Teeny Friend

I've been a member of a ladies online group for several years now. It's a Christian group, we share our day to day lives with each other and we pray for each other. I'm one of the older ones, there are two of us - the others are still raising their families. Sometimes I wonder why I stay, I don't feel part of the conversation much of the time. One thing we do to keep conversation going is take turns asking the "question of the day". Today's question was did you have a favorite "lovey" when growing up and do you still have it? 


Well, I have kept many of my favorite things from my childhood but the one that would best fit the description of a "lovey" would be my baby doll, Teeny. I do not remember why I named her that, except I suppose, because she is so small. She's only 12" long, she has a cloth body and rooted hair which is slightly balding in one spot. 

I have always loved this picture of me holding Teeny, I must be about three years old and the dress I am wearing was red velvet. This was the early 60's when Thumbelina dolls were so popular. My mother said she couldn't afford one, so she found this doll instead. I remember when my baby brother was born - I was five years old at the time - my mother called from the hospital just after his birth and I asked her what he looked like and how big he was. She told me to go find Teeny and then she waited on the line for me to return. When I picked up the receiver, she told me that he was about the same size as Teeny and I would be able to hold him when they got home. I remember looking at her in my arms and being amazed that a real human being could be so small. 

I was always told she was a Thumbelina "knock-off", but in doing a little research for this QOTD, I found this: Vogue's Baby Dear Doll. 

18"  Vogue  Baby Dear - Early 60s 
Item Code:  D3-V-BD18    $235.00 
The larger early 60s version of Vogue's popular Baby Dear designed by Eloise Wilkin (popular children's book illustrator for many classic
Little Golden Books).
A loved doll, wears authentic Baby Dear p.j.s but these were actually for the later 60s redesigned doll.  Fit perfectly.

I loved Eloise Wilkin's stories when I was growing up (I've kept several of those as well), but I never made the connection between the cherubic faces in her artwork and my doll. Now that I know it was created to go with a story, I see the resemblance! When I found all this online this morning, I thought for sure I had found my Teeny, only now as I look more closely, Teeny has none of the markings they show here - so, I guess she really is a knock-off. :( Oh well, I don't love her any less. 

I took this picture of her today and she is spending

the day with me in the studio. One of my many projects this winter is to take pictures of all my "treasures", those items that have special meaning for one reason or another and add a description of where they came from and why I've saved them. Then I'll place them all on a flashdrive and save the file for when the day comes that my children have to sort through my belongings. They'll have some idea of what's valuable, either monetary or sentimental, and will better be equipped to make decisions about what to do with it all. Since I took her picture today, Teeny will be the first in the file. 

Now, don't you think she looks like the "Vogue Baby Dear"? 

Friends Near and Far

In my last post I shared my Artist Trading Cards for this month and today was our trade - I was hostess. I spent the morning touching up the house and preparing snacks. The trade was at 1:00 but they were still straggling in at 1:30. We always have a good time when we're together, there is lots of laughing and great stories. It was fun having them in my home for the first time. Every month as I struggle to get my cards done in time, I consider quitting and then we have our trade and I know I would miss getting together with them so I soldier on. 

Today I shared with them my desire to be a Magnabilities consultant and I showed them the product and they were very encouraging. They all said they would come to a party and one of them said she would host a party for me. I'm still not getting anywhere with the company, even though I prefer to email (I like having things printed out for future reference), I think I'll call them next week.

My heart is heavy today as I received this email update this morning from Gordon's wife: 

Well friends, here I am again asking for prayer! We went to clinic at lunchtime today because Gordon was having such an awful time breathing. His oxygen level was very low and the oncologist had him admitted to the hospital. He was in his own room by 1:45 or so! Thank you Lord! 

She also had bad news -- the biopsy on the fluid taken from around the sacks around lungs (last weekend) had cancer cells in them. The miracle drug (pill) isn't working for Gord! 
She said she has a chemo cocktail for him to go on...Hopefully very soon!

We are all tired of all of this, but especially Gordon! He has lost a lot of weight and finds it difficult to walk. Please keep praying for strength and healing and God's mercy and grace. Our spirits are low, but we rely on Our mighty creator God!! Thank you sooooo much!! We couldn't make it without your prayers!! Bless you! 
Please continue to keep him in your prayers. 

I also connected with my mentor, David today through email. I found out his procedure is supposed to be outpatient. It's scheduled for Thursday and he hopes to be home by Saturday if all goes according to plan. He encouraged me to email him if he fails to send me an update and that was nice to see.

Pastor Tony emailed with challenges regarding the music tomorrow morning - I will need to get there early to prepare and stay focused. 

I'll be busy making cards next week. A college friend saw my cards on Facebook and ordered 20! 

Well I think it's time to throw another log on the fire - I mustn't let it die out as Hubby will want to warm up when he gets home from the rink. 

Out Of Sorts

That's the only way I can think to describe the way I've been feeling lately. I was doing so well getting back into the "swing of things" after the holidays. I spent the week between Christmas and New Years cleaning the Turquoise House from one end to the other not missing nary a cranny. I was quite pleased with my work and quite pleased with my plans for the winter. I had begun my exercise program again - I started slow this time because I had gotten so far out of shape and I felt good about what I was doing, that was until this week. Monday I woke up with pain in my shoulder right blade...this is not new, it is a chronic problem that I've had for years, but now it seems to have escalated and decided to share the pain with my entire upper back. It hurts to turn my head, it hurts to put my head down and while working at the computer or practicing, I get an awful burning sensation. I wasn't too concerned, I'm still not too concerned, I've dealt with it before, it's just worse this time. Now lets talk hips. Again, I've had hip pain in the past and have been successful treating them with chiropractic, massage therapy, exercises and stretches. Yesterday I woke up with pain in my hips that I had never experienced before. The only way I can describe it is, I felt as though my body was not my own from the waist down. I called my chiropractor and was able to get in same day. Surprisingly, I did not need an adjustment but she said my hip flexors were very tight and so she did some soft tissue work and I was able to walk out of there without the limp that I walked in with. I felt pretty good when I woke up this morning and went about my chores and errands, by lunch time though I was starting to hurt again and so tonight I sit in pain. I'm hoping my stretches will help ease things so I can sleep. I'm discouraged. It's so hard to get back to an exercise routine when I'm in so much pain. I've been head-achy and tired and I just want to curl up by the fire and forget I have responsibilities. I think the pain is just getting to me. 

It's difficult to keep track of my students these days. Some are quitting, some want to quit but the parents won't let them, some want to increase their lessons, some take every other week, there has been illness, bad weather and deaths in families. I struggle to keep a consistent lesson plan going with any of them. 

Our recently graduated daughter has still not found a job and her car needs a complete engine rebuild. We are going to help her with that, but it will clean out our savings. Trusting God to provide for our needs. 

Nothing new yet regarding Magnabilities. I was hoping to have it all up and running before the 15th as that's the last day for half off the price of the kit. I'm just not sure why it is taking so long to get help.

Do you remember Gordon? He's still fighting his cancer...he's had a tough go of it lately, just getting out of the hospital again after having fluid drained from his lungs. He's been in a lot of pain and began slipping into depression, but praise God, he's home now and is more like his old self again. Please continue to keep him in your prayers for complete healing. 

I've also mentioned my mentor, David from time to time. He'll be having surgery on the 22nd. He has a bone in his neck that is poking into his spinal cord; it's been causing numbness in his hands and feet and we're praying that this surgery will restore that feeling. Please pray for guidance and wisdom for the surgeon - anything having to do with the spinal cord is scary business. I made him a card:

and while I was at it, I made some Valentines to sell: 

It's also ATC time again! This month the theme is "Ethnic Background". I wasn't sure how to interpret that, but one of my friends said she was going to just use some of her photos from her heritage album, so I decided to do the same. The meeting will be at my house this month so tomorrow I'll be making refreshments and getting things prepared. 

Until next time dear friends, 

Magnabilities

Magnabilities

So I'm considering a new business venture. Do me a favor and click on the link above and tell me your opinion. I first learned about Magnabilites when I saw them in a local store. When the store stopped selling them I got online to see if I could find them. I ordered several and what really got fun was when I found out I could upload my own photos and make custom magnetic charms. I have made a few of these as well and they have become my favorites. 

I have made contact but I'm getting promises of being contacted and getting little back. I've been studying the website/frequently asked questions/how to get started, etc. and I sent another email with questions, I'll see how long it takes to get them answered this time. I have found another link-the one above, and I may try this one if I don't hear anything in the next couple of days. I think I've contacted just the "wrong" consultant, this new link looks more like the original. 

Anyway, I've talked to Hubby about it and he seems to think it would be a good idea. I'm a bit concerned about driving to homes to do the parties and to deliver the merchandise, especially in the winter. I'm also concerned about the time factor. The starter kits are half price between now and January 15 so I could upgrade to a larger kit if I decide soon. Hubby is being very supportive and says he thinks I should give it a try - even if I don't make any money at all, he'd like to see me try it. 

So that's what's been on my mind. I'd really love to see comments with lots of opinions...be real. And please, ask questions.

Thanks,

I'm So Blessed

Another Christmas has come and gone. The Little Turquoise House was busting at the seams as it welcomed and sheltered seven people and six dogs in it's 750 square feet of living space. As I look back over the last few days spent with family, I realize how truly blessed I am. I couldn't help but think of my mother and how she would love being with and enjoying her grandchildren this Christmas and how very proud she would be of each of them. We had our fun, preparing food, eating, playing games and watching movies and we had our frustrations as well but all in all it was a wonderful weekend and I am now left to ponder it all in what is how a very quiet house. 

I told you in my last post about my grandparents on my mother's side and how it was their 100th wedding anniversary on Christmas day. My cousin had the idea to toast them on that anniversary and I wanted to join her though she is in CO springs and we are here. I made it a very special occasion and had my family join me in the toast right before our dinner. Besides, it was a good excuse to get pictures from family members who often shy away from the camera. The only down side was that Hubby was holding the photo of gran and granddad and didn't get in the picture. One of my many projects this winter is finishing my heritage scrapbook and family story. 

Daughter number one and her Hubby left early because she came down with a flu bug and felt it was a waste of her Hubby's sacrifice of time for her to be laying around and not enjoying her time with family. Son and his wife left first thing this morning. 

One disappointment this weekend was finding out that one of my daughters borrowed a ring of mine...out of my jewelry box without asking. A ring that, right or wrong, I made an emotional attachment with. I usually let her borrow things because she always asks and is usually careful...except this time. I'm disappointed that she didn't ask in the first place, I'm disappointed that she was careless enough to lose it, but most of all I'm disappointed in myself for placing so much importance on a "thing". I am reminded of a story I once read of a young girl who accidentally broke her mother's treasured china and feared her wrath but was shown only love and compassion. Her mother told her that the china was just things and although she treasured them, she believed that those objects were taken from her instead of the life of a family member whom she treasured much more. Yes, I will miss my ring and what it meant to me, but more importantly I still have my daughter and all my beautiful family and I would never trade any one of them for that ring. My daughter is checking her apartment again and I will be careful to look for it as I clean this week but if it doesn't turn up I need to be at peace with that. What I know in my head my heart is still working on accepting but accept it I will. 

Tomorrow there is much to do; I want to get as much of the Turquoise House back in order as possible. I'll be taking another week off from teaching and hopefully laying out a detailed plan for the remainder of the winter. 

To a new beginning...

Almost Christmas

I'm stopping in briefly and probably for the last time until after Christmas. 

I'm enjoying the view from my studio window, many of those fat, fluffy "Christmas snow" flakes are falling and it's beautiful as long as I'm in here. I just got back from the grocery store and I'm telling you...it sure is good to be home! What a madhouse! I think...I hope I have everything I need for the rest of the week because I really don't want to have to go back. 

I have a few things to do before the family arrives tomorrow, like clean the bathroom and make chili, but I think I'm about as ready as I'm going to be. 

This particular Christmas is special for an unusual reason this year. My cousin and I have decided to toast our grandparents (on my mother's side) because it will be their 100th wedding anniversary. I bought some champagne while I was out and just realized I don't have any champagne glasses. I wonder if my daughter in law has any leftover from the wedding? Anyway, I thought it would be a fun thing to do with the family. 

I have a lot of plans for the new year and as soon as the family is out the door, I'm getting started. I think it's going to be a long winter and I want to make the most of it. I'll keep you updated on my many projects...it will give me something to write about. I'm actually excited to get started. 

Well I think I'll put on some Christmas music and get the studio ready to become a guest room. Times like this make me wish for a larger house. 

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy new year!!

Immensely Proud!!

It's been an exciting, emotional, long and tiring day! I have bragged shamelessly on Facebook and have come here to do the same. 

Today our daughter graduated with the honors of Magna Cum Laude from Michigan Technological University with a degree in Scientific and Technical Communication and a certificate in media. I am amazed that I have a daughter that is that intelligent and hard working, but then again, she only looks like me, the brains and hard work she gets from her dad. 

I'm not the only one bragging; her sister posted this on Facebook: "Words cannot express how proud I am of my baby sister. Today she graduated Magna Cum Laude from my alma mater, Michigan Technological University. This girl is crazy smart, effortlessly beautiful and immensely talented and I am so excited to see all the amazing things she will accomplish in this next chapter of her life.
I love you, Rinny. You're amazing!" 

I couldn't help but agree with her and I would have said the same had I been able to form the words. My mind is a blurr of memories combined with admiration and pride, so much so that I struggle to form coherent sentences. I'm so tired and I know it's all emotional exhaustion.

After sitting for two long hours on bleachers (I'm too old to be climbing around on bleachers), we fought the crowds to have a few pictures taken with her and then we celebrated at a favorite restaurant. Hubby had to leave early to ref a game. His buttons are bursting open with pride! He's having a difficult time watching this one leave the nest, but proud he is! 

The photo at the top of this entry was posted to the universities Facebook page. Imagine my surprise as I was scrolling through the photos to see MY DAUGHTER receiving her diploma - of all the photos of all the graduates they could have chosen, they chose her. I guess they know the look of talent and hard work when they see it. 

She will continue to work part time this semester for the university marketing and communications department while she looks for more permanent employment. We pray she will find a good job soon as those school bill payments will be kicking in.  

Well, I guess that's enough boasting for tonight. I'm so ready to curl up and call it a night. Thanks for putting up with me! 

Winter Wonderland

We've had some strange weather this week...warm for this time of year and instead of snow we've had fog with a light mist at times which has resulted in this white coat covering all the trees. If it wasn't so gray it could be quite beautiful.

If the sun ever comes out, what a display that will be! I took the afternoon off today. Maybe it's this dismal weather that has me so lacking in energy but I've practiced almost every day this week and I just couldn't bring myself to go over there again today. I did my grocery shopping this morning and decided I'd stay home and work on a few cards this afternoon as I have no students scheduled, but here it is 3:30 and I haven't even had the energy to begin.

I have however managed to read my daughter's newly printed portfolio from cover to cover. I just got the news, she is graduating on the 20th...MAGNA CUM LAUDE...and yes, I'm just a tad proud!! 

Tomorrow is my piano studio recital. I was asked by one of the parents (a professional singer) to accompany her on the organ while she sang Gesu Bambino. I was honored and worked very hard to adapt the piano music to work on the organ and then learn to play it. After putting in hours of practice I get an email yesterday from her saying that she, like many people in our area has come down with one of the nasty bugs that has been going around and since hers is the sore throat/fever variety, she will not be able to sing on Saturday. UGH! Oh well, I hear my mentor's voice as he's told me before that practice is never for naught. It's ok too, because I really didn't feel comfortable with the piece and if I was going to do it I wanted to do a good job for her. So many of our families have been ill and I've had so many cancellations this week that I really don't know what to expect for tomorrow, but whatever will be will be. 

Sunday morning is our church's Christmas program. I will be playing the prelude and postlude as usual as well as a solo on Still, Still, Still, plus all the congregational hymns...there are quite a few. I think I'm ready...I feel pretty good about those pieces, it's just up to whatever happens in the moment...God help me.

So here I am with an entire evening ahead of me...all to myself. Hot tea, frosty trees, twinkling lights, crackling fire and Christmas music...I think I'm ok with that.  

Christmas Music

It was a good weekend. Friday night Hubby and I went out to supper to celebrate our 33rd wedding anniversary, then he took me to hear my mentor play the organ in their church's annual Lessons and Carols on Saturday. How I love singing the carols while he plays!! Saturday was also my ATC trade, it was nice to see the ladies from the Scrapbook Store again. How I miss the convenience of the store. Sunday of course was church - it went very well despite the fact I haven't been feeling well. The Lord truly stepped in and worked through me as I played - I did not do anything in my own strength that morning. Sunday after church Hubby and Daughter went out to get our tree. It's still sitting naked in the living room! 

It is shaping up to be a very busy week this week. Today I have a practice time I must get in, then I'm meeting with one of my piano parents to practice with her. I will be accompanying her while she sings Gesu Bambino on Saturday when she sings in our annual Family Recital. She is a professional vocalist who has sung opera in years past. I am very honored she asked me to accompany her but I'm also very nervous as I've had to rework a piano accompaniment to work on the organ and I'm not sure I can manage it very well. Following my practice with her I have 5 lessons to teach this afternoon/evening. 

The rest of the week holds a full teaching and practice schedule, Friday I'll practice with Mary again and Saturday is our recital. Sunday is the Christmas program at church and I haven't even begun to practice the hymns and carols the congregation will be singing that day. I also have two solo pieces to put together for that as well as possibly a duet with Hubby. 

It looks like no one is going to play my little game, so here are the answers: 

 Left to right: a) Heiki Lunta (local myth) b) Jack Frost c) Zeus

 

Left to right: a) Pegasus b) Sirens c) Icarus

Fairies

                                         Left to right: a) mermaid b) Apollo c) Aphrodite

Next month's theme is "your ethnic heritage".  As usual, I have no idea what I will do!
Until next time...