Tuesdays With Tag - Update...

Artwork by Mary Sparrow - Herdin' Corgi

 Hi, Everybody!
I thought you might like a health update today, as I saw the vet again yesterday. 

If you've been followin' me on Mom's Facebook page, I've been havin' a few little issues that concerned Mom, so she figured she'd better get me to a professional. I'm sharin' this picture, because the vet tech decided she needed to take my temperature while I was there. Good times. Not!

After a checkup and some bloodwork analysis, the vet said he thinks I might be havin' intermittent, little seizures. Mom's supposed to journal any new occurrences, and she'll be keepin' in touch with the vet. I haven't had any more episodes since last week, so that's a good thing.

I have a kitty update for you, too...

Remember the cats that Mom took to Critter Junction in Fond du Lac? I'm talkin' about Crystal and her six babies, and Mrs. Katz...the sweetest cat in the whole, wide world, and Claudette's four kittens. Mom got a text from the lady at the shelter to let us know how they're all doin'.

Mrs. Katz was adopted by a couple yesterday who will shower her with love and affection for the rest of her life. Crystal and her babies have all gone to new homes. Two of Claudette's boys found homes already, but two of her boys are still at the shelter.

Renee said that she'll be really sad when those two boys leave. Apparently, they're really sweet, and they're "training" cats. When unsocialized kittens come in to the shelter, it's the job of the two little kittens to acclimate them to kennel life, and get them socialized. It's important work.

Mom and I were really happy to hear all about all our cats and kittens. She hasn't said anythin' about them lately, but I could tell they were all weighin' heavy on her mind. She's so happy to know that all those beautiful cats and kittens have found their forever homes. We're glad they're happy and loved. They deserve it. We can sleep better at night now.

 I'll see you again in seven. 'til then..."Corgi On, Corgi Strong!"

Birthday Gifts...

Brynwood Needleworks - Embroidered Bibs

 

I was invited to a Birthday party over the weekend. My great-nephew's daughter turned two, and they had a celebration. I don't usually purchase toys for little ones, as it seems that grandparents and friends usually do that, so I decided I'd get her an outfit or two and personalize them with embroidery. I knew I wanted to buy her a pair of bib overalls. When someone asked her mom what size she wears, her momma replied with "size 4", so I figured I get size 5 so they'd last for a while.

Brynwood Needleworks - Bib Overalls - Embroidery Detail

Once at the party, my niece's momma said that their daughter is actually in size 3 now, but that she said size 4 to have something to grow into. I guess she won't be wearing these size 5 gifts for a while, but she'll actually get a lot of use out of them as she grows.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - Embroidered Leggings Set

I also got her this cute little leggings set. I'm thinking she'll be able to fit into this first. I chose coordinating colors from the leggings for the flowers I embroidered along the neckline.

Brynwood Needleworks - Embroidered Leggings Set Detail

This one I kept really simple, only adding a green stem stitch line, and applying daisies and roses on each side of the botton placket.

Mom and Dad were grateful for the gifts. Two year old daughter didn't really care about the clothes she received from others and me, as she was intrigued with her new toys. That's okay. It was a lovely afternoon gathering, with good food, friends, and family. 

I'll be sharing other fun things from the weekend with you during this week. Of course, Tag will chime in tomorrow, too. Another week...and I'm off to the races first thing. Tag has another vet appointment. He'll tell you about it tomorrow. Gotta run!

Sunday Scripture…

John 15:13

Insulators...

Brynwood Needleworks - Electrical Insulators

We had a little excitement here this past week. We had a visit from the guys at the power company. A few days prior, a man stopped to check the power pole on our property that brings the lines from the road to the farmhouse, and he marked an orange "OK" on the grass. We figured it meant the power pole was good.

Nope. That just meant that it was okay to dig, and that there was nothing dangerous buried nearby. The pole, however, needed to be replaced, so a couple days later, two power trucks with lift buckets, a huge hole digger, and a new pole arrived on the scene.

The workers were unbelievable! Once the support wire for the pole was detached, that pole started swaying. They said that a good storm could have taken it down anytime, and that the below-ground portion was pretty much done. 

They dug the hole for the new pole, and immediately erected the taller replacement right next to the old sentinel (which they figure had stood there for nearly fifty years), and promptly moved the wiring over. In the process, they removed the insulators (in the photo above) and gave them to Handsome. 

 

They also asked if we wanted the poles, and they'd be happy to cut them up for us, too. Handsome came inside to ask me, and I said, "Sure! We can use them to create raised beds for a garden." I suggested cutting our pole (and a second one they also offered from down the street) into eight and two-foot lengths would be perfect. They did exactly that, and left them behind for us, too.

A day later, we used our larger tractor to move them to the west end of the Compass Barn until next spring. We'll figure out where we want to set them up, after we prep the ground for them. You know, removing grass, putting down a barrier, covering with pea gravel, and then placing the pole sections. I'll have fun over the winter planning what our garden will look like, and we can decide where we'll put it.

In the meantime, I can enjoy these insulators indoors. They're both heavy, and made of ceramic. I've never seen the style of the tall one before. There are two holes that run in opposite directions, through which the lines ran. There are two small chips in one side, but it's not cracked or otherwise damaged. I've learned that the manufacturer of that one is Locke. This is what I've learned about that one. It's pretty cool information.

 

The short one, is also heavy, and in perfect shape, so I'll set them out with the two other glass insulators that Shelly gave me shortly after we moved in here. It's a LAPP insulator, dated 1930. If it was installed commensurate with the date, that pole is older than fifty years!

 

I guess I have a new collection of memorabilia from the farm! It's going to be fun to learn about both of the insulators.

Lavender Embroidery And An Idea...

Brynwood Needleworks - Lavender Embroidery

I'm working on a new idea. This is the first colorway I did, and I have two more in the works. I'm hoping to have prototypes over the weekend so I can share them on Monday.

Today, Handsome and I are off to look at new furniture. We didn't go yesterday. By the time I got home from my clinic appointment, I really didn't feel like going out again. Anyway, we're going today instead.

 

We frequently have the same taste, but I'm sure we'll keep in mind "durability and comfort" over style (Dogs to consider, you know). I know I don't want dark or "poofy". I really prefer a more tailored look, so we'll see what we end up choosing. I'll share decor photos with you tomorrow. 

I'm also going to a Birthday party for my great-great niece this weekend, so I'll be doing a little gift shopping while we're out, too. Hard to believe it's already Friday again. whew!

Lounge Lizards...

Brynwood Needleworks - Bella On The Bottom. Carly Up Top.

  

I bet you're wondering why there's a lawn chair (with a pretty dog quilt) in our living room. I can explain.  In recent months, Handsome (with his new knee replacement), and me (with my bad right "wheel") have had a little difficulty getting out of our Stressless™ recliners.

We decided that we wanted to change out our living room furniture, and began by selling the furniture we had. The recliners (leather and in great condition) sold in mere hours and left here on Friday. We did purchase a new recliner for Handsome, which was delivered on Saturday. 

 

The Stressless™ sofa sold in one day, and the loveseat that I purchased from the estate of a friend, left here on Monday. We're interested in purchasing a sectional sofa to come into the room, but haven't found one that met our criteria yet. We're going looking again today. 

In the meantime, seating got a little scarce in the room. We have one Stressless™ chair that was in Handsome's office, so we brought that into the living room for now. Handsome has his awesome new massaging recliner, and I wanted one more seat (the Labradors are lost without a piece of furniture to climb into. lol) in the room, so I brought one of the outdoor lounges in and covered it with a whole cloth quilt.

Bella immediately climbed under the lounge, and fell asleep. We didn't even know she was there until she stretched, revealing her legs and her hiding place. Carly was above her and heard her move. I caught this image as Carly was investigating who was below her. It was actually pretty comical to watch.

Brynwood Needleworks - Tag-a-weenie

I've also helped Tag into this temporary, popular seating piece (in front of a window that looks out onto the north field). They rotate sitting here, also pretty comical. 

I think we'll find our new furniture today or tomorrow, and am looking forward to it being delivered so that we can get back to regular indoor seating, rather than this odd chair, but for now, there are three happy lounge lizards. I'll be happy when we're back to normal, and promise to share "before" and "after" photos with you.

 

Finished Projects...

Brynwood Needleworks - BW Embroidered Floral Pincushions

 

I completed these embroidered floral pincushions over the weekend. Stitched on linen, embellished with ribbon flourishes, and filled with crushed walnuts, these pincushions will be available in my shop later today.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - BW Floral Pincushions

 

The same quilted fabric on the front is used on the back. They're perfect for your sewing table, or for displaying your favorite pins on your dressing table.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - BW Dusty Rose Pincushion - Detail

 

I'm sharing closeup images of each embroidery and ribbon detail.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - BW Ivory Rose Pincushion - Detail

 Same for this one.
 

Brynwood Needleworks - Completed Floral Embroidered Mat

 Drum Roll, Please...

 

I completed the embroidered mat, too! I cut it to a smaller size to eliminate the error I made by using a permanent marker (by accident), and as suggested, tucked the lace into the seam. I'm happy with the result. What do you think?

Tuesdays With Tag - Well, Would You Look At This...

 

Brynwood Needleworks - It Was Bound To Happen

 Hi, Everybody! 

Mom says this was bound to happen. I went outside just to do my business and look who was waitin' for me! Our eyes met, and we checked each other out...peacefully. No fussin'. No barkin'. No hissin'. No fightin'. No problems.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - No Fear

 

Stoopid Cat is actually Smooth Cat. She seems to like me, and she loves bein' close to Mom whenever she's outside. So, we came to a meetin' of the minds.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - Coexisting

She can be out where I can see her. She can follow Mom around while I snuffle in the yard. That way, I can be where she can see me, I can see her, and everybody's singin' Kumbaya. We're cool.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - Going Back To Their Own Corners

Except for one thing...Boo was lookin' out the back storm door the whole time, and she finally couldn't stand it anymore. She started barkin' at Claudette, and that caused Kitty-Puss to bolt across the yard. She was fine concentratin' on me, but that barkin' startled her. 

 

Of course, once she started runnin', I felt it was my duty to chase her back to the barn. (You'll notice she didn't jump behind the door. She's really not afraid of me.) Yeah. I shouldn't have been runnin'. I limped back to the house and Mom gave me a good scoldin'. Guess Cat's not the only Stoopid one outside that day.

 

Mom hasn't taken any pictures, but Claudette has taken to sleepin' overnight on the chaise lounge on our front porch now, too. She's all the way around on the side furthest from the door we use, so Boo and The Kid have no idea she's there. When we turn off the lights at night, Mom just says goodnight to her through the screen, and Claudette curls up and closes her eyes. She's safe and comfy, and in a nice dry spot if it rains a little overnight. Mom thinks it's sweet. Dad's not a fan. It's cool with me, and what the Labradors don't know won't hurt 'em.

 
I'll see you again in seven. 'til then..."Corgi On, Corgi Strong!"

Smoky Paprika Tomato Jam…

Brynwood Needleworks - Eight Pounds of Chopped Tomatoes

Sunday was a productive day. Lawn mowed, and then I chopped eight pounds of beautiful Roma tomatoes (grown in Shelley’s and my gardens) to make a double batch of Smoky Paprika Tomato Jam. (The recipe is in Marisa McClellan’s “Preserving By The Pint” cookbook.)

I made this recipe last year, and had to do it again. It’s a simple recipe, calling for tomatoes, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, sugar, ground ginger, red pepper flakes and (optional cayenne pepper, which I leave out). 

Brynwood Needleworks - Five Hours Later

Once all the ingredients are well mixed in the pot, they go on the stove to cook down to a jam consistency. The recipe calls for 45 minutes, single batch, cooked in a metal pan. As mine was a double batch, I used my jam pot, and it took five hours to cook down. Her recipe calls for cherry tomatoes, so I’m figuring our Romas accounted for the increased juice/cooking time. 

Brynwood Needleworks - Three Jars of Smoky Paprika Tomato Jam

I managed to fill three pint jars and then processed them in a fifteen minute water bath. The farmhouse smelled great, and now we have homemade barbecue sauce or a tasty topping for hamburgers, brats, hot dogs, or anything you’d like to have a smoky barbecue flavor.
Tag will be back tomorrow, and I’ll see you again Wednesday. It’s going to be a busy week. After coffee, I’ll be off and running. See you later…

Sunday Scripture…

Psalm 5:11 via Little Birdie Blessings

Garden Gifts From A Friend...

Brynwood Needleworks - Seashell Garden Pik

 

I received a lovely gift in the mail from my dear friend, Sharon. We "met" many years ago through our blogs and our mutual affection for Corgis. In fact, when Handsome and I traveled to Williamsburg, VA ten years ago (I wrote about it HERE), she and I met up with her Arabelle and my Tag. It was a delightful day. I can hardly believe it was already ten years ago! Tag was just a puppy. How time flies.

Although she doesn't write much on her blog, Corgis In My Garden, anymore, we manage to stay in touch via Facebook and Instagram. She regularly shares images of her pups, and her home and gardens. Her summer-decorated porches are breathtaking.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - Seashell and Seeds

When she shared pictures of her garden pik, I commented that I thought it was lovely. She contacted me and asked if I'd like one. YES, PLEASE! So, she sent one of her lovely fairy seashell piks, and some cleome seeds from her own garden. She told me they were her childhood favorites, and asked for hollyhock seeds in return. 

 

I'm working on a little surprise to include with the seeds, and will have her package on its way early next week.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - Cleome (Image ©TTSeeds.com)

In case you're not familiar with cleomes, here is a photograph I found on the internet. Sharon said hers are pink, so I can't wait to plant them into the garden here next spring. Of course, I'll be weeding the garden first so they can really shine.

I'm still working on my embroidered table mat. I'm going to take a suggestion to try a wider lace than what I shared yesterday, so I'm auditioning some of the selections I have here to see if any of mine will work. 

I'll be busy with Handsome tomorrow, but I'll definitely stitch over the weekend. I do have a few things up my sleeve to show you on Monday. Of course, I'll choose a timely scripture with you tomorrow. Be well, my dears.

 

Here's What I'm Thinking...

Brynwood Needleworks - Table Mat - WIP

I'm not sure why these two images have such a color difference.  I took them within minutes of each other. The actual linen color is closer to the image on the right, than the one on the left.

I'm planning to add vintage lace along the border, and have chosen the backing fabric from one of the new fabrics from Brenda Riddle. What do you think? You like? Not on the right track? Hope you'll share a little feedback before I start hand sewing the crocheted edge. Thanks in advance.

Happy Tired...

Brynwood Needleworks - Band Concert - Beginning of Concert

 

You'll remember that I write these blog posts the night before they go live. I'm confessing now that it's been a long day, and I'm happy tired.

This busy day, I baked sour dough bread (from my own starter); took Tag to the vet (he'll be okay); and went to Handsome's last summer concert of the season.

Tag got good news, in that he doesn't have a torn ACL, just some muscle soreness. He's been prescribed a pain-killer to help with his discomfort. Prior to leaving, Handsome and I watched him eat dinner and then just go right back to his kennel. That told us, he was really uncomfortable so he went to his safe space.

After being poked and prodded, and having his leg manipulated by the vet, I was really happy to know that nothing is damaged. It's likely he's just sore from overextending himself. His activity has been limited to leash walking whenever he's outside and no running.

Brynwood Needleworks - Sis and Jim

 

I met up with Sis and her long-time partner, Jim so we could sit together at the concert. Sis (Deb) and I meet up whenever Handsome plays, and we love that we get a chance to visit, too. She hates having her photograph taken (like mother, Mom Grace, like daughter). I told her there needs to be a record that she existed, so happy or not, I was taking a picture. You can see I won that debate!

 

Brynwood Needleworks - Last Applause Of The Summer Season

The concerts this year are only an hour long, with no intermissions. By the time they were finished, and the band trailer loaded with all the chairs, etc. it was well and truly dark. 

When we got home, I made an easy dinner, and afterward came upstairs to write my post. I must be tired, because it's all I can do to stay awake. So, before I make a big mistake here, I'm going to close down for the night. I'll get some extra rest today, and be back, good as new tomorrow.

Reading For Sewing...

Brynwood Needleworks - Embroidery, Ready For Sewing

I completed my embroidery yesterday, and it's now ready for finishing. The only thing I added (not shown) is one, single bee. You'll see it in my completed piece.

Tag goes to the vet today. He's still limping, so I want to make sure he's okay. I'm also baking bread, so it's going to be busy outside the studio. Tonight is Handsome's last concert in the park. Lots to do. 

 

I'll share the finished piece with you, when I can get into the studio. I'll get there soon, though. 

Tuesdays With Tag - I've Got A Little Hitch In My Giddyup...

Brynwood Needleworks - A Little Under The Weather

  Hi, Everybody! 

I'm comin' to you from my own little corner today...from my own little bed.  Seems I did somethin' to my right back leg over the weekend. I'm havin' to walk with that leg in the air right now. 

 

Don't feel too sorry for me. I can still run like the wind if I wanna chase Carly in the house, but I'm doin' it on three legs instead of four. Mom and Dad are makin' sure I only go outside on a leash, and when I do try to chase one of the girls in the house, I get reprimanded. I'm not allowed to chase the cat either. I'm seriously not havin' much fun right now.

Mom called Dr. John's office yesterday, and I have an appointment to see him tomorrow. I'll probably get meds and orders for bed rest, so I'm gettin' an early start. Mom said we match. Both of us are limpin' on our right wheel. I wonder if Mom can use some of the medicine I'll probably get? Nah. I don't think so either.

I'll let you know what's what next week. I guess I better get back in my bed before Mom puts me in my kennel instead. I've gotta take it easy at least until I see the doc. Don't get me wrong. I like my kennel, but sleepin' in my livin' room bed is even better. Laters...

 I'll see you again in seven. 'til then..."Corgi On, Corgi Strong!"

A Productive Weekend...

Brynwood Needleworks - Floral Mat Progress

First, let me apologize for sharing a photo taken late at night under my work lamp. I promise the next image will be taken during daylight hours, with natural light. While my work lamp is great for helping me see what I'm doing, it's awfully harsh light, and makes the colors appear more vibrant than they actually are.

That being said, I made quite a bit of progress over the weekend. I did manage to spend a bit of time outdoors - trimming back the hollyhocks - but one of my current medications is sun-sensitive, so I was very careful to limit my time and exposure. As a result, I didn't finish as much as I wanted to in the kitchen garden, but discretion was the better part of valor in this case. I can get the rest taken care of on the next cloudy day.

I was able to spend more time with a needle and thread in my hand, so you can see what I managed to get done as of last night. I have a few homekeeping things to do this morning, but then I'll get back to this. Of course, Tag will be back to chat with you tomorrow, and I'll be here again on Wednesday. Hard to believe it's the beginning of another week, and we're already halfway through August. I'd better get busy!

Sunday Scripture…

Romans 12:2