I have the priviledge of sharing my excitement with others...
Phoenix was the first opportunity I had to eat for the day. I had a 3 hour wait and in one respect, I relished the opportunity to stretch my legs, people watch and do a little work. There is an unwritten law in airports, I'll call it the "Computer Junkies Juxtaposition" You need to find an empty seat next to a power outage. I refuse to sit on the floor like some others. I have a method of propping my carry on baggage with the back pack on top and then the computer... It's quite comfortable really.
As I mentioned the plane was one of those little puddle jumpers.... My seat was 9E... A man of huge proportions sidled down the aisle and settled in one of he 5 seats along the back of the plane..Then two more men of equal proportions sat the other side of me and a gal in the window seat... 5 of us at the back of the plane. Folk I had 8" of space to sit in... These poor fellows looked like the cousins of Harry Potters relatives... The plane pitched and rolled the entire way... One guy in the corner was absolutely green. Wedged in as we were, I was sure anxious at what he may do. It was unbelievably hot. I was soaked, the perspiration dripping down my face and even off my nose... This is the glamorous life of a Traveling Quilt Teacher.
I arrived at the University, 10 mins before the Teachers dinner, no time to shower and I must say, it was an interesting meal.
The pressure didn't end there as I had to attend a "Meet the Teacher"... and the deadline was abandoned when I couldn't unlock my case with my clothes in.... an innovation with a paper clip did the job and once again I arrived at the venue exhausted... I sure slept well that night...
2005/07/16
Wood Tick Theatre
There is a huge dance party going on… it’s called Moon dance and I imagine it’s a little like a small Woodstock. It's held out in a field just out of Walker Minnesota. We sat eating ice cream and became observers to the huge stream of traffic winding through the town… some 20 mainliners are performing over 3 days. People camp in the fields and there were all manner of mobile homes, Harleys and cars loaded with tents on the move.
We opted for a different form of entertainment, the local Wood Tick Theatre. It seems to me it was almost as popular as Moon Dance… well not quite but in comparison… but I thought it was.
Wood Tick is a small theatre that stands alone flanked by a field where students practice their gardening skills and the local service station. In fact, at half time many of the guests filed through the garden to view the upside down tomato plant and the potatoes growing in tyres…both experiments created a lit of interest and looked extremely healthy… it’s a great project. I guess there are around 7 buildings in the town, although I didn’t examine it thoroughly.
This is the 14th year of Wood Tick. There are about 8 performances per week. Most of the players are local and they seem to have a wonderful following. They played country music, gospel, a little comedy and some of my Fathers favorite oldies… young folk danced in the aisles and everyone visited with their seated neighbors… this is the way it should be folk. We left the theatre at 10.00 pm and joined the line of well wishers to the performers. What a great experience and I count myself lucky that I had the opportunity to attend….
“Of all the moments we gather in our lives, those we cherish most are the moments shared.”
We opted for a different form of entertainment, the local Wood Tick Theatre. It seems to me it was almost as popular as Moon Dance… well not quite but in comparison… but I thought it was.
Wood Tick is a small theatre that stands alone flanked by a field where students practice their gardening skills and the local service station. In fact, at half time many of the guests filed through the garden to view the upside down tomato plant and the potatoes growing in tyres…both experiments created a lit of interest and looked extremely healthy… it’s a great project. I guess there are around 7 buildings in the town, although I didn’t examine it thoroughly.
This is the 14th year of Wood Tick. There are about 8 performances per week. Most of the players are local and they seem to have a wonderful following. They played country music, gospel, a little comedy and some of my Fathers favorite oldies… young folk danced in the aisles and everyone visited with their seated neighbors… this is the way it should be folk. We left the theatre at 10.00 pm and joined the line of well wishers to the performers. What a great experience and I count myself lucky that I had the opportunity to attend….
“Of all the moments we gather in our lives, those we cherish most are the moments shared.”
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