Alice Kolb

ONLY 31 DAYS?

2011-10-16T17:45:00.000-07:00

FRED, our beloved neighborhood cow--lookin' like autumn

Have you noticed? Everyday seems perfect--the air is cool but not too cool. The days are long but not too long--and the moon! Big, beautiful and orange. Wow! There is something about October--it is the perfect month of twix and tween.

After enduring the intense heat of this past summer, we Texans embrace October's lower temperatures and harvest moon amid the bonus of pumpkins and scarecrow decorations. In addition to the natural bounty is the month's saturation of quilt classes and shows, antique fairs--even gourd festivals--oh, and don't forget to add the writing workshops and contests. Everyone and every organization seems to thrive with energy. What a glorious season of the year.

Kaffe Fassett and Day 1
--it's all about diamonds

Embracing the first half of the month I worked to captured quilting and writing every possible way. First, Creations of Kerrville www.creations.com offered an exciting educational opportunity with famous guest teachers Kaffe Fassett and Brandon Mably hosting 2 1/2 days of class and lecture. They focused on their amazing fabrics, using simplistic traditional patchwork to show off their bold prints. Discussion of borders to flush the complimentary accents helped each student strengthen her color choices. And of course, fat quarters flew around the room (via Creations store!) as we all tried to find the perfect accent. We learned from each other and I, the rebel, worked in less brights, learning from my more traditional palette. Two days of uninterrupted sewing time--just perfect.

Cut one more for the design wall....

And serendipity, Kim Buchmann of Quilting Adventures www.quiltingadventures.com dropped by and we talked and laughed until driving home demanded deer lights. She and her partner/mom Debby Walters have ENDLESS great ideas for their spring 2012 seminars. Each year they host national teachers the first two weeks of March at the comfortable TBarM resort in New Braunfels. It is such fun to stitch and learn 'til you drop--especially while someone else prepares meals. It is saturation plus, learning while playing. Barbara and I hosted QA in years past, so now it is SO-O exciting to see new energy pushing the venue of the unending potential of quilting. Wow--check out their faculty--12 stars--your choice. I'm going for Laura Wasiloswki www.artfabrik.com and Sue Spargo www.suespargo.com . Man, did I struggle to make that decision. ...and I can't wait to see you. Send me an email of your teacher choice.

UPTOWN BLANCO--Mary and Donna ready the show

Next my calendar provided the opportunity to engage in Blanco's first quilt show. Blanco, TX is developing a fabulous new area on the square called Uptown Blanco www.UptownBlanco.com. They decided to christen the beautiful new ballroom with a regional quilt show. Their entries were delightful, beautifully designed and sewn. I predict it is the perfect beginning of Blanco tradition. Thanks, Mary and Donna, for letting me get a first hand look.

In-between, new writing opportunities keep appearing. My friend, Sally Clark constantly updates the local WOW group http://hcwomenofwords.org to writing contests, workshops, etc. She just told us of the San Antonio Writer's Group www.sawritersguild.com and their October contest. (deadline just passed-but watch for their future events) Another is Abilene's www.abilenewritersguild.org contest with a November 30 deadline. Cash awards too! The contests work for me. They help push my procrastination out the window and encourage a "get with it" attitude-- a perfect venue for growth in the writing arena.

In between hubby and I found time to attend the annual Texas Gourd festival in Fredericksburg this weekend and hit several antique shops so I could droul over endless "old stuff." I can never get enough of the old textiles, stoneware and handhewn wood pieces. Lucky for me, George likes old more than I, so he is perfectly content walking the aisles of old.

Well, the calendar says it is just the 16th, so we still have two more weeks of this glorious month.
Go play and let me know, WHAT YOU FIND!

Best,

Alice

a great read: ONE THOUSAND GIFTS by Ann Voskamp, Zondervan,2010.
--written by a 30-something talented young mom, ...in essence, be thankful.
My sweet daughter gave it to me.

a great scripture: Luke 24:29-30 But they constrained him, saying, Abide with us; for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent. And he went in to tarry with them. And it came to pass, as sat at meat with them, he took bread and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them.

a great blog: http://hillcountryhouse.blogspot.com

COMFORT, HAPPY or BOUNTIFUL?

2011-10-01T21:46:00.000-07:00

down the road--to BOUNTIFUL??

"You've driven down to Comfort, haven't you?"

"Sure have. "

"What about Happy?"

Three of us met over a salad to plan a quilt show. I mentioned I had driven through a little town named Sisterdale. Laughter about our local village name ancestry engaged and the conversation flashed from one place to another. We talked our way across the map of Texas as we recalled not only Comfort and Happy, but also Utopia, Mt. Pleasant, New Hope and Smiley. Later that day I went to the atlas and looked for more. How did we forget Friendswood, Prosper and Rising Star? But then my eye caught Sour Lake in the list, and did I really see Moody? I laughed. Oh, but joy again, the S's brought Sweetwater, Sunset, Sunray--even Sugarland.

Sentimental names. Sentimental journeys. My all time favorite is the trip backward to the village of Bountiful. The movie, The Trip to Bountiful was filmed in 1985 and Geraldine Page stole me (and many of us) away in her role as Carrie Watts. Ironically, Bountiful is a fictitious 1940's Texas town, not far from Houston. Geraldine's character, Carrie, plays an elderly woman who wants to return home to her beloved Bountiful. She meets regular resistance from her daughter-in-law and protective son. Strongly determined, she eventually boards a bus and meets a young girl that willingly listens to her reminisce about her younger years and home. Meanwhile, her children become anxious and distraught about her disappearance. Finally, when the police help the children track her down, the sheriff offers to drive her out to Bountiful. The village is deserted and Carrie is moved to tears to realize the emptiness of her childhood home.

Her sentimental memory far outreaches the reality of what modern time has done to her childhood home. (Ms. Page won an academy award (and many other awards) for her outstanding performance.)

Easily, Bountiful took me back to lost moments of time, as did these other communities across the Texas soil. Think of the possible fun in a day at the library or on the google search engine researching the roots and memories of these popular town names. Yes, curiosity began this sentimental journey.

Hopefully, smiles touch pride in our drives through these little communities --finding some of Carrie Watts nostalgia at every marker. Someone loved the little fork in the road. They settled and called it home. They built their mercantile stores, schools and churches. They raised their families and for some, Bountiful still exists. We ached for Carrie Watts when she discovered her beloved Bountiful was merely a memory. Or was it?

Reality vs. memory? I like to think they mix a little and some of the old blends with the new. We pass a nailed board across an old general store door, the sign is painted closed. And others, well, the store boasts a broad stroke of paint and a bright, shiny open sign. The blended disparity (sometimes in the same village) might best be referred to as haze.

Comfort or Moody, Happy or Sour Lake...hmmm, one week later, my head is still dancing with those names built of tears and smiles. Built from memory, now in reality. Musing, I too feel like Mrs. Watts and her Bountiful. I am convinced today's store front reality can never obliterate the sweetness of memory. What do you think?

Happy Memories,

alice

a favorite scripture: I Thess. 4:11 --Make it your business to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business,and to work with your own hands...so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and you will not be dependent upon anybody.

a favorite read: Traveling Mercies, Anne Lamott
Someday I'll buy this book. I check it out at least once a month. Candid, funny, real--Anne tells how she found her faith.

a favorite blog: PINTEREST--oh my, the 30 something's favorite pinning site (a web bulletin board). The BEST of the best. Fab ideas on everything from a to z. Enjoy and don't waste too much time!

ABOUT SIX or one--it's a birthday!

2011-09-21T19:31:00.000-07:00

Kate's No. 1 birthday--What's it all about?

Maybe, like me, you have noticed. A new wrinkle on your face? Or the tiny blue lines running vertically up your ankle line? Or the sagging middle that won't obey the command to stay tucked in? Eek! What happened? Guess I forget to look.

To take charge and camouflage the obvious I purchased the slimline Spanx undergarment (I remember them as girdles--new is still miserable), I increased my sleep and I pushed dessert away. I looked again. The issues were, well, still issues. My mirror and thoughts critiqued each one, hoping to find no more.

For me the big issue was a birthday. The numbers I counted used to belong to my grandmother or even mom, but me?
Then I thought, if we are fortunate to live we have birthdays. Yes, we have birthdays...

I counted the years and yep!, birth to now--s-i-x-t-y s-e-v-e-n! I still can't believe it and to add complexity to the math, I congratulated my daughter on her 30+ b-day. My mind KNOWS she is still 20ish? (her day is easy to remember--we share the same birthday!)

From morning to noon my denial of this infamous b-day year twirled around. Then the wisdom of my 4 year old grandson made the day. When my daughter asked Michael "how old do you think I am?" He smiled, "about six, mom?"

I like his answer. Six--it works. Because what is age anyway? In short, it is one day at a time, making life experiences. In the rear mirror I was perpetually middle-aged. It worked for years. I was an adult; the family and career in tow, each year much the same.

I guess the clock ticked by when I wasn't looking; now the physical evidence is in place.The daughter is grown. I am a grandmother. I live with a retired husband. And a few people introduce me as Mrs., not Alice.

My naiveté about this year's b-day number sunk deeper when I found an old birthday card note written by mom. In the 1980's she had recorded one of our random conversations: "How old is she?" mom asked. I replied,"Oh, I don't know. About a normal age," Mom's age- early 60's and my age, early 40's. Mom's comment in sidebar: "What's normal? me or thee?" I can only guess her opinion!

Yeah, the years have gone by. With some advantages I might add. The alarm doesn't go off as daily as it did. I have happy memories and God has blessed me with some "forgotten" memories. Time permits a book to be read, long girlfriend lunches and the skills of lifelong learning to play at will. I get the senior discounts without asking and matinee movies are easy. I get grand hugs and remember when stories, even an occasional hand-written letter from a dear history friend.

I like the way this age fits. Someone described this season perfectly: "In the late stages of autumn the best of aging is simply old enough to manage ones affairs and young enough to work wildly and passionately." The daily still works. I am blessed. The birthday year is six, sixty or one. It is perspective--the inside telling the outside.

But I can't help but ponder in my first week of a new birthday. If it all ended tonight --Did I give more than I received? Did I laugh and cause laughter? Did I give happy memories to the lives I touched? And did I walk with my Lord? ...for indeed, that is the essence of the years.

Best...and Happy Birthday,

Alice

a favorite read: I Feel Bad about My Neck by Nora Ephron (her funny approach to aging)

a favorite scripture: Job 12:12 "Is not wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding?"

a favorite blog: www.aprimitiveplace.org (if you like old)

History FRIENDS...ah, the memories

2011-09-08T15:42:00.000-07:00

I opened my email to a notice of the passing of a friend I've known for 30+ years. I immediately called his wife and renewed our friendship from years ago, putting the miles between us aside. Her husband's illness, her loss, was part of our conversation but equally valuable was the renewed laughter, memories of the good times in early marriage.

One of our favorite memories starts with a simple dinner invitation after meeting at church. We were in our early thirties, she a mother of two little boys and I, not yet a mother. My husband and I decided to invite several families from our Sunday School class for dinner. I immediately reckoned with their children, as I knew little about young boys and girls. "Never mind," I thought. I'll make guest arrangement easy. I'll put six adults at the dining table and the little ones at my small kitchen table. All fit perfectly.The mom's were so pleased I had thought of a childhood table and I was pleased to manage an adult table in the style I loved to create.

Next, came the menu plan. Back in the Texas 70's the menu was fairly predictable. My choices of brisket, potato salad, copper penny carrots, tossed salad and apple pie fit the mold. Cooking was easy--the brisket was an overnight slow cooker, the potato salad mixed little reds with onion, celery, hard-cooked eggs and real mayonnaise. And in case you have forgotten the copper penny carrots, they were steamed carrots marinated in spices and tomato soup. And Helen Corbitt's famous dutch apple pie. Yum! What memories and what fun. I laugh. We never thought of calories or nutrition; it was all about flavor. How good does it taste?

But back to the dinner party. I wanted everything to be just right. For me that meant place mats and cloth napkins that complimented my new Frankoma pottery. The table hosted a centerpiece of fresh flowers (from my flower garden) just the right height to talk over and maybe, small votive candles. I was happy; now friends were immersed in a happy evening. It couldn't get better.

After the first serving I had placed the food on the cabinet in the kitchen. As I noticed the guests plates near empty I went to the kitchen to get one dish at a time, to pass and replenish their plates. "Not a problem," I remember thinking. Each dish could pass as I went to get the next.

Veggies, salad and the brisket. The brisket? What did I do with it? I looked in the oven, on the range, across the cabinet.
"Don't worry," I heard a little voice say. "Your little schnauzer Oliver, sure did like the meat." The meat? "Yea, we thought he'd like it, so we set the plate on the floor. He ate it all!"

I looked at the dog's face--messy from edge to edge. Eek! What do I do? I put Oliver out to play (or recover) and walked back to the dining table. "Everyone ready for dessert?"

I never mentioned the failure for brisket to be passed. No one asked and apple pie was served!

p.s. Years later, at one of the boy's wedding showers, I told "his" story. His mom had never known! What fun and memories!

Enjoy a memory,

Alice

a favorite scripture: "Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life." Proverbs 4:23

a favorite book: BEST FOOD WRITING 2010 by Holly Hughes.
I downloaded this on my Nook. It is such fun reading--short articles from assorted food magazines. I love the shortness. Just right for a read while getting gas or driving through the car wash.

a favorite blog: http://acreativedreamer.blogspot.com --amazing creativity--enjoy!

Just Across Town

2011-08-22T12:49:00.000-07:00

Think I'll sleep...in spite of it all...

I painfully moved from one house to another. I was sure it was my last move. No more boxes, no more decisions to keep or throw. I was pleased to say "my moving days are finished."

BUT, my daughter missed my mover's vote. She and her family are getting ready for their biggest move yet. Since what feels like only a few years ago, the newly weds perfect Pottery Barn apartment has grown to three children, endless play cars and girl-y stuff, Lego's and you name it, --each change swelling the seams of their home. When the dining room became the babies bedroom they decided to house hunt. Twenty-plus house previews and purchase, plus a lucky sale of their present home, caused demand for a busy August move. I decided to drive up and help. After all, what's a grandmother for?

First, I observed, preschoolers don't readily change routine--move or no move. They need play, potty, food, naps or re-direction all the time. Multi-tasking, why not? The calendar post says the movers come Friday. Last time I checked, the china, the books, the closets and endless paraphernalia still have to be packed-- quickly. Not a problem--I came to help.

Since it has been more than a few years since I mothered

pre-schoolers and more than a few years since I moved, to say I'm overwhelmed is an understatement. To calm the nerves I decided to look up moving tips. All the movers offer tips for "no-stress moving." I read the fine print.

First, it suggests "Allow plenty of time for moving. Make the journey a pleasant experience." "...perhaps a packing party or dinner with favorite friends after a day's packing will make the transition from one neighborhood to another easier." Sure, that fits right in to the nap and chicken nugget schedule and the Friday date, for sure.

Second, "Reassure your children." "Allow time in your schedule to include park play, board games, and reading." As grandmother of the year, my parenting comments fit this suggestion to a T. "No swimming today--I'm packing." "Do you need to go to your room and play? I'm packing." "Honey, let's read later--I'm packing."

Third, "Take care of yourself. Don't forget to rest, eat your veggies and make time for your hobbies." This one is easy.

"Yea, we have one slice of pizza left." "Cereal is in the pantry; I haven't packed it yet." Photo scrap booking? Sure, why not tonight?...oh, the photos?.."yea, I packed them in the brown box labeled photos."

Still, the task seemed simple. Pack three bedrooms, a kitchen and den and be on our way. I'm here to help. Then the four year old fell apart crying because I said "no swimming today. We are packing boxes." And the two year old--well, I just found her in the middle of a tower of books (already packed and now unpacked). Oh, the three month old--time to feed again. And dad's schedule, "I'm working late tonight--the schedule demands I go to the test sight."

The boxes are still stacked. The movers come Friday. But hey, It's only Monday in the neighborhood. And the kids are fed.

Happy packing,

Alice

a favorite scripture: Matthew 7:12 So in everything do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the law and the prophets.

favorite read: Microstyle by Christopher Johnson--how cool, to learn to say "it" in less words.

and a great national writing group --The Story Circle Network www.storycircle.org

WHAT DID YOU SAY?

2011-08-12T13:48:00.000-07:00

WHAT did you say?

We laughed until our jaws hurt and tears flowed from our eyes. My daughter and I reminisced over comments strangers have said to us as we encountered them in strange places. Comments that seem acceptable, but in reverse...well, you decide.
Oh, the word stranger -- someone we have never met that strikes up a conversation, be it where ever.

1. "your hands are so-o full"
Setting - Daughter with three kids, ages four and under in Target. Her smile and great comeback,
"Sure are, you want to help?"

2. "why, you're a lefty?"
Setting - Signing the charge box at Walmarts. "What did he think, I purposely used the wrong hand?" Never do I remember commenting "why, you are a righty. (Lefties get it all the time).

3. "you can wear anything, you are so-o skinny."
Built like a pencil, my sister does look great. But has she ever looked around and said,
"My, my, you sure are fat." --think she might be taken into custody for slander and the worst of taste?

4. "I've never seen anyone do it "that way."
Hmm. Must be the wrong way. Cutting the cantaloupe stem down or horizontal? What do the experts say?

5. "your hair is so red or curly or ...." "you are so short...tall." What's one to say? Words fail me. "Yep,did it on purpose."

6. "Do you do stairs?" asked the young 25 year old clerk as I (twice-plus-her age) started up two flights in the local department store.
Proof in the "puddin." I just stepped with more enthusiasm!

7. "you're not going to believe the crowd I have up here," said the young highway patrolman as he stood at our car writing out the warning.
Setting - Five of us were en route to the mountains for a stitcher's get-away. Speeding, how did it happen? Regardless, we were clocked and the patrolman pulled us over. "Where you ladies going?"
"We're quilters," one said.
And from the back came the rug hooker's golden voice "and we're hookers too." He left our car, went back to check his computer and returned laughing. "WHAT did you say?"

Case resolved. Stay tuned for the next strange conversation.

Find a laugh in your day,

Best,

ALICE

a favorite scripture: "...he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed." Proverbs 11:25

a funny book: I REMEMBER NOTHING, Nora Ephron.Knopf Publishing. 2010

a great blog: http://workingwritersandbloggers.com/
--great tips for writers and bloggers, multiple categories. book tours and interviews

It is the little things...

2011-08-01T18:08:00.000-07:00

I chose red--a favorite color

She asked us to pick a new pencil and small chocolate kiss. Little things, carefully selected as good-bye gifts. We looked at our gifts as she said, "The pencil is to keep you writing and the candy, enjoy and believe in your abilities." Simple, small, sweet.

I've just spent a week at a delightful writer's retreat in Alpine, Texas. Karleen Koen, author of a new and best selling novel, Before Versailles, a novel of Louis XIV, shared her skill and instruction in novel writing--the basics. I needed every word. Karleen has talent and warmth in giving of herself, in big and little things. Poetry started every day, prompts pushed us to newer heights and laughter and tears fell from our beings as we, her students, shared the stretch of words.

I left her class with sadness that it had to end. I left with gladness that I had acquired some techniques to write to higher horizons. And, with pencil in hand, I began remembering the little things that have changed me-- a woman, a writer, a mom and spouse. I reflected on the significance of the pencil and candy, then began a list, with boundaries of "little." My list had to be "little" inspirations, "little bits" that change me. I could not choose big that happens only once; I must not choose outstanding awards or tragedies.

For two days I've listed "little." For two days I've reflected on simplistic, small, gratuitous "littles" that make a difference. Here's my short list:

1. a short writing prompt that pulled forward a thought I didn't know I had; i.e., a happy childhood memory
2. reading instructions in a manual and achieving the "how-to"; i.e. the camera self-timer
3. receiving a real old-fashioned letter or card from a long lost friend
4. overhearing a positive opinion about me or family--wow! that builds self-esteem
5. tasting a small piece of yummy dark chocolate--surprise, surprise
6. a good haircut--my mood lifter
7. hearing an old family story and laughing again
8. walking into home after being gone
9. a call from friend or family, to talk or visit
10. mail truck bringing unexpected package
11. a bite of food when hunger touches ribs
12. looking up to awesome cumulus white summer clouds
13. an unexpected smile, laugh or hug
14. old ND or Whiskers, wagging their tails "I love you"
15. a snugly nap--longer than planned
16. the first--the last page of a favorite book
17. God's books of Psalm, Philippians, and John
18. the geranium bloom that screams red; the rose that whispers beauty
19. a shared joke
20. and "I love you, mommom" from my dear grands.

Each is little. Each is small. Remember, the difference is in little things.I wish you hugs, great days and many little things.

Best,

Alice

a favorite scripture: The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. Psalm 15:7

a great read: Historical fiction by Karleen Koen: BEFORE VERSAILLES, a novel of Louis XIV. Crown Publisher, 2011.

Is It Perspective?

2011-07-20T14:38:00.000-07:00

HALF FULL?

HALF EMPTY?

"The glass is half empty....or is it half full?" How many times have you heard that? And do you remember these
other classics "turn lemons into lemonade" or "see a flower, not a weed?" From childhood our moms and grandmoms passed these well known momilies from their generation to ours. Every repetition served to mold our personality and moods. I suppose I learned the lessons well (and passed them on) and know the intent of optimism. But I must say the struggle of half full or half empty wrestles me more often than I care to admit.

Little did I know, sixteen years ago, that I would live in the country, fifty + miles from a strong bookstore or shopping mecca. I'm not even a true shopper but from these passing years I have come to realize my psychic need for availability--just knowing it is there. I love the creative energy of merchandise, color, theme arrangements, more magazines and books, pencils, paper and pens, t-shirts, jackets and skirts than I could ever want or need. For me it is joy just to know the product availability is within reach. Each store, each item communicates energy packaged in creativity and possibility.

But not to be. Instead I look out my window to grasses, cows, occasional deer and the endless land of trees and brush.It is miles from a creative mecca of books, clothing and gallery. The quietness and solitude are contradictory to me. I love and disdain the silence and the emptiness; I love and disdain the natural beautiful vs. organized landscape; I love and disdain the distance from everything, not unlike similiar feelings toward too much traffic or stores with ill arranged merchandise. So, what to do?

I reflected on the dilemma and caught myself seeing exactly two ways to observe everything, all holding true to the "half full-half empty" synopsis.

Here's mine from the "half-empty perspective"

Same location...same day...same window

--53 miles to nearest mega bookstore
--53 miles to office store
--a desolate road, infected with oak wilt and dead thistles
--lizards and the lurching possibility of a snake under the bush
--minimum flowers--deer eat them all
--loud dooley trucks heaving fast down the one lane road,hauling hugh loads of hay and pushing the walker (me) to the pasture
--technology deficiency-no cell phone service except outside-computer comes and goes
--the gate is locked-the best friend, daughter, grandchildren, sister are on the other side, down the road and across the way
--loneliness bellows; my heart cries for community

OR "the half-full perspective"

--native trees and dry-stacked rocks tell the hill country history and stroke the land with beauty
--charm of home in a house 1 1/2 centuries old, filled with stories of yesteryear--each board lovingly restored
--7 miles to a destination village, crowded by city dwellers seeking to run away
--7 miles to quaint, old-world German imagery or heritage and
--attractive and appealing small stores standing strong amid marketing to keep the big boys "out"
--moderate traffic--easy access to grocery, produce stands and fresh summer peaches
--old time tradition--parades, county fairs and Germanfests--taken for granted?
--solitude and peacefulness in the quietness of 'none'
--freedom of being--in the middle of nothing
--luxury of space and land, privacy and comfort

What's your view-- same location, same window, same day? Is your glass half empty or half full?

Best,

Alice

a favorite scripture: "Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His faithful love endures forever. Psalm 106:1

a favorite read: Louisa May Alcott, a personal biography by Susan Cheever. The bottom line--"life is slow in 'changin'. Many of her problems and opportunities are only different chapters in today's world.

REMEMBER...RECYCLE...REJOICE

2011-06-30T19:39:00.000-07:00

CELEBRATE!--It's almost the 4th of July!

Do you occasionally see color or design that stops you in your tracks? Several years ago my grocery shopping trip was interrupted by sight of the McCall's Scrap Quilt magazine featuring a full size version of this quilt, Washington's Cherry Wreath, designed and sewn by the Gingham Girls www.ginghamgirls.com . I knew someday I had to make a table topper of their pattern.

I love old; I love traditional. So, from 2007 to now, the magazine set on my traditional pattern shelf, with my review from time to time. I decided this July 4th holiday had to be the year.. The design celebrates our wonderful country, the fabrics let me recycle from my stash and the image felt retro--like the quilts of yesteryear. My sewing energy engaged. I started looking for blues and tones of neutral.

And in the mist of digging through scraps, RE-planning the celebration of tradition, I saw a pattern. Again and again--the prefix RE--recycle, reuse, etc. I became fascinated with it and brainstormed all the RE words I could imagine. Think about it.

Do you REmember REbutter, REcycle, REbuild, REdo, REdraft, REfashion, REpair, REmake, REmodel, REpeat? The list goes on. My dictionary has over eight pages of RE this and that. I searched the concept on the web and immediately found the Latin prefix "added to verb bases"....at the beginning, and list after list of RE. Maybe it IS part of the RENEWAL of celebrating the freedoms of our beautiful country.

And a bit corny, but I could not help myself. I named this post REmember, REcycle and REjoice for the blessings we have in the celebration of this, our 235th year of the United States of America. In the journey of REjoicing and REsearching favorite Independence Day poetry and music, I REcalled the countless celebrations incorporating Irving Berlin's 1939 beautiful song, GOD BLESS AMERICA.

God bless America,

Land that I love,

Stand beside her and guide her

Through the night with a light from above....

How many times have you sung it? Read it? Even memorized the beautiful words?

And trivia you might want to REmember and pass on to well-wishers this 4th:

In 1941 the US Congress declared July 4 a legal public holiday.

May you and yours have a HAPPY 4TH OF JULY.

Best,

Alice

a favorite scripture: So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:34

a favorite read: TENDER MERCIES by Anne Lamott, 1999. Candid is an understatement about Anne Lamott. She tells it like she sees it; funny, sad and forever REmembered. I've read this twice--try it; I'm guessing you'll laugh and cry.

Excuse me, DO YOU QUILT?

2011-06-22T21:45:00.000-07:00

One word at a time makes story...

the writers workshop that changed my life

It seemed simple enough. I was taking a writer's workshop in the awesome desert town of Alpine. Joe Nick Patoski, my creative non-fiction teacher opened the class with "What is your passion?" Pas-sion? I heard. What does he mean?--kids, cooking, writing? One student after another started answering his question. I knew my turn was next.

"Ugh," I thought. "Well, I'll just say "quilting." He smiled, turned to the chalk board and wrote:

Class dismissed. Go find your passion. Come back to class tomorrow with a 1500 word story of what you find.

Gulp-Gulp. I couldn't believe it. It was only 1 p.m. and hot as August can be. I was home-based on a solitary college campus and did not have a car. Town was two miles away. Well, I thought..."guess I better figure this out." After all, I had a tote, a camera, a plastic water bottle and comfortable shoes. I knew I could make the walk to town.

After a few minutes of web surfing, commonly called "procrastination" I took off on my adventure. Anxious to find quilters from the Sul Ross campus to the end of town, I was confident to find the latest quilt happenings. After all, women share, women stitch, no matter what the circumstances. And the internet had shown lots of quilt activity.

My first stop was the DeJaVu Store and Gallery-RECYCLED. Surely they would have a polyester double-knit quilted pillow or a used how-to quilt book. I wandered up and down the aisles--"not much here that works for me. Maybe I should ask?" I spotted an "authority figure", a woman about age 50 with glasses on her nose.

"Ma'am, I'm a writer taking a workshop at Sul Ross. I'm doing a story about the quilting interest in Alpine. I thought you might have some quilts or know some quilters."

"Dooney, Dooney," she called. "Do you know the name of that quilter's place? It's a little house just before the grocery store. I think it's called the Sunshine Store, the Sunshine Shop. What's it called? Oh, anyway, take a left at this corner walk down about two blocks. There might be some quilters in there."

"Thanks." Off I went, counting the blocks, one- two, I spotted a neat house with pretty petunias on the porch and a plaque by the front door "Surely the Lord shall live in this place." Confidence filled my chest. I knew this would be a safe place to ask again about "The Sunshine Shop." It must be close by. Knock, knock...no answer.

Well, how big can this town be? I kept walking. "Oh, there it is"...an attractive plastered house with potted plants around the porch and the sign, "The Sunshine Shop." I eagerly walked to the door. It was locked. I peered in and saw a red and white star quilt hanging on the wall. The sign read: Hours 10-2. "Shucks, well, at least I know where it is. ...maybe tomorrow."

"Mercy, it's hot," I reminded myself as I gulped the bottled water. Across the street I saw the town's Thriftway Grocery. The store looked nice and cool. "Surely there is a quilter there." I stalked the aisles. I looked at every face. "No, she's too young. She looks in a hurry." Maybe, around the cereal aisle...

"Oh, ma'am, ma'am," I approached the middle-aged lady wearing the blue Thiftway shirt. "Excuse me, but do you quilt?" Standing on a ladder and restocking beans, she stopped and looked down at me, blankly..

"Oh, hi, I'm Alice and I'm working on an article about quilters in the beautiful Big Bend area. Are you a quilter?"
"Well, no, but I do embroidery."
"You do, what kind?"

"Well, I draw my own pictures and sew them every night. It keeps me from getting stressed. Well, I don't do exact pictures. I just sew the shapes. I fill in the areas. I sort of make it up as I go. I used to have a store here and one time they were filming a movie nearby and one of the movie stars came and bought everything I had."

"Really, were you pleased?"
"Pleased, you betcha."

"Do you have any more embroidered pieces?"
"Oh yeah, I have lots. You want to see them? How long will you be here? I'll bring them tomorrow if you have time to come back." I quickly read her name tag, "Irma, I can't wait. I'll see you tomorrow."

I returned. We walked to her truck; she opened the door. There, a box full of her stress-relief embroideries. Wow! What colors, what imagery. I was in love.

Wonderful little children's faces, drawn in Charles Shultz'-Peanuts style--multiple tiny french knots created happy children in sets of two or three, sometimes sets of five or more. Intriguing little faces, curly hair, bright eyes...

"Oh, Irma, May I buy one?"

"Sure, Pick out the one you want.'Several minutes later, I had chosen my favorite.

"Will you sign it for me?"
"Sure....you don't mind if I use my art name do you?"

I watched her write Pink Cookie ...boldly and proudly.

We shared smiles. We knew; we each had found a friend.

To another great day,

Alice

a favorite scripture: Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His faithful love endures forever. Psalm 106:1

a favorite book: Under the Tuscan Sun by Frances Mayes, 1996.
I'm always the last to read the best sellers so older books feel new to me. So,if like me, you haven't read this...go, fast to your bookstore or library and indulge! A great read.

Hands Down!--CHOCOLATE Wins!

2011-06-16T15:04:00.000-07:00

Homemade Chocolate pie--the favorite of our crowd

"Let me bring dessert," I offered.

"Chocolate pie?"my friend quizzed.

"Will that compliment your entree?" I asked.

Glazed, almost serious eyes looked back at me. "How could chocolate pie NOT fit my entree?"he laughed.

I knew immediately-- no other dessert options, chocolate pie was THE choice. So it is and ever shall me. Our family (and many of our friends) think of me making only one fitting dessert for every occasion, what they call Alice's chocolate pie.

I'm not sure how the tradition began. Mom made chocolate pie from her mother's recipe. We loved it. Then when I became the matriarch of the family kitchen the chocolate pie expectations strengthened.

At every occasion my husband, relatives or friends tease each other about the size of the pie slices. And George, who prides himself regarding his daily diet, looses all discipline when chocolate pie is still in the kitchen after company has departed.

Over the years I've customized our favorite pie, combining mom's recipe with Better Homes and Gardens and the classic recipes I acquired in college foods classes. I still enjoy reviewing and comparing a yummy chocolate pie in a magazine to our family favorite. To play with tradition by adding espresso or rum extract is fun, partly to question the family's palette. And I've learned, through lots of experimentation--quality DARK chocolate and homemade crust make the difference.

Regardless of the occasional variations, the family chocolate pie is THE favorite, maybe the only pie that is always welcome at our dessert table.

First, mix dry ingredients thoroughly; add milk 1/2 at a time.
Stir until completely mixed and while the heat thickens the pudding.

Stirring and low heat make a great pudding. - Add butter and vanilla after thickened.

Homemade pie crust is the best. I use Hodgson's Mill 50/50 flour & real butter-yum!

To baked and cooled crust pour the chocolate filling

Beat egg whites to frothy peaks--a beautiful final addition

Not a crumb will be left--I promise.

Our family's FAVORITE CHOCOLATE PIE

CHOCOLATE PUDDING

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

4 1/2 Tablespoons cornstarch OR 1/3+1/6 cup of flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 squares of unsweetened dark chocolate (I use Ghirardelli)

1 Tablespoon of high quality cocoa (again, Ghirardelli)

Mix all dry ingredients until totally blended. (cornstarch or flour MUST BE blended into the sugar to avoid lumps)
Chocolate squares are added with milk.

3 cups milk (I use 2%, whole and/or canned milk)

Pour 1/2 of milk into dry mixture and stir until well blended. Cook on low temperature, thickening the mixture.

As it thickens add the last amount of milk, continue cooking, stirring until pudding consistency. Next, add

3 egg yolks--Break yolks into custard cup. QUICKLY add some hot chocolate mixture, stirring fast to blend the ingredients. Pour the egg yolk/chocolate mixture into the main mixture.

2 Tablespoons butter

1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Stir into the cooked pudding. Set aside to cool

PIE CRUST (variation on a KitchenAid mixer recipe)

Hot oven - 450 degrees

1 9 inch pie plate

2 1/4 cups of mixed 50/50 wheat/unbleached flour (I use Hodgson Mills)

1/2 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup real butter (1 1/2 sticks cut in narrow chunks)

4-6 tablespoons COLD water

Pour and mix flour and salt into mixing bowl. Add chunks of butter while the mixer is turning. Mix the flour and butter until it looks like small peas. Add 1 Tablespoon of water at a time until the dough "cleans" the bowl. (amount of water varies, but usually about 4-5 tablespoons is perfect). Take dough from bowl, form into a ball.

Flour a work surface. Lightly flour the dough ball. Roll out in a circle shape, about 2 inches larger than the pie plate. Lift and center over plate and form the shell to fit the plate. Bake at 450 degrees about 8-10 minutes. Cool to room temperature.

MERINGUE

3 egg whites

6 Tablespoons sugar

pinch salt /cream of tartar

1 teaspoon vanilla

Pour egg whites into mixing bowl. Add salt and cream of tartar. Begin whipping and add two tablespoons

sugar at a time until all is used. Whip to stiff, but not dry. Add vanilla. (I like to add the sugar as the whites are whipping to avoid a grainy texture.)

Pour pudding into baked 9 inch shell; Spread meringue over pudding, touching the crust edges with meringue so it will not shrink. Bake at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes. Cool and ENJOY!

Happy cooking,

Alice

And a favorite scripture: I Peter 4:9 Offer hospitality up to one another without grumbling.

And a favorite cookbook: Helen Corbitt's red book titled Helen Corbitt's Cookbook, dated 1957.

(I used my first one so long that the pages fell from the spine. I found another in an antique store and see it often in book stacks in antique or half/price book sales.

PRETTY IS...

2011-06-08T08:10:00.000-07:00

"I'm pretty. Kate is funny" said little two year old Kate, smiling toward her mom with a sincere look of pleasure. And why not? She had been told since day one, "you are so pretty...Kate, you are funny."

Truer words could not be spoken. She has airy little curls, a turned up nose, tiny little hands and feet and a smile that communicates love and mischief --all in the same breath. After all, who else do I know that sings Old MacDonald "e-i-e-i-e" from the top of her lungs to a family joyfully laughing? Yes, pretty and funny fit little Kate.

Pretty is....

Oh, did I say MISCHIEF??

So, I began thinking about this word pretty. When do we as women first learn about pretty? What does it mean? It reaches for us everywhere and with different definitions amid our "raisin". But in connection to our childhood influence about pretty, our western culture also stacks the rules--size, shape, style, age--the definition as established by magazines, movies and television, mom and sister, girlfriends, spouse, neighborhood and school. It grabs us young and sometimes has the strength to make or break us. Self confidence built partly on looks is rarely escaped as the toddler moves through adolescence into womanhood.

so you can find pretty...the BOLD signage is EVERYWHERE

I've noticed (and I suspect you have also) that I haven't fit pretty rules (if ever) for many years. When did you first notice crow's feet at the outer edge of your eyes? Crooked teeth? Less than a perfect nose or neck?A sagging body? Thighs that changed size overnight? Hmmm. And for me, the struggle against the rules seems harder with passing years. The wrinkles, the pants that fit perfectly a few weeks ago...what happened? So I admit, in accord with the beauty sign, a moderate concession and striving to pretty...a good haircut and lipstick does wonders for my self esteem and sense of pretty.

Reminds me of a delightful series of books by Judith Viorst. A favorite writer (well known for her children's book Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible,No Good, Very Bad Day), she has done a series of short prose books based on each decade, beginning about age 40. Each short book is titled Suddenly I'm 40 or 50 or whatever decade. I love her because she hasn't forgotten us and our core being, even at age 80. ...Find them in your library or look them up on your reader. You'll see yourself and laugh out loud. Plus, they make wonderful birthday gifts.

But back to these imposed rules for beauty. Don't you recall your best friend that hated her boobs or her nose? Is that r-e-a-l-l-y what she was about? Was/is that really her essence, the bond of your friendship? Of course not. You loved her for her insight, her loyalty, her humor. You loved her because she loved you and you shared your very beings. .. your inside pretty. Perhaps mom said it best when she guided us, "Be careful how you make other people feel."

mom--glowing in her happy 1940's pretty

So, as my outer pretty fades with age, I ask what can I do to be pretty-- inside? Experts tell us it is all about happy. It is about inner contentment. It is giving away a part of our self. Simply identified I believe inside pretty comes when we obey God's word "Do unto others as you would do unto yourself." A straightforward message

for pretty insides--not

o-u-t-s-i-d-e-s.

It's the talent of giving--a bit of self. Maybe it is the phone call that asks, "How are you?" Maybe it is the good pot of soup with friends in the kitchen? Maybe it is the card, the visit to the hurting soul or

merely listening.

With age, one thing seems obvious. It is NOT the recipe card of outward pretty by advertising standards. Unfailing pretty comes from the inside of us. And how thankful I am that we have pretty that doesn't fade away and can be enhanced money free, day after day.

How do we make other's feel? Yea, that good feelin' makes all the pretty friends I know.

Share a pretty week,

Alice

A favorite scripture: " For you created my inmost being. you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made." Psalms 139: 13-14

A favorite book: POEMS and SKETCHES of E.B. White, Harper and Row, 1981 (Charlotte's Web fame). I love to frequent the $1.00 boxes of books outside book stores--find this there, on-line or in your local library.

IT'S ALL ABOUT BEGINNING...

2011-05-30T11:15:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day--a reflection of thanksgiving and a delightful beginning of summer. The doors are open on this surprisingly cool summer morning; the breeze is blowing through the house. Breakfast brought fresh berries to the table; the morning walk was in capris and my favorite old big shirt so the wind could blow around my torso. Ah...the joy of newness, the joy of beginning.

And can it be, almost three weeks ago our family had an awesome beginning. Baby David blessed us with his birth on May 11. ...what a beginning!

From two "babies" to three and God made the heart big enough to love all without thinking about it. Our family felt as if he had always been. Michael (age 4) and Kate (age 21 months) accepted their little brother as if to say "Finally, he's here.What's the big deal?" And surprisingly, (except for sleep depreviation) we felt the same.

And then, influenced by my daughter's creative cooking skills, I tried my first homemade pizza....a true beginning. I've cooked for years and bought countless pizzas. Why, oh why, had I never tackled my own?

I covered it in artichoke hearts, sliced red pepper, small green onions, tiny cuts of zuchinni, slender tomato slices, lots of spices and three cheeses--mozarella, parmesan and feta. Yum-yum! Wish we had left-overs.

Yes, today is all about beginnings and this beginning of summer brings out another dimension of my personality. I love theme decorations. So, at this summer's beginning and the celebration of the birth of our great country, the red, white and blue gives me simple decorating ideas. Why not put Uncle Sam and some flags on the table and honor this great country?

isn't this a great Americana quilt from IQA show?--artist unidentified
For me, it is a perfect opportunity to stitch a new pillow and make a small table topper quilt. It's fun to mindlessly embroidery while listening to G tell his family history stories. It's fun to flip through quilt magazines and adapt a design to my stash--such pleasure with so little stress.--and it feels as if I've spent no money. (of course, I know better).

Speaking of beginnings. Last Saturday our lab dog, N.D. (new dog) found himself in the land of beginnings. We decided to give him his annual cut to help him survive the heavy summer heat. Not overly experienced in the role of grooming dogs, (actually, totally inexperienced) G and I looked at each other and said "yea, to save $50.00, let's give N.D. his summer do," So, a bath and cut he got. I was amazed at his patience at our beginnings....G calls him "waffle" now, because his trim is so uneven.

But guess what, N.D. loved it and is definitely cooler. Thanks, N.D., for your patience!

And neighbor friends in their beginnings...Susan is competing in her first triatheloin today. Swim, run, etc. until she proves to herself that she can do it. Quiet impressive.

Annie is enjoying the beginning of her summer in Idaho, away from this Texas heat. Oh my, she describes her day with a 26 degree morning while we are begging to not hit 100 degrees. Our beautiful part of the country is suffering in heat and dryness. We are praying for rain. Enjoy your cool weather, Annie.

So, it is the first day of summer at the last of May. The beginning of firsts can only mean a great summer.

Let's go for it. Let's help those who have lost so much; let's enjoy those we love that mean so much and thank God for giving so much. Share your beginnings. I can't wait to hear.

Love, 'til later,

ALICE

SCRIPTURE I LOVE: Genesis 1:1 IN THE BEGINNING God created the heavens and the earth.

BOOKS to enjoy: A LINEAGE OF GRACE by Francine Rivers. "Five stories of unlikely women who changed eternity." ...an awesome book of God's women--a reflection of their lives and how they met their tasks. Lis gave me this book and it is a fabulous read. Find it...you will love it.

Life circles entertwined???

2011-04-24T14:21:00.000-07:00

Last week my daughter made a delicious sweet potato pizza. Perfect rounds of orange potato covered the top. I looked at the homemade delics' and thought about the life circles I've covered in the last six weeks. My favorite weekly writing exercise, my blog, fell behind and one circle fell on top of another. Sometimes I didn't know if it was Tuesday or Wednesday--the blurred schedule entertwined.

For those of you that follow me, you know my annual Quilting Adventures seminars fall in early March. That meant, for me, airline schedules, room maps, Power Point presentations and last minute endless details pulled on almost every hour from January through mid-March. In-between were big family b-days (Michael turned 4!) , snow days and cold days that altered the daily planned schedule, even one or two "ill" days that caused the blood energy level to drop much below normal for a much needed rest.

And, at the top of the list was Barbara's and my plan to announce the closing (and hopefully, passing of the torch) of QA after our spring event. We had to keep our plans a secret for over a year, so it was welcome relief and emotion to finally talk about it.

Now, five weeks past QA I am thrilled to announce the joyful transfer of QA ownership to a perfect mother-daughter team, Debby and Kim. We are so-o excited! They are awesome and will carry the annual quilt seminar forward in full style. I can't wait to attend next year's event. They will soon post the dates and teachers for 2012. If you love to quilt I highly recommend you give this learning experience to yourself.
You deserve it! --five days of fabulous food, lodging and instruction in a comfortable, campus-style setting. Check it out-- www.quilting-adventures.com

Almost immediately after the spring sessions of QA I flew to Berkeley and enjoyed a teaching weekend with East Bay Heritage Quilters. Delightful hosts and students, a good visit with friends Mary Mashuta and Roberta Horton, and the most fun classes. Thanks, friends. And your lemon trees--oh my, so gorgeous!

Next, and none too soon, was a trek to OKC. I had not held my grandkids since December! Kate is singing, Michael is painting and they both are "all kid." --meaning 24/7. Yes, my life has embraced a four year old, a 21 month old and very soon, baby # 3. My daughter and I visited, "nested", and cooked for her freezer, all in anticipation of Baby David, due in only 3 weeks. Mercy! Wow! I can't believe it! Really??!!--all of these sentiments fit my emotions. As the mother of one, I realize what I missed and what Lis missed by not having siblings. These little ones are so in love with one another, even as they pull and tug (as all kids do). I stand amazed at the energy and intensity of everyday. At home, I must NEVER think I'm busy again!

My adult kids are the best parents and I am convinced--there is a reason to be YOUNG PARENTS. The energy requirement; the continuous act of self denial is endless. The discipline requirements (to mold the child) are off the chart. Indeed, the challenges never end. And thankfully, neither do the laughs and love.

Tomorrow, after almost two months of constant activity, is my drive home day. I'm ready. I'm young at heart, but the body needs a day or two of a different schedule. I'm not too old to play, just maybe too old to play--full time. And I must get reved up for baby # 3, less than three weeks away!

I'm back on track--one blog a week. I promise. I love to hear from you.

TIL THEN,

ALI

And on this beautiful EASTER SUNDAY:

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him shall have everlasting life. AMEN!

Remember the old story...

2011-03-01T12:50:00.000-08:00

on the way ...can I focus on one?

You have heard the old story. "I went to get the mail. On the way, I saw the ficus needed water so I went to the kitchen to fill a water pitcher. Then the phone rang. Julie, my neighbor, had a car problem. "Will I take her to town?" The beans are cooking, but not done, from my early-morning efficiency plan." How soon can I leave the house?....you know the rest of the story.

Isn't that how we live? It seems to be a woman's way. I guess it goes with another favorite saying,"the best laid plans."Today is one of those days. I started the day with my favorite breakfast --one egg, one dry multi-grain toast, orange slices and one cup of fresh black coffee. Simple and delicious enough... I planned the day between bites.

Then, I took the mail to the mailbox. I noticed the wind had blown down some tree branches. I picked them up to declutter the yard and yep!, I saw a bush that needed the frozen limbs cut away. Yep! Just one, maybe two, but what about those weeds? Thistles...oh, they are so annoying and if we don't get them while they are babies. Yep! Three hours later...you know the rest of the story.

Everyday evolves the same. My rescue dog chases his tail before he lies down. I've always laughed at his nap-order predictability, and yet, I find some of the "chase the tail" traits visible in my everyday. So, here's a NEW plan.. for tomorrow, taken from a summary of some the best efficiency books.

1. Make a Wednesday (or Thursday,etc.) plan. What won't budge off the calendar? Food prep for family, shower and grooming, have to's for business commitments, thoughtfulness in food, card or call to a friend that is hurting or needing, and a haircut appointment.These are non-negotiable.

Multiple random lists...tie together...simplify

2. Next, make a flexible plan. What do I want to do today? Town trip, studio time for the jacket needed/wanted at end of month, reading of the magazine that came in the mail and one/two phone visits. A magazine query for hopeful work and income in late spring? Oh, I must add email/blog reading time.

3. Grid the calendar. Mark the get-up time, then divide the day by hour segments and slot in the have-to-do's. What and where is the time left? Add the want-to-dos. Leave one space open for the daily unexpected.

I remember learning the concept of "dove-tailing" in a college class taken years ago. The principle of baking a potato but doing multiple other tasks while the one-hour lapse of baking takes place is dove-tailing. It was useful at age 19; it is useful many years later. Laundry--what is possible while it is happening? Baking--what is possible while it is happening? Looking at every task helps me squeeze in my "want-to-do's" and some of the "have-to-do's" that are urging me even though they are a month away.

As the kids say "sounds like a plan." Go for it; I'll go for it too (after all, it is the first day of the month--i.e.plan) and let's make an effort to get a handle on the day-plan. Good luck! amid your best laid day...have and give a "happy" day. Let me know how your plan goes.

My best, to my organized readers,

Alice

my favorite scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:1 There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under heaven:---v. 14...everything God does will endure forever.

Thank you, our blessed God for this wisdom.

a good read: Aunt Erma's Cope Book by Erma Bombeck, 1979.

(check it out from your library--you'll laugh until your sides hurt--a feel good laugh!)

ESSENTIAL, KEYS to the daily...

2011-02-10T14:11:00.000-08:00

KEYS to the daily...

The books have set on my bookshelf for weeks. Today, for an unknown reason,, I chose to read the titles of all of the somewhat dusty covers. First, the worn cover of Roget's Thesaurus (sentimentally remembered as a gift from mom), a soft-bound Synonym Finder, next The Brief Holt Handbook and then two that caught my attention. ESSENTIAL English Grammar and KEYS to Great Writing. I could forever discover new lessons if I read both daily.. But today my mind is all over the map.

I deviate from the books intent--writing. My mind thinks of essential and keys as applied to our daily walk. Since childhood the word essential has been in my vocabulary. Rules like "get enough sleep, eat your peas, say thank-you and respect others"...ESSENTIAL. Next, from early years I observed, studied and tried to learn the KEYS to a good marriage, KEYS to a better job, KEYS to growing old gracefully...

Some of the essentials, some of the keys seem to stay within, others are a daily struggle. The daily says...Walk for health, Study and meditate, Be kind and pray without ceasing.

The Seven ESSENTIA...again, as the old country song addresses, "what part of NO" or essential "do we not understand?" Why did the "L" fall off of essential? Perhaps it is because of the daily battle of self- discipline.The self-discipline of life never ends. We always want the second cookie while we struggle with loosing five pounds.

And my eyes scan more book covers. Words like Walking, the Vein, the Guide, the Faith, Fire... even a book beginning with If You Want To... fill my writing book shelf. Each and every cover deals with motivation to push down the road; to be more than we are, with the help of Essential and Key.

I'm glad I found Essential and Key today. They are useful vocabulary to help me, and may I hope, to all in achieving dreams and goals. Look back at the New Years resolutions we stated only eight weeks ago. Loose weight? Exercise daily? Write a book? Or a chapter? Visit and love someone, anyone, everyone? Meditate and focus on scripture. Plant a garden. Make $$ in free-lancing? Learn to stitch, paint or knit? Finish or start a quilt? Clean the closet? Pretty unending isn't it?

But, you know what? If it is ESSENTIAL or KEY, we can do it. We can even do it this afternoon.

til later,

alice

GREAT READS:
God's scripture: ALWAYS give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. I Corinthians 15:58

Writing Skills: Keys to Great Writing by Stephen Wilbers
Take time to empower your writing skills with Wilber's tips to develop and strengthen your signature.

Girlfriends --ah, the best

2011-01-30T20:16:00.000-08:00

Girlfriends--what a concept! Girls (children) and girls (adults) that connect in spirit and personality and share everything from dolls to recipes. I think fondly not only of my girlfriends but friends that wear that title and belong to my daughter, sister and yes, even girlfriends of my girlfriends.

Do you remember your first girlfriend? What games did you play? Was she a neighbor, school friend or maybe a cousin? My first girlfriend was a neighbor named Lois. Lois had a big sister, Elizabeth, and our primary play was dress up. We wore our mom's old clothes and insisted my younger sister and other little neighbor kids play the roll of "baby." We played mama, as in grown-up tasks. (I'm the mom, you be the baby). We called the orders and issued the rules. For some reason, the little sister and neighbors played along, pretending to cry when we told them, or sit still for time out. (minor punishment) Many years have passed since Lois and I crisscrossed our neighborhood yards, but indeed, I'll always remember her as a special girlfriend--even at our early ages of five and six.

And what about the Scouting or Campfire Girl years? Do you remember the badges you worked to achieve? And the girlfriend that aspired to the same goals? Linda was my friend in the fifth grade. I remember going to her house to work on one of our badges. Her mom worked and we loved to preview her closet (unbeknown to her mom). We wanted to look at her mom's beautiful clothes because she hung her clothes wrong side out in the closet--to avoid dust. Such I had never seen. Yes, Linda and I worked on badges together, but never without a peek into her mom's closet. That secret girlfriend bond--I trust you and you trust me.

Junior High years came and I found sewing and my forever friend, Martha. Oh, those fun years with our favorite teacher, Mrs. Alexander, who gave us confidence with needle and thread. In those years the "sack" dress was in high style. Martha and I eagerly shopped for our favorite 79 cent/yard cotton and cut/sewed two dresses, almost alike, all in one night of a sleepover. I cut and stitched; she pressed or visa-versa until two dresses were finished. We wore them with pride and couldn't wait to get to the next pattern and the next sew-in sleepover--almost every weekend during that freshman year of high school. Bonding in girlfriend sharing--equal loads, equal rewards.

And do you remember our "laugh til we drop" moments? Remember the times we looked at each other and started laughing? Sometimes it was about a private joke, others--well, it was fun to laugh together, be it over spilled milk or a silly boyfriend encounter.

College days found new comrades. One of my dear girlfriends was named Linda. We had food lab classes together and mastered the seriousness of the perfect meal, formulating even the cost of the hollandiase sauce and setting the perfect table for the perfect score. Such a kinship was felt together that we eagerly exchanged our first choice of classes to be sure we had the common schedule in upcoming semesters. Later we worked in the same testing kitchen for Pioneer Natural Gas, demonstrated the latest in superb gas cookery, shared a company car and even bought precious little schnauzer puppies from the same litter. Girlfriend bonding...laughter, sharing, trust, co-dependency, connection.

Marriage took me to the next stage of girlfriends. How can we possibly forget our first couple friends --(the husband and wife sought out friendships that matched the other couple equally). We shared meals, played games and took care of each other's children. And the dear girlfriends in early jobs? Mary taught me how to teach (and quilt). I loved Jan at TCU (working on her PH.D and birthing her children in the school holidays), my dear Christian church friends, Betty, Delpha, Suzanne and Linda. Again, more shared meals and children with the addition of prayer and study. And the connections of favorite friends in the community--Shirley who owned a fabulous fabric shop and gave me every opportunity, Mrs. Engleman (named Dottie) that I could NEVER call by her given name --she was just too special.

Remember the friends that loved your kids? The teachers, the neighbors, the community leaders? Remember the friends that shared discussions regarding "the best for your kids?" The piano teacher? The art teacher? Or the chicken pox spreading across the school?-- and years later, even the college of choice. Friendships to match the life window...girlfriends to match the heart and soul.

And somehow, middle age came to be. Our work associations and their value increased. Remember Bonnie, Judy, Nancy, Betty, Ann, Chris, Carolyn, Marty, Debra, and endless favorites, all relative to the daily walk.The time of life when there were too many dear friends to name?

Remember the friendships formed after the horrid empty nest? For years, we imagined how life would be when we had "our time" and then it happened? The house was empty and lonely. Where were our dear children? Young adults, yes, with girlfriends in their life. Bonding, sharing, laughing and finding their way.

And those first-in-years lunches--just you and a friend? No carpool to run; no clock to watch, except for the early retired husband that asked, "when will you be home?" Girlfriends with the first gray hair, the first wrinkle and the first...maybe the first of many...lunches. And the first of many girlfriend trips or retreats or...bees or writing groups and ALWAYS more new friends??

Must I remind you of our girlfriend bond during the hard times? Our sadness or loss about a child or parent or husband or even ourselves--no words describe the pain; our heart is cut in half. Girlfriends appear, sometime for no apparent reason--only to hold us up. Thanks, we mutter, because the words can't come. A hug, a tight hand grip, tears wiped from the cheek and a casserole in the oven...girlfriends, yea, we understand.

Ah, girlfriends. One of life's blessings. As noted author Gail Sheehy wrote several years ago in her book, Passages, the retirement years provide time to fulfill the desire to redefine oneself. Perhaps that is the last identifying moment of girlfriend-ing. It is almost the best. It is the sharing of laughs that relate to years of living, the sharing of "remember when", the "I have the funniest grandson story", the freedom to play golf, cards, quilt, take a class or watch a movie with a girlfriend--just because. It is the combination of dear, dear history friends and the friends we have just made that live down the road. It is girlfriend time in full circle.

The seasons come and go--in a flash. The seasons are shorter now. They aren't defined by years; instead we relate to months, maybe even events. But one thing for sure...girlfriends, I'll call you. Please call me.

BECAUSE girlfriend, we are special to each other. I couldn't make it without you. And I hope you feel the same.

Enjoy the best, share the best, be the best,

alice

a wonderful scripture:
A friend loves at all times..." Proverbs 17:7

and a favorite book:

Founding Mothers by Cokie Roberts, 2004.
...the stories of the women who raised our nation.

Eleven favorite things on 1-11-11

2011-01-17T13:52:00.000-08:00

Fascination with this date inspired this post. Think how cool it would be to have this birthday or anniversary. And it happens again in a slightly different way, come November. Try 11-1-11. I haven't researched the odds of numbers connecting like this (and for certain, I am not a math talent), but I enjoyed thinking of eleven things that make my heart smile. Actually, since I began this on 1-11-11 and I'm closing in on 1-17-11 I've added a few. Think of your smiles--what makes you happy? It is d-i-f-i-c-u-l-t to narrow it down. My list is in no specific order. They are all smiles.

FRED, my neighbor's pretend cow.

He's a smile everyday--even dresses up for special occasions!

FABRICS --and threads

Patterns and stitches--a big smile!

My grands! I love their journey, their funny stories

and the richness they provide each day

My writing group--never gets better than when we

are learning and laughing together. All smiles

My hubby and the memories of happiness

we make together--Thanks and smiles

Artists that stretch my abilities. Here,

Sue Spargo--a real treasure and big smile!

My dear daughter and grands--Thanks and four smiles!

My sister--always pushes me through--

Thanks and smiles

Friends, friends, friends--all smiles

Sunsets and the glory of God's promise--

Thank you--BIG smile

Delicious bounty of food --YUM!--and smiles

BOOKS, BOOKS and more--

a smile for every volume

QUILTS -old and new--rich with smiles

CREATIVITY --in multiple venues
WOW--BLESSINGS AND SMILES

And in addition......

BLOGS-------EMAILS--------LETTERS-------PHONE VISITS---------ALONE TIME---------STUDY TIME

A-L-L SMILES. LIFE IS GOOD.

THANK YOU.

and your smiles--send me yours,

Best,until next time,

alice

and God's word: Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things.

Philippians 4:8

I Want to be ME!

2011-01-08T12:55:00.000-08:00

Standing at the kitchen counter, slicing carrots and onion, my mind was racing. I WANT TO BE ME!

I want to write, read, study. I want to design, play with color, sew and create. I want to travel, participate in conversations about writers, how-to write and quilt imagery. I want to ...my head screamed in escalating tones. Never a volume leaked to the spouse or the neighbor, but my heart screamed I WANT TO BE ME! My voice felt cracked in my throat. My eyes swelled with tears. I want to be ME!

Since 7 a.m. I had prepared oatmeal and fruit, ironed, made business calls, discussed politics (from opposite sides), pre-planned up-coming events, answered the phone again and again, cleaned bathrooms and now, lunch--there was no time for ME. I counted backward and I could not recall a ME window. We had scurried through December with "have to do's"; the fall months had deadline after deadline of travel and work obligations.

Julia Cameron in Artist's Way admonishes "hold to your time for reading and writing; 3 pages a day, everyday." I didn't come close to that goal. Grief and selfishmess filled my heart. ...and at the moment, I had totally forgotten Phillipians 2:14 "...do not grumble."

WAIT my mind suddenly said. I AM ME. I am playing the roll I agreed to take. I'm in the early winter of my life and I've driven down countless roads. I choose a career and took the classes, the exams and found the job. I chose the mate, took the oath and made the marriage. I chose to have a baby and raised a beautiful daughter. I worked like a slave to provide money for her education and marriage. Yes, I (ME) agreed to life changes (both good and bad) in all of my days. I sweated the unpleasantness of job transitions and moves to strange towns, fussy days, illness and shortness of money. I and the "ME in I" found a way by relying on God, spouse (or lack of), intuition, rolled up sleeves and family and friends. Each day....one day at a time....has found a way. I've always been ME...wearing multiple hats in multiple ME'S.

The role of ME is the role that cooks, pays the bills, washes and irons, talks and listens, prays, hurts, cries, hopes, wishes, rests, wants to rest, begs for peacefulness and wants to run away--to be the "alternate" ME.

The alternate ME I'm wanting must fit in around the edges. It is the side of ME that I'm begging to hold. Struggling to claim that person I decided to approach each day with two lists--the ME list including routines and responsibilities, and the ME "alternate" or creative list. At least one alternate ME thing a day must find an entry next to the chore list. At least one page or one window of stitching; maybe one chapter. Five days into running; so far it is working.

In reading I found Norman Mailer says it best,

"If you tell yourself you are going to be at your desk tomorrow, you are by that declaration asking your unconscious to prepare the material. You are in effect, contracting to pick up such valuables at a given time. Count on me...you are saying to a few forces below: "I will be there to write."

And so, regrouping the emotions, I decided to put puddy in the ME openings.. I'll continue to cut the carrots, make the business calls, do the errands and be to others. BUT the openings about ME will visit my grandchildren, write and sew several times a week, enter contests, read to my hearts content and give time to God's word--to really seek his counsel. The alternate ME is coming in...it's only January and I'm making a promise...to ME.

I'm hoping to hear....HOW DO YOU MAKE TIME FOR YOUR "ME?"

SOME OF THE ME'S THAT MAKE ME WHOLE:

Baby Kate that loves books as much as I ..."re a bo?"

FRIENDS that I depend on...heart and soul---talented Michelle Watts and ME.

Study in workshops, internet, books....for ME

and endless more ME's: my hubby, daughter and sister, my first grandson that has grown up MUCH to fast, my community, neighbor and history friends, and the strength of the sunrise and the sunset. I am blessed. Thanks, dear God, for helping all of us to multi-task and still find the ME.

Until next time,

best,

alice--and,

Scripture to remember: Philippians 2:14 Do all things without murmurings and disputings. KJ version

Do everything without complaining or arguing. NIV version

Newness in the NEW YEAR

2011-01-01T15:33:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Aren't we amazed that the calendar has rolled over to the new numbers of 2011? I recall (in what seems like yesterday) conversations about the years "2000" and we all felt that window of time would come light years away. I guess the light years have traveled!-- because today we are starting the second decade of the years "2000."

I like fresh starts. The New Year is an opportunity to regroup, start again, try harder, set deadlines and goals with every intention of meeting them. Last night I asked George (hubby) "Do you make NY's resolutions?' He looked at me with dismay and said, "Sure, I make them with every daily list." Now, as I've observed his life pattern, I agree--he does "resolute" everyday.He's a list guy and every Monday, every Tuesday, etc. starts with a list. If the task fell short the day before he places it at priority rating on the new day.

So, following his example, I want to make 2011 resolutions in the same pattern. If I fall short today, I'll put the goal on the next day's list and try again.

Try again fits so many hours of the daily walk. Last week I watched Kate, my 17 month grand-girl work to climb on and off an overstuffed chair. When she succeeded she was so proud and smiled "success" from ear to ear. In tumbles and lack of success she cried or rearranged her legs or reached her arms out for help. I thought, "hmmm, not much different than me." I cry (inside), rearrange or reach out for help. Is this a provision from God? I suspect it is--his way of providing answers to the daily problems, be they big or small.

Now, with the opportunity to anticipate 364 more days of 2011 I hope you'll reach for favorite books that help you reach your goals. Go for it--set your fresh start. Below are some of my favorite resolution books. These authors truly focus on priorities and in turn, aid my push to reach my goals--to be the best I can be in my walk with God, in my walk with family and friends and in my walk with the talents that I hold.

I highly recommend these reads to help you reach your "resolutes."

1) 31 DAYS OF PRAISE and 31 DAYS OF PRAYER by Ruth Myers, 1994 and 1997
Mulynomah Publishers, Inc. (check your Christian bookstore or used books on internet) --a series of short devos to help focus the day.

2) FIRST THINGS FIRST by Stephen R. Covey, 1994
Simon and Schuster (check local and internet bookstores) --concrete specifics on organizing the day, the week, the year to reach goals

3) THE ARTISTS' WAY by Julia Cameron, 1992
Tarcher/Putman (multiple printings--check local and internet stores)
--a weekly reminder to write, create and give yourself an artist date--with multiple how-to's --every artist, in every media, should review Julia Cameron's words of encouragement

4) THE ELEMENTS of STORY by Francis Flaherty, 2010
Harper (check local and internet stores)
--so many good ideas on "exciting" a story. Currently my favorite read. I can't put it down.

5) YOUR FAVORITE BOOK --be it God's word, a how-to, a fiction or non, a cookbook or raising children book -READING TIME is my wish for you. It is one of our richest blessings.

And a quote I love:
            "Life is too short for drama and petty things,
         so...kiss slowly, laugh insanely, love truly and
         forgive quickly." ....unknown.

    HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!

Enjoy a great week,

Alice

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL

2010-12-27T19:37:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas, Joy to the World, Christmas Greetings and Happy New Year...I love these traditional greetings. For me it is not the same to say Happy Holidays. For me, the lack of sentimental language falls cold.

I like tradition. I like repetition of years gone by. Time spent opening and hanging old decorations, addressing and sending cards to friends far away, preparing favorite recipes, and making time for visits and parties with extended family and friends identifies the spirit of Christmas. The sameness reinforces joyful memories built one year at a time.

"Twas the night after Christmas" when my daughter and I looked at every ornament on her tree. They sprang eternal to her 32 years...childhood memories built in the form of shiny glass balls and classic painted wooden shapes in the style of sleighs and little trains. These beginning stories of Lis and her husband Andy continue to multiply.From childhood memory ornaments to college and early marriage years, a recall of the giver and the occasion rings clear. Even now, more ornaments are being added for their young children, my precious grandchildren. The tree is glistening with beauty, smiling with 30+ years of Christmas stories. So many tales are told in these simple shapes--vacations, summer camps, school awards, children's births, work and friendship connections. Indeed,a dimensional journal of family history is recorded in the glitz, homemade style, sentimental paint or stitch of every ornament.

The allure and sentimental value of the decorated tree is enhanced with an advent calendar, old ruby-red nosed Rudolph setting on the chair (from Lis's childhood), the scripture opened to Luke 2's recording of Christ's birth and gingerbread men cookies ready in the kitchen. In addition, the phone conversations with sister and daughter "do you think he will like....?" add spirit to the hustle and bustle of the season. Augment these sentiments with wrapping paper, tape and ribbon, all awaiting the wonder of the hospitality of the family get-together for fun and gift giving.

I cherish the menus of years gone by and the delicious flavors of this season's fare. I save magazines and love to group several Christmas issues from various years--Martha Stewart Living, Cooking Light and Bon Appetite read awesome to me with their golden baked turkey on the cover and layed cake inside--be it a 1998 or 2010 issue. It is a joy to flip pages in favorite cookbooks and see a note "mom made this, Christmas 1986." I am always tempted to prepare it again. I cherish the time to make a home-made gift by needle and thread for family and friends--even though the goals of completion are never fully met. The calendar seems to always run out.

Enter the drive from one city to next, joining family and feeling their hugs and smiles exchanged with sincerity. I love the dinners amid laughter and conversations "do you remember the Christmas when?" with everyone adding their personal version to complete the annual story. Don't forget to add the tale of the snow blizzard of 2009 and our Christmas Eve time in the generous snow shelter provided by Goldsby Baptist Church. In the not expected blizzard, 9 hours of snow packed driving led us to spend the evening in a spirited round of favorite carols, the reading of the Christmas story and a night's rest on the vestibule church pews. The novel experience provided one of my all-time favorite Christmas memories. Family connections were possible the next day and the tradition of old and new (with a new story) began again.

I am thankful for all these years of tradition. I cherish family and the stages we are in. Grandparent, parent, sibling, cousin, niece and little ones--every age writes a different chapter. Every chapter spells j-o-y and thanksgiving for God's blessings. Merry Christmas to all and to all, a good night. May you and yours be blessed in the coming New Year.

Sincerely,

alice

p.s. I regret I fell behind in my blog season of 2010. Thanks for reading my weekly words. I'm back on go--once a week I look forward to sharing 2011. Let me hear from you. Tell me your stories, your favorite books, your travels...stay in touch.

CAN I MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

2010-10-20T13:30:00.000-07:00

ANY DIFFERENCE IN THIS CROWD?

Does your life make a difference? Does my life make a difference? Soul wrenching questions. Self evaluation and reflection comes more readily as we pass birthdays, reconnect to a distant acquaintance or loose a friend. Reflection of my personal time line became a more conscious awareness as my mine's eye focused on the simple question of this week's daily devo read. The article, found in an old Sunday study, suggested taking personal responsibility to make a positive difference for forty days. Set a goal to achieve simple attitude/action opportunities in giving and counter self-improvement. Create an opportunity to analyze life priorities and the reason to be...

Forty Days? I read..."Make our world a better place." Begin...touch someone in a gentle or powerful way; better our self by putting our own needs last. Take one daily change-step at a time.The article impacted me and I liked the challenge. What to do? It read, "Make simple, from the hip type changes." Send an old-fashioned greeting--stamped--in the mail card. Take food to a handicap friend who struggles with the mere effort of going to the grocery. "Pay back" a fresh loaf of bread to a neighbor that collected mail for a recent week-out event. Kindly visit and notice a conversational detail of a clerk (her awards on her nametag) in the checkout stand. Run an errand for one with a sick child or invalid husband. I made a list and asked myself, "is it possible for me to carry a 40 day load of thoughtfulness?"

Christ carried a 40 day load in the temptations he faced. Noah faced 40 days in his ark with the two by two's of all of God's animals. And the Israelites faced forty years in the desert. I researched the scriptures and read literature and realized my forty day challenge felt small to histories' records. My challenge felt small to the challenges of people with extreme physical needs, money shortages (not wants), or loneliness challenges of fellowmen whose lives lack companionship. From the simple observations read in the paper, a short walk in a mall, or newsy visit with a neighbor--my observation of others' daily walk brought the reality of the forty days of thoughtfulness into a ready-go! mode. So much to do...so little time. I thought, " I've been blessed and "except by the grace of God, there go I."

My list of obvious opportunities seemed easy. "Surely it is harder than this...but no," my mind challenged. "It is not hard." The scripture says "It is better to give than receive." The door of opportunity swung open. A pineapple for the rheumatoid arthritis victim to reduce her inflammation and a short visit to say "I care." Cards sent the old-fashioned way to friends that don't use e-mail. Phone calls to check on the unchecked. A simple note to remind hubby of his importance in my life. Grandchild baths so mom gets the night off. A session in the floor playing Lego's with my grandson. I went into my forty day challenge thinking "one task a day." Ten days into the challenge it more accurately read "one opportunity."

In honesty I must say human nature still captured my spirit. In the first ten days part of my behavior daily-do's, part of me made an A, part make an F. Last week I failed when I was tired and hanging out in the tire department at Walmart. A burdened mom and her very misbehaving children made me so-o nervous! And I showed it with rudeness. And daily, for every one good intention and deed I pass, a failure befalls me-- again and again. Now, not to write a "poor me so you will .feel sorry for "pens" note. Just the facts, mam. But, like the journey of learning to ride a bike...I want to get on again... I want to make a difference. The road looks straight ahead. Christ is in charge. So, back on the bicycle I climb.

Perhaps the biggest bonus of my forty day challenge is my unexpected blessing. In reflection, I noticed the forty things you have done for me. In an old book, I found a note card that said you loved my friendship...it showed two women sitting over lunch, enjoying their best cake--and each other. (ah...my love of our friendship.) I remembered the flowers (for no special occasion) in the kitchen from my husband that loves me. And last weeks' mail brought an unexpected letter from a dear friend of history past. I took the phone call that said "what are you doing?" "how did it go?" I remembered the girlfriend chat that giggled my insides. And thanks for helping me edit my last story. Thank you for listening about..."endless A trivia."

And, an unexpected blessing, I laughed with pure joy at a literal translation from my three year old grandson. Referring to his messy room, I said "this is nuts." He picked up a toy pizza part from his kitchen set and said, "no, it's pepperoni." I remember...YOU MADE A DIFFERENCE. All forty of your efforts... made and make a difference in me...a gift of blessing from you! Thank you!

Forty days...forty differences. To a better neighborhood; to a better world. Let's do it.

My best to you,

Alice

And remember God's word: Matthew 7:12 "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets."

And a fabulous read: Mother-Daughter Wisdom by Christiane Northrup, MD., Random-House, 2005. Noted for her skilled knowledge of integrated medicines, she touches the world every mother-daughter relationship has experienced. I highly recommend this book.

Is it the rash--or the voice?

2010-10-10T20:13:00.000-07:00

CHOICE --in the makin' ??

An ambitious afternoon in the garden brought this on. Bushes overgrown needed trimming. So, for the next three hours I trimmed, raked and gathered cut stems. The yard looked so much better. I beamed.

THEN,

came this unexpected ITCH....itch, itch. I look at my watch and it is 3 a.m. I stumble out of bed, go to a distant room to check out the "itch." It seems everywhere--up and down my arms, up and down my legs. "Mercy," I think, "what did I get into?"

Morning comes and I feel confident. Surely, with all the homopath remedies in my cabinet I can manage this. I go through the shelves and select the appropriate products, double up on Vitamin C and think this rash WILL go away. Now, three days later (post weekend of no clinics open) and two trips to the health food store plus one over-the-counter remedy, the ITCH is still with me. My arms are rash red; my thighs are a mess, my neck is beet red and I'm cold--in a 70 degree afternoon! One cream after another, one pill at a time, I hope at least one of these products will work? If not, first thing, in the a.m., to the doctor I will go. In the meantime....

I had written this week's blog (in my mind). How appropriate to match my thoughts to my ailment! The "itch" (so physically and emotionally consuming) and the "voice" (the consuming personality of our writing) join our personality, be it a written short story or our daily interactions.

First, the voice of a story. Voice is a word that has become popular in writing circles. Countless classes are offered toward developing our voice. Simply put, the writer's world advises strength becomes our characters when they portray a voice (tone) that is recognized --the story has a consistent "attitude." As Tom Wolfe put it, the voice should not be "beige." In writing every story has a voice; every story needs a personality.

And the voice of our personality is recognized by others, truly, as our daily "itch." Another well known writer, Norman Sims points out "Voice that admits of self can be a great gift." In other words, it is worth a conscious effort to awaken to our sounds, listen to our language-- literally not only "what we say" but "how we say it,"and be honest in our tone. A wonderful example I read referred to parents using the same comment, seeking totally different results. "That was smart." or "That was smart?" Obviously, we get it! And today the voice of my itch is loud; it is consistent and it is repetitive--3 days and running. I get it!

From morning to evening, our voice is our interaction to our daily walk. The personality voice is influenced by what we experience (or experienced), what we see and read (or don't). We awaken ourselves to listen to our own language and the properties we choose to portray. Our daily tone is hemmed by each life experience, how we see that experience amid the feathers of our being--what has grown in our being, in our value and belief system, one feather, one day and one year at a time. The voice we project is not only our belief, but often, our passion.

We've all known people that had it far better (or worse) than ourselves. Their perception of the shoes they wear often provides a big lesson for us--to be accepting or resentful, to be accommodating or obnoxious, in every circumstance we hear their voice. And less we forget, decibel volume changes our voice perception at different times in our life--diapers and potty training mean much more to a mom of toddlers than a teenager that has yet to experience the mom role; the SAT means more to the high school junior than to the toddler mom--and so it goes. (My itch is stronger to my voice than yours.)

I loved one authors thoughts about voice. He said think of "your voice" as your song.--the lines on our faces we've earned, the crook of our nose or our teeth we've earned, the stance of our body we've earned. Each frames the voice we speak. Natalie Goldberg said it well when she said "say a holy "yes" to the real things of our life, as they exist."--speak our voice boldly. And remember, "...never underestimate people. They so desire the cut of truth." (our voice)

Thankfully, the daily voice is the method of our drive, the energy of our walk and the smile of our heart. Each day of voice is a day of choice.

I had chosen "voice" for this week's blog and had no idea "itch" was the sound I would hear. But I heard consistent and repetitive--my voice. It made me think. And your voice?" Is it awake to full volume?

Enjoy and share your voice,

Alice

a blessed read: Deuteronomy 30:20 Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to His VOICE, and hold fast to him.

a great book: Natalie Goldberg's best seller,

Writing Down the Bones. If you seek a writer's voice, read one of Natalie's books--you won't put it down until it is finished.

MEMORIES--when did it happen?

2010-10-02T13:24:00.000-07:00

MEMORIES??

Think of the technology words that have come into our vocabulary within the last ten years--web, email, blog, surf, post...and on it goes. Do you remember your first computer? My original purchase was a big IBM. My father-in-law generiously gave me 1/2 the purchase price--a total whopping shared total of $3000! I raised the other half.

Out of the box and plugged into the circuit, the IBM computer was really just a fancy typewriter. Regardless,I loved its' ability to change fonts, correct paragraph alignment and spelling. I loved the connection to a printer and the school teaching mimeograph/ditto days fading into the background, to modern technology efficiency.

And now, fifteen years later, I'm still exploring the advances of computer possibilities. Websites and surfing are taken for granted. I email notes instead of calling. And we all set up sites to sell our products, blog our thoughts and share family pictures. I love modern tech--isn't it a great way to go?

And this week--I've pushed my little netbook computer skills in the fast lane everyday. I've looked up weather forecasts, book writers, ordered on-line, read countless emails and blogs and worked on my book. BOOK?

Yes, it began with a simple plan-- a short story, a memoir about mom's cooking. I love to remember, especially the talents and personality of mom. So, I decided to record family stories about her cooking style, a la my post WWII childhood. I began reflecting on mom's classic menus and her cooking transition from a bride in the 40's to her senior days at the end of the 20th century. The nostalgia blew me away! I remembered mom's pot roast. Do you remember yours? I remembered mom's cream pie. And your moms'? I remembered birthday parties, Christmas holidays and mom's food gifts. And yours?

I couldn't record my memories fast enough and I knew I had to record my own cooking journey. The food saga continued and I wrote and wrote. Now, multiple pages later I have the beginnings of my book. I have a working title, chapter headings, a preface and chapters. FUN!--the middle letters of M-E-M-O-R-Y.

To polish and expand my memoir forward to include cooking in the first decade of the 21st century, I've googled multiple food sites, looked at magazine food ads and read old/new cookbooks. I've looked in strangers grocery carts and observed their intended purchases. (some of their "food" I don't know the content or the purchasing aisle--totally unfamiliar to me.?) Yesterday I stood in front of a mag rack and read every food title. Yes, FOOD is still "in"; we still like to eat; we like to write about food and we like to share the bounty.

If you are a regular reader of my blog, you may be saying --"hey, wait a minute, I thought Ali hated cooking." Ironically, you remember my post of last summer--I Hate to Cook?! Well, the distasteful part is the routine, not the creative journey or the part that recognizes the importance of food in connecting family and friends. Food is another word for bonding, comfort, language and love. That is the play and fascination I find in my food journey of 60+ years--from jello to sashi; from a live chicken in mom's back yard to chicken nuggets in today's freezer. It is the daily cuisine, creating memories, one bite at a time.

The food journey has endless roads and detours. I recommend you explore yours. What was your first food disaster? Your biggest party? What is your comfort food? Do you detour to the chocolate aisle?--or the organic produce? (I look for dark chocolate every shopping trip!) Do you love or abhor hosting dinner parties? What laughter or soul talks do you remember--over dinner? I love you--readers. And oh, the food memories we share.

My book is in first draft. It's rollin' down memory lane. I'll keep you posted. And in this food journey I'm traveling I've found the "coolest" sites. I suspect you will enjoy googling these blogs and sites:

http://www.foodtimeline.org/
http://chocolateandzuchinni.com/
http://myburningkitchen.blogspot.com/

If you are considering writing your food memoirs check out the excellent book, Will Write for Food by Dianne Jacobs. Her new book is available on Amazon and Barnes and Nobles and web entries.

Speaking of food, keep me posted. What fabulous food have you discovered this week? I love to collect recipes!

Enjoy the week, my friend,

Alice

a favorite read: ALL of Ruth Reichl's books. Ruth is a food writer with a great collection of memories. I'm reading TENDER AT THE BONES.Her website is fun: http://www.ruthreichl.com/

a favorite scripture: This week I'm reading the Psalms.
Take time to grasp God's word: Psalms 106:1-5

Praise the Lord.

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;his love endures forever.

Who can proclaim the mighty acts of the Lord or fully declare

his praise?

Blessed are they who maintain justice,

who constantly do what is right,

Remember me oh Lord, when you show favor to your people,

come to my aid when you save them,

that I may enjoy the prosperity of your chosen ones,

that I may share in the joy of your nation

and join your inheritance in giving praise.

AND a cool sight with short stories, etc. ESPECIALLY written by women over 60: www.persimmon.tree.org

thinking backward--thinking forward

2010-09-26T16:41:00.000-07:00

Thinking backward, thinking forward--the last of September is here. August and its' sunny days are gone and October's pumpkins are soon to be. So I ask, what did you do with your last thirty days?

Different seasons push and shove our schedules. Rushing and "too much" seem to fit the holidays, busy birthday and celebration family days. Sometime (if lucky) the winter cold snowy days slow our schedules. But September? I rarely recall this early fall season with so much crowded into the calendar.

For me, my September calendar prepared for San Antonio guild teaching commitments and a four-day hosting of Sue Spargo's fabulous Quilting Adventures' fall seminar. Next Barbara and I participated in a team of three and judged the annual quilt show in Ft. Worth. Next I went to Roswell for a second judging schedule. The awesome (and I do mean over-whelmingly awesome) responsibility of judging best quilts among over 250 in each show celebrated quilters that excel in their craft, as well as quilters showing their first quilt.

And if the September calendar wasn't crowded enough, the New Mexico cabin was screaming to be re-stained, so hubby and I have looked at a zillion stain colors, hired men to help us and prayed for weather adaptable to outdoor wood staining--no rain please! The staining process has had numerous snags of wrong mixtures, shortage of inventory, etc. Hopefully, the renewed house finish will be completed soon. In between, my sister, daughter and I had birthdays!-in different degrees of celebration. Whew!

I only recount this crazy schedule to ask you to reflect on your schedule--was there any BEING TIME or was the month consumed with DOING TIME?

Amid all these busy September journeys I realized I was missing a key component of daily health-BEING TIME. Simply stated "being" by Webster is conscious existence. I add to that definition the state of rebuilding your heart and soul, your energy and your dreams.

My psychic requires down time. For me that includes phone visits with my daughter, sister and friends. It includes an hour thumbing through a magazine or musing at a book rack (home or store). It requires a cup of fresh coffee, a square of dark chocolate, a walk through the fall foliage or sitting near the fireplace and reflecting. I need reading and studying God's word to remind me of His strength, His promise and His grace. I need to touch and play with fabric, stitch on my current project and anticipate the next. I need computer and blogging time, reading of favorite authors and re-reads of favorite books. No apologies here. These needs keep me healthy.

But what about you? and your schedule:

In the last 30 days did you have being time?

Did you bring your heart to your mind?
Did you laugh spontaneously or applaud a happy accident?
Did you connect to a friend or relive a joyful memory from days gone by?
Did you make a call to check on someone else (and strengthen your being by putting them first?)
Did you cook creatively, stir and brush paint for the visual joy of blending colors or dig in the dirt for the simple pleasure of the smells, beauty and pleasure of planting plants?
Did you photograph God's trees, dirt and rocks? or sketch your favorite?
Did you spend precious time with friends, grandchildren or hubby?
Did you take time to rest, exercise and reflect? Did you give yourself an early to bed?
Did you celebrate someone's joy or mourn their grief?

These are being exercises. Being time is reflection time. It is the exact opposite of "mult-tasking", hourly calendar booking, making lists of have-to-dos, juggling money and zoning out to the TV. Being time is recognizing and respecting the mind and body of ourselves and others. Reflection is respecting the God given merits of simply b-e-i-n-g.

The last week of September is here. Equinox has come and gone. And in one of these busy September moments this timely quote, magnetically attached to my friend Michelle's frig. spoke to the day--to b-e-i-n-g.

Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities have crept in; forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day. You shall begin it serenely and with too high a spirit to be encumbered with your old nonsense. EMERSON

October is nigh. Make time for b-e-i-n-g.

Til then.

Alice

a favorite read: TIN HOUSE--a quarterly of the best in short stories. http://www.tinhouse.com/

a favorite scripture: "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great crowd of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Hebrews 12:1>

serendipity--wal-la!!

2010-09-07T19:19:00.000-07:00

                  Serendipity as defined by Webster: the ability to make fortunate discoveries by accident.

                 Such has been the essence of this day. Isn't it amazing how unexpected events form our days? Today (and it is only noon) has taken the most unexpected pleasant turns--Serendipity X 5! I hope you can say the same.

           First, I slept later than usual. This is a rare event in my household, as hubby thinks the day begins with sunshine. I must have a bit of Cinderella in me as I enjoy the opposite clock--late nights. My creative spirit gets stronger, as if at an evening ball, until the clock strikes midnight. Last night was such a night. Getting ready for Sue Spargo's primitive needleart workshop next week (hosted by Quilting Adventures) pushed my night energy. I connected colors and textures and played with the symphony of creative fabric and thread possibilities until the wee hours. Then predicted rain drops fell on the roof in the middle of the night and the morning darkness begged me to stay snuggled abit longer. Serendipity X 1.

            Mid-morning pushed me through the rain to town errands. The clock read early for my writer's meeting at 1 pm, so I decided to work at the library through the remaining morning hours. What fun! I've always imagined the ideal world would be a bed tucked in between book shelves, so to compute between the shelves was a second best choice. Serendipity X 2.

              Adding to the good fortune, I sat at a table opposite end to a computer guy. I could tell he knew about computers--he had a nice laptop, two cell phones, notebooks and pencils. He wore a baseball cap and a close beard. AND, I had a computer question.

            I put on my dumb hat (it comes with my package!) and said "I'm having trouble with this DVD. Do you know what I need to do?" Did I hit lucky! Ten minutes later my encoded? (whatever--anyway, it had to be downloaded) package was user friendly in my computer. I was thrilled. And to add to it, I had met a nice guy, studying for his classes at the local community college. Wow! (I bought his lunch in behalf of his good deed.) Serendipity of good fortune X 3.

Serendipity --a kind computer guy comes to my rescue!

Three days back, serendipity first hit. Labor Day weekend was the bi-annual quilt show for my guild. I entered my granddaughter's quilt at the insistence of friends in my bee. The first morning after the judging, I confess I was nervous to learn the judges critique of my work. I peaked at my quilt and saw a BLUE ribbon! I was so pleased, not just for me, but for my granddaughter. She's 13 months old and has a blue ribbon! Pretty cool. Serendipity X 4.

Serendipity -- Kate's first quilt!

And my hubby is searching the back roads of Alabama for long lost relatives (he is a genealogy buff). He calls me and tells me he has found a Kolb Road. Is it possible it could be named after his line--from the 1840's? How random is that! Is this Serendipity X 5??

And only a day before that we celebrated my sister's b-day! She is the best of the best.
She is the kind that cares for the stranger, loves the neighbor, gives of herself day after day and thinks nothing of it. Her artistic talent also inspires me to build my creative juices. Happy B-Day Fran! For sure, her sisterhood is Serendipity 6!

Serendipity with chocolate and only ONE candle!

And last week filled with family--my Michael and Kate and their mom and dad. Serendipity--serendipity--blessings just keep happening. And Labor Day lunch with dear friends. Thank you,Serendipity 7!

Serendipity with my dear Lis, Michael and Kate

Serendipity # ?--best of all, the joy of girlfriends

The day is half done. What lies in store? Is it the little things we observe that make us feel the happiness of serendipity? To focus on the surprises, to be open to receive the blessings and thank God for the goodness of the unexpected. What a great day! --next comes my writer's group. I can't wait--it is only noon.

Til later,
Alice

p.s.To your serendipity--to your discovery of the best! Send me a list of your five--or is it seven, maybe nine or a dozen? Enjoy your daily unexpected! I can't wait to hear, and with your permission, I'll share some in my next issue.

And the best read: current issue of Artful Blogging--so much talent, such fun to enjoy these creative spirits

And God's word:He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed. Proverbs 11:25

Just in case...

2010-08-28T16:12:00.000-07:00

possibilities from a friendly quilter...just in case??

JUST IN CASE...to my mind means all possibilities of emergency, including multi-maybe's when traveling, thus packing assorted products to cover the random chance that any event might happen. Make sense? I've always packed, bought groceries, collected fabric and books, just in case...to be prepared for all possibilities.

                                 To reinforce this obvious thought process, I recently observed a second style of woman's logic. I was privy to a series of business announcements at a quilter's meeting, only to hear the spokeswoman say " The September meeting will meet the last Thursday of August." No one questioned the statement. No one seemed confused. It made perfect sense....exactly like just in case.

                               Reinforcing this logical thinking style I heard a writing artist read her clever poem just in case. It caused my mind to wander across the multi-hat, multi-task, multi-focus paths I and all women have traveled for eons--just in case we are called upon to make life more convenient.

take it all--take it all!

                         Third week of August, the date had been on the calendar for weeks. We decided to meet the kids (big and little) in the New Mexico mountains.

                          Preprep first involved food for a week, buying veggies and fruit, snack foods, G's muffins and more. It involved a Saturday of cooking--soup, chicken and rice, taco meat, peach cobbler and organizing assorted fresh and frozen breakfast, lunch and snackies.  I felt like the local grocer, chef and I were loading for our departure. Oh, I forgot to mention spices, paper goods, trash bags and more...just in case.

                          Next came the packing of things I might want to use. I had to finish "Kate's quilt", so perle #8 and hand threads, darners, needle threaders and measuring tape were packed. Book favorites, Traveling Mercies by Anne Lamott, Thunder and Lighting by Natalie Goldberg and sorted new issues of Bella Quilt, American Patchwork and Quilts, Poets and Writer magazines unread. I "needed" my writing notebook, mini computer and the larger one too. My son-in-law (computer pro) is meeting us and I have computer questions. And is a trip possible without necessary office scissors, tape, paper clips?...just in case.

                           Organization of carefully considered clothing included my umbrella, walking shoes and fleece (even if it is 100 degrees as I pack) and a mirage of other emergency possibilities--short and long sleeves, capri and long pants and one choice of dressy...just in case.

                           And modern technology included a zip case of additional emergency considerations. Charge cords, batteries, screen cleaners, camera and an extra memory card, just in case. Oh, the home telephone book, some note cards and stamps and a few "surprise" gifts for Michael and Kate. ...just in case.

                           And the departure time. G says "I don't want to drive when it is hot." My brain says "I don't want to get up before daylight to avoid that possibility." Well...he won and we were out of our driveway by 6:30 a.m., which meant I had a five a.m. alarm. I knew all the possibilities must be pre-ordered.

                           Extreme early mornings are painful for me, so the organization had to fall the day before departure. I created a plan.  First, pack G's truck with luggage inside...just in case of rain, then ice chests to the pickup bed, stuffed with pork tenderloin, frozen salmon filet, farm fresh veggies and organic carrots for the cabin. Next organize the hard cooked eggs, avocado, fresh cherries, raw almonds, peanut butter sandwiches-- the car food and just in case, water and energy bars. Oh, and fresh coffee in mugs. It is 6:30 a.m.

                           The next nine hours we moved 80 miles an hour down Interstate 10 then took a turn through the desert of Texas, the foothills of the Sacramento Mountains and finally into the cool, beautiful pine and spruce trees located at 8000 feet elevation. "Is it really 100 degrees at home?" "Please grab that fleece jacket for me, then I'll help unload the car." "Hungry?, "Yeah, the soup is still frozen in the ice chest, but I'll microwave it. Be ready shortly." Did you bring my walking shoes?" "Think they are in the black bag." and on it went...just in case.

maybe we forgot...does it really matter?

Random thoughts, random needs, random wants...but one never knows...just in case.

'til next time,

Alice

Consider a favorite read and I promise, laugh 'til you drop. I checked a library copy of the Erma Bombeck treasury of four books --Four of a Kind. What a talent--Bombeck wrote as if she wore our shoes. She saw life as we see it --daily!!

And a favorite scripture: II Timothy 2:15 "Study to show thyself approved unto God." --let us always remember

School time, school time!

2010-08-21T12:17:00.000-07:00

School memories --great classrooms, both big and small

I love the beginning of school. Seems a bit strange to think of this late summer season in that reference, as years have gone by since I went to school. Even years have gone by since my daughter went to school. BUT, some of my fondest long term memories include the calendar of back to school. I love thinking about the season of fall, football games, a scheduled routine and always, the adventure of books, learning and friends.

Post college I continued my beginning of school routine by teaching school. The schedule of school days, learning names and first assignments always fit my step. In those early teaching years, I lived in Lubbock, only blocks away from Texas Tech. Every early fall afternoon the band music echoed to my house and put my feet and heart in step. I thrived in hearing their beat and sound practice for the weekend football half-time performance. I loved and still love, the sound of "back-to-school" band music.

Another favorite school memory involved clothing to match the newness of the occasion--always something new to wear on the first school day. Mom would sew or buy something that made my sister and me feel special. Often it seems new shoes were part of the outfit. High school memories recall a certain sock style, always white. We called the sock a crew sock and it had to be worn with a Weejun loafer (a style of penny loafer; we thought it cool to NOT put a penny in each shoe.) Nothing less; nothing more.

Always a new dress--which color??

I carried the tradition forward. As a young mom I always sewed a new "back to school" dress for Lis. I tried to match the theme of her interest (Big Bird, favorite color or twirl-ly skirt (big and full). I always wanted her to feel proud and look adorable (and I brag, she did.) Later the custom sewn dresses were replaced with brand name jeans and small embroidered icons (of course, only certain ones) on shirts, purses and watches. Our budget often allowed for "only one", but one seemed satisfactory. The one of a name brand satisfied the ego.

Thanks mom, for buying extra paper.

And the school supply aisle still stops me. I remember looking at the spiral notebooks in question "do I want red or the one with the fancy lettering on the cover?" In my day new pencils and ball point pens gave expected status to that first day of school. We wrote with red, yellow or blue #2's. If we really landed "cool", we had preordered pencils from Lillian Vernon with our name on each pencil. And I loved the zippered pencil pouches that fit inside the notebooks. Ball point pens? Clear plastic with the ink color showing visibly and of course, the pen must retract.

Now, as I view the pencils, it seems the style is the retractable--guess time even changes pencils. And the pens--choices are endless. Fine, extra fine, two tips on one pen, colors, gels, erasable and... Beyond my childhood pencil and pen dreams.

My favorite 3 ring notebook had to look like denim (no vinyl for me) and dividers? Oh, what fun to make a special title page for each subject--even Latin or Algebra. It felt so organized, so important. Lined paper was always on sale and I remember mom saying, "let's get several packages--you'll use it before years end." Wow! the newness, the smells, the efficiency--it all spoke to me.

And, do you, like I, remember learning our favorite or dreaded teacher lineup and the home room assignment of designated hall locker location? I always wanted a "top" locker, not one that required finding books, etc. by bending over. In my day a locker was just that, a storage space. Now locker accessories from mirrors to locked "safes" are some of the options. My, how time changes all.

And covering our books was a big thing. After the first day of class I remember toting a stack of books home and making "covers" for each book from grocery sacks. It was important to turn all of the advertising print to the inside. (and a book cover expert knew how to turn the covers without scotch tape to hold them tight-dad was very good at this task) True "high school status" was achieved when books displayed only brown sack stock showing. As the semester weeks passed we doodled our boyfriends names or our special monograms on the covers (sure that no one would "really" notice) and by semester end, tired covers had holes in the corners and fuzzy worn spines. They had served us well. And, in this week's review of school supplies I spotted "3 for $2.00" stretchy book covers. Again...how time changes....

And the carpool. My childhood didn't have such; we walked or were driven by mom. But I remember big preparation in organizing Lis's carpool. We (all the moms) wanted just the right number of girls, personalities that would mesh, co-moms that would be on time and not run late and of course were "responsible." Big, big planning, all before cell phones; seat belts were still in their infancy. I don't remember my carpool kids wearing them.

Back to school again? I quiz. For me, I still have to find the way. I recently wrote of my trek to Alpine to the Texas League of Writers workshops, one week of study on Sul Ross Campus. And it was great. I wrote, I read and I studied until I dropped. My psychic demands this routine at least once a year. I reminisce about going to school again, being a full time student, even a degree--this time in journalism.

But for now, the next great realistic school experience...

SUE SPARGO brings Folk Art to Texas!

Quilting Adventures short week of study with Sue Spargo--folk artist extraordinaire. I can't wait. Sue is coming from Ohio and for four days she will guide her students through the primitive styles she does best. Check her out at QA: www.quilting-adventures.com
Sue's workshop is one of three weeks Quilting Adventures offers with the BEST quilting and art instructors around. What a dream to study each week! And like our childhood memories--our after school dinner is cooked for us!

Happy learning,

Ali

And I love to share:
My favorite read this week: Writing Creative Non-Fiction, 2001.
Theodore A.Rees Cheney, Ten Speed Press

Great writing and GREAT inspirational examples. I'm pleased I found this book--Amazon.

My favorite scripture study: I Samuel 1,2 and following.

Hannah's story (she is the mother of Samuel). A woman's story --to touch every woman's heart.

It's supper time - again!

2010-08-14T16:17:00.000-07:00

I am sick of cooking. WAIT, before you flip to the next page and say "no whining", let me explain.

Yesterday I went to my neighbor's house for our late afternoon girlfriend meeting (side note: we country neighbor women join together once a month to laugh, to share and to eat!) This month Charlotte hosted our get together. As I entered her beautiful white kitchen, my eyes and nose were captivated by the sights and smells of food. My taste buds said "oh my" as I looked at her homemade gumbo (from her home grown garden), salsa (her tomatoes and peppers) and peach cobbler (again, her peaches). In addition she had planned a step by step demo of how-to home can tomatoes, in hot sterile Kerr pint jars. Every detail, perfect.

Tradition is forming in our newly organized neighborhood group, but for now friends show their appreciation of the host by bringing a snack for sharing. We meet late in the afternoon, at 4:30, but that quickly runs into a supper hour and we seem to always be hungry, Holding true to my need for kitchen relief, I took watermelon and cantaloupe from the farmer's market to our neighborhood event, --yep, so I didn't have to cook. And to your curiosity about Charlotte's spread--it was superb and we all enjoyed her wonderful fare.

From my neighbor's excellent culinary skills is another friend's extreme of "I don't cook." (She has a full time cook).She generously supplies paper goods or fresh flowers to dutiful social events, but NEVER home made food. She gladly reminds us "I don't cook."

But back to my emotional "cooking sickness" Actually, I'm somewhere in-between my two friend's extremes. Today, during my attitude meltdown of "cooking again" I realized my Richter scale hits about five. I decided to conduct a self diagnosis of my problem. Why am I weary of cooking? I did the math. I figured 40 years of cooking, 350 days a year X 3=42,000 meals, give or take.

I've scrambled eggs, made cinnamon rolls, fancy pies and cakes from scratch. I've cooked food for the ill and food for expectant moms. I've cooked Wednesday night suppers after working all day, Sunday lunches for eight at 6 a.m. and packed school lunches. I've bought weekly groceries, made jellies and homemade pickles, cooked in a jiffy and served Thanksgiving for 20, Martha Stewart style. And, many times I've made napkins and arranged flowers for the perfect image, the same afternoon as the party.

But, back to my cooking illness. I have NO fever. I have no headache. I love great food. I enjoy shopping the produce aisle, buying and reading cookbooks, cooking blogs, giving parties that involve great food. So--what are my symptoms? More important, what is the remedy?

Analytically I began diagnosing my cooking illness. So obvious, even I recognize the problem. It is not cooking, it is the routine. It is the expectation that the daily dinner table is waiting on me--even if I am in the middle of a great quilt or the second draft of my short story. I can't ignore the task of food and other's expectations of food in a scheduled manner. My right brain non-cooking mode is interrupted. I am forced to quit my creative journey and chop lettuce, grill chicken and peel potatoes, in keeping with the expected schedule.

Perhaps the negative word "sickness" is an over simplification of my thought process. My sickness involves the what and how of many innovative (let's see what I can put together) meals, multiplied by weeks, months and years. It is chopping, cutting and watching a simmering pot for 45 minutes, then eating it in 10 minutes. It is scheduled duty without relief, my duty to use my skills to feed family and friends. It is the repetitive"no milk in the refrigerator" duty that becomes my trip to the grocery. The repetitiveness duty ...is my problem. And in all honesty, maybe it is because I never give the duty away. Maybe I have an attitude problem, not a duty problem.

Reviewing my dilemma (attitude or duty), I am determined to find a cure.So, to overcome my pain and frustrations with the daily chore of cooking, I'm trying to regroup my attitude and daily procedures. I'm reaching for friend's suggestions, good cookbook reads and observing successful cooks-- those that enjoy the daily three-some of cooking (breakfast, lunch and dinner).

Here are my goals. Reader's, please will check on me:

1) I vow to plan ahead. (another friend organizes supper at breakfast. Her duty is finished for the day.)

2) I vow to enjoy the colors, flavors and generosity of God's bounty. I will sketch, photograph and admire the beauty of the endless choices. And my mind's eye will remember mom's cooking--the skill of her hands and her voice saying "dinner is ready." I wonder if she had the cooking illness?

3) I vow to pull a cookbook from my 40 year collection and enjoy the memories. Basic cooking 101, Better Homes and Gardens, Fannie Farmer, and others. I'll review and remember with fondness friend's recipe cards with names of Marjorie, Suzanne, Sherry, Betty,Judy, Marcia, Fran and Alisa, all written on the line "from________."

4. I vow to cook as nutritionally (simply) as possible, and be satisfied with that choice.--because I really want to "create" in the kitchen. Simple is often boring to me. I adore the beauty of sauces, presentation, the extra touch. But health demands simple...give up the fluff (except for special occasions).

5. I will give dinner parties more often (for me, that isn't cooking--it is entertaining). The journey of menu planning, table setting, succulent flavors and textures coming together--is a high point for me.

6. And I vow to share a date night out with hubby. I can't wait to give the cooking to a different chef!

And today's first cookbook read: A great cookbook Vegetarian Cooking for Everyone by Deborah Madison. This chef put together an amazing story of veggie food-742 pages! And she has other cookbooks, to boot! --a great library find.

And one of God's scriptures on food: Genesis 1:29
"I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food."

And as Julia Childs always said, "Bon Appetit'"

Til later,

Ali

A Writer's 5 Days Away

2010-08-07T23:01:00.000-07:00

Once a year the Writer's League of Texas hosts a popular educational get-away to Alpine, Texas. Now Alpine, for those of you that haven't found it, is the best August climate in Texas. Breeze and 80 degrees is a nice contrast to Austin and 100+ degrees with humidity.
The small community of Alpine also enjoys popularity as a key entrance to Big Bend National Park, home to Sul Ross University and an eclectic array of shops and eateries. Oh, and I must add the Alpine Book Store and its' annual Book Writer's Festival.

For those of us that love words, books and composition, the Alpine retreat is paradise.
For five days we study a topic of choice from one of four faculty, take notes, write and read 'til we drop. Last, we review each other's work, critique and offer marketing suggestions and visit until the clock sadly clicks finished.

This year three of us loaded up and headed west. My sister Fran, a League writer friend, Kayla and I packed enough computer stuff, paper and food into my small SUV to last a month--all for our short five day excursion. We had agreed to live dorm style (bring our own bedding, food, etc. for this "cheap" girlfriend writer's camp). En route we recalled endless memories of the past retreat. Hopes of changes and non-changes made for non-stop conversation. (After all, we ARE experienced retreaters.) One after another, we anticipated certain expectations to this grand get-away.

For example, Alpine mornings start early (or we will be disappointed) with the sound of the Amtrak train whistle announcing its' early weekday arrival. Our minds rush past last years dorm experience to remind us that the shower is sure to flood or the toilet be contrary. We suspect luke-warm showers and laugh about three women getting ready--in one bathroom. We tell stories about our mother's teaching us politeness and sharing. Promises of "no-problem, I take my shower at night" seem to solve the potentially crowded issue.

Arrival is on schedule. We get our room keys and unload luggage, tote bags of books, computers, food and bedding. Fran and I find our bunk beds (did I say bunk?) as high as the sky, with NO ladder. Quick discussion gives me the bunk bed -ugh!, because I don't have to get up at night.?? Should I pretend?

Moving on, we unpack French roast coffee, paper towels, plastic bowls and spoons. Kayla organizes all in dress fashion while Fran stuffs the refrigerator with homemade soup, boiled eggs, home-grown tomatoes. I check the computer outlets.We're ready.

One night's rest and a walk across the Sul Ross campus, up two flights of stairs; now to find room 203. It feels invigorating. I can't wait. Fran is with me; Kayla hurries to another building. My energy is high. In walks the teacher. Even a chance we can be freshman again? I reminisce.

DAY 1 --dajavou of dorm life 1970, almost repetitive in it's basic furnishings, humble room, poor lighting. However, one thing is different. This time Fran did her homework on a computer. Ah...great changes.

Kayla, the bestest of friends--another bonus of the workshop. We found each other on last year's League carpool list! This is our second year together. We plan many more. And I might add, give Kayla a word challenge. She can handle it in A+ fashion.

And friends Chris (left), food writer extraordinare' and Carol (right), memoir collector of the best of Big Bend family stories.

Total craft, total consumption in the possibilities and total enthusiasm found in classroom and writing time kept us off the street. I'm a student at heart, so hours in a classroom felt just fine. I embraced the continuous discussions on the essence of writing--the style, the sequence, point of view, even the chapter heading possibilities. Constant references to must-read books, websites and blogs worth the time kept my pen busy. Absorption is what I like about these retreats. The real world gets out of the way--one week in student style with a bit of age over the brow.

So, here's my summary. If you are a reader, a wanta' be writer--grab your boots, your pencil (or computer) and come out next August (or hit your local writer's scene sooner). You won't regret it!

My favorite read: Try another Julia Cameron book, her second after Artist's Way. Walking in this World, 2002. Julia is a master in helping us balance our creative juices and desires with the daily.

My favorite scripture: Psalm 23 The Lord is my Shepherd...

and add Max Lucado's wonderful hope and encouragement using this favorite Psalm. His book:

Safe in the Shepherd's Arms.

Til next time,

Alice

What's Better?

2010-07-20T10:53:00.000-07:00

WHAT'S BETTER????? I awoke to a beautiful day and found many happy thoughts racing through my morning pages. Here are a few:

1) What's better than celebrating Kate's one year birthday?

What's better than enjoying it with her mom and dad?

2)What's better than a writing workshop with talented author Dena Dyer?
Check out her blogpost--Mother Inferior

3)What's better than enjoying peaches with Charlette, my neighbor-friend?

4)What's better than a GRAND summer tomato stand, 1 mile down the road?

5)What's better than enjoying my dear grandchildren--
big brother Michael, age 3 and baby Kate, age one?

What's better??--LIFE IS JOYFUL!!

And the best read of the week? new magazines that surprise me in the mail--
my favorites: The Quilt Life; Poets & Writers; The Writer's Digest; Quilt Mania
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE???

AND anticipation of QUILTING ADVENTURES (www.quilting-adventures.com) fall guest teacher--check out
SUE SPARGO (www.suespargo.com) She's coming to our annual seminar,
September 12-15--Look forward to seeing you!

AND GOD'S unfailing scripture:

God did not give us a spirit of timidity,
but a spirit of POWER, of LOVE, and of SELF-DISCIPLINE. IITimothy 1:7

til then,

ali

Northwest to northeast--what a ride!

2010-07-18T20:33:00.000-07:00

For ages we have talked of taking a trip--a big trip. So, after countless armchair catalog previews we finally decided on the train adventure across the Canadian landscape. We signed on to a two week, 4000 mile train and bus journey. From Vancouver to Toronto we found views, new friends and food too delicious to resist. And to get us off to a typical tourist photo album,George took the first photo of my train adventure, at the TX airport, and might I add, early in the morning.

Day 1 and forward--
My smile is all about the beauty of the fabulous Butchart Gardens in Victoria BC.--and the bears? sculptured with a moss like growth, carefully poised (almost hidden) in the forestry of the gardens.

Believe me, I could talk and show photo after photo of the fabulous sites, but here--just two more, totem art that is spellbinding in Stanley Park and the seafood markets--oh my, they made this

Texas girls taste buds drool! And the photo below, a totem shop. Pure fascination to watch the storytelling detail come to life. I could have watched for hours. One figure at a time, just like our words and quilts.

From Vancouver, the Rocky Mountaineer train gave us the first view of the immense Canadian Rockies--so spectacular a photo cannot express.

Some of the evenings were in lovely hotels; others were bunks on the train. Two trains provided our journey--the Rocky Mountaineer and VIA. They were both perfect.

From mountains to water, from water to mountains, our Texas eyes took it in. Logging to a saw mill; a geography lesson in the making.

Perhaps the most beautiful of the beautiful--Lake Louise with the Ice fields in the background. And if the view isn't enough, can you imagine such a splendid wedding??

And a personal photo with a REAL Mountie--Pretty cool, don't you think!

Of course, to complete our Canadian photo journey I had to show you my bear picture. They are difficult to photo as they are experts at privacy. From there we closed our trip with the spectacular Niagara Falls, more food, on going friendships and memories.

This post is so expected, so vacation like--but friends, it's somewhat like grandchildren photos. I HAD TO SHARE. Enjoy and thanks--

Preferences -1,2,3

2010-06-13T13:45:00.000-07:00

The first 30 minutes of today I spent outside. I joined George on the patio and sleepily watched him enjoy every breath of the morning breeze. I huddled to drink my first cup of coffee. It did not come easy. I was groggy, the breeze felt chilly and the dogs were slurping--loudly. I preferred to be inside in the comfort of my red wing back chair, adjusting my laziness to the morning movement--gradually.

Why? What makes us have preferences? Webster defines preference as "a greater liking." Perfect definition, don't you think? So, why do we prefer inside or out; chocolate or vanilla? With age (and wisdom-ha) I've discovered three reasons preferences are so much a part of life.

1. CHILDHOOD CONDITIONING--What exposures and opportunities did we experience at age 4, 10 or even 25? Did we like or dislike the person and situation that influenced the opportunity? Was an attitude of "it's okay-try it" prevalent or a household demeanor of "wait, don't try it, don't go too far?" speaking loudly as you developed your preference list?

2. ACCEPTANCE OF SELF --I call it our wiring. We are all predispositioned to difference palettes, different talents, even to the time we go to bed. It is the voice inside that speaks "I want more" or "never again," or "it works for me."

3. SECURITY --The depth of comfort we demand. Several years ago I had a bad fall and since, I am conscious that my security needs have intensified. The strength of assured peacefulness and safety defines preference in different doses for different folks.

--yes, in a nutshell, preference is a summation of our personal identity.

Think about it. What do you prefer? For fun, listed below are four personal preferences:

1. Friends and family--oh my, how would we survive without these soul mates?This week friends and family were major players in the seven days. A neighborhood party and then, God bless her, Pat hosting a beautiful, and I say "beautiful" dinner. And in both cases--special blessings. The neighborhood party had a unique detail spin. Charlette brought a box of goodies-- genealogy records, photos, etc. and shared stories about her great-great grandfather settling this area. Pat's party brought community together. George has known Pat and Phil since college days. I call them "history friends." Wow!

2. Beautiful, delicious food--think a picture says it all.

3. Household comforts--my favorite red wing back chair and the splurge--a past Christmas gift of a down sleeping pillow--Shhh....

4. A surround of books, paper and pins. The written word. I love to hold books and enjoy turning page after page written by a great writer. I love the laughter with my sister, my daughter or friend as we share "did you read?" or "let me share what I wrote..."

And your preferences? Every preference fulfilled is another spout of our bucket list. Analyze the peacefulness of your preferences. Or, forbid the lack of peacefulness when preferences don't prevail. As someone said, "make preferences happen...show up and vote"

So, this week I share the preference of a GREAT read:

FOR YOU MOM, FINALLY by Ruth Reichl. A short read by the well-known Gourmet Magazine editor about her mother, ..."an investigation of a mother I never really knew." I found this on a sale rack--I suspect you'll recall your mother/daughter relationship.

And daily, GOD'S WORD: "Whatever is good and perfect comes to us from God above, who created all heaven's lights." James 1:17

Til then,

Alice

Grandmothering doesn't get better

2010-06-03T20:21:00.000-07:00

I knew a trip to enjoy the family would be a more valuable experience than a doctors visit for lonely grandmothers depression symptoms. After all, Kate is 11 months old and Michael is almost 3 1/2 and the last visit was Easter. So...what's a grandmother to do? You are right! Eight hours later and I'm feeling hugs and smiles and knowing the pleasure of toys across the den floor and hearing my name with an "I love you" attached. Discussions of fresh corn and whether its' summer flavor is "yum-yum" or "yummy" are serious and a pull and wheeze bug toy create laughter and smiles from ear to ear. Yes, grand mothering doesn't get better.

The role of mothering was fun for me so never, until the autumn of life, did I give thought to the secondary role of grand mothering. Only upon Michael's birth, did I learn my new role could be equally satisfying. Now I watch my daughter do all the tasks of the "daily necessities"--prepare meals, change clothing, remind about the potty, make a snack, make and feed bottles, play HI HO CHERRY OH over and over, change diapers, correct behavior firmly yet gently, and I ask "did I do my role as well?" How did she learn to put her babies to bed, happy and without tears? How does she teach "thank you" and "yes mam" and make manners seem automatic?

Maybe the answers come from current resources of great baby how-to books, friendship connections and mentoring from friends with slightly older children. Ah yes, this is true...but it also comes from her skill development. Hard work, consistent reinforcement of God's love and rules, sacrificing to be a modern stay at home mom, she's into her full time job three + years and no promotions are in site. Certainly not the easiest choice when money decisions and normal personal wants are pulling from every direction. But the payoff...yes, grand mothering doesn't get better.

A second June joy I treasure is the abundance of garden fresh food. Working on my daily diet to detour osteoporosis, I am eating pounds of fresh veggies. The bounty of spring and summer foods --tomatoes, broccoli, carrots, garlic and purple onion fuels my bones while blueberries, organic pears and strawberries work to satisfy my sweet tooth. Altho, I must confess, my daughter and I shared a chocolate brownie at a wonderful local diner and every bite gave my chocolate craving honest pleasure, almost forgotten. The brownie of the day was a double stack with a creamy ganache in the center. Is that "yum-yum" or "yummy?" We decided to go for both.

Walking, walking and walking. Another detour to osteoporosis. And Lis, my fit daughter, shared a discovery of a new DVD titled WALK AT HOME by Leslie Sansone. It features mile markers for "house walk" and provides energetic direction for weight loss, fitness and health. Tomorrow Lis and I begin our first workout. The inside exercise plan is very appealing to me because it avoids the summer heat. I'll let you know how it goes.

Reading is another passion of my heart and mind. One of the books I've picked up this week is WIRED THAT WAY by Marita Littauer, Regal Press. Focusing on four personality profiles (Sanguine, Choleric, Phlegmatic and Melancholy), Littauer helps the reader identify her personality and gives valuable tips to aid in the complexity of successfully interlacing our personalities. Different chapters focus on friendships, marriage, communication and spiritual life. Littauer helps us see ourselves and how our personality plays against or with others. I'm having fun exploring my own personality fit to family and friends.

Another great read: Summer pushes my novel reading desires and one quick-read author I love is Elizabeth Berg. She had an Oprah book several years ago. I like her because she writes like women think and talk. Consider picking up THE YEAR OF PLEASURES, her viewpoint about the solace found in ordinary things--simple girlfriend talk.

And if cooking is speaking to you, bring in garden fresh veggies, brush with olive oil, sprinkle with lemon pepper and grill. Then decide if they are yummy or yum-yum!?

Remember my comment in a recent blog about unexpected pleasures? Well, "Pearl" showed up on our property and G and I are charmed by her. What a beautiful and peaceful bird. Best of all, she has decided to nest on our porch roof every night. Like children, we eagerly wait for her evening flight in, under the trees and up again, to light and roost by the same window night after night. Yes...unexpected pleasure.

I am blessed through the day when I think of you. Recall God's word: "Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God." II Corinthians 3:5

til then,

Alice

HAPPY Wednesday--May 26,2010

2010-05-26T14:04:00.000-07:00

Some years ago I lived in a small village that was entertained daily by a bicyclist that rode down the Main Street (actually, the only street) greeting everyone with Happy Wednesday, Thursday or whatever. Today his joyful greeting came to mind--Happy Wednesday.

It is glorious outside, a slight breeze, dogs lazy on the porch, spring flowers and berries bursting in their contentment. My morning walk compelled me to take a photo shot of agarita berries. Dad used to tell about shaking them into a fabric strip, carrying them home and making jelly. Those country stories seem lost now. When is the last time you collected berries, went home and made jelly? I can't help but wonder how many of those tiny berries it took to make a few jars of jelly.

A beautiful agarita bush

I've been dividing my day into segments, trying to accomplish all the things I love to do. Reading, writing, sewing, the daily walk, the daily read + Bible study and always, the chores that keep sanity and organization of life in tow. I start the morning with coffee (for me, a delightful treat) and conversation with George. From there it is breakfast and quick chores, then a morning dedicated to reading, writing and internet. Shortly after lunch I pretend I MUST change roles and move to the sewing room for total immersion into planning and sewing unfinished and new projects. It has been easy to buy too much "stuff" and never produce end results. I am determined to change the course.

Another joy of Happy Wednesday is the anticipation of seeing my grandbabies. It is a push to call them "babies" because little Michael is past 3 and Kate touches one year old this summer. In reflection I laughed when I saw the photo of M in the grocery car--taken last summer. Visiting for a short time, I decided to be the "perfect grandmother" and asked if he would enjoy riding in the b-i-g (and heavy) grocery cart. By his smile, do you think he enjoyed? I've never had so much fun! We laughed down every aisle!...and soon, another visit--this time with M and K, and maybe another cart.

Remeber Fred?-- the neighborhood cow? That boy has a new costume! Thought you might enjoy--guess it is his summer cooler. He just stares at me when I take his photo, so don't know what he might be thinking. ?? ha.

"fred"--our neighborhood favorite

I love organization, even though it isn't always apparent. But, to my disciplined week, I decided to make some of the soft screen bags. They are perfect see-through squares with a zipper. I can't wait to use them for sewing supplies, files of articles to share with my writing group, etc. I bought the fabric at my favorite store (Creations in Kerrville) and it is also available on-line. By the way, they have a great website http://www.creations-online.com/

And the most fun of my sewing week--working on Kate's paperdoll quilt. Inspired by the delightful book Material Obsession by Kathy Doughty and Sarah Fielke, it is pure joy to sew. My deadline of Kate's one year b-day is soon--so I better get crackin'.

Oh my, the reads, the fabulous early summer fruits and vegetables, God's scripture this week--blessings are overflowing.

Here are this week's favorites:

A great read: Wildflowers of the Texas Hill Country by Marshall Enquist--not really a "read", but great photos and copy for identification of beautiful flowers.

Traveling Mercies by Anne Lamott--it is raw--almost too raw, real, funny, touching and an honest tale of her journey to faith. I will always remember this book.

A great meal: Sharing lunch with fabulous friends, we enjoyed chicken enchiladas (home-made), tomato and avocado salad and corn custard (to "live" for). Thank you, Janie.

And God's word: "Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope. Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:21-23

To remember--gifts come in the most unexpected packages.

Til then,

Ali

Thursday Twigs

2010-05-20T23:10:00.000-07:00

Getting back in routine after a few days of travel, I decided the morning walk must start the day. A windy mist blew against my face as I walked out the door. And then, as I looked down, I noticed an unusual number of "twigs" --everywhere. I picked up a handful and began looking at the character of each little stick. Crooked, straight, short, long, dark and light, they intrigued me. Each one reminded me of life's daily bonuses--the unexpected treasures.Then, to my amazement, upon the return of my walk, almost as many were on the walk again! Multiples--can't wait to see what waits ahead!

So far, this week has been full of twigs (bonuses)--fun twigs. Invitations to two geographically related guilds gave me perfect opportunity to study and share two of my favorite stories. I visited Waco and the Homespun Quilter's Guild, followed by Temple's guild, the Wildflower Quilt Guild. Thank you ladies, I had a great time!

We talked about Texas women and the role the quilt played in the settlement of the unsettled frontier. Looking back to 100+ years the quilt story of three layers of cloth, often beautifully designed and always functional and lovingly sewn literally wrapped it's settlers in comfort and security. Each hardship and danger was softened by the woman's working hands and the tenacity she showed as she helped refine this great state. What women they were! And best of all, they often passed on the talents of their hands. The second story I shared touched the liberation of the traditional quilt into the short lived fad of the crazy quilt. It was a true coming out party for women in the late 1800's. For the first time, a woman's creativity served no functional purpose, except to share her skill in sewing freely and beautifully. Guided with threads, dates and memories, each quilt hosted ribbons and silks, most often to tell a family story. And again, each quilt, each story ...always a bonus.

For me, an added bonus of going to the city is the opportunity to shop. I actually found myself giddy as I shared a fabulous purse line (http://www.maryfrances.com/ ) via phone with my sister. Details of embellishment overflowed on each artistic version. I was awe struck. Added fun was a computer store, a hobby shop and fun, even in an office supply. Maybe I need to get away more!

And speaking of country living...I must introduce you to our neighborhood cow, Fred. He is a costume eccentric ,--today he's celebrating a birthday. I'll share him as often as he finds new garb. I anxiously look forward to the next holiday; he's always a bonus--you'll soon agree.

Just call me "Fred"

And now the bonus at the end of the day, phone calls with friends, a happy day, chocolate and God's blessings --a merry good night. THINK BONUS tomorrow...see what you can fine. And if you need a bonus--

A great read: The book of Ruth, Old Testament

A favorite quote: One's friends are that part of the human race with which one can be human. George Santayana

til then,

Alice

Is it Monday again?

2010-05-10T15:05:00.000-07:00

Does time fly by in your day? I'm amazed at the speed of each day, and yes, it is Monday again!--the second Monday in May. Such a glorious time of year. I walked my daily mile this a.m. and loved the wild flowers blowing in the wind, the butterfly weed with little butterflies enjoying the bloom and the baby calves in the pastures.

Now, for those of you that know me, you know country life is not my first calling. I have a love/hate relationship to the wide open spaces. I miss the city stores (where is Barnes and Noble? the multiple choices of sale items when I need some new t-shirts, etc.?) Ain't here, but the beautiful trade off of nature is. It works; I've made it work for 15 years. The saving grace from the empty fences of pasture and cows is the computer, the quilt bees, the writing groups and Bible study friends. FRIENDS and FAMILY...the glue that holds us together.

The computer translates to friends and business connections. And I'm thrilled to say my latest connection is to THREADS MAGAZINE http://www.threadsmagazine.com/ with my published article about getting back into decorative machine stitching. Wow! It is such fun and so simple. Review the July, 2010 issue. My article is on page 80 forward; and I also love the article on beautiful ribbon embellishment and "no waste" garments--cutting garment shapes with no fabric waste. So creative. I'm so glad to be writing articles again. Over the years I've written many sewing articles; now, I've found that self again.

And you might notice that I list Sue Spargo in my favorite blogs. Her work is amazing--and she is Quilting Adventures (http://www.quilting-adventures.com/) guest teacher for the fall session, September 12-15 in Boerne, Texas. If you want more info, check out our site. We can't wait for Sue to bring her talent to Texas.

And Mother's Day--my house is full of beautiful flowers because of thoughtful men. My G brought me roses and his son Carl brought me roses again! I love it. Thank you guys.

And speaking of flowers, our neighbor Sandy had the coolest party. She has a new garden and to welcome the beginning of the growing season she hosted a ribbon cutting party, cutting a garden ribbon to celebrate the flowers, squash, peppers, etc. She and her husband served from the grill, all the neighbors brought the sides. It was a delightful welcome to summer. Thanks Sandy.

Energize yourself--have a great week and if you are looking for a great book:

A favorite read: QUILT mania--the fabulous French magazine (printed in English),

bi-monthly and available on big newsstands or by subscription http://www.quiltmania.com/

A favorite scripture: "Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things." Philipians 4:8

til then,

ali

pictures of "the" date

2010-05-05T19:54:00.000-07:00

a book here, a book there... then a walk to a perfectly restored building. George loved the long leaf pine floors and original windows. Next, we found the knitting shop and across the way, a potter's haven, custom buttons --maybe the next jacket?

It's a super day...

2010-05-05T15:21:00.000-07:00

Julia Cameron is one of my favorite creative authors. She speaks in her book THE ARTIST'S WAY (Tarcher/Putman Press) of giving our self an artist' date--a window of time to enjoy the beauty of God's nature and the wonders of the creative people we find. Such was my day Saturday. I hope my day will engage you to give yourself an artist's date--just with you.

Our small local library has a once a year yard sale, selling endless varieties of books for pennies on the dollar. Seemed like a perfect date for me! I drove down to the sale early and fit into the crowd. I'm one of the folks "that never saw a book I didn't like" so selecting books for myself and assorted family members ranging from the best cooking to history was easy. Oh,I might add, part of the fun was people watching. Young and old scurried by the loaded book tables, eagerly looking for a favorite bargain, adding each new find to their cardboard holding boxes."Anybody found something on golf?, on bridge?" played from one group to another. Next came the long checkout line. No big deal--it was a beautiful day and chatterly conversation was plentiful.

Second in the artists' date was a trip to Comfort, a small hill-country town down the road from San Antonio. This Saturday's big event was an antique show in the town park. Buzzing with vendors selling fabulous wares, people were everywhere--standing or sitting on the main street benches, each telling their favorite stories. Laughter and joy filled the air. What fun to enjoy the varied voice decibel's while meandering in and out of old buildings, sharing the day with George. The best find for me was a fabulous knitting shop (and I'm a major beginning knitter).Check out The Tinsmith's Wife (www.tinsmithswife.com) for a fabulous selection of yarns and workshops. And to complete my artists' date we previewed a friend, Delia Hunt's one woman art show--SO GOOD! Congrats! my friend. Check her out: www.deliahunt.com

Home again and a quick stir-fry (really stir-steam!) of as many vegetables as I could put in a pan. I recently read a book describing how our moms cooked for flavor; we cook for health. How true-how true; we all think more about food for health than "yummy." Wish we could think more in the first direction, but issues--heart, osteoporosis, etc. We must be as health conscious as possible.

Well...that was my artists' date. Can't wait to hear about yours.

And my favorite book of the day: another Julia Cameron book, THE RIGHT TO WRITE.
Great prompts and invitations into the writing way. Penquin Putnam Inc., 1999.

And a favorite scripture. "Come unto to me, all of you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest. Matt. 11:28. What comfort to hear Christ's words.

til later,

Ali

do I use a pen or pin?--the daily walk

2010-05-03T15:32:00.000-07:00

Welcome,

Being a blog fan, it is inevitable that I finally join the modern crowd and become a "blogger." What do the multiple blog sites provide us, the reader? Why are we so attracted to them? From my perspective it is so simple...each reading keeps us attune to another and the similarities we all have. It is a joy to see your spring flowers, your grandchildren and hear about your latest venture--all on your blog.

So, I hope we'll share a bit about the daily life of our worlds, being a grandmother, a writer and teacher--or our favorite life directions; the special goals and struggles of putting words on a page, the creative direction of magical fabric units forming a great jacket or quilt, an occasional trip, the energy created in seminars I co-host and the classroom opportunities you give me.

And I want us to share the real fiber of life-God, family, friends, and the moments that make a difference. As I get older I find the phone calls, emails, notes and conversations over dinner are invaluable, necessary for the very breath of every day. Never an hour goes by that one of these particles simply impacts my thoughts and emotions.

Add the perks that make life energizing--a new or favorite book opened to an author's humor, wisdom or incite. Will I ever get my fill of the zillions of books I long to read or the quilt designs I long to sew? Or the sharing of the most "yummy" spinach and pear salad, or the best brownie? or the surprising find of mom's favorite biscuit recipe? To share these finds is a joy--try my reads and please, let me try yours.

So my blog is this...to share with you the daily walk. The walk we as women tread everyday, from breakfast to professional meetings, from family and friends to new acquaintances and experiences.

I hope to hear from you. And for today, my perks include:

A great read: IF YOU WANT TO WRITE by Brenda Ueland, first published in 1938. Current edition, Graywood Press.

And a favorite scripture: I Thessalonians 4:11 "Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands. So that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so you will not be dependent on anybody."

And the favorite spinach salad--a combo of fresh spinach, chopped bosc pears, toasted walnuts,grated hard cheese (go light!),touch of crisp bacon and a mild vinaigrette dressing (on the side!)Enjoy!

til later,

ali