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Today is thee day!!

Glaukos — 2011-05-05T08:01:22-06:00

Introducing Shades of Baltimore - Spring

I am off to the show, talk soon....

2 weeks left til quilt show

Glaukos — 2011-04-23T17:34:37-06:00

Here’s another sneak peak at one of the blocks. Enjoy!

Sneakpeak #1

Glaukos — 2011-04-14T19:57:48-06:00

Here is my first picture I am showing you of the quilt that will be in the show. This turned out to be one of my favorite blocks.

The Speachless African Grey

Glaukos — 2011-04-08T14:04:40-06:00

So I was taking pictures of the quilt that I am entering in this years HMQS (Home Machine Quilt Show). Yes that right, you heard correctly, I am finally entering/putting a quilt in a quilt show. Anyway, I was taking pictures for submission, when Coda decided to come over and see what he could do to help. He has turned so camera shy, so he doesn’t talk or make any noise in this short video. But you get to see all his glorious beauty. I am going to try and keep camera in hand more often, maybe he start to relax around it.

I will share some pictures here and there of pieces of the quilt that is being sent off to the show. But not all of it at once, got to keep some surprises hidden until it is time. But for today, it is all about the BIRD. Enjoy the video.

Wet Bird

Glaukos — 2011-04-03T16:06:02-06:00

Lucky Lizard

Glaukos — 2011-03-16T17:26:31-06:00

Today I bring you another lucky lizard that I made.

this is from the Lucky Lizard Series, its number 1. I have made this one before for my brother, and made another one for one of his friends. This is a reverse applique, its quite fun if you have ever tried one.

Pinwheels

Glaukos — 2011-03-14T16:43:40-06:00

A couple of weeks ago one of my co-workers was having a baby shower. She is having a girl. So it was a good thing I was already working on a quilt that didn’t have a new home in mind yet. I made this cute pinwheel quilt for her and quilted butterflies on it. She just loved it.

here’s a close up of the darling butterflies.....

and one more.

These were fun, simple and quick to do. I used quiltsmart for the pinwheels. Then you machine applique them down and ta da! Simple and fun.
Till next time.

Whoa Whoa!! Look who's back!!!!!

Glaukos — 2011-03-12T16:52:05-07:00

All right, I have been gone for way too long. I know I have lost some info here and things are bound to get lost. I am going to do my best to see what I can fix and hopefully start putting up pictures if not anything else. I don't know how much I will talk, as I don't think I am very good at it.
First off I have to apologize I haven't posted anything in about 2 years, thats pretty sad.
Second.... I got a new imac and I don't know what has happened to a lot of my stuff so I can tell you right now that there is going to be a few posting that are going to just disappear. :( its not the best excuse, but right now its the only one I have. Sorry
Third I might drift a bit from quilts now and again, lets just call this a anything goes blog for now on. As I tend to do a lot of reading (both actual and audio) I do still have ALL my birdies and I do still quilt. So I hope I wont upset too many if I tend to go off on a something other then sewing once in a while.

Lets start with this........

For those that might recall I am a grandma, best known as Nana, and Adyson is 2 now. I also have another new grand baby that was born this last month. I haven't seen her much and its very sad, but hopefully soon I can hold her and squeeze her and love her etc...
I made a quilt for my 2nd grand baby and have some wonderful pictures here for you now.

It was great fun to work on, I did machine applique since it will probably be washed a lot and I quilted an allover design of roses on it.

Have more to come, see ya back here tomorrow.
cheers!

Coda finally talks & lots of whistles as well

Glaukos — 2008-06-07T11:40:02-06:00

Coda is 7 month old baby grey. He has been doing a lot of talking & whistling, but never while I was in the same room as him. Well he has finally gotten over that and I happen to be able to get it on video. Although I can't understand much of what he is saying, I can tell you that he seems to already have a very large vocabulary.

Jasmine and her bucket o' beads

Glaukos — 2008-06-07T11:39:35-06:00

About a week ago I got this Stainless Steel bucket for Jasmine, up until a few minutes she has been terrified of it. Now as you see, she is no longer afraid of it, and having a blast with all her beads that I put in it.
Sorry its a bit shaky, I didn't want to get too close to her and end up disrupting her process.

And the winner is.....

Glaukos — 2008-05-11T15:05:31-06:00

Went to the HMQS (Home Machine Quilt Show) that they have annually yesterday. It was so fun! Bought tons of stuff that I probably shouldn't have, but thats alright. You only live once, right?

Tons of quilts on display for the show, I think this is the most they have ever had. This was the winner of them all. I mean they give out a lot of awards, but this one I believe won the first place. It is nothing but a whole cloth quilt. Which means that the entire quilt is just a huge quilting design. I wish you could have been there to actually see this, it was gorgeous! I believe she said it took her 3 years to do this, can you imagine working on something like this for 3 years straight? I am lucky if I can get a project half finished before I move on to something else.

Now the real kicker of the story about going to the quilt show is that every year they have a drawing of all the attendee's that get their cards stamped and turned in. Every year my Mother-in-law and I sit and hold our breath wishing for our names to be drawn. Well this year, guess who was the lucky winner of a brand spanking new sewing machine?
Thats right, it was ME! I was in so much shock, and almost crying, and thought there was no way that they had just called my name!!! It is a beautiful machine, I had been able to play around with for a little bit today and I am in love. I have always wanted a very expensive top of the line machine, and now I own one!!!!
ok ok I guess I should tell what kind, right? Its a Pfaff Quilt Expression 2048.
Here it is:
I can't tell you how excited I am to own this little beauty!
But I do have to be thankful for the sponsor that donated the machine to the show: Creative Sewing Center without them, I would have never won this wonderful machine. Thank you do very very much!!!

One more picture for ya and then I am outta here......
Can you find the birdie?

Happy Mothers Day for all you Mothers out there.

Whoa Whooa Whooooa

Glaukos — 2008-05-03T13:03:00-06:00

Lots of things to touch base on today.
First off, finally finished my March block. Here is a small picture of what it should look like, followed by what mine looks like.

Tomorrow it will have been one year since I brought Jasmine home with me. Since I don't know her hatch date, only the year, I am calling that day her Hatch hate. Jasmine will be 8 years old!!!
Happy Hatch day darling!!!

Thats Jasmine with her daddy, my husband. She has grown quite close with him. They are such a cute little pair!!

Earlier this week, I was woken by a goat. Yes a goat in my very own backyard. Nope, I don't own the goat, she was just visiting.
Here is my husband holding the goat while animal control is on the way to pick her up. she was very friendly!

Yes, I know, I lead a strange life. LOL

Lets see what else has been going on?
Coda Rossa is becoming more vocal, and starting to bond with me. Makes me such a happy momma when I look into his beautiful eyes!!! I have been trying to avoid annoying noises, such as squeaky doors, etc. just cause I don't want him to learn them. However that is about as easy as locking your teenager in their room away from the world. Well it is too late, Coda has apparently already heard at one point in his life a car alarm. Every once in a while I hear a whoa whooa whooooa sound. HAHA oh well what ya going to do? At least he doesn't do it loud, as of yet.

I have been working on getting some video on him, it isn't that he runs away like Indie does. Its that right now he just sits there. He doesn't really make much noise if I am around. So I haven't gotten anything worth showing the world yet. But it will come, just be patient.

well I think that is about it for today, see what happens when I don't post for a while.

New words

Glaukos — 2008-04-19T13:55:33-06:00

Coda Rossa has now been in his new home for a week. He is feeling more and more comfortable.

This morning as I was saying good morning to Jasmine and giving her loves he decided it was time for him to finally talk.
He said “hi”, said something else I didn’t understand and then said “what's up” beeped like the microwave and then said something again that I didn’t understand. I was just in awhhhh moment. I couldn’t believe my eyes or my ears. Its been one week and this is the first time he has acted like that. He was being kind of cute when he did it to. He’s voice is kind of deep, so I think that is why I had a hard time understanding him. Jasmines voice is very girly, and I can understand her pretty well.

I know this is just the start of his vocalizations. Soon he will be talking up a storm and there will never be a dull quite moment again.

Speaking of Jasmine, I did finally get her on video talking, whistling and screaming a bit.

Indie is still located in my sewing room, and will probably stay there, as he thinks he is the biggest bird around here. I have brought Coda in the sewing room with me a couple of times, and Indie flies over each time and lunges at Coda. Coda's beak is about the size of Indies' head, so I don't want anything to happen to my fearless little guy. So far, him being in my sewing room is working, he thinks it is his room and just plays all the time anyway. He isn't too big on getting attention and always needing to be with someone.

I have one more picture to share with you, Jasmine and her daddy. Oh how she loves her daddy, they have such a special fondness of each other that it just melts your heart.

Welcome Home

Glaukos — 2008-04-12T12:37:40-06:00

Well after a very long ride home, I finally have brought my baby grey home. We arrived home last night around 7 pm.

He seems to be settling in very nicely. I am just so happy to finally have him home!!!
I will be adding in a page for him, and hopefully will have some new video of him up soon.

As far as a name goes, well I have been referring to him, before he came home as Merlin. But now that he is home and I am getting to know him better, I do not think that name suits him, he doesn't seem to respond to it nor have the looks of a Merlin.
I will know more after the weekend is over, but I believe his new name is going to be Coda Rosa, Coda for short, meaning Red Tail in Italian. I can thank my dear brother for coming up with that name.

Here is another picture, he seems to be doing nicely. Already he is starting to play with his toys.

He is BIG boy compared to Jasmine. Almost twice her size. She isn't too sure what to think about him, but I am sure with time she will be just fine with him. Indie had his eyes so big when him and Coda met. Indie just sat there and looked at him as if he couldn't believe there was a big much much bigger then him. It was a priceless look on Indie's face. Wish I would have had my camera for that one.

Videos for your viewing pleasure

Glaukos — 2008-03-23T12:46:32-06:00

I just uploaded two new videos. The first one is Jasmine playing outside. She had tons of fun. It was a little breezy but still warm enough to spend a couple of minutes out there soaking up some sun. She had a blast and just loved it.
The second video is of her playing on her bong which is attached to her new playstand! Yeah! It was taken the first day that we put her on it, she wasn't too sure about it, but its been a couple days since then and now she loves it and is all over it. Throwing beads that are in the little bucket everywhere. It good for her, cause she needs to be able to play by herself, so this playstand really helps encourage that.
I hope you enough both videos. The one on her playstand is darker then what I would have liked, but you can see she her and tell what is going on.
Enjoy!

Signs of Spring

Glaukos — 2008-03-22T21:22:29-06:00

Well you know it is spring when you have beautiful flowers popping up in your yard!

I have no idea what these are, but last year they didn't bloom one single flower, and this year, surprise! Aren't they purdy?

I got my February block of the month finished. If you recall I had just started it at the beginning of this month, so I am one month behind, but hopefully I will be caught up soon. This block I just finished is called "Crazy Daisies"
Here is the finished picture of the block

To see what the original block looked like see my previous post for this month.

Good news about my baby cag (congo african grey) he is a he! I got the dna test results back and he is a confirmed male!!!!! Yeah!
I just want to say that as far as a name goes, I keep trying to think of something and I keep going back to the name of Merlin. My brother had made a suggestion of Coda Rossa meaning "Red Tail" in Italian, I really like that name, but again I find myself referring to the little guy as Merlin. So we will see when he comes home what I end up calling him. I would almost rather wait until he arrives to his new house before naming him, so I can see more of what name will fit him.
Speaking of him coming home, he should be home this next weekend, if all goes as planned. He is being cut down in his hand feedings and this week he is on his own for food. So if he does well then he is free to come home. Boy I sure hope so cause I am missing my little guy.

I have some new video of Jasmine that I need to put up, I just need to upload it to youtube and then put the links on my page. I should hopefully get that done tomorrow.
The weather was nice enough the other day, so I took Jasmine outside for some fresh air and sun. She loves being outside, and with her wings being chewed up I don't have to worry about her flying away. So I took her, the dogs and my camera outside for some fun.

We also have been in the process of building Jasmine a playstand. Something she can play on and have fun while being out of her cage but not having to be attached to a human like velco. Well It is just about finished and we attached her bong to it, and made attempts of putting her on it. Not an easy thing to do when you have a bird that is phobic to anything new, I mean who knows it may just eat her, right? Well it took hubby a half an hour with Jasmine standing on his shoulder while he stood there and tried to show her it was alright.
Mission accomplished, she finally got on her bong and now she is having a blast!!!

The remainder of the perches have since then been covered, the only thing left is to get the top T perch covered and insert some hooks. That is the perch that her bong will actually hang from, so she can be up high and just have tons of fun.

well it is late, I am signing off and I will post those videos tomorrow.

Quilts, Quilts and then birds

Glaukos — 2008-03-09T14:02:15-06:00

Been getting loads of stuff done. First off I have my January BOM (block of the month) applique that I have finished. Just a refresher, this is what it is supposed to look like:

Here is what mine looks like:

Here I was worried that the material for the star wouldn't stand out enough against that background. HA! it looks great. Now to start on the next block.....
This is what it supposed to look like:

I have actually decided to go with my own colors, if you haven't noticed already. My next block is going to have yellow and orange flowers. The whole quilt is actually done with all the flowers in red tones, well me being an individual want my bouquets to be bright and lots of different colors. I am about half way done with the February block, so I should be able to post a finished picture soon.

Just a reminder... if anyone is interested in doing this BOM they can get it from The Quilt Show. You can join and get it for free, plus all the shows and a wonderful forum, or you can purchase the pattern through the shop there.

Next on the list is my Quilt Diva. Finally got her done, she has been a long time waiting friend. But she is finished and looks great up on my wall in my sewing room.

You can see more pictures of her on my Quilts page.

Now on to bird talk: I think Indie is a female. I am really bummed by this. I really wanted Indie to be a male with that beautiful black ring against his blue feathers. OH he would have a sight. However this isn't definite, Indie only recently turned 20 months old, he still has about a year to finish becoming mature.
He still doesn't talk, but boy he makes some great sounds. He meows just like the cat, I have to check and see sometimes if it is the cat or if it is him. I had nothing to do with teaching him how to meow. He also clucks like a chicken, this I can take credit for. He also does this really great sound that sounds like a couple of chick-a-dee's squabbling at each other. It always makes me laugh when he does that. He has also learned how to whistle, and not just a wolf whistle he does all kinds. I am so proud of him, he such a joy. (I guess I might need to re-teach myself in calling him a her. LOL)

Jasmine is doing good, she is calming down and coming out of her hormonal period. Which is great. I am so glad, she has been driving me nuts with her screaming. She is still chewing her feathers, but since she let them go before her breeding time came around I am seeing this as not only a habit (such as nail biting) but also from the stress of not being able to breed. But mercy we don't need more Jasmine's, one is plenty!

Merlin, he is the new addition to the flock. My little African grey. He isn't home yet, and I can't wait until he does come home. I have his cage all set up, and it is in the living room. I set it up early so that Jasmine can get used to having it there in sight. I am trying to make this addition as easy as possible for her. I am still waiting for the DNA test to come back to let us know if he is a he or if he is a she. We think he is a he, but getting impatient on finding out. He is so smart, and only 4 months old. He is already talking if you can believe that! He says Hello, up, it's ok and even says grumble grumble. Now how cute is that? He's latest thing he has learned is the noise from the microwave. OH he is a genius at such a young age. I just hope I can keep up with his intelligence once he is home. However he is a little slow in the weaning process. He should be home by now, but he isn't he took 2 step backwards, and instead of being on 5 cc's of formula, he is back at 20 cc's. So his homecoming is slow in coming, and I am doing my best to be very patient for him. It is for the best though, I don't want to rush him and push it.

well that is about all for today, hopefully I wont be so long coming back again next time.

New Baby Congo African Grey

Glaukos — 2008-02-25T09:31:29-07:00

Thats right, I am getting a new baby. He is just darling. I have some pictures of him and some video. He is almost 4 months old and hopefully will be able to come home soon. I am so excited I can't wait.
Hummmm names, I am kind of thinking of Merlin, but not for sure on that one yet. Anyone have any suggestions?

Anyway, would love to hear feed back for names. Also be sure to check out the video page for your viewing pleasure.

Time Flies!!!

Glaukos — 2008-01-28T20:40:45-07:00

Wow Time really does fly when your having fun! Here it is almost the end of the month and I haven't been posting any new updates. Shame on me.

Been busy quilting, well sewing to be exact.
Here is a beautiful picture of the table runner that I made last month, it was such a nice picture, I had to add it in here.

The picture was on the home page of my quilting group a while ago. The owner of the group put the two pictures together and added my name and location to it.

So lets see... I need to share some more pictures with you cause I didn't get a chance to post them earlier. These are the squares from the block of the month that I have been working on. If you remember I did post a picture of the first block that I had finished. Here man can't believe that was back in August! well here are some more blocks from that same quilt of Pam Bono's.

This is block number two:

Here is block number three:

I have block number four finished, I just don't think I have a picture of it. I will have to look and see if I do. If I don't guess I will have to pull out the camera and get my butt in gear!

Aside from all that, I have also been finishing up on my Quilt Diva.... about have her all sewn down and then I can put her and hang her. She is going to accompany me in my sewing room.

I have also (of course I have) started a new block of the month. This one is applique... in fact I am doing needle turn applique. This is the first time for me attempting this type of applique. I figured I could teach myself, but got very frustrated and gave in to the fact that I don't know everything. I went to my mother-in-law for moral support and a quick lesson. She is wonderful... showed me how to do it, and I was off and running. Well I shouldn't say running, as this is a slow process for me, and might take me forever just to finish one block!!!! I guess maybe the correct terminology would be a very slowly paced walk. This is the finished block (mind you its not mine, its what it will look like when complete)

This is mine! It took me a whole 2 days just to applique the star down! Its going to take me forever and then some. But its good, by the time I am done with this quilt I will be the applique queen! At least after 12 blocks of this stuff I would hope I would be queen. LOL

Now please also note I am in the process of appliqueing the leaf and stem down, so no that is not how its going to look when its finished.

Just a quick update on the birds:

Jasmine has re-chewed her wings and her tail feathers. I am blaming it on hormones, as she isn't stressed by her living conditions and in fact she is spoiled (if thats possible)
Indie is still happy go lucky little birdie! Still not talking yet, and probably wont ever, but he is fun to listen to... he makes so many funny noises.

I added a couple more videos, in case no one has noticed. I also added in a picture in the quilts section that I just finished making for a dear friend of mine. It was her Birthday present. Happy Birthday Kathy!!! Hugs

See what happens when I don't post for a month. WOWWee that was a lot, wasn't it. I need to try and post more often.

Happy New Year!

Glaukos — 2008-01-02T21:26:11-07:00

So I have been on vacation, not that I went any where. I was just enjoying time at home away from work. Ah! it was so nice :) But today was the day for me to return to work... it was a bit long but it finally did end and I was once again able to head for home. Isn't that a wonderful feeling?

Enough of that mumbo jumbo, on with what I was doing with all that free time. WOOT!

I apologize this post might be rather long, I have lots to share, and haven't had internet to be able to share it.
Let us see... I have been spending lots of time sewing, and playing with the birdies. It was so nice not having to be on a schedule!

To begin... I know I slacked off on reporting how Jasmine has been doing with her injection. She was really really good up until about a couple of weeks ago. She then started screaming and she has even started to revert back to chewing on her feathers. :( oh how this makes me sad, but I am trying not to dwell on her feathers while I am around her. I do not want that negative vibe going to her. I love her no matter what! I guess I just have to look at it in this way... if I was pms'ing for 3 months straight I think I would start to pull my hair (feathers if I had them) out also. Long story short on this... if I can afford to get her 2nd shot for this month, I am going to do it. I do think it has helped her. She has since calmed back down and we had some really good bonding time tonight. She was such a little love dove.

Ok now it is time for some pictures! YEAH we all love pictures right?
well like I said, I have been very busy sewing. I made some table runners for some friends of mine. First time I have made a runner and I think it turned out rather well.
This one was the first one I made, it was for a dear friend in Kentucky.

I have also added all these pictures of completed projects to the quilts page with close ups as well.

Next we have my second one that I completed, same design, but totally different colors. What a difference colors can make, huh?
This was for a very dear friend of mine in California.

I think that will be all for tonight. I want to leave you wanting and waiting for more! I will post the rest of my pictures a bit later.

Day 3

Glaukos — 2007-12-13T20:49:57-07:00

Things have been good. Jasmine has been just a little darling angel! The last couple of days I have been a bit worried about her, she hasn’t been eating much. But today, I think her appetite is back. She ate her dinner when I got home without any hesitation, and now she is in her home eating again before she goes to bed.

She was a bit more her normal self. She screamed a little bit and danced some and was just a really good girl all-a-round.

We will have to see what more days bring and if she stays this wonderful or not.

Day 2

Glaukos — 2007-12-12T20:34:53-07:00

Jasmine's appetite hasn’t changed much. :-(
She ate a little bit of her dinner, but not enough to satisfy me. I will just have to continue to monitor her eating. It is kind of hard to do during the day, since I am at work. Most of her food she throws out anyways. I never fill up her cup cause of this. So I can never really tell how much she has eaten or if its stuck in her feathers some where, or dumped over her head.

Her attitude and behavior is so wonderful though! She is just a cuddle bug. I love it!!! She did scream a little tonight, but as soon as I pulled out the beads and we made a big mess, she stopped. I think it was her just saying “hey... HELLO, I am bored!”

You know earlier, I was feeling like a really really bad parront mommy, and I felt like I shouldn't have Jasmine cause I don’t know how to correct her hormone issues without giving her drugs. But once I got home and I took her out of her cage and we sat and cuddled and played, I looked into her eyes and could see her little beak smiling, and just knew that there is no way I could ever give her up. I love her to death, she is a sweetheart (well most the time) and her and I will get through this. I think that tonight I got the feeling from her that what we are doing is alright.

Day 1

Glaukos — 2007-12-11T20:06:41-07:00

Day one of the injection for Jasmine: She seems really much more relaxed. But I am not sure if that is from the shot or if it just her having a "I am a little angel moment". I have noticed that she doesn't seem to have an appetite much for food. Which isn't good, my husband said she has been eating today. When I get home from work, I fix the birds there dinner, usually Jasmine is pretty excited and sticks her head right into her bowl. But both last night and tonight she hasn't wanted to touch it. I don't know... I will just have to monitor this behavior and see if it continues. I don't want her to lose any weight because of these shots.

Vet Visit

Glaukos — 2007-12-10T18:08:12-07:00

Took the feathered babies in for clippings, trimmings & exam today.

Jasmine was a really good girl, she has gained some weight, which is a good thing. She got her nails trimmed and her beak trimmed. The vet also clipped her wings. I didn't want him to do that, because I don't want her to start chewing on her feathers, but oh well. Don't have to worry about her flying away from me to get to the kids or dad. Now I just have to worry about her falling, oh great!

Talked to the vet about her hormones, and asked him what he suggested. He said there is a hormone injection called lupron that is given 3x's to help for that. Its not cheap, and its given once every 30 days for three months. Its not something that is given to them all year round, only during breeding season. He said, if it works great bring her back for her next shot, if it doesn't no need to continue them. Now I know she is a bird ad giving her drugs is probably not the best thing in the world to do. I am torn by this and not sure just how I feel about it. But I went a head and did it. We will see how she reacts to it for the next 30 days. If I don't like the way she is reacting to it, I am not giving her a second one. My poor little girl.... I feel so sorry for her.

Indie was good as well. He got everything trimmed up as well. Not shots for him. He is my little angel. Vet said that both have really good sounding heart and lungs. I am a very proud momma!

Here Comes Another Bubble - The Richter Scales

Glaukos — 2007-12-10T12:55:36-07:00

A BIRD OWNER'S CHRISTMAS

Glaukos — 2007-12-06T17:17:07-07:00

A BIRD OWNER'S CHRISTMAS

'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the flights
Not a bird was stirring since I turned off the lights.
Clean dishes were stacked by the freezer with care
So in the morning they would be filled with fresh healthy fare.
The babies were handfed, the pet birds out to play
Everyone was settled, I was done for the day.

When down from the basement there arose such a clatter
That I ran for the stairs to see what was the matter.
I raced down the steps and turned on the light
Glancing first to my left and then to my right.
It was then that I noticed the now empty spot
In the cage where the cockatoos should be, but were not!

"The Goffins are missing", I yelled to my spouse
While I shuddered to think what they'd do to the house.
My fears were well founded, I soon came to know
As I surveyed the destruction to the bird room below.
Feeding doors had been opened, the dishes all tossed
Bags were ripped open, their contents all lost.
The marauders unfastened from the cage tops, each toy
Which they tossed at the occupants below with such joy.

The other birds sulked as they viewed the whole mess
This cockatoo duo had created such stress!
I searched through the room, my frustration profound
Those two fiendish beasts simply weren't to be found!
It was then that I noticed the Senegal staring
As his eyes flashed with anger, I saw he was glaring.
Towards the side of the room at an overturned pail
I followed his gaze and saw a flash of white tail.

Holding my breath, I approached with great care
Was it possible both could be hiding in there?
I snatched up the bucket and the villians were exposed
They knew they were busted and for a second they froze.
Then with a cockatoo shriek and scrambling of feet
They raced for their cage in hasty retreat.
I slammed the door shut as I trembled with rage
"Don't you two ever, ever come out of your cage!"

They stared at me smugly, cheeks puffed with contentment
Their mission accomplished, they ignored my resentment.
"I'll clean up tomorrow," I said aloud with a sigh
As I walked toward the steps, one Too said, "bye-bye".
As I turned with a grin I felt suddenly calm
Their sweet little voices could act as a balm.

For along with their mischief, they brought love and fun
It was hard to stay angry, despite what they'd done.
my jangled nerves and life's hectic pace
Had made me forget what was in my face.
I didn't need gifts, fancy stuff from the store
I had all I needed, my birds and much more!

My dear friends and family, my health and my spouse
Everything that mattered, was right here in this house.
So, Santa I thank you, but I don't need alot
I'm learning to be grateful for all that I've got.
If you come down my chimney to bring something new
Just leave me some padlocks, so I can lock up the Toos!

A New Month

Glaukos — 2007-12-02T17:24:52-07:00

Wow I must say that November just flew by like it was nothing!

So much for my warding off all new projects. I should have known it wouldn't have lasted!
I just finished my baby quilt, and it turned out really cute. I am not good with bright colors, but I think this one just went together beautifully.

I will add this picture and a few close-ups of it onto the quilts page for nicer viewing pleasure.

I started a table runner. I never had any intention of ever making one. I just don't see all they hype everyone has put on them. But I thought I would make a couple for some friends. So far I am really loving the pattern for the one I am making. Its is going to together so nicely and looks beautiful. The material I got for this first one is more of my style. The next one that I have to make is going to be a bit brighter, and as mentioned above, I don't do too well with brights, so hopefully it will turn out alright.

While I had my camera out, I snuck a few snap shots of Indie. He was looking at himself in the mirror. He just loves that other birdie inside there. Tells it is a "pretty bird" and clucks at it. He is so funny.

Anyway thats it for today. Enjoy the new pictures

Short, Sweet & Pictures!

Glaukos — 2007-11-28T21:08:08-07:00

Thought I better say hello to everyone out there, since I having posted for a while.

I haven't had too much actually going on to talk about. Been quilting a baby quilt, just about have it finished. I just need to add the binding and a label and Ta-Da.
Can you believe that this following picture of one of the embroidered block that I make for this baby quilt took me an hour just to stitch out! Plus you add in time it takes to change the tread and blah blah blah.

Is that crazy or what, I don't think people realize the time that goes into these things.

I have some other pictures to share with you, they are too cute to pass up.
The next picture is when I had the quilt on the frame, I had to take a picture of the Master Artist at work HEHE

Fooled ya huh? Did you think it was actually going to be a picture of me? Of course not! Its of the great Indie who supervises me while I sew and quilt.

ok the next one is also too cute. Its Jasmine after her shower. She's so cute and wet!

Now how can she hate bathes so badly? She cute afterward, she's clean, and I bet she feels tons better. What's not to like?

I will take a picture of my baby quilt after I finish the binding and share it with you. Its really bright as you can see from the picture I posted. My mother-in-law would be proud. I don't do bright colors too well but I am getting a little bit better about them. I am more for the darker colors. They sit better with me and my eyes.

oh yeah I have also added more videos onto the site of the birds, in case anyone hasn't noticed.

well thats it for now, twoodles :-)

Giving Thanks

Glaukos — 2007-11-22T19:47:05-07:00

Well today is the big turkey day. It was wonderful day. I got my cooking taken care of yesterday. Pies & sweet potatoes. So today I was able to relax, sew, and spend sometime with the birdies. I just wish my brother had been home to be with us on this wonderful holiday meant for family. None the less my thoughts were with him.
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone out there, I hope you spent the day with family, and really took to time to reflect everything you are thankful for.

An early Thanksgiving funny

Glaukos — 2007-11-19T17:59:34-07:00

I got this email from a friend of mine who also owns parrots. This is so funny, I just have to share it with you all out there. For those of you who own a bird, you can relate. For those of you who do not own a bird... well it is pretty funny. I just have to say, that as I was reading this I could so see Jasmine doing this stuff.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Ingredients:

Turkey
Stuffing
Sweet Potatoes
Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
Green Beans
Cranberry Sauce
Hot rolls and Butter
Relish tray
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
Hot Coffee

1. Get up early in the morning & have a cup of coffee. It's going to be a long day, so place your Parrot on a perch nearby to keep you company while you prepare the meal.

2. Remove Parrot from kitchen counter and return him to perch.

3. Prepare stuffing, and remove Parrot from edge of stuffing bowl and return him to perch.

4.Stuff turkey & place it in the roasting pan, and remove Parrot from edge of pan and return him to perch. Have another cup of coffee to steady your nerves.

5. Remove Parrot's head from turkey cavity and return him to perch, and restuff the turkey.

6. Prepare relish tray, and remember to make twice as much so that you'll have a regular size serving after the Parrot has eaten his fill. Remove Parrot from kitchen counter and return him to perch.

7. Prepare cranberry sauce, discard berries accidentally flung to the floor by Parrot.

8. Peel potatoes, remove Parrot from edge of potato bowl and return him to perch.

9. Arrange sweet potatoes in a pan & cover with brown sugar & mini marshmallows. Remove Parrot from edge of pan and return him to perch. Replace missing marshmallows.

10. Brew another pot of coffee. While it is brewing, clean up the torn filter.

When time to serve the meal:

1. Place roasted turkey on a large platter, and cover beak marks with strategically placed sprigs of parsley.

2. Put mashed potatoes into serving bowl, rewhip at last minute to conceal beak marks and claw prints.

3. Place pan of sweet potatoes on sideboard, forget presentation as there's no way to hide the areas of missing marshmallows.

4. Put rolls in decorative basket, remove Parrot from side of basket and return him to perch.

5. Remove beaked rolls, serve what's left.

6. Set a stick of butter out on the counter to soften - think better and return it to the refrigerator.

7. Wipe down counter to remove mashed potato claw tracks. Remove Parrot from kitchen counter and return him to perch.

8. Cut the pie into serving slices. Wipe whipped cream off Parrot's beak and place large dollops of remaining whipped cream on pie slices.

9. Whole slices are then served to guests, beaked-out portions should be reserved for host & hostess.

10. Place Parrot inside cage & lock the door.

11. Sit down to a nice relaxing dinner with your family - accompanied by plaintive cries of "WANT DINNER!" from the other room.

Howdy Ho!

Glaukos — 2007-11-18T21:44:18-07:00

Had a wonderful weekend here at my little happy home.

Got all my embroidery blocks done for a baby blanket that I am making for a girl friend who is due in December. I also was able to find some time today and start to sew the blocks together. WOOT! I might actually get this thing done before the end of the month. Now wouldn't that be nice?

Got the house cleaned, really needed that. I tend to let it go during the week. Just too much going on with work, and home life, and all the fids.

I am so excited to share with you that Jasmine was just a little darling peach today. She actually played on the top of her cage for most of the day all by herself. She usually just sits in the corner and does nothing, or has to be attached to me at all times. Well not today, she was very self entertained with her little kitty cat ball (they have little bells in them, and she loves to try and figure out how to get the darn thing out). I guess maybe that is why I was able to get so much done today.

I have to share this with you all, I hope you don't mind me linking over to his site. But he is this wonderful guy that owns some fids, so I find his blog so fun. He also blogs a little about how the night went with his birdies, and then he posts a cute little video staring the birds, and the dogs. Anyway, the reason I am sharing this with you, is cause I have been leaving comments on his blog about his birdies. Well I don't know why I didn't think of it sooner. He owns a B & G macaw, an African grey and recently adopted a Umbrella Cockatoo. I just happened to mention to him that I hope he doesn't have them housed in the same room, as Too dander dust can give macaws respiratory problems later on. Well with all the new info given to him, he went out and bought 2 HEPA filters and noted me on his site. http://joejoeandbobu.blogspot.com/ The Heather that he mentions there in the Sunday November 18th post, thats me. Yeah I feel so privileged. It truly is an honor to be mentioned on someone else's site. Not to mention I was able to help someone else who lives so far away.

Well its getting late here and I have work tomorrow, so I am off to bed.
Til next time.

Many bumps in the road...

Glaukos — 2007-11-16T20:19:42-07:00

With has bad as I had been about not posting a regular basis. Here I am trying to post more often and I just keep running into bumps in the road. I was having issues actually posting any updates to my website. But that has been fixed now, so I am back in business. WOOT!

Ok I hope your ready, I got some good stuff for you, this might be a little long, as I couldn't post anything yesterday so I am cramming it all in now.

This is so amazing... I just love animals to pieces, actually if I was able to, I would probably own my own zoo. I kid my husband once in a while and tell him I was a BIG KITTY, so after I saw this I had to show him. PROOF that it actually possible to own one and have a wonderful relation ship with one. check this out....

This woman found the lion as a cub, it was injured and hungry and she rescued him... she became his mama. When he got too big, she brought him to a rescue facility where she visits him every day. Lion Hug Does that just bring a huge smile to your face. I wish it was me hugging that big guy! That would be so cool.

On to the next thing that I wanted to share with you... this is so sweet. Orphaned owls find new cuddly-toy mum I hope you actually take the time to read the whole article, It really is nice to know that there are still people out there that care.

On to the birds... I added another video of Jasmine being silly on youtube, I hope you go over to my videos page and check it out. She is so funny.

Last night was husband first night off after his long 3 - 12 hour shifts. He has a really crazy schedule. Anyway, Jasmine was nuts last night. No one in the house could take it any more, Jasmine was just screaming her head off. We finally had to just put her to bed early. She doesn't do this when he is gone. I know it has to be hard on her... she gets used to him not being around much, then he is back, then he is gone again. Its hard on us all, but I sure hope she handles his next round of 3 days back on better. I don't know if I can handle her screaming like that every time he is home.

update on Indie... well no new black feathers that I can see. He still thinks he rules the roost and nothing much has changed with him.

Quilting, well haven't been doing much, been too busy trying to set my computer back up, get my website working, and spending time with Jasmine. Its finally friday and I might just actually get something else done finally. I always like fridays the best, that means once I leave work I don't have to even think about it for a couple more days. Fridays always bring a smile to my face.

Well on that note, I am going to fly outta here.

oh those adorable Toos!

Glaukos — 2007-11-14T17:03:04-07:00

This guy is so cute, you can defiantly tell they understand. They are so smart, its just amazing.

Gotta Love those IRN's

Glaukos — 2007-11-13T21:25:04-07:00

This is kind of a long video, but I just love this little guy. This is such a cool Indian Ringneck. I can only wish that Indie would be this sweet one day.

House cleaning

Glaukos — 2007-11-13T18:36:50-07:00

Been doing some backups on the computer, just installed Leopard 10.5 for the mac. Ran into some snags a couple of times and had to reinstall it 3 times. I am such a dork sometimes. Just wanted everyone out there to know I am still here. I just am working on getting my system back on line.
I will be back soon adding some more fun stuff.

Site changes

Glaukos — 2007-11-10T10:32:28-07:00

I am in the process of taking my videos off my actual site and adding them onto YouTube.
I will still have the videos on my last page, videos. However they will be embedded using a youtube player. You can watch the videos directly from my website or from youtube it self. I think this will be much nicer and easier. Currently right now I have a hard time updating my site when I want to add more videos, its not that hard, just a little bit more involved. So hopefully this will make it easier and I will hopefully update it more often.
Hope you enjoy it.

Going Youtube

Glaukos — 2007-11-10T08:24:47-07:00

Just put one of Jasmine's videos on youtube. thought I would give this a try. I am thinking of moving all my videos over to there.

I am a big boy now!

Glaukos — 2007-11-01T21:22:57-06:00

Today Indie is 16 months old. He's still a young-in. But as I am holding him this evening and talking to him, and looking at him. I notice that there is a little tiny itsy bitsy black feather coming in on his neck. This is so exciting! I thought Indie was a boy, and now this is proof that he is. It wont be long now before more start to come in and he has a full man beard. Its like my little boy is growing up. Soon he will look like a totally different bird. I have tried to take a picture of him to show the little spot, but mind you he hates the camera. It isn't easy trying to take a focused picture of a running bird. I took a couple but nothing good, I will keep trying.
Until next time... bye

Nothing New only incomplete

Glaukos — 2007-10-27T11:54:19-06:00

I had recently added new pictures of the quilts that I sent off to my brother for his birthday. The first one is the main gift, called Ginger Jars. I saw the quilt in a magazine and knew right away that I had to make it. I have also threw in a close up of one of the jars, so you can see the quilting. The next one is called Comma Chameleons, it is #2 in the Lucky Lizard collection. Now I only have 2 more to go to make that collection complete. YEAH!

As far as any new quilting projects go, I am warding off any and all new things for a while. I have to get some of my other incomplete things finished. I have so many its getting out of control. I have no idea how long I will be able to stay away from starting something new, as that tends to be very hard for us quilters. Most of us have those issues, so at least I know I am not alone nor am I a sick person. Its just hard to not start something new and exciting.
Now lets see I have so many... I have my block of the month, which I am almost done with block number two and will soon be getting block number 8 in the mail, what does that say about me? Probably nothing good. Then I have this flower kaleidoscope that I have had for what seems like forever, and have only sewn one of those together.
I have a quilt called Fall Festival that I have only done the borders on. Should I go on? I have many more if I really start to think about it, these are only a few of my unfinished project confessions that I will make. hehe

Being a quilter, I am finding out that most of us have a very sick problem, that many of us will not truly admit to ourselves. We have stashes and stashes of fabric, most of which we will probably never use. We have zillions of patterns which we probably could never finish them all in our life time. These are all addicts, and I glad to know that it isn't just me, that there are many of quilters out there that are just like me. We should all get together and make a club called quilters addicts anonymous. haha On second thought, that may not be such a good idea, since no two people are alike we would just get more ideas off each other, and our habits would grow.

So lets see if any of the symptoms remind you of yourself.
1) You can't simply go into a fabric store and buy what you went there for.
2) You have stashes of fabric in all kinds of places, and to make things worse you have excusing for any and all of it, just incase your spouse runs across it.
3) You really are totally unsure of just how much fabric you have, cause its hidden all over the place.
4) Its always a surprise and loads of fun when you do go through your stashes, cause you have totally forgotten what you had bought so long ago.
5) When you do start a new project you simply go to the fabric store to buy more fabric for that quilt, because you don't want to make a dent in the stashes that you already have.

Thats all I can think of right now, if more comes to mind I will let you know, and add it to the list.
Well before I get out of the groove I better get working on some of these UFO's (unfinished objects)!
Till next time.... happy quilting

Much needed updating

Glaukos — 2007-10-20T22:02:00-06:00

Ok so I have been lazy, busy and everything else in-between and haven't updated my site in long time.
Its time for a major update on all kinds of stuff.

I have been working on try to get my brothers birthday present finished. His birthday is the 23rd of this month. I finally got it completed today. Ready for shipping. However I took too long on finishing it, and the post office isn't open very late on Saturdays. Which means I will have to wait until monday to send it, and that means it will be a late present. I am kind of bummed about that. Its really no excuse but I haven't been feeling very well for the past week, so I kept putting off getting this present finished. I will post pictures of what I sent to him after I know he has received it, don't want to ruin the surprise for him.

Jasmine has been good. A bit nippy and moody, but I think that is because of hormones. After all its that time of year for birdies. They want to mate and get twiterpated. Since Jasmine doesn't have a birdie to mate with she is taking out on her human family. Not to mention being very vocal about it as well. About two weeks ago she was pretty unbearable, but has seemed to settle down a little since then.

Indie has been his usual self, being a happy, busy little guy. I wont have to deal with his hormones for at least another 2 years. Thank goodness for that. He still isn't talking yet. Actually I haven't heard him practice saying "pretty boy" in a while. Maybe he has given up? You know he has really come a long way since the day I brought him home. He wouldn't let me hold him, and I for sure couldn't pet him. Now he flies to me, and kisses me and I can pet him. He has turned out to be a very good boy. I just wish he would ease off of teasing Jasmine and the cat. I am hoping to be able to get him a new bigger cage soon. When that happens he will join Jasmine in the living room. Maybe that will be a start to there friendship? Since they will be by each other on a daily bases.

I went to Petco the other evening after work, wanting to pick up the newest BirdTalk magazine. Its all about Indian Ringnecks, so I want to check it out. They didn't have that one in yet, so I will have to keep checking back. However since I was there I went back to say hello to the birdies. They still have those 2 sun conures I talked about previously. They are the sweetest things. My brother owns a Guyana Conure, he tells me, no no no you don't want to own one of those. They are loud and they have a screech that is ear piercing. But I have to tell you, these little guys seem to be the nicest little babies. There is one in perticular that I jsut really want to bring home.

I have uploaded 2 new videos, one of Jasmine and one of Indie. I hope you take the time to watch them. I also added a couple of pictures of the birdies.
Take care now, I 'll be back in a couple days to post the pictures of my brothers present.

Finished Quilt

Glaukos — 2007-09-09T20:45:52-06:00

Today I finished the quilt that I made for a friend. I added pictures to the quilt page. There is one view of the back, which shows the quilting. The other view is of the front. I am very proud of myself on this one, as it was the first time really attempting pantographs.
Pantographs are patterns that you follow along for a quilting pattern. This one wasn't too difficult, it was called party hearts. Now I just need to get the label finished, attached and then I can send the quilt off to RI.
I added a couple new pictures of Jasmine, she was being goofy on her basket, and I got pictures at just the right moment, I couldn't believe it. Be sure to check those out to see what I am talking about.
Thats about for now... see ya soon

Another day

Glaukos — 2007-08-28T20:17:28-06:00

Sitting here with Jasmine on my shoulder, she is being such a little lovely dove tonight. I just happen to notice today that she now has two tail feathers that are full and haven't been chomped off yet. This is being to get very exciting, seeing these changes come out of her. I am so happy.
Indie is going through a molt still, no sign of black feathers yet for his man beard, but he is only going on 14 months old. He has been talking to himself a lot lately when he thinks I am not paying attention. But if you listen real close you will hear him say "pretty bird" or maybe its "pretty boy". I am not to sure yet. Until he feel confident that he has the word down pat, he isn't going to let me in on what he's been saying to himself. But its so cute to watch him.
In the process of working on a couple of quilt projects, you know I just can't stick with one. :) Working on a quilt for a dear friend's daughter (a lady that is on one of my bird group forums). She was in a terrible accident and lost her best friend, and having a hard time cooping with the lose and also having a very slow recovery. I just wish there was more that I could do.
Also still chugging alone with my block of the month. Hopefully I should have the 2nd one finished be able to post a picture of it for ya all. Have another project that I am trying to get done for my brothers birthday, that isn't until October, but you can never get started too early. Especially with how I am with starting a project and not picking it back up right away.
Incase you had not notice I posted some new pictures of both Jasmine and Indie yesterday. I also put up some new video of Jasmine having her screaming fit.
Thats about it for now, going to go hop in the shower, so until next time, take care.

Lets compare

Glaukos — 2007-08-27T18:53:06-06:00

I have to add these on here to compare. I have two separate photos that I have taken of Jasmines wing, the main one that she chews on. I have the first one here taken the 2nd day in her new home.
And then I have this one which I took recently, you tell me if you see any improvement. I think I do, but what do you think?

Not the best shot, I realize that, but I had to try and get my husband to hold her wing out so I could get a shot. Its wasn't easy, she was being a wiggle butt. But its starting to look better huh? So maybe I am doing something right and doing this little girl some good. :)

MBS

Glaukos — 2007-08-27T17:52:14-06:00

Well thats it, I have to stay out of the pet stores, and start trying to buy my bird toys online or something. All I can say is.... its a good thing I am not made of money.
The low down: I stopped at a pet store on the way home today, as I haven't bought any of the fids new toys for some time now. And I just know they are so bored with all the ones they have currently. Well I can't just look at the toys, I also have to go say hello to all the birds there. Well they had two very cute, young sun conures. I spent some time talking to them both and petting them. They both just climbed on to my fingers and was loving me so much. One of them was quite a bit larger than the other, even though I think they might be pretty close to the same age group. The smallest one, was such a doll, it just sat there on my finger while in its cage and tried to give me a manicure (very gently). I had the hardest time walking away from these little guys but at $537.00 each I had no choice. One of the employees asked me if I want to hold one of them, I had to say no, no and walk away. I so wanted to bring this little guy home with me. I told her us bird people have this terrible disease, its called Multiple Bird Syndrome. And I need to just walk away. She laughed and said "yeah there is something about people that own birds and ferrets, they just can't own one."
For one I can't take on another bird, Jasmine and Indie take up all of my time now as it is. For two. I can't afford to just plunk down a wad of cash for another bird, its a good thing they don't do a lay-a-way. (I asked) Third, my husband would probably put me out to pasture, he rarely tells me no, but I also told him that after Jasmine that was all I needed.
Oh but it was a baby and it was so sweet, and I just know it would have been something I could have cuddled with and loved. I know I have to get it out of my mind.
I haven't mentioned Jasmine has taken a liking to my husband. Oh yeah she's supposed to be my bird, but she loves my husband. She is very good with me, when he isn't home. But when he is home, she just loves him to pieces. Jasmine is supposed to be my cuddle baby, instead she is cuddling with my husband and giving him kisses. Maybe this is why I started to fall in love with that little sun conure, who seemed to really want to go home with me. Now I just have to figure out how to get my husband to go out of town for a while, so Jasmine can just bond with me, without him around. It could work, couldn't it?
Oh listen to me ramble and moan. I better let you go so I can get off my soap box.

The call

Glaukos — 2007-08-21T21:49:15-06:00

Got the call today from the vet, Jasmine is in wonderful health. Everything came back normal. This is good news. I was so worried.

The Visit

Glaukos — 2007-08-14T17:23:34-06:00

Today was the day for Jasmine to go to the vet. First vet visit that I have been able to take her to since I have owned her. She did very well. Got her beak & nails trimmed. Didn't need to trim the wings, as she does that herself right now, still. Had some blood work done on her, to make sure she doesn't have anything going on. I sure hope nothing is wrong with her, and that her feather chewing is infact due to stress. It will be one week til I hear the results. Overall Jasmine was just a doll for the vet, and of course he was just wonderful to her.
On the way home I stopped at the store, I live about an hour away from the vet, so I didn't want to run home and than back to the store. I just took Jasmine with me, after all she was in her carrier, she was so well behaved while I ran around grabbing a couple of things. She also seemed to really enjoy the attention she was getting from the employees during check out. They thought it was so neat, and didn't have one bit of problem that I had brought her in with me.
After a long day of driving, tests, driving again and then the excitment at the store, Jasmine is wore out and now taking a little nap. As for me, it was a pretty long stressful day myself.
I will keep you updated on her results when I get them.

Getting ready

Glaukos — 2007-08-14T12:37:25-06:00

Well today is the day. Jasmine's appointment is today. I hope everything goes well. I am just hoping I can get her in my birdie carrier without problems.
I fixed the pictures of my quilts, they were turned sideways, now they are correct. Well I will get back with you later about how the vet appointment went, need to finish getting ready now.

Block of the Month

Glaukos — 2007-08-12T22:00:37-06:00

Been a while since I last posted, I know, I am sorry. Been so busy with life. After finally finishing the quilts for my works auction, and the baby blanket for a friend. I thought I would actually take some time for my self. I joined a block of the Month back in April. I currently have 5 months of blocks that need my attention and I haven't really done much of it except to pre-wash the fabric.
A Block of the Month (BOM) for those that do not know, is a quilt that is broken down into blocks that are given out one block per month. You get the pattern for that block and the material required to make it. Well I finally got the first one completed. Here it is, Morning Glory
I had started on the second block but did not get it complete, than to top it off Sunday came and I had a migraine from hell. So needless to say, I didn't get anything done on that day.
The completed quilt is called "Out of Darkness" if you would like to see the final result of the finished quilt, it is located here: Pam Bono Designs. I am going to try and post a picture of each block as I finish it, as I think the quilt is just gorgeous.

I also have some pictures of the quilt that I have completed for the auction, as well as the baby blanket (ducks & frogs are on it)that took me forever to finish. I have added these to my quilts page if you are interested in seeing them. I have also thrown on some new pictures of Indie and Jasmine.

Thats about it for today. Just quilt talk, nothing much to report on about the fids. Other than, Jasmine has her vet appointment on tuesday, lets hope everything goes well. :)

Welcome to Parronthood

Glaukos — 2007-07-31T21:05:10-06:00

I got all 3 quilts completed and turned in for the auction at my work. I took some pictures, just having taken them off my camera yet. I have 1 more that I am going to try and get finished before I call it quits.
I am starting to feel a little overwhelmed with all my projects going on right now. I really don't have any more than what I normally do, so what's different about this time? I guess just pressure from myself, and dead lines. ugh!

Indie has discovered that Jasmine is afraid of him, despite the fact that she is twice his size. Jasmine has a basket that she enjoys while visiting with me in my sewing room. Indies cage is in the sewing room, so he doesn't have a basket. But he wants Jasmines, just like kids, right? Well he keeps flying over to her basket, which scares the tar out of Jasmine and she flops about trying to get anywhere but where she currently is. This isn't good, cause now Indie is finding it very fun and amazing, and continuously repeats this act. Needless to say I didn't get much accomplished over the weekend with this reoccurring scene.
If Jasmine would only stand her ground, I just know that Indie would stop doing this to her. Its not that he really wants the basket, he is just having fun. AUGH Fids!
Well since this has been occuring, Jasmine has clammed up. She acts like she is out of place, I really hope that she is ok. I just know that something is wrong, cause she isn't acting her goofy self anymore. I feel so bad for her, I just want to comfort her and tell her its alright. Actually that is what I have been doing. She doesn't want to be any where but sitting on my shoulder, cuffled up to my neck and face.
After this happening again tonight several times. I finally told Indie that was enough, tonight I clipped his wings again. Thing is there were only two flight feathers to clip, so I don't know how long its going to last until he pushes the fact that he can STILL fly! Until he figures this out, Jasmine is safe from the BIG Blue monster.
I am sad to report that after only owning my mouse for almost 2 years, it has decided to kick the bucket. Why am I telling you this, well cause its a very sad thing when you wonderful cordless eight button mouse dies. :( So until I can afford to get a new one, I have pulled out my wonderful one button mouse from Apple. ONE button, thats so sad. I really miss my back button that I had programed into my EIGHT button mouse.

I have many photo of the birds, and video and also those pictures of my quilts that I mentioned earlier. I will try to get those pulled off my camera and upload them onto the website just as soon as I can get around to it. But if Indie decides he is going to try and scare Jasmine again, than it might be a while, I can't get anything done with these two around.

Well time for me to tuck the fids in and put myself to bed as well.

Just soaking in the moment

Glaukos — 2007-07-17T18:27:42-06:00

Went to "Bird World Pet Village" today after work. Had to get some more pellets and pick up a few new toys. I really am having a hard time finding a really good bird store here in Utah that has wonderful bird toys and are not expensive. (not asking a lot, am I?) There are only two stores out here that carry the brand of pellets I purchase, and neither one of them is close by. Anyway, the point of me telling you this story about me going to the pet store, is because they had in 3 new baby birds. Oh OH and can you guess what they were? ok I will tell you, they were beautiful Rose Breasted Cockatoos. They were only about 4 months old and one of them was so friendly, it was practically trying to squeeze through the bars to get to me. I just stood there and told him/her how pretty s/he was and scratched its head. I was just oohing & ahhing over this little guy. Of course I could never afford to purchase one, they wanted $1399.00 which was on sale from $1799.00 But they are so beautiful. Plus just a real sweet heart, my heart just melted, s/he was much more lovable than my Jasmine is, but I realize that would change once it hits sexual maturity. oh well dare to dream, just soaking in the moment.
They also had a baby Indian Ringneck, a blue one, but it was much bigger than Indie, not just in size but also it's beak was larger. I have to think that maybe this wasn't an Indian Ringneck, but I haven't ever seen an African Ringneck in a blue color. But what do I know.

Got some of that "pluck no more" for Jasmine. It is a herbal remedy that has been proven to help stressful birds not stress so much and stop plucking. I just got it yesterday, added some into her water. Anyhow, its only been a day so there isn't much to report on how its working yet, I will post updates on her progress as time goes by. I actually purchased what is called "Stress Control" by King Bio, it is the same product as "pluck no more" just at a better price.

If anyone out there knows of a good place in Utah that sells wonderful bird toys let me know, I just can't seem to find a place that I really like. I realize there are all kinds of places on line, but then I usually have to pay shipping, plus I can't actually touch and see the toys in person.

Found out today that there is going to be two auctions held at my work. The first one I knew about, that one is taking place in August, but the 2nd one is in October, which means I have more time to get more quilts finished if I want to contribute to both of them. I told the lady at work that I would contribute to both, so I guess I have my work cut out for me.
Until next time, take care, and have fun.

You are The Moon

Glaukos — 2007-07-11T18:35:14-06:00

This was fun, try it yourself and let me know the results.

src="http://www.flarn.com/~warlock/tarot/winged/18.jpg">

You are The
Moon

Hope, expectation, Bright
promises.

The Moon is a card of magic and
mystery - when prominent you know that nothing is as it seems,
particularly when it concerns relationships. All logic is thrown out the
window.

The Moon is all about visions and
illusions, madness, genius and poetry. This is a card that has to do
with sleep, and so with both dreams and nightmares. It is a scary card
in that it warns that there might be hidden enemies, tricks and
falsehoods. But it should also be remembered that this is a card of
great creativity, of powerful magic, primal feelings and intuition. You
may be going through a time of emotional and mental trial; if
you have any past mental problems, you must be vigilant in taking
your medication but avoid drugs or alcohol, as abuse of either will
cause them irreparable damage. This time however, can also result in
great creativity, psychic powers, visions and insight. You can and
should trust your intuition.

What Tarot Card are
You?
http://www.flarn.com/~warlock/tarot"
target="_blank">Take the Test to Find Out.

The Grudge Continues

Glaukos — 2007-07-09T21:20:40-06:00

It has been so hot here and no rain in sight. There is a huge massive wild fire that has been going on strong here in the state for a while now, and its not helping with the air, the heat or anything else for that matter. Why am I telling you this? Well its not helping with Jasmines dry skin, so I have to giver her showers and soak her down. But for some reason the grudge that she once used to let go after a couple of hours is lasting much longer these days. Jasmine is so mad at me and just glares at me with her evil eyes. I tell her I am sorry and that I lover her, but she still continues to remain perched up high on her cage top and won't give me the time of day. I not sure how to correct this, but sooner or later she is just going to have to get used to it. I really don't understand where this attitude has been coming from, its not like I have changed anything since I brought her home. She was starting to tolerate "bath time" and would dry off and love me like nothing ever happened, until this last weekend. :(

In other news, I am starting to lose my motivation in making all these baby quilts. I have one finished, one that just needs binding and another still on the frame. But as of right now I don't see myself making any more. I am not sure what happened to the fire that was burning under me to keep me moving. I still have another baby quilt that I am making for a girl friend who is due in August, maybe that's why I just can't stay focused? I need to just get hers finished then I can go nuts on these others for the auction that I committed myself to helping out on.

Not much else to report on these days. Lets hope for rain real soon, it may even help put out this wild fire. Until next time, keep a sewing and loving your Fids. :)

No Mom, I Don't Like You Today!

Glaukos — 2007-07-07T22:16:48-06:00

This morning started like any other weekend morning. Get up, let the dogs out, go let Indie out of his cage, and uncover Jasmine, make the coffee, and go get Jasmine out of her cage. This were swell, until it came time for a shower, and I took Jasmine in with me, which I do every other day, but today was different. Jasmine isn't too fond her bath time, to be more honest, she HATES it, but she tolerates it. When I first got Jasmine and I would give her a bath she wouldn't have anything to do with me for pretty much the rest of day. She has gotten better about that, and once she is fully dry she has gotten over the fact that mom gave her a bath and ready to carry on with the rest of the day. Not today, oh she was pretty mad at me, and wouldn't have anything to do with me all day.
Jasmine and I usually take an hour or so and sit on the couch in the evening and play and have screaming time and of course there is also loves involved (cuddles and head scratches.) She is a blast during this time, and I am trying to teach her that there is a time to scream and it is during play time. She been really good about this and enjoys it. She has also picked up on some of the little games that I play with her, and she just loves to play them. She will hang off the back of the couch and I will say "where is Jasmine, where did she go?" and when she jumps back up I will respond with a "there she is" while she screams in her own manner of "here I am!" She does this over and over again, she just loves playing this. The other thing she has learned is that I will suck in some air while making a "aaaahhhh" sound and then when I look at her and go "BOO" she responds and usually beats me to it with a "AAAAAHHHHHH" scream. Then she jumps around and runs back and forth on the couch and just has lots of fun. Not tonight! Oh no, its that mean old mommy that gave me a bath, I am not going to play with her tonight! She just would sit there and glare at me, with a pretty mean look on her little face.

My dear husband said something to me tonight, I was hoping and waiting for this moment when he would realize this. He said "I have never known a bird to be more human like than what Jasmine is." He continued with "She has her good days, her bad days, mood swings and her favorite person for the day." See Jasmine hasn't been on dad's good side for the past couple of days, she has been mean to him. But today now that she's mad at mom, she just wants to be with him. I told him thats what a lot of people don't understand about parrots, they think they are like dogs or cats. They are actually more like kids. I told him "the only bad thing about it is we are going to have a five year old child for the rest of our lives."

Oh well enough of my sobbing story about how my birdie doesn't like me today. Tomorrow is another day and all will be forgotten, and Jasmine will be back to her normal goofy, silly self and she will love her momma once more.

Happy Hump Year

Glaukos — 2007-07-02T18:15:12-06:00

Today is exactly the middle of the year. So Happy Hump day to all!

It is also hatch date for Indie. So Happy Hatch Day Indie. My little big boy is 1 year old. He is such a good boy/girl, that a bird mama could be proud. Still don't know if he is a he or if he is a she. Based on the male dances I have seen, I am leaning toward male. Plus I think I see some black feathers coming in. WOOT!

Jasmine has been just a doll. She has really been behaving very well the last week or so. I don't hear her scream as much nor has she been biting me very much either. For my husband it has been a different turn of events, she has been biting him. He also hasn't been home so much, so I think Jasmine is just getting excited when she does see him.

Quilts, I have one quilt done for the auction and just about to put the 2nd one on the frame. Now that I got my messed up stitches all picked out and did some tweaking to my quilting machine I am back in business and the machine is humming a beautiful song.

Well thats about it for now. Short and sweet and to the point.
Hope you had a Happy Hump Day!

Wednesday - Hump day

Glaukos — 2007-06-27T19:04:57-06:00

Nothing real exciting going on. Just wishing this week would end.
I guess maybe I will show you a couple of my favorite blogs?
Jen's blog about her birds This girl is so funny. I just laugh when ever I read her posts. Her birds are so funny as well, her pictures are so beautiful.
Then there is Suzanne Earley's blog she is the author of Meandering Magic and More Meandering Magic. Wonderful book, I have her first one and plan on purchasing her second one.

I am still working on all the baby blankets that I am going to donate. So far not having much luck, for some reason my quilting machine has decided that its going to make loops in the thread as well as skip some stitches. So I am in the process of picking out (oh joy, if your a sew'r then you can relate) stitches. I have checked the thread, and rethreaded. I have cleaned the lint out, I have changed the needle. I have check everything over, the only thing I could find wrong was the tension on the presser foot was to tight, but that still didn't seem to make any difference once I corrected it. So I don't know, it has been a wonderful machine up til now. Not sure if I have mentioned what type of machine I have or not? I have posted a picture of but that is all, its a Mega Quilter by Husqvarna Viking, and the quilting machine is the Next Generation Quilt Frame. I really love it, but one day wish to own a Gammil Longarm quilting machine and frame. But that wont be for a while, check out the prices on those babies. I can dream can't I?

So on to the birds, not much to say there either, other then they have both been very good. I had an appointment for Jasmine to go see my Avian vet on the 3rd of July, but due to uncontrollable circumstances I had to actually reschdule it for August instead. :( I was very said that I have to yet hold off on taking her in. I just really hope that her feather chewing isn't being caused by health issues, cause then I will feel extremely bad about putting off.
On a happier note, Jasmine has been really coming around, she doesn't seem to be screaming as much, my ears thank her, and the biting is really starting to simmer down. I think she is starting to fully understand the word "NO". She has been making some sounds, I had to look up what they meant so I would know what she was doing, but come to find out, its all good. The following is what she has been doing recently: Clacking the beak - I am Happy. Beak Banging - I am happy and may be looking for a mate and using tools to make my banging noises too. Grinding the beak - I am sleepy and content.
Plus I also found out what some of her screaming means: High pitched squeal - Come get me. Whining and crying - Pay attention to me, feed me, hold me.
Indie has been really well behaved since I clipped his wings, he isn't attacking the cat anymore, which is good. I am so worried about him sometimes, cause he thinks his feathers are bigger then what they actually are.
That's about it for now. Other then I did add comments to each post, so I can now get feed back from you, and I have also added on a google search bar, so you can search the web from my web pages if you want to.
I guess for not having much to say, I sure did say a lot. Well before I start to Tamble too much, I'll let ya get back to more important things. Like surfing the web. :)

Weekends end

Glaukos — 2007-06-24T21:58:41-06:00

Well this weekend, just as all the others, come and go so quickly. Can't believe how time just flies by.
While I am writing this, I've got Jasmine in the back ground talking to herself... "Jasmine...Jaaassssmine....pretty bird, what doing huh?" etc she's so funny. She will actually put together pretty funny sentences with just those few words. For example "Pretty pretty Jasmine, what doing jasmine, huh (pause) are you a pretty bird (pause) huh." I sometimes wish her vocabulary would grow just a tab bit more, as I get tired of hearing "come here jasmine, hello hhheeeellllllloooooo. None the less she is quite the character. She did learn "huh" and "bounce" in a weeks time so there is some hope.
Oh what wonderful bliss to hear your bird quietly sitting in her cage grinding her beak. That was to sound coming from her cage yesterday evening. This is a sign of happiness and content, which is one I welcome hearing.
Did some sewing this weekend, trying to push out as many baby quilts as I can for my works upcoming auction. I did throw one on the frame today, but there seems to be something not right with my quilting machine. Its looping the stitches. So I have to unpick it all and see what's going on. Its not really loopy like I've seen before when the tension is all off or something. This just merely looks like the stitches aren't tight. So of course something would go wrong when I am trying like to mad to get something done within a deadline.
Jasmine was pretty good overall this weekend. She hung out with me in my sewing room for most of the time. I have to put her on her stand some where not real close to me, otherwise I end up with a bird attached to me. My sewing room is not all that big, so that can be a challenge of where to put her so she can't jump on me when I least expect it.
Now Indie on the other hand, has been quite the little bugger this weekend. Continuing to tear the paint off the wall around his cage. So I attempted to hang something on the walls around him so he wouldn't see the walls and continue his redecorating. HA that went well, only to find him pulling down the pillow case that smoothed on the walls. I keep telling my dear husband that he really need to take some time to just fix it. I can move Indie's cage for a while. See it all started cause there was 2 little holes in the wall that Indie just couldn't seem to leave alone. So now he has begun to pill off the paint. He's not eating which is a main concern to me, but just making a huge mess on the floor and making my walls in my sewing room look dreadful. Oh well. one day I will get my husband to fix it.
Well off to bed I go. Chat at you later, hope your weekend lasted longer then mine did.

one more thing

Glaukos — 2007-06-21T21:45:13-06:00

Was having some issues with my camera downloading the pictures onto my puter, finally after a while I just went around it another way. I had pictures on there of my quilt that I just finished and wanted to post them. Here is one where I was just messing around with the camera itself, looks really cool. To see the quilt with the true colors click on the Quilts page.

Also posted a new picture of Indie, got a pretty cute one of him tonight. (Notice the nice redecorating of the wall behind him that he did himself.)
I also have some new video of him, with I will hopefully get up soon.
Enjoy

When times are tough

Glaukos — 2007-06-21T18:02:30-06:00

Just pulled a quilt off the frame. Took it to work to show my co-workers, they are all very impressed. I talked to our HR rep today about making some baby quilts for an upcoming auction that they are having for the hospital, all funds would go toward our department. So I am going to give it a shot and see how many I can make, they have to have them by the 12th of August. So that really doesn't give me much time, but I can whip up baby blankets rather quickly if I just focus. (that's the hardest part sometimes.)

Indie has decided to figure out that he can in fact fly. Now this really isn't good since I own two dogs, a Dalmatian and a Pom, I also have a cat. Which at the moment hasn't been an issue or a threat, cause Indie has been dive bombing the cat and attacking him. Now I know it sounds funny, and it kind of is, cause it freaks the cat out and he takes off running. But I fear that one day the cat is going to seek revenge.

So yesterday after "The return of Indie strikes the cat again." I went ahead and clipped his wings. I was so afraid that I was going to hurt him, just holding him like that freaks Indie out. But I had to put it out of my mind and just get over it. So I did it. YEAH go me! I just held Indie in my hand until he calmed down and relaxed, knowing he wasn't going to get hurt or get away, and then I snipped away. However he did have a couple of new blood feathers coming in, so looks like I am going to be doing this yet again really soon.

Indie will soon be 1 year old. He is growing up so fast. They say that if they learn to talk, it is usually between the age of 7-10 months, some even take up to 1 1/2 years. Indie has shown no signs of talking human language, so I will be very surprised if he ever says his first word. There was a time a couple of months ago, that I am pretty sure I could hear him saying "what ya do-in" but I haven't heard it since then. I talk to him all the time, but nothing, and now he has Jasmine who is always saying "hello" "Jasmine" but he's not too interested in learning anything from her. Actually he would rather try and scare her off with his flapping wings. Me Boss, You Not. That's Indies' slogan.

Jasmine, now here's another story all in itself. Where to begin.... been learning a lot about cockatoos and not really sure what I was thinking when I took on another bird.

Don't get me wrong I love my birdies and would have a million of them if only I didn't have to actually take care of them all. I want one of those huge outdoor enclosed net aviaries. That would be so awesome. I can dream can't I? k back on subject, sorry.

I love Jasmine so much, she can be the sweetest thing. But she is in fact much more demanding than Indie will ever be. I know, I know... cockatoos are all demanding, and I read all about them before I jumped in this lake.

She is like Jekyll and Hyde, one minute she is just crazy and screaming bloody murder, the next she looks at you and says in her sweet little voice "hello" She is truly a hoot.

But we are still working on the screaming, and now we have added in the biting. I believe that this is in relation to being overly excited. She just gets wound up and then puts her little head down and CHOMP, then she looks up at you and screams. The good news is I have been able to get her to understand (or at least when she wants to understand) "step up" I also believe that she fully understands the word "NO."

I have been giving her a shower every other day, half water and half aloe vera juice. It has really helped with her skin, she is not so dry. She doesn't look like she is chewing her feathers as much. But its also hard to say, cause until she molts its just going to look terrible. Bad news I think that maybe she is starting to pick at the feathers on her chest. She appears to have a little spot on her chest thats looking a little thin. I hope its just me seeing things.

I know this is rather long, it seems that I don't blog enough and when I do I rattle on and on and on... so for now until next time, happy quilting to all of you, and get your fids (fids = Feathered Kids) involved.

mumble til humble

Glaukos — 2007-06-10T13:15:13-06:00

Lets see... lots to say, where to begin?
Didn't have internet for a while so I wasn't able to update anything or fix my video's that were refusing to play. Luckily I got it back on and we are back in business.
Jasmine's been going through some terrible screaming spells; and I do mean terrible. She will scream and scream until you just can't take it anymore. We are working on stopping this, but anyone who has a parrot knows this is not an easy feat to conquer. Jasmine has also learned that she can jump off her cage onto the couch when ever she wants. She also runs into the kitchen looking for anyone and everyone. She basically just wants to be like Velcro and be on you all the time. Makes it a little difficult sometimes to get things done.
Indie just recently turned 11 months. He is my little darling compared to Jasmine. He's screaming is not considering screaming when compared to Jasmine's. I have also decided that he listens better to me then Jasmine does. But I don't think Jasmine has had much training in that area. But I have also realized that I have had Indie longer and I have had more time to work with him. The only sad realization there is that Jasmine is much older then Indie and Indie is more well behaved then her. :(

Quilting & sewing:
Been trying to finish up my kaleidoscope quilt, its been on the frame for a couple of weeks now. Its not even that big, so why so long... lack of motivation or maybe it's cause I decided to adopt a Goffin cockatoo that wants to be stuck on me every moment she gets.
Finally got my BOM and started sewing the first block. I wanted to wait until I had all the pieces cut out. I received the first three months all at once, which was one more then what I was expecting. Will post pictures as I get them done.

Busy as a Bird

Glaukos — 2007-05-20T09:57:04-06:00

Well Jasmine has been settling in very nicely. She is just adored by my family members and gets lots of love. She is as goofy as a cockatoo can get. It was said that she wasn't talking very much any more, but I think she has become very happy and comfortable cause that all she does is talk up a storm and scream when she hears others in another room and can't see them. So far we know she can say Hi, Hello, Jasmine, Hello Jasmine, what doing, pretty bird (which she loves to say pretty pretty pretty ....bird) and her newest word that my husband taught her is "bounce." I have also recently started to hear what sounds like "come on", I am pretty sure the other day I heard her say "come on Jasmine"
Indie is not very pleased by this "new intruder" living in his house, but as long as he can't see her he doesn't realize she is around. Jasmine is located in the living room and Indie is located in my sewing room, which is usually where I am at. I hope that one day they will become good pals and not scream at each other or attempt to pick fights when I do have them together. Only time will tell.

I have a quilt that is just hanging on my design wall waiting for me to quilt it. It is a beautiful kaleidoscope made out of oriental fabric. But I was too busy yesterday (saturday) scrubbing down a new BIG cage for Jasmine. I had bought a Huge Macaw cage from someone quite a while ago for Indie but the bar spacing is too big. So I have just held on to it. Well yesterday I spent the day scrubbing it and disinfecting it, while my husband painted it. Its beautiful, doesn't even look like the same cage. I will post a picture of after we get it in the house and set up. Jasmine is going to be so happy cause this one is about 3 times the size of the one she is currently in.

Speaking of pictures I have posted a couple of new ones of the kids go check them out.

Talk at ya later and have a beautiful day :)

Welcome Jasmine

Glaukos — 2007-05-04T22:00:20-06:00

Really couldn't help myself, its some terrible disease thats called MBS (Multiple Bird Syndrome) and I have it! I saw this ad on www.ksl.com and had to rescue Jasmine. She is a beautiful Goffin Cockatoo that is about 7 years old. Here is a little bit about where she came from...
"She stared chewing on her feathers. I started spraying her with "better bitters" and needless to say, she hated it so bad that she'd rather pull her feathers out than have that nasty stuff on her. I stopped using it, but now she's back to the chewing. She doesn't pluck though. Jasmine does not like small children, it stresses her out. Recently we've had my fiance's 4 year old and his nephew (who's always yelling at Jasmine) move in, and on top of it my sister-in-law and her husband and new baby have moved in with us. My sister-in-law is deathly afraid of big birds and freaks out anytime Jasmine is out of her cage."
So there are some issues that Jasmine and I are going to have to over come, but I think with Lots of Love and patience we will get past it. Appears that Jasmine has also had a diet that consists of seeds, which isn't good, nor does it look like she is much keen for fresh fruits and veggies, so this is another mountain we will have to climb. But I got Indie switched so I know there is hope, the only difference is Indie is much younger. I will try to post more often with up dates of how Jasmine is doing.

Quilts, Quilt Show, Birds and more

Glaukos — 2007-05-04T21:50:52-06:00

So much to talk about I just don't know where to start, so I will just jump in here and hope you can keep up.
Lets see, first off I finally sent my Asian Beauties quilt off to my brother. Its in the photo section finally. He just loved it, which made me very excited. I always seem to earn for his approval, so it just delights me when I get it.
Next I went to the latest HMQS which was a couple of weekends ago. Had so much fun, took tons of photos of all the beautiful quilts that were in the show. Didn't spend too much money, other then I did sign up for a block of the month, and can't wait until it starts up.

Indie is doing great. He hasn't started talking, which is fine. But he has gotten to be such a doll, he is so good about stepping up and not biting and wants to eat everything that I am eating whether it's good for him or not. He recently turned 10 months, can't believe it has only been such a short time, since I brought him home.

No peace for the hard of hearing

Glaukos — 2007-04-05T19:19:09-06:00

I have been so extremely overworked at my job that I don't even want to do a thing when I get home. I feel as if I have been running marathons all day. Hence part of my excuse for not posting anything for a while. Sorry about that.

Just posted a new video of little Indie, he's been going on and on like this for about an hour now. He's so funny and loud.
Indie went to vet last week for a check over and trimming, he is in good shape.

Been working on an wall quilt for my dear brother, called "Asian Beauties" and it is turning out to be a eye catcher, if I might say. I don't want to post pictures of it yet until I have sent it off to my brother and he has received it. I don't want to spoil the oh ah when he sees it for the first time.

Can't wait for the big quilt show in a couple of weeks, HMQS. Its always so much fun seeing all the vendors and wanting to buy all the neat new fun things they have. Don't forget the actual quilts that are displayed, they are so gorgeous and makes me feel really inadequate. I just try to tell myself that one day I am going to be able to devote more time to my quilting and become a wonderful well known quilter. (ha, that wont happen in my life time, but I try to tell myself otherwise.)

Anyhoo... I will probably post some pictures from the quilt show to share them with ya all, until next time.

New Beginnings

Glaukos — 2007-02-13T21:40:23-07:00

I have been so busy, haven't had a moment to spare on the website.

Quilting/sewing is going good. I haven't really finished anything, but getting close to it. I hope to actually put this one up for sale when I finish it.

Indie has been good. He has been going through a hard molt which has been making him a bit nippy. He is also going through a stage of "bluffing" where he isn't always the nicest. One day Indie is very nice and sweet, the next day he is trying to bite me like I am stranger. Oh well... this too shall pass.
I have taken Indie into the shower a couple times this last weekend. I am going to try and make this a regular routine for him. It seems to have helped with his molting quite a bit. He looks a like better, there for a bit he looked really bad.
I posted a couple of new pictures of him, I am trying to get some good ones, but it is so hard. Indie doesn't like anything thats not normal to him, and the camera just isn't normal.
They say the only way to sex a Indian Ring-neck before they reach full sexual maturity is by DNA. But watching him and his movements, I think I see more male in him then female. I could be totally wrong but I do believe I have seen the male dance a couple times. I also think I see a tiny hint of shadow coming in around his neck. Maybe I just have high hopes. But either way I will love Indie.

Big accomplishments & toys!

Glaukos — 2006-12-21T21:57:30-07:00

Well things have been going good. Other then a couple of mental breakdowns here and there things are going alright.
I am working on several projects at the same time, no surprise there, I actually feel like I am getting some projects accomplished. I am working on a lil' girls baby quilt, its on the quilting frame, I am still working on the dragon quilt for my oldest boy, and I am also working on a quilts quilts ( I hoping it will be about twin size once finished.) You know just a thought, but maybe I should post a picture of my quilting frame in case any one would interested in seeing it. You know I will work on that, I will take a picture of my machines and my quilting frame and get them up.

Indie update: Indie is doing so well, its hard to believe that I have only had him for about 2 months now. He is starting to actually show his personalitiy and its going to be a funny one. He makes me laugh all the time. I find such joy in just watching him. He has also started to play with his toys, he never really gave them a second thought until recently. I think it might be two parts: 1-his still pretty young, 2-he is finally starting to feel comfortable at his new home. Indie is such a joy and most the time I can't wait to get home, so I can play with him and watch him.
Well off to bed I go, have just one day left before its vacation time. WOOT !!!

is it friday yet?

Glaukos — 2006-12-13T19:47:06-07:00

This week has been a long one, probably cause I can't wait until the last week of Decmebre. I am taking the week off, and it can't seem to come fast enough.
Finished up the baby quilt, its just darling. I am going to put it on the quilting amchine this weekend, and hopefully have it done by Sunday, binding and all. I will post pictures just as soon as I am finished with it.
Indie is doing real good. I have starting enjoying him more and more, he doesn't seem to try and fly away as often, and actually will sit perched next to me while I am on the computer. He has found a new love... peas and corn. He eats all the pea guts and leaves the pod, he is so silly. Indie has also started to become even more vocal and trying to respond to me when I talk to him (not with words yet, but with sounds) He sometimes just sits there and mubbles, sounds like he is trying to figure out some words.
I just love this little bird.

Lil' Stinker

Glaukos — 2006-12-01T22:23:08-07:00

I am not sure what's going on with Indie right now. He has really been acting up lately. He's 5 month old today, so I know this is still precious very important bonding/learning time. I take him out on a daily basis. I give him attention and he starts off being very demanding and then almost starts to be mean. He insists on trying to get on my shoulder, and in my hair. When right now thats not a good thing, he needs to learn that I am the big bird. But he keeps trying and is being even more persistent then before. After a while of not getting his way he starts to become a bit nippy and sometimes even pinches hard. I really don't know how to correct this behavior other then just keep ignoring it. I am just hoping that it doesn't keep continuing. If any one out there has any advise on how to teach him or correct this I would really like to hear from you. I don't get mad or upset at him, I do get frustrated but I don't let Indie see it or know it. Nevertheless it is very discouraging on my part.

on to a brighter side of things..... Working on yet another baby quilt, this on is for my a friend of my brother-in-laws. So far its turning out very cute. I will post pictures when I get it finished. I am getting closer to just about having all the embroidered blocks done. Also got another panel finished of Shay's (my step-son) dragon quilt, there are four panels in all and I only have two more to go. Maybe I can get the other two finished this weekend while I am embroidering the blocks for the baby quilt...?

Day before thanks

Glaukos — 2006-11-22T22:25:01-07:00

Monday I took in the dragon quilt to my co-worker, she showed it to everyone, and I do mean everyone. I have so many people interested in my work now, its fantastic. Hopefully this will drum up some business for me. I had a new sewing machine on layaway, which I got out today. I couldn't wait to get home and rip it out the box. Its a Singer 7468. I couldn't have gotten it at a better time, I have a 4 day weekend because of the holiday, so that gives me plenty of time to play with it and have tons of fun. I have already stitched out every stitch it will do. I just love this machine.
Now on to Indie, he is doing so good. he is so happy and loved. He is still afraid of a lot of things, but he is learning that I will not let anything happen to him. I am so happy I got him, he is such a delight and just funny.
Did I mention that I put him in the shower this last weekend. He was totally soaked. He wasn't too sure about it, but the next day I found him soaking his entire body in his water bowl, usually he only gets his head, so I am thinking I sparked something...?

Quick note

Glaukos — 2006-11-19T21:28:50-07:00

Finished my dragon quilt for my co-worker. Posted pictures up on the site. Turned out real cute. I just hope she is tickled with it. Also spent some real good time with Indie this weekend. I ran across a web site of a breeder of Indian Ringnecks who gives some real great info about them. I finally figured out what Indie is going through. He is going through a stage that known as the "creepy". Here is the direct quote I took off her site; "Somewhere between the ages of four and six months your bird might go through a "creepy" stage. I think of it as their adolescent time (it is not physiologically). He may be nippy, demanding, and messy. This behavior will pass quickly. It is easy going forever after." Gwen's Birds. Anyhoo, I am glad to know that it is not Indie just getting frustrated with me and that its just a stage. take 'er easy. I am going to bed.

Chirp chirp Squawk!

Glaukos — 2006-11-13T18:20:11-07:00

So yesterday I was in my sewing room working on a dragon quilt for one of my co-workers son. I was playing music and watching various shows. Indie was going crazy with the music, he was more vocal then I have seen him yet. He was squawking, which is really rather loud, and chirping and doing some random mumbling. Sometimes it even sounded like he was trying to say stuff. I was just tickled to pieces actually hearing him speak his mind. Indie is definitely adapting to his new home.

I bought Indie one of those honey fruit & nut bars. he just loves it, been chowing down on it, like its nothing. So today I thought I would try something new. I have read that you can feed Indian Ring-necks cooked chicken. I have hesitated at the thought of that, as it seems a little cannibalism to me, don't you think? But I had chicken for dinner and thought what the heck. He nibbled at it and didn't seem dislike it, so I placed it in his food dish. He soon came down and gobbled it up. I guess that means he likes chicken.

Well I have put some new pictures up of Indie after he had soaked his head, giving himself a bath. I have been trying to get some new ones but as soon as I pull turn on the camera, its like he knows and takes off. He's been pretty content climbing up and sitting on my shoulder, but next thing I know I have a bird on the top of my head. Doesn't bother me, doesn't seem to bother Indie. But I can't seem to get a picture of it. I think he is a bit camera shy. Believe me, if I could get more pictures I would share them, but he doesn't seem to want to share himself with the world.
Oh well, I will keep trying.

one more thing...

Glaukos — 2006-11-01T20:46:56-07:00

I had noticed him holding something earlier, and wondered what he was eating. It was a peanut. That surprised me, as he is still learning how to hold his food, plus what in the heck is a peanut? I have been slightly cracking open the peanuts for Indie, so he could see that there was something in side and not just throw it out of his bowl. Yeah!

So after I relaxed a bit, and took a shower, ate some dinner. Have a major migraine today :( I got Indie out and played for a while. He is getting much better about not flying away and staying put on my finger. It helps if I keep him interested. I have to talk to him and do ladders. Otherwise he gets bored and that when he decides where can I fly off to..?
We spent time talking and working on letting me pet him. He was actually letting me pet him, not on his back side though as he wants to see where is that finger going. I didn't push too hard, but enough to let him know that this is going to be ok. I was able to pet his belly without him trying to get on that finger, I was also able to pet him underneath his wing. I think he kind of liked that. But we still have a long time before he will truly trust me let me just do whatever.
Atleast for now I am content with what Indie is allowing me to do.

4 months old !!!!!!!

Glaukos — 2006-11-01T17:40:31-07:00

So today is Indies BIG 4 months old day. He was hatched approx. 7/1/06. He sure is young.
Yesterday we hung out together for a bit, he sat perched on my swivel lamp while I did some puter stuff. But the good news is he didn't fly away from me, we are making progress.

I am going through a type of dry spell. I haven't sewn much of anything lately. Don't get me wrong I have plenty to sew I just go through these periods where I want to but I just don't want to. Does that make sense to anyone? I guess its just me being lazy. I have so many ideas running around in my head of thing I could do, but then I don't jump on it when I get home. I find myself just sitting doing nothing much at all.
Well other then that I don't have much more to say....other then I did post a new picture of Indie.

Renovating

Glaukos — 2006-10-25T21:57:31-06:00

Indie was starting to figure out that s/he could maybe get out of its cage, the spacing of the bars was a little too big, so I was getting nervous. I didn't want my little Indie to get out while I was at work and get hurt. So it was time to say good bye to the cage that I currently had invest in a new one. This one is much better, now I won't be worring all day.
Here I am sewing and ironing, and watch OTH when all the sudden black out. AAAHHHH it was pitch black. That really put a dent on my evening. I wasn't able to take Indie out and play for very long and I wasn't able to finish watching my show and sew. So I sat in the candle light for about 2 hours knitting a hat. OH joy! The powers back on, but its ablout my bed time. So there went my night.
Well happy sewing to all and to all a dreamful night.

Total Change

Glaukos — 2006-10-23T18:10:17-06:00

Today I was talking to my brother (Happy Birthday big bro) and he has gotten a new family member as well. A beautiful Sun Conure, very sweet from what he tells me. Anyhoo.... he asked me why Peepers, I told him I thought about Piper, but my husband was all BLAH so he suggested Peeper. Well my brother continued to say that it was very generic and so on, I told him I have never been good with names. So he suggested Indie for Indigo Blue plus it works for both fe/male. I happen to like that suggestion. So as of today the birds name has been changed to Indie. I promise I won't change it again.....maybe. just kidding
I delievered the baby quilt today, the new grandmother was tickled to pieced, just loved it. She is taking it to her son this evening. I can't wait to hear what his reaction is. He is a big Curious George fan and isn't expecting this at all.

Frustration & Accomplishments

Glaukos — 2006-10-22T20:23:23-06:00

Today was a day of accomplishments as well as frustrations. I was working on the baby quilt that I is due by the end of the month (even though the baby was born 3 weeks early). I got the quilt all quilted yesterday, things went pretty smooth. I love my new quilting machine. But then today I went to add on the binding and the sewing machine that I am using is my mother-in-laws and it just pooped out on me, I had my back turned pinning on the binding and when I turned around to begin sewing, the machine had just turned it self off. AAHHHHH! WTF. I couldn't even begin to imagine what had happened. I unplugged and re-plugged and plugged into another outlet, nothing. Did I say AAAAHHHHH! I hope its nothing major. So I pulled my new Mega Quilter off the quilting table, set it all up and finished applying the binding. THANK GOD, the trauma is past, as I promised a delivery date on the baby quilt tomorrow. (Pictures have been posted, its the Curious George quilt.)

Took Peeper out for a while today, thats a ton of frustration right there. Peeper is so comfortable in his cage, that its a MAJOR pain in the ass to get him out. Once out everything went good, we did some chasing around the room, we did some ladders. After the ladders Peepers sit calmly on my finger and did some grooming. I thought that was really neat, cause that means Peepers is becoming more comfortable around me.
K well I think I've blah'ed on enough for the night, I have laundry to attend to.

Precious Moments

Glaukos — 2006-10-19T20:56:41-06:00

Peepers and I spent some more quality time together tonight. After chasing him around the room and finally getting him to stay on my finger, we did ladders, did lots of them, and talked (well I did most the talking, Peepers doesn't talk yet). We finally got to a point were he would stay on my finger and look at me and even went on my shoulder a couple of times. He only tried getting away a couple of times vs. every other second. Good times ahead, oh I can start to see them now.

New Family Member

Glaukos — 2006-10-17T20:28:52-06:00

Yesterday I got a new family member, a beautiful baby Blue Ring-neck. We spent many hours bonding, and it took a while, but I think we are going to be the best of friends. I don't know if it is a he or a she so I am having a hard time picking a name. But I think I finally settled on one. I named the bird Peeper. Peepers is learning to trust me rather fast, considering today is only day 2. I added a picture of Peeper on the his one page "Peeper's Page." I was so worried cause Peeper wasn't eating, well I don't have the bowls that go with my cage anymore, so I had to just place a food and water bowl on the bottom of the cage. well that would be why s/he was not eating. I finally figured out a temp fix to get them off the ground, and now Peepers is ch-owing down on dinner. Makes me very happy to see Peepers eating. I did feed him a carrot earlier today, s/he loved it. Plus its an added bonus that Peepers actually ate it from me, that shows trust. I can't wait for our long lasting relationship to mature into something wonderful.

Never Enough Time

Glaukos — 2006-09-16T11:30:46-06:00

So here the time has come, I am leaving tomorrow morning to the east coast. Will be staying in VA for a day then going to PA the following day. Can't wait, other then I still have to pack. AAAHHHH!
I got my quilting machine and frame, haven't had much time to actually play with it. I wish there was more time in the day. But between working, kids, getting ready to leave, kids, and trying to finish up a wall quilt for my brother (did I mention kids) there just hasn't been enough time. But there will be plenty of time when I come back from vacation, so I am not too bummed.
Here I am at almost noon saturday and being a big time slacker, guess I am just waiting for the last minute before I start to finish up on my laundry, start to pack, try and finish quilting this wall hanging. I should be stressed to the max with less then 24 hours to do so much. But I have found that I tend to do things better under pressure, so I guess I am just trying to push those limits of mine. Ever since my mother-in-law pointed out to me that I do better under pressure then the anyone else, I have found myself believing this and really testing out this theory. I don't know if thats a good thing or not....?
For example, I have this baby quilt that is supposed to be finished by next month, and I have barley even started on it! But thats ok, I keep telling myself that I will really buckle down after vacation and get it finished just in time for its due date.
After all baby blankets really don't take me that much time to do, the main time consuming part is the embroidery. Not to mention I have to finish this wall quilt, its due by tuesday!!!! So I think that takes priority, don't you?

Anyway, I really need to get for packing, washing and whatever else might come up.

"Remember me not for the condition of my home but by the love contained in its walls."

Mind Numbing Mumbling

Glaukos — 2006-09-01T19:24:01-06:00

So its been a while since I actually switched my page over from geekfellas.net to my very own site aquiltingwewillsew.com, I thought it be time to actually do an update on my page.
This (blogging) is a new thing for me, I am going to try to update my page more often, thought maybe if I added in a blog portion I might actually do it.
So much to actually tell, where to start...?
Well hopefully tomorrow I will be the proud new owner of a new Mega Quilter and the Next Generation Quilt Frame. I am so very excited about this, it has been a long time coming. I have several quilts that are just patiently waiting in my closet for me to quilt them. See I used to go over to my mother-in-laws and use her quilting machine. Well she moved into a smaller house and was not able to take the table with her, and it was too big for me to even think about finding room for it. So I haven't been able to quilt anything ( and I am really not a free motion quilter at all) but this has given me some time to get some of my UFO's (unfinished objects) completed.

I am leaving on vacation in 16 days. Very excited about that. I don't know if its the thought of leaving home the husband and kids and ALL responsibility for two weeks or that I wont be at work for two weeks, or is it that I get to see my brother? Actually its all 3. I am going back East to visit my brother. He usually comes home to see me, but this time I am actually able to go to him. I can't wait, I am truly very excited and counting down on the days left before I leave. I have never been on the east coast so this will be a wonderful vacation and experience.
Well thats enough of me putting everyone to sleep for now.
Those who sleep under a quilt, sleep under a blanket of love.