CHLOE MARIE WAWOK: Born November 24, 2009 at 12:27 PM to Nicole and Jeff Wawok. She weighed 6#-7 oz and was 20 inches long. Of course she is gorgeous and cute and the full head of black hair is definitely a plus!Becoming a "Grandma" ("GiGi" in Gwen-language) for the first time is amazing, wonderful, fun and challenging all at the same time. Others would have a myriad of other adjectives to add, I am sure. It's tiring too, so I am going to cut and paste snippets from messages that I have sent out since her birth. They will be accurate and up to the minute thoughts that I have had anyway. Moreso than if I were to try and re-capture those thougts now on day seven!
Saturday, Dec. 5: We all slept in this morning including Chloe. Nicole and Jeff had an appt. at noon to go to the Firestation to have their car seat inspected and they took Chloe along. Right after that they came back to get us and we went for lunch at a Mexican restaurant. It was tasty and Chloe was well-behaved although Nicole was a little shy about her crying one little lapse of 4 minutes, so she held her! (Shel'll adapt to the percieved stares)!
Alan and I toured around Plymouth a bit and I got more of the same yarn as I had discovered I would need a bit more. Overall, a really lazy day. We ate leftovers and are now "babysitting" as Nicole and Jeff have gone to a neighbor's house for a Christmas party. One half hour after they left, Nicole sent a text to see how "we" are doing. Now that's a good mom!
Friday, Dec. 4: I spent my day in aticipation of Alan returning and bringing daughter, Bethany, along for her first meeting of Chloe! We thoroughly enjoyed the cinnamon loaf Sarah had so graciously brought to us yesterday. Nicole didn't leave the house but I went out to print some precious photos of Chloe. I must have these ready when I return home next week to put in my "Gigi Brag Book." I picked up the ingredients for potroast which seems in order for this very chilly day.
Beth and Alan got here from Chicago at 9:30 and we lucky not to run into any snow. Bethany immediately swept Chloe into her arms and enjoyed in amazement!
Thursday, Dec 3: Another leisurely morning. I treated Nicole to lunch today and we went to Edward's to give a boost to the local Northville economy! It is really a delightful and delicious little place where we had soup and sandwiches. To me, it was so reminiscent of when Nicole was first born. We had so many people, men and women notice Chloe and stop to comment how cute, small and amazing she is to be just 9 days old! We made a quick stop at the grocery and got home just in time for Nicole's friend Sarah to stop by for a visit. What a sweet young laldy she is. I enjoyed getting to know her better. She is a young, experienced mother of Olivia, 7 months. She offered some very valuable tips to Nicole from her reservoir of experience with babies who don't want to lay in the crib at night!
Wed. Dec. 2: Things are starting to even out now. I set the alarm and went to Curves this morning. It felt good! Nicole and Chloe were up and about when I got home so I fixed Nicole an omelet breakfast. No harm in spoiling her while I am here!
Today is the day I must venture out and get to the yarn store, with or without Nicole, but in the daylight. I have used up all the yarn I brought along and I really would not like Jeff and Nicole see me go into a yarn-deprived meltdown!
Nicole and I had another sucessful outing this afternoon. We went to CVS and I got a few photos printed for my "Gigi's Brag Book." She also dropped me off for a quick trip to the yarn store. Sweet success! My purchase of Berroco Comfort Dk in variegated red/blue/yellow/green and some adorable butterfly buttons were 15% off! I am going to make a most interesting little sweater for Pippie. One of the guild members brought the finished sweater to the last meeting and it is called a "hexagon Sweater." free online at: needleworkersroom.blogspot.com
Tues. Dec. 1: "Hi Beth and Alan,
We had a good day yesterday. Nic and I took Chloe out shopping and we went to BB and Beyond, Pier 1, Kroger and Einsteins for lunch and she didn't wake up once! She is still wanting to be held all night, but is eating only every three hours so that is great!
I tried to go to the yarn shop last night when Jeff got home from work, but couldn't find it. I will probably try again today. The neighbor Cheryl wants to come meet Chloe today also.
Nicole is doing great and Jeff is too! I think he is glad to be at work though."
"Hi Lynn,
Well, Chloe is 7 days old today and I think we have gotten over a hump. She has been in her cradle for an hour and a half! We put the sleep sheep on with mother's "heartbeat" and that was just what she needed. Nicole and I went out shopping yesterday and we were able to go to 3 stores and have lunch and chloe didn't wake up once. She is averaging every three hours to eat. she is so sweet and precious and all her clothes are too big!
Nicole feels good and is getting a decent amount of sleep."
"Hi Ger, Well, Chloe is 7 days old today and the time has flown! She is so sweet and is doing great. She is averaging 3 hours in between feedings which I think is real good for her age. She still doesn't want to be laid down in her bassinet very well, but did spend 2 hours there this afternoon. Our first Christmas miracle!
Nicole and I are just floating through the days meeting Chloe's every need. I didn't get up until 10:00 today and we didn't go out shopping until 5:15 PM! Chloe had visitors again today: the sweet neighbor, Cheryl and her 4 year old. Little Hadley couldn't stop saying how "cute" Chloe is. She liked toughing her hair! Jeff went back to work yesterday and I think was glad about that. Nicole and I shopped yesterday for 2 hours and went to 3 stores and had lunch at Einstein's. Chloe slept the whole time.
Nicole feels pretty good and she's energetic today and seems to be getting in the groove."
Mon. Nov. 30: Nicole is feeling like she needs some fresh air today and it is a wonderful sunny day to venture out on our first shopping spree. Chloe ate real well and filled up, so we took off while she was contentedly asleep about 11:00 AM. We were able to take in Pier One, Bed Bath & Beyond,the grocery AND have lunch at Einstein's Bagels without her even waking up once. She slept a while after we were home too. Ah, mother's milk is rich and wonderful stuff.
I keep occupied with doing some cooking and it is spaghetti and meatballs tonight. Just didn't get enough pumpkin pie on Thanksgiving so I made another one!
Sunday, Nov. 29:"Thanks Larry! Glad you are company for Alan while I am here. Chloe Marie is doing fine, but Nicole is not getting much sleep! "
Today Chloe had her first visitors. Nicole's dear friend from high school now lives in Midland, MI. Millie and her husband Mike came to a mall nearby here to shop and then came over afterwards to meet Chloe Marie. Millie had many questions and it was cute to hear what she wanted to know. (pre-pregnancy, perhaps?) They were amazed and delighted by Chloe and of course, got to hold her. As alwasy, it was great for me to see them.
Sat. Nov. 28:. "We had a wonderful anniversary (11/25) and Thanksgiving gift and celebration here in MI. There are pics on my FB page and hope to put up more soon. Momma, baby and Jeff are doing great! She is precious and so cute!"
November 27: Things are looking up here; Chloe is staying by herself in the basinet longer and longer. Nicole's milk came in and I think this is helping. She loves being swaddled and having her hands by her face.
Alan went home this morning as did the rest of the thanksgiving guests. So it is real quiet and just the 4 of us here. We sent Jeff out for some fresh air, tennis and the grocery. I hope to put some more pics up soon!
We are still enjoying left-overs too and I made turkey curry last night. I will enjoy cooking while Nicole tends to Chloe this week. I hope to help them put up their tree also. Neighbors around here started before T-Day with the lights!
November 26: HAPPY THANKSGIVING! In spite of it all, our meal turned out great and we have ten for dinner at 2PM. Jane holds Chloe during the meal so Nic and Jeff can enjoy. After our wonderful meal, we are all a little sleepy; Chloe is asleep and content in Cas'(f-i-l) arms. She refuses to lay by herself in the cradlle! Mind of her own already, but so mini and precious. More pics on my facebook page.It's even a little hard for us to believe, even looking at her in arms. Momma and baby doing well and nursing real well too. She already has a mind of her own and refuses to be laid down! We have plenty of warm and loving arms this thanksgiving Day to satisfy all her desires! HA!
November 25: Happy Anniversary to Alan and I! Jane and I spend the day cooking. Alan and I take a break and go out for a late lunch. Chloe is nursing well and Jeff says they are packing up their things and expecting to come home about 5 PM. They are just waiting on Chloe to urinate for the first time! 10:00 PM: Chloe was stubborn and there was paperwork too, but the new little family arrives home. 11:00 PM: the rest of the family arrive from out of town.
November 24, 2009: 2 AM: Nicole is getting some good contractions and is at 3 cm. She is given some morphine to make her "not care about" the pain. 2:00 AM: we notice she is slightly loopy and the contractions are not bothering her as much. Alan, Jane & I decide to go to their house and get some sleep.The nurse has said that on average she will progress one cm per hour, so that puts birth at 12:30 PM. 3:00 AM: pretty much asleep when Bethany texts to see what is going on. 5:00 AM: Jeff texts to say that they've started the epidural and all is well but she is still at 3 cm. We re-set the alarm for 7:00 AM We arrive at the hospital at 10:00 AM and Nicole has progressed to a "good 6 cm." She is handling the contractions well and appears to be in the stage where she is social still. The nurse explained that her contractions are progressing well, but that she will be real intense when she is ready to deliver. She told Nicole to expect a real strong urge to push. Nicole had been reading some of her birth class papers to us and explained that from 0-7 cm, the mother is social and coping well. From 7-10, she is NOT social and puts all her energy into concentrating on the contractions. 12:00 PM: Nicole says she felt a gush of liquid and wondered if it was blood. I told her to push the call light to have the nurse check. Right after that, Nicole said she has to "push." I urged her to call the nurse even though Jeff was not believing what Nicole thought she felt. Seriously, Nicole remained in such good spirits all through this, that I never felt the need to get out my crochet. We were mosting just visiting the whole time! 12:10 PM: The dr. comes in to check Nicole and Jane and I go out into the hall. All of a sudden 4 people are scurrying around us putting on long white boots and we hear the nurse say, "I need my room; she is complete!" Jeff comes to the door to tell us she is 10 cm and he had seen the baby's head. 12:27 PM: Chloe Marie comes into the world after only 5 pushes! Good work, Nicole and Jeff!
Alan and I are thrilled to announce that Chloe Marie (6-7oz, 20 inches) came into the world on 11/24! Of course as first-time grandparents, we think she is gorgeous with her full head of black hair. Pictures are on my Facebook page. She is a wonderful treat for our anniversary (11/25) and Thanksgiving! Proud parents, Nicole and Jeff, are doing well.
November 23: Nicole is having her baby-being induced and we are leaving for MI real soon, but I will have my laptop with me. Closing down my laptop and leaving for MI soon. Nicole is being induced as we speak! They expect Pippie to arrive tomorrow or the middle of the night! Will keep you posted!
Love, Aunt Gwen
I have had my suitcase packed since last week, so it was easy for us to get on the road, as soon as Alan wrapped up a couple of things at his office. Top priority was packing a variety of crochet projects to soothe the nerves in anticipation of a long walk. We got to MI at 8 PM and Nicole had just been given the "pill" to start effacement. Her amount of amniotic flui was lower even today, so induction is the best route. Baby's heartbeat and mother's B/P are great! Jane (m-i-l), Jeff and I were the only ones alowed in the labor room because of H1N1. Poor Alan had to stay in the waiting room; no alternating of guests was allowed. Nicole was starting to have some contractions along with the effacement and was doing some walking, so she went to the door of the waiting room to say "hi" to Alan and to get a hug!
November 19, 2009: After a sonogram indicated a low amount of amniotic fluid, Nicole was sent to the hospital for fetal monitoring: Great relief that all is well. I think she will have a good experience with a small baby.
AJIJIC, JALISCO, MEXICO-AUG/SEPT 2009
"The first known inhabitants of Ajijic were probably nomadic indigenous tribes, drawn to the area by the abundant fish. The Spanish arrived in 1523 or 1524 and found a village named AXIXIC, 'The place where water splashes.' They built a church that was finished in 1539. Tourism started in the late 19th century. Ajijic became an artist colony in the 1940s and attracted artists of many disciplines as well as some 'Hollywood' types. Prosperity, fueled by retiring 'baby boomers' is in full swing. New businesses flourish side by side with well established ones for the benefit and enjoyment of the entire area. Hotels, restaurants and galleries cater to international tourists and ex-patriots as well as style-savvy Mexicans. All come to enjoy the great climate, beautiful sunsets and friendly inhabitants."("Ajijic Centro", brochure, author unknown)
Wednesday, August 26, 2009 Our flight from Chicago, through Dallas to Guadalajara was uneventful. It took more time to ride the bus from the plane to the terminal than it did to clear customs, and in Mexico to get the "green light" is a good thing! Our taxi got us to our house in Ajijic by late afternoon and it was such fun to turn the key and settle in. Paty, the housekeeper, had it sparkling clear and it felt good to be there. Once unpacked and having scoped out the house and yard, we felt the effects of airlines' no-food policy and took a walk to the grocery to stock up on some food for breakfast. Against our better judgement, just due to our state of tiredness, we ate at the closest restaurant to the grocery, Alejandro's. Once I sent my Sopa Azteca back to be warmed (in the micro), it was really good. I ordered two enchiladas and guacamole, not realizing the enchiladas came with rice and guac. It was way too much, but oh well, there are always "doggie" bags. We trudged homeward and just had a quiet evening of relaxation. I have a feeling that "relaxation" is going to be the keyword for our two weeks here. Before it got too late we checked in with Sheila, our friend and partner in the home ownership, and she greeted us warmly. Our pre-arranged plans include lunch with her tomorrow.
Thursday: We slept until 9:00 and that is real unusual for Alan! Sheila once owned a yarn shop here, until she retired and now she just holds a weekly get together which she calls "Yarns." On my way I stopped by "Donas Donuts" to stock up before;they ran out of my favorites. Mexicans, in my opinion, our not know for having good desserts, but this "gringo" favorite makes truly delicious and authentic American-style donuts. On to Sheila's where I was greeted with open arms by her and happy jumps from Katie, the pooch.
"Yarns" was quite enjoyable and Sheila had told them in her weekly email letter that the "Crochetqueen" was going to be dropping by. I had met some of the particpants before and there was a delightful few others who are avid crocheters. this is a change from the group of mostly knitters who used to attend when Sheila held "Yarns" on Wednesdays. I finished up a little dress with granny square for my American Girl doll and brought a brooch I began to create in wire-crochet when I was here in Ajijic this past January for "Show and Tell."
Deb, who lives in El Chante, a sort of rural outpost of housing on the edge of Ajijic was there and it was good to see her again. She loves to make shawls nand was wearing a lovely one of black and white ribbon. The discussion of El Chante reminded Sheila of a hotel and restaurant there which she suggested we try. She described the food as just "okay" but said the view of Lake Chapala would far outweigh any food disappointments. Always ready for an adventure and willing to try new restaurants, of course, we said sure.
Not only was it a lovely setting and great view,
we found the food to be wonderful. In fact the presentation of our plates could give (brother-in-law) a run for its money! We enjoyed a leisurely time catching up with Sheila and the news of Ajijic since our last visit in January.
We really like the Mexican custom of having lunch as a heavier meal at 2 or 3 PM and then something light like soup in the evening. tonight our leftovers from last night were just right.
Friday: We were awakened today by the sound of Paty coming in the front gate at 9:10 AM! She comes to cleaned M-W-F year 'round. As I sit on the patio drinking coffee, crocheting or eating, I marvel at the plant life in our garden. I also marvel at the "disorganization" and intermningling of plants and vines and flowers. It is very "Mexican" but still it messes with my sense of order. I started with the pots on the patio and cleaned out dead stems, added a little dirt to some and gave them a good watering. Paty has kept them alive and they grow like weeds; she just doesn't pay much attention to the concept of pruning! So, I did quite a bit of prning back the leggy vines and I feel much better when I admire all the greenery that surrounds me!
Our plans included meeting Sheila at 5:00 PM to go to an art opening at Dos Lunas art gallery. We left a bit ahead of time to go to our favorite coffee roasting/ coffee bar to stock up on some good robust "french roast" coffee from Chiapas. We don't have a car in Ajijic and we walk everywhere. We left a little too late and our walk took longer than we expected, so we had to pass on having cake and coffee along with the purchase of our coffee beans.
The art gallery was lovely and all the art was displayed in a most inviting way. We enjoyed a glass of wine and cheese and crackers while we admired the inspiring work on display. Paola, a very saavy marketer, who owns the book store/art shop, Di Paola, next door extended her hours and benefited from us along with many others spilling over from the art gallery to her shop. She is an Italian photographer and has created her own book of scens from Ajijic. It is beautifully done and she said she would autograph one if I bought it, but I had already purchased another version last January while here that I treasure.
We had hoped to go to the movies as we had seen on Thursday that "Public Enemies" was playing. Nicole had told us she heard it was a long and boring movie, but we wanted to see it because Ryan's cousin worked on the movie as a lighting technician and even befriended Johnny Depp while he spent a lot of time filling in as his driver as well! Sheila warned us ;that shows change on Friday, so we weren't totally disappointed that indeed we could no longer see our first choice of movie. So onward to home we trudged.
Saturday:
Our experience has been that the village of Chapala is a lively place on the weekends. We decided to take the bus there today because Sundays are traditionally "family days" and it would be quite chaotic. It was a bit disappointing in that we found the market to be smaller than we had remembered and it seemed to be barely starting at noon. Most likely this is another sign of the hard economic times hitting every where. Nevertheless, we wondered around and enjoyed the boardwalk and I succeeded in finding a darling little pair of sandals for "Pippy" (our granddaughter who is due in November. We went to a restaurant we remembered on the square for lunch and relaxed a bit before taking the bus back home. A short version of our dear dog Sandy hung around us while we ate and refused to make eye contact with me. Even though he appeared to be a street dog, he was cute, and knew enough that it is impolite to beg from diners in the restaurants.
We jumped on a bus that said "Ajijic" (I swear) but it turned out to be a wild goose ride up into the hills to some very small and poor pueblitos. Once back in Chapala, the guys onh the bus were kind enough to tell us that we needed to catch the bus on a different corner. No problemo!
Once back home, I used an easy to make soup from a packet and added some "umph" with a chicken leg and some veggies. this paired with some toasted bread and swiss cheese completed our gustatory needs for the day!
Sunday:I had seen advertised in the Lake Chapala Review that La Bella Vida was having an exhibit, "Art with Plants." What a great Sunday activity; so about 11:00 we headed there.
It's an absolutely beautiful shop/house and just loaded with elegant plants that are artflly displayed along with other handcrafts. We took it all in but didn't see anything we just had to have. Prices were geared toward gringos too!
From there we decided to go to the newly refurbished Ajijic boardwalk and stroll. Sunday is family day, but but due to the gentle spitting rain, it kept people away. No worries' we enjoyed our stroll to the very end where there are tennis courts. Unfortunately, they are still covered with mud from last season's heavy rains. It's that typical Mexican habit of not quite finishing a job well done! When we reached "Six Corners" we had probably walked three miles by now. It was time to head up to the highway and get something to drink before heading back home.
While we were near "Pollo Fiesta" we decided we might as well buy it while we had the chance. For $7.50 we got a whole rotisserie chicken, rice and salad plus hot sauce. As we continued on, we decided to stop at "Joe's" which has to be a chain from either Guadalajara or some beach town. everyone there speaks good English and the food is reliably good. We decided on a cold diet coke and some queso fundido as well a guacamole to tide us over so we could finish our long walk!
Monday: The day went by without us leaving for anything. Around two pm we decided to take our daily walk through the neighborhood. This trip I am photographing doors which here are colorful and varied. My plan is to create a photo book, "The Doors of Ajijic." After a nice pasadito through Upper La Floresta (our development) we continued down the main highway to "Miky" which we must patronize each visit for their delicious "Americano" desserts and robust coffee. Dessert (carrot cake and blueberry cheesecake) and coffee at 3Pm is ideal and a great Mexican custom!
Tuesday: I got a $10.00 haircut this morning at "Estetica Paty," recommended by Sheila. She got a little carried away with the clippers, but hey, hair grows! After that, I passed by Barbara's Bazaar where they were having their semi-annual sale to reduce inventory. I was disappointed that I didn't buy anything, but an interesting piece of framed Huichol art is calling to me. I may return for it if it survived the days of bargain shoppers!
I made a nice arroz con pollo with our rotisserie chicken and punched it up a bit with some extra veggies: camote, carrot and onion, lots of onion.
My plan for our late afternoon was for us to walk to Walmart for some things we need and grab a snack there. Yes, there is a Walmart in Ajijic. It's been there about two years and to me, a disappointing addition to the quaint ambience of tghe area, but "progress can't be stopped!!" We bought our sorely needed potholders and dish soap, but from there my plan was foiled. The only available snacks at Walmart are coffee and sweets. Sadly, we had to continue up the road to Tony's who probably makes the best tacos in town. Wanting to keep it light, I stuffed my self on chips and the fabulous sweet salsa that I've only found at Tony's. "Azteca" soup completed my meal and Alan had queso fundido con chorizo in several tortillas. Delish!!
When we got home it was time to settle in for an evening of tv and crochet. Through our Star dish system, we recieve the networks from either Detroit or Buffalo, as well as Canada.
Week Two: Wednesday, September 2, 2009 It is hard to believe that we have been here a week already! The pace is much slower and things take a lot longer to get done here, so that's maybe why it feels we have only been here a short while! Today is the "Tiangis" in Ajijic (weekly open-air market)We took the backpack and headed down there about 10 AM and it was already buzzing with activity. The sights and smells are colorful and bold and it is a lively mix of fresh fruit, vegetables, handcrafts, clothes and even re-cycled stuff.
I was on a mission because friend Linda had lost an earring which she purchased in the tiangis last January and she sent along the lonely one and ask me to find her the exact thing to replace the lost one. Here instructions were perfect and we found the jewelry lady way at the end of the street by making a bee-line straight down through the entire one-street market.
She was a lovely lady who practiced her English with us and encouraged me to buy a ring that I admired. A little bit of bargaining cinched the deal! Here in Mexico, bartering is customary and is considered a pleasant social exchange if kept light-hearted.
We kept a leisurely pace as we passed back through the market and ran into friends and bought our needs for the next few days: tomatoes, zucchini, cilantro and camote which is like a squash along with some local apples that I will use to make applesauce.
While at the opposite end of town, we stopped into a very special bakery which makes the best fruit turnovers. Our experience is that you have to be there early in the morning to get them, but we lucked out. The sign said, "Sweet breads at 8:30 and 12:30" and it was 12:45!! Bingo! We got some, but as it was he onlny had 1 strawberry oneleft, so we got 5 more in pineapple. Who cares-delicious! We also bought a loaf of Nopal bread.
Nopal is a cactus and bread being made with it is a new one on us, but as the Mexican lady standing next to us said, "Live it up; try something new."
After doing a few more errands in town, we set off to find the restaurant "Ninette." which we've been to before and enjoyed. I remember passing it yesterday and saying to myself, Wednesday after market would be a good day to go there." The best policy is, "If you see it open, best go now!" Well, the mistake I made is not bringing along the address; we tried and tried and couldn't find it. Even some Gringos we asked hadn't even heard of it. As we came upon "Tango" and saw it open, we figured, "Why not?" As we were glancing at the hours sign, a guy walked by us and said, rhyme or reason with the stores of Ajijic; they all have different days that they close during the week. So, if you "You've found the best restaurant in Ajijic!" He's right; we've been there before a few times for dinner. My lunch of "chimichurri" on fabulous rolls, empanadas, hearts of palm salad was great and Alan had a the special: "Pipito" (steak sandwich ). Lunch is only $5.00 if eaten before 1:30. Most Mexicans don't start lunch until 3 PM, so we lucked out that we found it early!
We made it back home just minutes before Antonio arrived to continue his work on our outside fountain. We're hopefull that this time, after many unsuccessful attempts, we will have a working fountain. It's such a soothing sound to have in the middle of our yard right off the patio. A continuous slow leak has been the cause of the pump burning out afew times and our clients from time to time have not seemed to capture the concept of what happens when a pump contiues to run on an empty fountain! He sealed the leaky spot again and tomorrow is the big day to fill it with water and test the pump.
Kind of forgetting it was Wednesday, it was purely by luck that I flipped the channel to Fox and saw that "Glee" was on. I had even listed it on my daily planner becasue friend John's son is one of the writers and producers and he had told me that it would premiere on Sept. 2. Cute, light show but particularly enjoyable to me because both my girls were/are signers in high school and in the choirs and show choirs. Fond memories of high school/music silliness. I even Skyped the younger one , Bethany, and lo and behold as she was on her way to rehearse with her band but was taping the show to watch later!
It's Thursday again and I had to get to up early to get ready for "Yarns" Today it was another group of ladies, all lovely. The one Mexican lady who was tatting, marveled at the creativity around the table: cable sweater, knitted scarf, and my tapestry crochet conical bag (from a 70s book). I really made some headway on my project which is single crochet in fine linen. It's growing and I can see the end of the tunnel now!
After "Yarns" Sheila and I went across the street to the nursery and bought 12 little Mexican Heather plants for our house. They were only $1.20 per plant and they are so cute-little purple flowers.
I have 6 of the 12 planted and they will be like a short border in front of some of the other plants/hedges we already have. I'm excited about getting some sense of order in the landscape. I also did a lot of clipping on the Flame Vine to try and uncover the Star Jasmine plant, which I did. This plant sets off its fragrance every night after dark and Alan and I have been gettihng whiffs of it. I love that and sure didn't want the Flame Vine to choke it out.
I cooked us a nice lunch of steak, Lionese potatoes and green beans with tomatoes-simple but tasted good with an avocado, as well. That along with our yardwork was the extent of our day. Restful evening on tap! Tomorrow we are going to Guadalajara with Sheila and will spend most of our time in Tlaquepaque, a tourist area that just overflows with handcrafts. It's a favorite place and we always fit in a delicious lunch at one of the many traditional restaurants.
Friday: Sheila picked us up at 10:15 and we were in Tlaquepaque by a little after eleven and ready to browse and shop. Maybe it was a mistake to start at the most elegant and exciting shop in the village! "Del Corazon de la Tierra" is owned by a savvy family who also own the restaurant "Casa Fuerte" which we have eaten in before. We were greeted by the owner, Guillermo, and he immediately focused his eyes on my crocheted necklace which I had designed and admired it.
My dream is to live in a place just like this surrounded by the colorful and handmade indigenous art pieces that excite me so. The young man whose English is good was so hospitable to us and offered us a delicious cup of the coffee they sell from Chiapas. After enjoying the coffee, we wandered from room to room in the store feasting our eyes on every square inch of the eye candy (colorful textiles and other handcrafts). Guillermo approached us again, this time to show me a woven cloth with what he said was a crochet edging (it was macrame). I did later see some blouses with crocheted edges. He also showed us a book on baedwork published by Interweave Press and told us that one of the artists within had been to tlaquepaque and held bead classes in an art center there. It was obvious that Guillermo is very interested in networking and promoting handcrfafts and cross-marketing. You can see more of what he is about at www.delcorazondelatierra.com
From there we wandered from shop to shop and thoroughly enjoyed all we saw. At some point we were overstimulated with sights and colors and it was time for lunch. Many times these old homes, which were once beach homes for the ultra rich from Guadalajara, contain both artesania and restaurants. Such was the case in the one we chose to have lunch in. Good service and a great lunch, with dessert,
left us content and ready for our ride home, just ahead of the commuting crowd. We arrived back at our house really pretty tired and ready for a quiet evening.
Saturday: Although we are going to have guests for "tapas" this evening, we don't have to do much, so we enjoyed our morning with several cups of rich Chiapas coffee. We were surprised to find that it is now open 7 days a week out of necessity and half its former size due to economic conditions which are hittinhg here just like in the States. I always like to visit the resale shops wherever I go, so we headed to "Nachos Trash and Treasure." Believe it or not, our house does not have salt and pepper shakers, so I was extremely pleased to find a set on a little tray made in "Talavera-style" ceramic. I gladly stimulated Nacho's economy!conditions that are hitting here as well as in the states.
We then made our way to Walmart where we bought the needed avocados to supplement the two we had off our own trees to make guacamole for tonight. Judith and Sheila brouught some wonderful delicacies: goat cheese in a lettuce leaf with spicy peach sauce, pork short ribs in black bean sauce, shrimp skewers with veggies and another veggie plate in a vinagrette sauce. We thoroughly enjoyed the conversation; Judith is visiting from Mobile, Al. and the food on the patio until the sun went down enough that the flies became a bother!
Sunday: We had a rough night with rain and very heavy winds. We didn't realize that the power was knocked out until we arose at 9:00 AM! Thankfully, the power was restored by 9;15. Good thing we slept in, so we didn't have to wait long for coffee! We walked to Hotel Real de la Chapala and were there at 12:30 PM. Donna and Roy showed up at 1PM. We teased them that they are totally acclimated to the Mexican ways! We enjoyed a nice Sunday brunch poolside and the breezes off the lake were delightufl with scens of the mountains in the background. We had a good time catching up and then wlaked back home only to find that Alan had not brought the house keys! Rurh roh! So, our tummies full, we had to walk to the other end of town to Sheila's in the hopes she would be home so we could get the set of spare keys. Well. she wasn't home, but we aroused Judith who is renting next door and she kindly invited us in to wait on Sheila. It wasn't that long until Sheila returned from her walk with Katie. After a brief respite with the ladies, it was back across town we went. Lesson learned and big meal walked off!!
Monday: We stayed home all day and it was a busy day. We are getting the house painted and Antonio and his two sons started their work of scraping the bad areas. Paty was here doing her thing as well, so it was all abuzz around here. These are very trustworthy people and we didn't necessarily have to be here, but it was a cloudy kind of day and just felt right to be here taking it slow and easy.
I have plenty of crochet, cooking and tending to my transplants at a leisurley pace to keep me satisfied. Alan finished up his pruning work on the orange tree.
Choosing the paint color is kind of an "eyeball" thing. Antonio has color swatches, but not from the same company where he buys the paint. He is very patient though, if the color is not right and goes back to the store to adjust the shade if need be. Our idea is to have a lightish terra cotta with teal trim like the teal we have inside. The first-pass color was too pumpkin-like, so tomorrow, we will have him try again.
About 5:30, we thought we would take a walk to the pier and headed off only to decide that it was too cloudy out over the lake and that we wouldn't be able to see the sunset. So, we went back home and ate left overs in the hopes that tomorrow night will be better. We are getting some rain in the mountains as a result of the hurricanes off the west coast of Mexico, but not that much has actually fallen here.
Tuesday: Up and at 'em because I have an appointment at 11:30 to get a manicure ($10.00 including tip!) at Edith's. Alan wants to get a haircut as well, all in preparation for returning home tomorrow on a 3:00 PM flight. Antonio was here on schedule and busy at work. I still think the 2nd color is too much on the pumpkin side. He is very patient and once number two dries, we will decide if we need to try again.
I got an email today from niece, Liz, who has worked in cardiac rehab saying that "Nanny" is being stubborn about her exercise and is finding all kinds of excuses when Lynn wants her to come over and work out with the arm and leg weights. Liz believes that she should really be doing some out-patient rehab and wants me to check into this or call Lynn. So, right beofre we left for the manicure, I called Lynn on Skype and we were able to have a good conversation and make a game plan for when I am home on Thursday and can make a call to the doctor.
We passed by the plaza after finishing with the haircut and manicure andhad lunch at the Plaza Jardin restaurant. I had a wonderful chicken curry salad and Alan had a steak sandwich. We'll be fine with just finishing up some odds and ends in the refrigerator for dinner tonight and probably just go to the pier for a drink and botana (snack).
This time I went with Antonio to the paint store and looked at the actual color chips of the paint he will use! Once I started using the word "terra cotta", he was more atune to what I am thinking. It's on the wall now and we are waiting for it to dry to be sure, but I think "third times a charm!"
Wednesday, August 26, 2009 Our flight from Chicago, through Dallas to Guadalajara was uneventful. It took more time to ride the bus from the plane to the terminal than it did to clear customs, and in Mexico to get the "green light" is a good thing! Our taxi got us to our house in Ajijic by late afternoon and it was such fun to turn the key and settle in. Paty, the housekeeper, had it sparkling clear and it felt good to be there. Once unpacked and having scoped out the house and yard, we felt the effects of airlines' no-food policy and took a walk to the grocery to stock up on some food for breakfast. Against our better judgement, just due to our state of tiredness, we ate at the closest restaurant to the grocery, Alejandro's. Once I sent my Sopa Azteca back to be warmed (in the micro), it was really good. I ordered two enchiladas and guacamole, not realizing the enchiladas came with rice and guac. It was way too much, but oh well, there are always "doggie" bags. We trudged homeward and just had a quiet evening of relaxation. I have a feeling that "relaxation" is going to be the keyword for our two weeks here. Before it got too late we checked in with Sheila, our friend and partner in the home ownership, and she greeted us warmly. Our pre-arranged plans include lunch with her tomorrow.
Thursday: We slept until 9:00 and that is real unusual for Alan! Sheila once owned a yarn shop here, until she retired and now she just holds a weekly get together which she calls "Yarns." On my way I stopped by "Donas Donuts" to stock up before;they ran out of my favorites. Mexicans, in my opinion, our not know for having good desserts, but this "gringo" favorite makes truly delicious and authentic American-style donuts. On to Sheila's where I was greeted with open arms by her and happy jumps from Katie, the pooch.
"Yarns" was quite enjoyable and Sheila had told them in her weekly email letter that the "Crochetqueen" was going to be dropping by. I had met some of the particpants before and there was a delightful few others who are avid crocheters. this is a change from the group of mostly knitters who used to attend when Sheila held "Yarns" on Wednesdays. I finished up a little dress with granny square for my American Girl doll and brought a brooch I began to create in wire-crochet when I was here in Ajijic this past January for "Show and Tell."
Deb, who lives in El Chante, a sort of rural outpost of housing on the edge of Ajijic was there and it was good to see her again. She loves to make shawls nand was wearing a lovely one of black and white ribbon. The discussion of El Chante reminded Sheila of a hotel and restaurant there which she suggested we try. She described the food as just "okay" but said the view of Lake Chapala would far outweigh any food disappointments. Always ready for an adventure and willing to try new restaurants, of course, we said sure.
Not only was it a lovely setting and great view,
we found the food to be wonderful. In fact the presentation of our plates could give (brother-in-law) a run for its money! We enjoyed a leisurely time catching up with Sheila and the news of Ajijic since our last visit in January.
We really like the Mexican custom of having lunch as a heavier meal at 2 or 3 PM and then something light like soup in the evening. tonight our leftovers from last night were just right.
Friday: We were awakened today by the sound of Paty coming in the front gate at 9:10 AM! She comes to cleaned M-W-F year 'round. As I sit on the patio drinking coffee, crocheting or eating, I marvel at the plant life in our garden. I also marvel at the "disorganization" and intermningling of plants and vines and flowers. It is very "Mexican" but still it messes with my sense of order. I started with the pots on the patio and cleaned out dead stems, added a little dirt to some and gave them a good watering. Paty has kept them alive and they grow like weeds; she just doesn't pay much attention to the concept of pruning! So, I did quite a bit of prning back the leggy vines and I feel much better when I admire all the greenery that surrounds me!
Our plans included meeting Sheila at 5:00 PM to go to an art opening at Dos Lunas art gallery. We left a bit ahead of time to go to our favorite coffee roasting/ coffee bar to stock up on some good robust "french roast" coffee from Chiapas. We don't have a car in Ajijic and we walk everywhere. We left a little too late and our walk took longer than we expected, so we had to pass on having cake and coffee along with the purchase of our coffee beans.
The art gallery was lovely and all the art was displayed in a most inviting way. We enjoyed a glass of wine and cheese and crackers while we admired the inspiring work on display. Paola, a very saavy marketer, who owns the book store/art shop, Di Paola, next door extended her hours and benefited from us along with many others spilling over from the art gallery to her shop. She is an Italian photographer and has created her own book of scens from Ajijic. It is beautifully done and she said she would autograph one if I bought it, but I had already purchased another version last January while here that I treasure.
We had hoped to go to the movies as we had seen on Thursday that "Public Enemies" was playing. Nicole had told us she heard it was a long and boring movie, but we wanted to see it because Ryan's cousin worked on the movie as a lighting technician and even befriended Johnny Depp while he spent a lot of time filling in as his driver as well! Sheila warned us ;that shows change on Friday, so we weren't totally disappointed that indeed we could no longer see our first choice of movie. So onward to home we trudged.
Saturday:
Our experience has been that the village of Chapala is a lively place on the weekends. We decided to take the bus there today because Sundays are traditionally "family days" and it would be quite chaotic. It was a bit disappointing in that we found the market to be smaller than we had remembered and it seemed to be barely starting at noon. Most likely this is another sign of the hard economic times hitting every where. Nevertheless, we wondered around and enjoyed the boardwalk and I succeeded in finding a darling little pair of sandals for "Pippy" (our granddaughter who is due in November. We went to a restaurant we remembered on the square for lunch and relaxed a bit before taking the bus back home. A short version of our dear dog Sandy hung around us while we ate and refused to make eye contact with me. Even though he appeared to be a street dog, he was cute, and knew enough that it is impolite to beg from diners in the restaurants.
We jumped on a bus that said "Ajijic" (I swear) but it turned out to be a wild goose ride up into the hills to some very small and poor pueblitos. Once back in Chapala, the guys onh the bus were kind enough to tell us that we needed to catch the bus on a different corner. No problemo!
Once back home, I used an easy to make soup from a packet and added some "umph" with a chicken leg and some veggies. this paired with some toasted bread and swiss cheese completed our gustatory needs for the day!
Sunday:I had seen advertised in the Lake Chapala Review that La Bella Vida was having an exhibit, "Art with Plants." What a great Sunday activity; so about 11:00 we headed there.
It's an absolutely beautiful shop/house and just loaded with elegant plants that are artflly displayed along with other handcrafts. We took it all in but didn't see anything we just had to have. Prices were geared toward gringos too!
From there we decided to go to the newly refurbished Ajijic boardwalk and stroll. Sunday is family day, but but due to the gentle spitting rain, it kept people away. No worries' we enjoyed our stroll to the very end where there are tennis courts. Unfortunately, they are still covered with mud from last season's heavy rains. It's that typical Mexican habit of not quite finishing a job well done! When we reached "Six Corners" we had probably walked three miles by now. It was time to head up to the highway and get something to drink before heading back home.
While we were near "Pollo Fiesta" we decided we might as well buy it while we had the chance. For $7.50 we got a whole rotisserie chicken, rice and salad plus hot sauce. As we continued on, we decided to stop at "Joe's" which has to be a chain from either Guadalajara or some beach town. everyone there speaks good English and the food is reliably good. We decided on a cold diet coke and some queso fundido as well a guacamole to tide us over so we could finish our long walk!
Monday: The day went by without us leaving for anything. Around two pm we decided to take our daily walk through the neighborhood. This trip I am photographing doors which here are colorful and varied. My plan is to create a photo book, "The Doors of Ajijic." After a nice pasadito through Upper La Floresta (our development) we continued down the main highway to "Miky" which we must patronize each visit for their delicious "Americano" desserts and robust coffee. Dessert (carrot cake and blueberry cheesecake) and coffee at 3Pm is ideal and a great Mexican custom!
Tuesday: I got a $10.00 haircut this morning at "Estetica Paty," recommended by Sheila. She got a little carried away with the clippers, but hey, hair grows! After that, I passed by Barbara's Bazaar where they were having their semi-annual sale to reduce inventory. I was disappointed that I didn't buy anything, but an interesting piece of framed Huichol art is calling to me. I may return for it if it survived the days of bargain shoppers!
I made a nice arroz con pollo with our rotisserie chicken and punched it up a bit with some extra veggies: camote, carrot and onion, lots of onion.
My plan for our late afternoon was for us to walk to Walmart for some things we need and grab a snack there. Yes, there is a Walmart in Ajijic. It's been there about two years and to me, a disappointing addition to the quaint ambience of tghe area, but "progress can't be stopped!!" We bought our sorely needed potholders and dish soap, but from there my plan was foiled. The only available snacks at Walmart are coffee and sweets. Sadly, we had to continue up the road to Tony's who probably makes the best tacos in town. Wanting to keep it light, I stuffed my self on chips and the fabulous sweet salsa that I've only found at Tony's. "Azteca" soup completed my meal and Alan had queso fundido con chorizo in several tortillas. Delish!!
When we got home it was time to settle in for an evening of tv and crochet. Through our Star dish system, we recieve the networks from either Detroit or Buffalo, as well as Canada.
Week Two: Wednesday, September 2, 2009 It is hard to believe that we have been here a week already! The pace is much slower and things take a lot longer to get done here, so that's maybe why it feels we have only been here a short while! Today is the "Tiangis" in Ajijic (weekly open-air market)We took the backpack and headed down there about 10 AM and it was already buzzing with activity. The sights and smells are colorful and bold and it is a lively mix of fresh fruit, vegetables, handcrafts, clothes and even re-cycled stuff.
I was on a mission because friend Linda had lost an earring which she purchased in the tiangis last January and she sent along the lonely one and ask me to find her the exact thing to replace the lost one. Here instructions were perfect and we found the jewelry lady way at the end of the street by making a bee-line straight down through the entire one-street market.
She was a lovely lady who practiced her English with us and encouraged me to buy a ring that I admired. A little bit of bargaining cinched the deal! Here in Mexico, bartering is customary and is considered a pleasant social exchange if kept light-hearted.
We kept a leisurely pace as we passed back through the market and ran into friends and bought our needs for the next few days: tomatoes, zucchini, cilantro and camote which is like a squash along with some local apples that I will use to make applesauce.
While at the opposite end of town, we stopped into a very special bakery which makes the best fruit turnovers. Our experience is that you have to be there early in the morning to get them, but we lucked out. The sign said, "Sweet breads at 8:30 and 12:30" and it was 12:45!! Bingo! We got some, but as it was he onlny had 1 strawberry oneleft, so we got 5 more in pineapple. Who cares-delicious! We also bought a loaf of Nopal bread.
Nopal is a cactus and bread being made with it is a new one on us, but as the Mexican lady standing next to us said, "Live it up; try something new."After doing a few more errands in town, we set off to find the restaurant "Ninette." which we've been to before and enjoyed. I remember passing it yesterday and saying to myself, Wednesday after market would be a good day to go there." The best policy is, "If you see it open, best go now!" Well, the mistake I made is not bringing along the address; we tried and tried and couldn't find it. Even some Gringos we asked hadn't even heard of it. As we came upon "Tango" and saw it open, we figured, "Why not?" As we were glancing at the hours sign, a guy walked by us and said, rhyme or reason with the stores of Ajijic; they all have different days that they close during the week. So, if you "You've found the best restaurant in Ajijic!" He's right; we've been there before a few times for dinner. My lunch of "chimichurri" on fabulous rolls, empanadas, hearts of palm salad was great and Alan had a the special: "Pipito" (steak sandwich ). Lunch is only $5.00 if eaten before 1:30. Most Mexicans don't start lunch until 3 PM, so we lucked out that we found it early!
We made it back home just minutes before Antonio arrived to continue his work on our outside fountain. We're hopefull that this time, after many unsuccessful attempts, we will have a working fountain. It's such a soothing sound to have in the middle of our yard right off the patio. A continuous slow leak has been the cause of the pump burning out afew times and our clients from time to time have not seemed to capture the concept of what happens when a pump contiues to run on an empty fountain! He sealed the leaky spot again and tomorrow is the big day to fill it with water and test the pump.
Kind of forgetting it was Wednesday, it was purely by luck that I flipped the channel to Fox and saw that "Glee" was on. I had even listed it on my daily planner becasue friend John's son is one of the writers and producers and he had told me that it would premiere on Sept. 2. Cute, light show but particularly enjoyable to me because both my girls were/are signers in high school and in the choirs and show choirs. Fond memories of high school/music silliness. I even Skyped the younger one , Bethany, and lo and behold as she was on her way to rehearse with her band but was taping the show to watch later!
It's Thursday again and I had to get to up early to get ready for "Yarns" Today it was another group of ladies, all lovely. The one Mexican lady who was tatting, marveled at the creativity around the table: cable sweater, knitted scarf, and my tapestry crochet conical bag (from a 70s book). I really made some headway on my project which is single crochet in fine linen. It's growing and I can see the end of the tunnel now!
After "Yarns" Sheila and I went across the street to the nursery and bought 12 little Mexican Heather plants for our house. They were only $1.20 per plant and they are so cute-little purple flowers.
I have 6 of the 12 planted and they will be like a short border in front of some of the other plants/hedges we already have. I'm excited about getting some sense of order in the landscape. I also did a lot of clipping on the Flame Vine to try and uncover the Star Jasmine plant, which I did. This plant sets off its fragrance every night after dark and Alan and I have been gettihng whiffs of it. I love that and sure didn't want the Flame Vine to choke it out.I cooked us a nice lunch of steak, Lionese potatoes and green beans with tomatoes-simple but tasted good with an avocado, as well. That along with our yardwork was the extent of our day. Restful evening on tap! Tomorrow we are going to Guadalajara with Sheila and will spend most of our time in Tlaquepaque, a tourist area that just overflows with handcrafts. It's a favorite place and we always fit in a delicious lunch at one of the many traditional restaurants.
Friday: Sheila picked us up at 10:15 and we were in Tlaquepaque by a little after eleven and ready to browse and shop. Maybe it was a mistake to start at the most elegant and exciting shop in the village! "Del Corazon de la Tierra" is owned by a savvy family who also own the restaurant "Casa Fuerte" which we have eaten in before. We were greeted by the owner, Guillermo, and he immediately focused his eyes on my crocheted necklace which I had designed and admired it.
My dream is to live in a place just like this surrounded by the colorful and handmade indigenous art pieces that excite me so. The young man whose English is good was so hospitable to us and offered us a delicious cup of the coffee they sell from Chiapas. After enjoying the coffee, we wandered from room to room in the store feasting our eyes on every square inch of the eye candy (colorful textiles and other handcrafts). Guillermo approached us again, this time to show me a woven cloth with what he said was a crochet edging (it was macrame). I did later see some blouses with crocheted edges. He also showed us a book on baedwork published by Interweave Press and told us that one of the artists within had been to tlaquepaque and held bead classes in an art center there. It was obvious that Guillermo is very interested in networking and promoting handcrfafts and cross-marketing. You can see more of what he is about at www.delcorazondelatierra.com
From there we wandered from shop to shop and thoroughly enjoyed all we saw. At some point we were overstimulated with sights and colors and it was time for lunch. Many times these old homes, which were once beach homes for the ultra rich from Guadalajara, contain both artesania and restaurants. Such was the case in the one we chose to have lunch in. Good service and a great lunch, with dessert,
left us content and ready for our ride home, just ahead of the commuting crowd. We arrived back at our house really pretty tired and ready for a quiet evening.Saturday: Although we are going to have guests for "tapas" this evening, we don't have to do much, so we enjoyed our morning with several cups of rich Chiapas coffee. We were surprised to find that it is now open 7 days a week out of necessity and half its former size due to economic conditions which are hittinhg here just like in the States. I always like to visit the resale shops wherever I go, so we headed to "Nachos Trash and Treasure." Believe it or not, our house does not have salt and pepper shakers, so I was extremely pleased to find a set on a little tray made in "Talavera-style" ceramic. I gladly stimulated Nacho's economy!conditions that are hitting here as well as in the states.
We then made our way to Walmart where we bought the needed avocados to supplement the two we had off our own trees to make guacamole for tonight. Judith and Sheila brouught some wonderful delicacies: goat cheese in a lettuce leaf with spicy peach sauce, pork short ribs in black bean sauce, shrimp skewers with veggies and another veggie plate in a vinagrette sauce. We thoroughly enjoyed the conversation; Judith is visiting from Mobile, Al. and the food on the patio until the sun went down enough that the flies became a bother!
Sunday: We had a rough night with rain and very heavy winds. We didn't realize that the power was knocked out until we arose at 9:00 AM! Thankfully, the power was restored by 9;15. Good thing we slept in, so we didn't have to wait long for coffee! We walked to Hotel Real de la Chapala and were there at 12:30 PM. Donna and Roy showed up at 1PM. We teased them that they are totally acclimated to the Mexican ways! We enjoyed a nice Sunday brunch poolside and the breezes off the lake were delightufl with scens of the mountains in the background. We had a good time catching up and then wlaked back home only to find that Alan had not brought the house keys! Rurh roh! So, our tummies full, we had to walk to the other end of town to Sheila's in the hopes she would be home so we could get the set of spare keys. Well. she wasn't home, but we aroused Judith who is renting next door and she kindly invited us in to wait on Sheila. It wasn't that long until Sheila returned from her walk with Katie. After a brief respite with the ladies, it was back across town we went. Lesson learned and big meal walked off!!
Monday: We stayed home all day and it was a busy day. We are getting the house painted and Antonio and his two sons started their work of scraping the bad areas. Paty was here doing her thing as well, so it was all abuzz around here. These are very trustworthy people and we didn't necessarily have to be here, but it was a cloudy kind of day and just felt right to be here taking it slow and easy.
I have plenty of crochet, cooking and tending to my transplants at a leisurley pace to keep me satisfied. Alan finished up his pruning work on the orange tree.
Choosing the paint color is kind of an "eyeball" thing. Antonio has color swatches, but not from the same company where he buys the paint. He is very patient though, if the color is not right and goes back to the store to adjust the shade if need be. Our idea is to have a lightish terra cotta with teal trim like the teal we have inside. The first-pass color was too pumpkin-like, so tomorrow, we will have him try again.
About 5:30, we thought we would take a walk to the pier and headed off only to decide that it was too cloudy out over the lake and that we wouldn't be able to see the sunset. So, we went back home and ate left overs in the hopes that tomorrow night will be better. We are getting some rain in the mountains as a result of the hurricanes off the west coast of Mexico, but not that much has actually fallen here.
Tuesday: Up and at 'em because I have an appointment at 11:30 to get a manicure ($10.00 including tip!) at Edith's. Alan wants to get a haircut as well, all in preparation for returning home tomorrow on a 3:00 PM flight. Antonio was here on schedule and busy at work. I still think the 2nd color is too much on the pumpkin side. He is very patient and once number two dries, we will decide if we need to try again.
I got an email today from niece, Liz, who has worked in cardiac rehab saying that "Nanny" is being stubborn about her exercise and is finding all kinds of excuses when Lynn wants her to come over and work out with the arm and leg weights. Liz believes that she should really be doing some out-patient rehab and wants me to check into this or call Lynn. So, right beofre we left for the manicure, I called Lynn on Skype and we were able to have a good conversation and make a game plan for when I am home on Thursday and can make a call to the doctor.
We passed by the plaza after finishing with the haircut and manicure andhad lunch at the Plaza Jardin restaurant. I had a wonderful chicken curry salad and Alan had a steak sandwich. We'll be fine with just finishing up some odds and ends in the refrigerator for dinner tonight and probably just go to the pier for a drink and botana (snack).
This time I went with Antonio to the paint store and looked at the actual color chips of the paint he will use! Once I started using the word "terra cotta", he was more atune to what I am thinking. It's on the wall now and we are waiting for it to dry to be sure, but I think "third times a charm!"
To Turkey and Back in One Day!
A weekend with nothing scheduled became a rich experience when our Turkish friend, Lemis' (Larry), invited us to attend the Chicago Turkish World Festival at Navy Pier. After a sumptuous breakfast together at a new restaurant in the suburbs, we headed to the nearest Elevated train stop and made our way to Chicago on public transportation. Larry had not ridden the El before and although it is not any shorter, it is way more relaxing. We took the Blue line from Cumberland and then transfered to the red line at Jackson Street in the Loop where we just had 3 more stops to Grand and then a six block walk to the Pier. The sky was clear and the temperature in the high eighties, but the closer we got the the Pier, the more refreshing was the lake air that surrounded us.
We walked the length of the pier enjoying the sights, sounds and smells all along the way to the very end where the festival was taking place in the grand ballroom.
From a distance we could hear music and entering, we experienced a cacaphony of sounds and songs and many booths on display by the various Turkish and other countries Turkey has relationships with: Turkmenistan, Ubekistan, Bosnia, Macedonia,etc. Sponsored by the Turkish American Society of Chicago, the generosity of these various groups was impressive as they shared their cultures, free to the public with richly colored handouts and tasty temptations. We wandered leisurely and explored the displays. "Chciago Turkish World Festival share a positive message to help unite all races, cultures, and religious to live in harmony."
The textiles , both for sale and on visitors, were a thrill for me, of course! The colors, textures and various tecniques were a sight behold.
To my surprise, we came upon a yurt on the showfloor! It had to have been my favorite part of the whole festival; well, maybe except for the baklava and Turkish coffee!
My cousin, Jeff, has been wanting to build a yurt and before he started talking to me about these, I was not familiar. The shape, design, colors and textures are amazing, not to mention the fabulous textiles displayed within. The yurt proved to be a popular destination with the fextival particiapnts and not only the colors in the textiles, but the many humans enjoying the displays created created a pleasing "warmth". A very welcoming Turkish man who owned the yurt was happy to explain the process. Made of fulled wool, which is water resistant, it is covered in winter to protect from snow with another layer of wool and wood. He says it takes 4-5 hours to assemble the yurt; somewhat less with practice.
View through opening of top of yurt:
They were encouraging everyone to try the traditional costumes and have their photos taken.
Another type of tent:
Larry had one main goal and that was to see the performance of Mehter, the Ottoman Military Band. For centuries it has commpanied the Ottoman army. We had some time to wait so we went outside to enjoy Lake Michigan at the end of the pier. This weekend there was an added bonus as the "Air and Water Show" was also going on further north on the lake. However, Navy Pier is a good vantage point to see some of the flyovers! We saw parachuters dropping from 10,000 feet and the noice when the jet formations flew over was enough to satisfy Larry and Alan!
View of John Hancock Building in distance
We returned inside the ballroom and enjoyed some folk dances and singers while waiting on the band.
Thoroughly entertained by the band and satisfied with our adventure, we are ready to reverse course and head home. Back home in the suburbs, it's all-American hamburgers, well, maybe "larry-style" burgers, and relaxation in the delicious breeze on the deck!
Larry says we HAVE to go to Turkey with him and he will arrange everthing to share his beloved culture with us. We're up for it! When shall we go?
We walked the length of the pier enjoying the sights, sounds and smells all along the way to the very end where the festival was taking place in the grand ballroom.
From a distance we could hear music and entering, we experienced a cacaphony of sounds and songs and many booths on display by the various Turkish and other countries Turkey has relationships with: Turkmenistan, Ubekistan, Bosnia, Macedonia,etc. Sponsored by the Turkish American Society of Chicago, the generosity of these various groups was impressive as they shared their cultures, free to the public with richly colored handouts and tasty temptations. We wandered leisurely and explored the displays. "Chciago Turkish World Festival share a positive message to help unite all races, cultures, and religious to live in harmony."
The textiles , both for sale and on visitors, were a thrill for me, of course! The colors, textures and various tecniques were a sight behold.
To my surprise, we came upon a yurt on the showfloor! It had to have been my favorite part of the whole festival; well, maybe except for the baklava and Turkish coffee!
My cousin, Jeff, has been wanting to build a yurt and before he started talking to me about these, I was not familiar. The shape, design, colors and textures are amazing, not to mention the fabulous textiles displayed within. The yurt proved to be a popular destination with the fextival particiapnts and not only the colors in the textiles, but the many humans enjoying the displays created created a pleasing "warmth". A very welcoming Turkish man who owned the yurt was happy to explain the process. Made of fulled wool, which is water resistant, it is covered in winter to protect from snow with another layer of wool and wood. He says it takes 4-5 hours to assemble the yurt; somewhat less with practice. 
View through opening of top of yurt:
They were encouraging everyone to try the traditional costumes and have their photos taken.
Another type of tent:
Larry had one main goal and that was to see the performance of Mehter, the Ottoman Military Band. For centuries it has commpanied the Ottoman army. We had some time to wait so we went outside to enjoy Lake Michigan at the end of the pier. This weekend there was an added bonus as the "Air and Water Show" was also going on further north on the lake. However, Navy Pier is a good vantage point to see some of the flyovers! We saw parachuters dropping from 10,000 feet and the noice when the jet formations flew over was enough to satisfy Larry and Alan!
View of John Hancock Building in distance
We returned inside the ballroom and enjoyed some folk dances and singers while waiting on the band.
Thoroughly entertained by the band and satisfied with our adventure, we are ready to reverse course and head home. Back home in the suburbs, it's all-American hamburgers, well, maybe "larry-style" burgers, and relaxation in the delicious breeze on the deck!
Larry says we HAVE to go to Turkey with him and he will arrange everthing to share his beloved culture with us. We're up for it! When shall we go?
Crochet and Our Health
I'm now putting the most current of this long story at the top. If you need to read back to catch up, see below the *******line.
November 13 2009A LOVE STORY:
Amost a wee ince we were theread Mom has steadily declined al week. She is just not eating and we don't know exactly why. The dr. wants to put a feeling tube in her stomach increase potein and get the debubitus to heal. Maybe then she can eventually get out of bed. Right now that seems out of the question. So they will wean her off the coumadin an get ready to surgically put he tube in by te end of he week,hopefully. Dad has had a really rough week as he sees her go downhill. Out of frustration, he hreatened to "yank"her out of there and says he is beginning to hat it!
I am now set up to receive weekly updates after the Medical team meats and I will talk to the clinical nurse dirctor. I have my own isueswith the place, but know mom is in a tough situation too. She is not bringing much particiption to the situation.
Mom is 83 and Dad is 89. They have been married 63 years! Dad has been steadfast and strong through all of mom's ups and downs and has stood by her side for everything, even though he hates hsopitals! Her cardiac doctor was pleased at her progress and thought she was doing as well as could be expected. She was going to the grocery with Dad, doctor's appoitnments and out to eat at restaurants. As a matter of fact, it was on their anniversary, September 18, after they returned home from dinner with Rog and Lynn that she broke her hip! I met my husband, Alan, on September 18, 1965 and wanted to get married on that day as well. However, since we decided to tie the knot during Thanksgiving break at college, it didn't happen! Back to the love birds!
As Dad was unlocking the door, he turned around to see Mom on the ground! Rog and Lynn were next door at their garage and came running. They got her in a chair and called the ambulance! It has been a long and tortuous path for Mother; I will keep the details brief.
November 1-Dad answered Mom's phone and he had just arrived and Lovingly, he had thoughnt to bring her a Wendy's hamburger and frosty! He said she had enjoyed the shrimp they had served her for dinner and didn't know if she could eat the hamburger as well. Mom has not been fully cognizant much of the time and I don't think she fully appreciate's all the anxiety my dad has been through on her behalf, nor has she appreciated his heroic efforts to see that she is taken care of the best possible. Deep down, though, I know she realizes the depth of his love. It is a reminder to all of us that each day is an opportunity to express the love we feel for those closest to us and to not take any day for granted!
October 31- I talked to Mom and she sounded very weak, but alert. She couldn't remember what she had eaten, though. She had a report about my neice's Halloween party the night before and told me what my brother went as: cowboy!
October 29-Papers re-signed and all is well. She has a beautiful view out her window of the city and is in a room with another lady who has MMRSA as well. My dad prefers a private room, but for now this is what they have to offer. I headed home to be with Alan who has been in Orlando all week. Through it all, I crocheted and crocheted! I was wise to bring along plenty of progjects and if need be, I could always run out to a yarn store as a diversion to get more yarn! It soothes me and helps pass the long evenings after a long day back and forth from the hospital.
Wednesday October 28-Nothing much happens on the weekend, but finally on Sunday a PT person showed up and got mom out of bed to stand and then sit in the chair. She did well. On Monday she walked 15 feet with the aid of a walker and gait belt with the PT supporting her. She's been so weak and we tried creative ways to get her to eat. I brought her apple crisp I had made and Dad stopped by to pick up a Wendy's frosty for her. Just the slightest little thing fills her up and she seems to prefer sweets over everthing else! Quoting Mom, "Do you have any idea how they can ruin Macaroni and cheese?" Her dr. had recommended that the next step be a long term acute care facility called "Select." It is housed in another hospital in town, not as close and convenient, but if this is what is needed, my Dad is very willing to give it a try. Finally after being "released" since yesterday, she arrived there at 5:00 PM. After we saw she was settled in, we left for home, exhausted from a long day.
At dinner later, I got an urgent call from the dr. saying my dad had mistakenly signed a DNR (Do Not Resusitate) order for MOM!! He gets very baffled at the medical terminology and the support staff don't exactly handle this kind of thing well either. Anyway, the dr. put her on "Full Code" for the night and we were supposed to go and resign the papers in the morning. I had no reason to believe she would stop breathing tonight, but the thought of it was daunting!
October 27-I think we have a "status quo" day today and Dad had decided to go to "tea" at the local ice cream parlor with a group of firends who are all married couples still in their 80s and 90s! He invited me to go along and it was such a sweet scene. Another Love Story! All except one couple are people who I knew growing up and who Mom and Dad have been friends with for over 50 years. The eldest is 96 and he can't hear or see, but boy does he had an upbeat attitude. He even remembered Alan's name and gave me a big hug and wanted to know all about my family. Now, that's admirable!It is very amazing that there would be still four couples at their age and still able to get out on their own each week to socialize! I enjoyed the time with them immensely and they were so concerned about Mom. They passed around a card and all signed it for her.
October 24-She has MMRSA in the would and it is antibiotic resistant. She is also short of breath and the dr. says it is from the hydration! So, she is on one antibiotic for possible pneumonia and another for the wound! If the disease doesn't kill you the doctors will!!!! They also checked for a blood clot because of the shortness of breath, but thankfully, that was negative. We needed some good news by now. Every visit, Dad would kiss Mom hello and goodbye, even if it meant stretching on tip-toes over the bedrail to reach her lips! She could hardly raise her head to help most times. I had to lower the rail to reach her for a kiss!
October 23-I got up at the crack of dawn to get to the hospital in time for Mom's surgery to debride the decubitus. I made it in time and the surgery started late-well, it didn't actually start! Her blood ooxygen levels were not good and the anesthesiaologist didn't feel comfortable putting her under. So, instead, they packed the wound and used a cream medication that will debride the wound as well. It is a much slower process, but the only alternative at this point. It is my cousin Laura's birthday today. She is a nurse at the same hospital. She has been so supportive and good to check in on Mom and Dad often, even though she has her own "full plate" at home.
October 20- I thought she was in good hands at St. Anne's, but Mom was having a rough time. She had night sweats and they sent off a urine culture to check for a urinary tract infection. She developed shaky hands, due to the medicine for confusion, so they finally lowered the dose and that helped. She has developed a bedsore and they are treating it with a paste. She is going to rehab daily but Dad says all she can do is stand with the walker and shuffle a couple of steps. Very very weak and Dad is so concerned. He visits her three times a day and I am worried that he is not getting enohyg rest or food. He insists on doing what he does and there is no sense trying to change his mind! He has repeatedly told me that if this ever happens to him, he doesn't want to go through all Mom has. I am not sure she wants to go through it either! This is the day that they finally took her to the hospital: dehydrated with a stage 4 (the worst) decubitus!
October 6, 2009 Mom graduated to the next step in her rehab process: St. Anne's Nursing home rehab facility.
October 1, 2009-Mom was moved to the Continuing Care Unit at the hospital where she can start some therapy for the hip. Mom is so weak from the pain meds that she is also resitant to any offers of exercise.
September 26, 2009-I left for MI to attend Nicole's first shower hosted by her work friends.The next day Mom received two pints of blood! Bleeding from the intestine was suspected because of the Coumadin and Dr. was hoping it would stabilize so she wouldn't have to do a colonoscopy to explore causes. The pain meds were lowered and the anxiety drug discontiued so Mom was beginning to come out of her fog. I greatly appreciated the family doctor who was keeping track of all the consulting doctors and very willing to talk to me long distance from home.
September 23-26-I was there advocating for Mom in the hospital. Her hemaglobin got low and this is always an issue when patients are on Coumadin. She is confused and sleeps alot probably due to the pain medication, dehydration. I got very concerned about "Delirium" and talked to my former boss, Donna. She was so helpful, and encouraging and gave me some goosd tips which I came armed with to the hospital.
Sunday, September 20, 2009-Surgery to repair the hip was delayed until today because Mom's blood pressure had spiked. I got the call from Rog as I was about to leave MI after visiting Nicole and Jeff and helping with some of the preparation for "Pippie's" arrival (Nov. 28)
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It has been said that crochet and probably any other form of needlework are good for one's health: relaxing, exercises the fingers and the mind and oh, let's see so much more. Tomorrow I begin research on an article I have wanted to write on this subject for years! I've collected bits and pieces and they're in a folder ready to browse and organize into some answers on the subject.
Recently, I went through a challenging experience when my mother had scheduled open-heart surgery on Thursday, July 30. At age 83, she was ready for her surgery, tired of not being able to breathe well and had a positive outlook about what the outcome would be. I had positive thoughts, also, about the outcome of the surgery because my cousin, Laura, is a nurse there and confirmed that Mom's cardiac surgeon is very good. The surgery was scheduled ahead of time, so I had time to plan ahead. My crochet was by my side through it all.
Dad, Lynn (sister-in-law) and I arrived at 6:00 AM with mom and amazingly Mom's pastor arrived at 6:30. She offered comfort to Mom with her prayer, I know. From then until 3:00 PM, Dad, Lynn and I endured the wait. Rog, my brother, got there when he could. Lynn is the best sister-in-law in the world! I know Mom and Dad think of her as a "daughter." She is always there willing to help with nary a complaint! I sure appreciate her being there so close in my absence! The nurses and staff were caring and ehlpful and kept us informed of mom's progress every two hours. We were so relieved to find that not only did she endure the long surgery and accompanying anesthesia, but she did quite well.
I've entered that "in-between" phases of my life: caring for elderly parents and awaiting our first grandchild. Read my post, "It's a Girl." Having a girl grandchild for our first one is all I could have hoped for. Her parents, Nicole and Jeff, are pretty excited as well. There are so many cute crocheted things I made and want to make for her, that my hands and mind kept busy during the surgery. The time passed quickly and I know it's because I go into a nice state of relaxation while I crochet and my mind wanders and time passes. One easy-to-make baby bonnet finished except for the variegated yarn trim which I forgot to bring along.
No biggie; I can quickly finish off this project when I get back home.
We didn't lose our appetite during the day and had a decent breakfast with Lynn in the hospital cafeteria, lunch across the street at a nice restaurant and dinner at an upscale but casual restaurant nearby with my cousin who is in town from Florida.
We were finally able to see Mom in ICU and even though the nurses were excellent and explained everything to us, I know it was very hard for dad to see her on a ventilator which is breathing for her and in her "zonked" state from the anesthesia. There was nothing we could do for or say to mom at this point, so, exhausted, we called it a night and went home.
About two hours later, I got a call on my cell phone from an id in town. Turns out if was Mom's nurse telling me that she had started bleeding out of one of her chest tubes, an amount greater than normal. I could tell the nurse was anxious to get her attention back to mom as she was breathing pretty fast. She told me that the doctor was on his way and they didn't know where the bleeding was coming from and most likely they would have to take her back to surgery to fix it. Not more than twenty minutes later, the same dear nurse, Kim, called and said they were on their way to surgery.
My hands went cold and I was shaking inside a bit, but I had to remain calm for Dad and expalin it all to him. The nurse said we didn't have to come to the hospital because there was nothing we could do, but she also said we could if we wanted to. I left it up to Dad and he wanted to be there. The good news is that the hospital is just seven minutes from their house; so off we went. By now, we knew our way to ICU and we waited there. It was quiet and dad had a good half hour "doze." Earlier in the day, I had been cold in the various waiting rooms, so I had enough wits about me to grab mom's prayer shawl that her church ladies, bless their hearts, had given her when she had her pacemaker put in. It served Dad well as a "pillow."
It was eerily quiet in the ICU waiting room at 9:00 to 11:00 PM at , but I felt peaceful as Dad dozed and I crocheted. One mini-menagerie "elephant." well on its way to being finished. I didn't bring any fiberfil along, so his stuffing will have to wait 'til I get home!No probalem; it is not suitable for children under two so I can enjoy it until baby comes into the world and passes the two-year mark!
About 10:30, Kim let us know that Mom had come out of surgery just fine and that the doctor would be out soon to talk to us. He appeared shortly thereafter and gave us a thumbs up! He said Mom did just fine during the second surgery and a minor repair of a nick in her lung was taken care of with just one stitch. The good news is that the doctor said while he was in her chest, he could see that the heart repair was just fine and her heart is working well! He reassured us that opening her up the second time won't impede healing, but there may be a slightly increased chance of infection.
Whew, what a big sigh of relief. We could now go home and be asleep by midnight for hopefully some hard-earned rest!
Friday: Mom is struggling. The nurses say this operation is hard on a fifty-year-old let alone someone who is 83 and she had anesthesia twice in one day yesterday!She is opening her eyes slightly and seems to know we are there when we visit. The nurses permit us to come anytime we want and we can see her as long as they aren't involved in a procedure with her. She'll be sleeping a lot, so I can get some cooking done for the long-awaited reunion for my dad's side tomorrow! Yep, the timing is bad, but it has been planned for almost a year and relatives have arrived from out of town and we have come to far to back down now. "Don't forget to pick up the pavillion key at the Park Dsitrict; don't forget to pickup the key!" Setting aside her surgery worries beforehand, mom asked me what dad i needed to pick up the key! I hadn't read the contract carefully about picking up the key the day before. I would have never thought of it. Thanks, MOM! Ft. Wayne is not a huge town; it's easy to get around. Dad and I stopped by the park district and got the key after we left the hospital. I MUST fit in some crochet today too! My cousin joined dad and I for a light dinner tonight. He has very little family and is so happy to be visiting his uncle (my dad) in the town his father spent some childhood. He's been very dear to stop in to see Mom often. I know she wasn't really aware that he was there, but his caring is very much appreciated. We'll have lots to tell her later about what she's missed these last couple of days!
After dinner, we called to see if mom was awake and how she was doing. They were keeping her pretty well medicated with morphine and thus, asleep, so we took a break and went home for some rest.It was not late and I started another project, just for variety: a crocheted butterfly on a wire armature to be used a s yard art by my neighbor.
I already have one in other colors perched on my fencepost and she admired it and wanted me to make her one.
Saturday: Up early to go to the park/rosegarden to set up the tables and make sure all is well for our reunion to start at 11:00. Putting the final touches on the food is easy today after all the prep I did yesterday. Getting excited about hubby, younger daughter and older daughter and her husband arriving soon. We had a very good turnout, about thirty people, at the reunion and tons of delicous food.
It all went smoothly and although I felt a bit stressed, everyone was very grateful that I had put together this first-ever Blakley Family Reunion. We had photo albums and memorabilia scrapbooks and even some of my aunt and uncle's art to share.
Dad and I made a trip to the hospital at two PM to avoid the "change of shift" hubbub which prevents us from seeing mom. Alan and the kids came along. I've been strong and I have been the "chosen" memeber of the family to communicate with the doctors and nurses and to keep everyone informed as to mom's progress. They've depended on me and my nursing background has come in handy. Seeing my girls cry at the shock of how their grandma looks was all it took for me to breakdown. I had warned them that she doesn't look good, but I guess one never knows what to expect in situations like this. It's really a first exposure for our girls; they've had very little experience with hospitals, thankfully! Four of the five grandchildren and spouses were in town for the reunion, and they were all able to visit Grandma. Mom opened her eyes a little more and waved one hand. She knew us, but can't talk; still on the ventilator. She knew the kids, if only for the moemnt. We got back to the pavillion and finished up the cleanup. Some of the cousins had it well underway and that was greatly appreciated.
Alan, Beth and I checked into our hotel for the evening and Nicole and Jeff headed back to Michigan. Sure wish they could have stayed longer, but they had had a flood in their kitchen this week and had to get back to the big job or repair. We rested some and didn't feel hungry until about 8:00 PM. We joined my cousin at a wonderful Mexican restaurant and just had a Margarita and appetizers. What a welcomed change of scenery from the hospital! His flight in the morning was going to be early so we said our goodbyes and returned to our own hotel for some needed rest.
Sunday: Alan and Bethany returned to Chicago fairly early and I returned to my dad's house. Today was a turning point of sorts for mom, but not in a good way. By now, she was getting less morphine and waking up but severely confused. She kind of knows who we are but doesn't realize she is in the hospital and REALLY wants to go home! This was most likely due to the effects of so much anesthesia in one day and her creatanine levels were high which didn't help matters! We were reassured by the nurses that this is perfectly normal especially for someone her age. I accepted that and crocheted, but I know it was very hard for my dad to see her talking "crazy talk."! She had also vomited in the morning and there was concern about her ingesting some of the liquid food they have begun to give her.
S-I-L, Lynn, is looking for a teddy bear with her new granddaughter's name on it. We go to the consignment craft store, but it is closed on Sunday. Not all is lost, as we go next door to a faboulous re-sale clothes store, Clothes Mentor and do some shopping therapy. I found a pink sweater with "fibery" embellishment.
When we went back in the afternoon, Mom was sleeping real hard. The nurse told us she had had a sleepless night and this was the best thing for her. We didn't distrub her. When we called again at 6:00 PM, they said she was still sleeping and it was best for us to stay at home and not disturb her. Sleep is the best thing she can do. The nurses said she is stable and the chemistry levels in her blood are starting to go down.
Okay, time to get organized with the crochet, have a glass of wine and check out what I can start or finish now.I'm sleeping at my brother and sister-in-law's house and they watch tv everynight with a medicinal glass of wine. Good idea! I keep her company and crochet.Darn it, why didn't I bring along fiberfil? I am starting another imini-menagerie animal, this time a mouse.
Monday: What a difference and what a surpise when we got to the hospital at 10 AM! My cousin, Laura, was there also, and has been a great support. They took Mom off the ventilator "cold turkey" this moring instead of weaning her off and she was doing well with her stats remaining stable. As predicted, her confusion has passed; how wonderful to be able to talk to her and understand what she wanted to say. We even got a smile out of her! Mom doesn't remember much of what she has been through, but that is not such a bad thing! Later in the afternoon when we visit we find that they have mom back on the ventilator. Her kidneys output is not sufficient and they are giving her Lasix. She may need a lung specialist consult and the dr. has decided that weaning is a better thing for her, so she is two hours on and two hours off. We are reassured that this is not an emergency, but Mom is just taking "baby steps" in her recovery. She was pretty well de-conditioned before her surgery due to her leaky mitral valve, so she has a long road to restore her strength ahead of her. She's still getting the IV protein but taking some ice chips now. Yeah!
Lynn and I take a break and return to the craft store. Unfortunately, there are no bears with "Kaylee's" name. Lynn was kind enough, though, to go with me to a JoAnn store nearby and even gave me her coupon so I could buy some elastic cord I need for the baby booties I am making. One pair of crocheted Baby UGGS booties complete! They are precious and adorable and kudos to Pamapaloza who designed them and offered them on Ravelry.com. Not only is it satisfying to finish a project that turns out so well, but the anticipation of my daughter, the new mother, opening up this gift at an upcoming shower is very exciting!I know she will think they are funny and the cutest!
Gee, I thought I had planned well. I brought lots of yarn, patterns and hooks, but it's the little finishing touches and I didn't bring along.
During our evening visit, Dad, Lynn and I found that Mom has progressed to taking clear liquids and she's holding them down real well. Rog hs been visiting Mom every day after work. Things are looking up.
Tuesday: Dad goes out to breakfast with his cronies for his weekly meet-up at a local restaurant. This is a good sign that he is feeling much more comfortable with Mom's progress and ready to get back to some of his routine.
We visit Mom at 10:00 AM and she progressed rapidly to thick liquids and was eating pudding and jello when we visited this morning. They are getting her up to a chair and it's going to be a good day and she will progress more rapidly now with some real food going into her system. There is talk of her going to a regular hospital room today or tomorrow. We're sure happy about that news.
After Lynn's twin granddaughters go home, she and I do a little shopping for baby clothes at Once Upon a Child. Her new granddaughter is due any day and my first in November. What fun is this! Shopping therapy is always good for distracting the mind from stress, just like crochet! The amount of CUTE baby things for all ages in this store woverwhelmed me, but I did pull through and pick up quite a few wonderful ensembles for Baby Wawpk!
During our afternoon hosptial visit, we find that Mom's on her way to her new room in the cardiac unit. She continues with heavy lquids tonight for dinner, but the nurse asked her if she wanted a regular breakfast in the morning. Mom has a good appetite and said, "yes."
My friend and co-author of the Kids Can Do It Crocheting book Jackie Young,
invited me to join her at knitting group tonight at Panera. It's my best chance of fitting in a visit with Jackie and a nice diversion. I had a great, relaxing time and Jackie said I was her 'show and tell!" I took the mini-UGGS for show and tiell. They had seen the knitted version and thought the crocheted ones were pretty nifty! It was a great getaway with some very enthusiastic knitters. I met one lovely young woman, "SpoonsnSpools" on Ravelry who is a physician. We are friends on Rav now.
Wednesday: Mom's feeling like her hair is a mess today and this is a real good sign. I brushed it for her and put it up in a tidy knot. She said her breakfast of bacon, fruit and oatmeal was good and that they serve a lot of food. She'll be getting out of bed and sitting in a chair today!
Dad goes to afternoon "tea" at the ice cream shop. The ladies are included in this gathering. Everyone is concerned about Mom and sends their well-wishes. Dad's getting back in the groove!
My "shopping therapy" today is a trip to he collectible/antique shop. Ever since I blogged about Ginny doll, I have been searching all over the house for the re-issue version that I bought in the eighties, to no avail. I do have the box, so I know I am not dreaming about having purchased her. I have done some searching on line and Ginny's were released each decade since the 1950s and are still being produced using the original mold. i want to replace the one I had bought, but didn't want to spend $50.00 or more. Low and behold this shop had ONE Ginny, from 1984 and I thought it was reasonable at $35.00 with a ten percent discount with cash. SOLD! Oh, I'm excited to have this in a box that appears it has never been opened. The title on the box is "Going Shopping." Hmmm, appropriate!
Thursday: This morning we saw Mom take a walk with her walker out in the hall for a short distance and she had also walked to the bathroom. Cousin Alan and his son, Paul came to visit also and mom enjoyed chatting with them, but it doesn't take much to get her completely worn out!We leave her to rest until lunch time.
In-between hospital visits, I treat myself to a visit to a new yarn shop, "Knitting on Broadway." highly recommended by the ladies at the knitting group. My only complaint is that the name of the store is limiting and screams crochet rejection. I believe a mother-daughter team own the shop and it is surprising that the younger of the two didn't choose to use a "bi-textural" name for the store to be all-encompassing instead of limiting! As I appraoch a store like this and don't see my choice of needlework included as a welcoming gesture, I limit my purchases. Today I couldn't resist a very cute needle case adorned with a bright flower to take to my friend in Mexico when we go later this month. Awakening people to the value of crochet is like Mom's health: it takes patience and baby steps!
I am beginning to think I will be able to return home tomorrow or Saturday. The nurse says she is not quite ready to go to rehab today, but most likely will tomorrow. The rehab unit is in the hospital and she is a candidate for this unit because the doctors want to visit her a little more often. She has her final chest tube out and that is a pre-requisite for moving off this floor.
Dad gets a dinner invite from a friend to go to the Legion Hall. He accepts and it is good for him to get back to seeing his friend.s I cooked pork chops with brother, Rog, and Lynn. I harvested some rhubarb from Rog's garden and made a pie too.
Friday: At the hospital today, we are getting mixed messages about the move to rehab. The nurse says she never promises an exact day because the census is large and beds need to empty before one can move there. I took Mom a pie of rhubarb pie and she seemed very enthusiastic about eating it. She is enjoying the hospital food, but says they give her too much. She is looking much better and almost like herself. She continues to gain a little strength each time she gets up to walk.
I kiss Mom goodbye and she asks me when I am coming back? Probably in ten days, depending on how she progresses. Niece, Liz, is coming to town from FL soon, and I don't want to overlap with her too much due to lack of beds. I do want to see her though, so will return before she leaves, probably August 19.
I'm determined to make my drive home a pleasant and leisurely one. I am starving by the time I get to Plymouth, so I stop for a hamburger at Schoop's. Yummy, with cheese fries. (eating therapy!) Heading down the road, progressing well; all of a sudden my car takes a sharp right curve, just after I've seen a sign for "American Girl Clothes"!! I have seen this sign numerous times and have wanted to check it out, but usually I'm with Alan and He prefers the "shot-of-out-of-cannon" method of getting home, with minimal stops! One mile off the highway is a lovely house with one huge room dedicated to the American Girl clothes home-abased busines, called "Imbue". Again, I am overwhelmed by the choices, but do manage to pick out a pair of adorable blue sneakers for mine. I enter my business card in the free-outfit drawing and the owner notices, Fiber Impressions and asks me what I do. I tell her crochet and she gets very excited. She believes skull caps for the doll would be a best seller and tells me if I make some for her she will take them in trade. At the moment, I am making a crocheted ribbed jacket and hat for my doll, so we will see what inspires me after that. See my blogpost: "Ginny, Barbie, American Girl: Influences Through the Generations."
Home Sweet Home about 5:00 and I enjoy a lovely meal at a new Italian Restaurant with Alan.
Saturday: Today was spent busying myself around the house, unpacking and catching up on email I also had to "unpack" what I had started to pack for the CGOA crochet conference in Buffalo. I had to make the hard decision to NOT go this year because of Mom's surgery. All my plans to go and take classes as well as celebrate the fifteenth anniversary of CGOA (www.crochet.org)were signed and sealed. However, the timeing was just bad. I would have felt too guilty to go and wouldn't have been able to concentrate. The Celebration plans were in able hands of www.crochetwithdee.com and http://designingvashti.blogspot.com, as well as BJ and the other Past Presidents so I didn't have to worry about that. I decided it's best I just bite the bullet, cancel my flight and try not to think about it. I am content with my decision. Dad didn't stop telling me how much he appreciated my being there and that he "couldn't have done it without me." I am not so sure of that. The human spirit is strong and comes through, especially intimes of crisis! I'm anxious to hear reports from friends who were there and photos of the event are starting to appear on some of the online groups, so I can live vicariously through them.
Sunday: The weekend passed pretty uneventfully for Mom, while she waited for a room in rehab to open up. She exercised by walking, but PT doesn't happen during weekends. Apparently not in rehab either!I got in some crochet time and finished up little details on the projects I had in progress. That is a real satisfying feeling of accomplishment when several projects come together all at once and I can count them as finihsed!
Monday, August 10: Mom goes to rehab at St. Anne's Assisted Living facility.. No rooms ever became avaialble at the hospital and Mom needs to get started on her rehab. St. Anne's was her second choice and off she went. When I talked to her this evening, she was settled in and said it was nice. She walks down the hall to the cafeteria and says the food is real good. She does have to share the room, but coincidentally, her roommate is from the town where Mom grew up!
Tuesday: Wearing "real clothes" today! Mom says that makes her feel real great. She had an excercise session that lasted two hours and said that it wasn't vigorous the whole time, but that the therapists were happy with her ability to do some of the things thay didn't expect she could. Go MOM! They had an orientation today to the facility and she is so excited because they told her that Dad could bring their dog, Jack, to visit!
Mom before surgery with jack
My crochet got me through this tough experience and the love and support of family and friends got mom through (not to mention the doctors and nurses). Maybe when I vist Mom next in rehab, crochet will become part of her therapy!
Thursday: Two weeks today since her surgery and Lynn said tonight that Mom looked like "herself" for the first time today; hair combed, regular clothes on and wearing her glasses. Now that's the next chapter in her recovery!
Sunday: I called Mom at 1 PM and work her up. She said she hadn't slept well, but knew of no cause, like pain. She reported that Dad and Lynn had brought Jack to visit as planned on Friday night and he was all "wiggly" when he saw her. It didn't take long for him to settle in and relax on Mom's bed. Niece, Liz, is in town from FK and she came to visit Nanny on Sat. night after she had been to dinner with Lynn, Rog, Dad and niece Sarah and her family. Mom said she hasn't even thought of Dad bringing in food from a restaurant. She likes the food at St. Anne's but is not eating big portions.
Other big news from MOM: Sheila passed a kidney stone and feels SOOOO much better now. She will be induced this Wed. if Kaylee doesn't come before. Sheila, medical student that she is, asked her doctor if it could be a kidney stone and he "poopooed" the idea." Sheila retrieved the stone and will take it to show her doctor. UH! OH!!
Mom also said that her sister fell and cracked her hip. She was to have surgery to repair it today, but Mom hadn't heard anything. She is three years older than MOM and a dear lady. I told Mom the next thing we know, they will be roommates in rehab!
Wednesday,August 19, 2009 I returned to Ft. Wayne to check in on Mom in the hopes that she is progressing well enough that I will feel comfortable leaving for vacation to Mexico next week! I didn't arrive until 1PM and Dad had already seen Mom in the morning during her workout. So we had lunch together and I got to take in my workout at the local Curves while Mom was resting. We went to see her about 4Pm and boy, was she looking great in her lavender sweater, hair combed and sitting upright! Such an improvement in her voice now that her throat has had time to heal from the ventilator tubes who were her friend for many days! A good strong voice conveys strength! Mom is still weak, but the PT people are saying she is doing agreat job on her exercise routines and mom said that they have been surprised at how well she has done also. They eat early in rehab, so Dad and I joined her in the dining room Mom is walking with a walker and an aide walks with her using a gait belt,just to assist with her steadiness.
Thursday: I got to St. Anne's in time to observe Mom in the rehab room and I also thought she was doing great. She did tend to get a little distracted bytalking with a lady friend, but she told me it was okay and needed rest! I was very impressed that she did an arm exercise non-stop for fifteen minutes! She is doing leg-lifts with weights, bicycling, and hitting a balloon that is tossed to her. After Mom is done with an exercise session, she is pretty well wiped out and goes to lunch and that naptime calls to her. So, I left her and spent the afternoon doing some errands and grabbed a little lunch while I was out. Dad and I joined Mom for dinner at 5PM and it is obvious that Mom hasn't lost her social characteristics. She was pointing out the friends she's made and sharing their stories with us. Dad's friend had invited him out to the VFW again, so I joined Mom for dinner. They make great desserts in rehab!
Friday: Lynn is babysitting her 5 year old twin granddaughters, Paris and Mariss, and so we all go together to visit "Nanny" She was busy in the rehab room when we got there and was, of course, glad to see the twins. Mom has really progressed and is walking very steadily, with her walker still, but without the aid of a person or the gait belt now!The girls were excited to meet Mya, the golden retreiver who hangs out in rehab too! Dad was there too and Roger showed up for a quick visit on his lunch break. I was told by the PT lady that they will be doing a home assessment next week and after that they will decide if Mom can go home about next Thursday. Yeah, this is really good progress!
There was a bonus as St. Anne's was having a garage sale which we perused befored taking off to do some errand that Lynn and I had. I like the pace; it's relaxing. We went to McDonald's when the girls started to get a bit impatient. Lynn treated them because it is the last day of "Grammy School" They are starting Kindergarten next week and Lynn has been their primary caretaker while Sarah worked ever since they have beenn infants! The first day of Kinder is going to be just as hard on Lynn as it is Sarah!During my afternoon visit to see Mom I took my Ginny doll which I had purposely brought because I thought she would enjoy seeing this special doll she gave me when I was ten. Ginny was very special to me because all her clothes were made by my grandmother, many from fabric used by my Mom to sew dresses for me! Mom hadn't seen her in fifty years, and I had hoped, she really enjoyed reminiscing about the doll and the fabrics. I also brought along a snapshor of me dressed in one of the dresses my Mom had made and had Ginny dressed the same!
Dad is tired and growing weary of the many trips to visit MOM. He needed a break tonight and didn't even want to go to Pizza Hut, so I accompanied Lynn to a Lia Sophia party at her friends house. It was a nice diversion and Lynn bought a lovely cross necklace for daughter-in-law, Sheila, who is giving birth any day.
Saturday: It is Saturday already and time for me to go home. I had talked Dad into trying a new Pancake house in the building where Burger King usedn to be. He was skeptical and habitually only goes to Bob Evan's. I took a chance, but it worked out. Dad loved it and thought Mom would slso enjoy it once she is back home. Dad and I then went to see Mom and found her lounging in bed; no rehab on Sat! Dad and I visited for about an hour and encouraged Mom to get out of bed and sit up. No laziness; gotta keep up that strength. Dad also has to learn to not cater to Mom's every wish, but to use each opportunity to let use those muscles which so need to be kept strong. We're aiming for continued progress and no back-peddling when she gets home.
Tuesday: Dad called to tell us goodbye and wish us "bon voyage" and said Mom's home assesment is tomorrow.
Wednesday: Lynn reports via email that the assessement went well, Mom passed, and she is going home tomorrow! Mother had to go to the house and show the PT supervisor all around and explain all her daily activities and show how it all would work out. Three weeks and she is outta there! Good work, MOM!
November 13 2009A LOVE STORY:
Amost a wee ince we were theread Mom has steadily declined al week. She is just not eating and we don't know exactly why. The dr. wants to put a feeling tube in her stomach increase potein and get the debubitus to heal. Maybe then she can eventually get out of bed. Right now that seems out of the question. So they will wean her off the coumadin an get ready to surgically put he tube in by te end of he week,hopefully. Dad has had a really rough week as he sees her go downhill. Out of frustration, he hreatened to "yank"her out of there and says he is beginning to hat it!
I am now set up to receive weekly updates after the Medical team meats and I will talk to the clinical nurse dirctor. I have my own isueswith the place, but know mom is in a tough situation too. She is not bringing much particiption to the situation.
Mom is 83 and Dad is 89. They have been married 63 years! Dad has been steadfast and strong through all of mom's ups and downs and has stood by her side for everything, even though he hates hsopitals! Her cardiac doctor was pleased at her progress and thought she was doing as well as could be expected. She was going to the grocery with Dad, doctor's appoitnments and out to eat at restaurants. As a matter of fact, it was on their anniversary, September 18, after they returned home from dinner with Rog and Lynn that she broke her hip! I met my husband, Alan, on September 18, 1965 and wanted to get married on that day as well. However, since we decided to tie the knot during Thanksgiving break at college, it didn't happen! Back to the love birds!
As Dad was unlocking the door, he turned around to see Mom on the ground! Rog and Lynn were next door at their garage and came running. They got her in a chair and called the ambulance! It has been a long and tortuous path for Mother; I will keep the details brief.
November 1-Dad answered Mom's phone and he had just arrived and Lovingly, he had thoughnt to bring her a Wendy's hamburger and frosty! He said she had enjoyed the shrimp they had served her for dinner and didn't know if she could eat the hamburger as well. Mom has not been fully cognizant much of the time and I don't think she fully appreciate's all the anxiety my dad has been through on her behalf, nor has she appreciated his heroic efforts to see that she is taken care of the best possible. Deep down, though, I know she realizes the depth of his love. It is a reminder to all of us that each day is an opportunity to express the love we feel for those closest to us and to not take any day for granted!
October 31- I talked to Mom and she sounded very weak, but alert. She couldn't remember what she had eaten, though. She had a report about my neice's Halloween party the night before and told me what my brother went as: cowboy!
October 29-Papers re-signed and all is well. She has a beautiful view out her window of the city and is in a room with another lady who has MMRSA as well. My dad prefers a private room, but for now this is what they have to offer. I headed home to be with Alan who has been in Orlando all week. Through it all, I crocheted and crocheted! I was wise to bring along plenty of progjects and if need be, I could always run out to a yarn store as a diversion to get more yarn! It soothes me and helps pass the long evenings after a long day back and forth from the hospital.
Wednesday October 28-Nothing much happens on the weekend, but finally on Sunday a PT person showed up and got mom out of bed to stand and then sit in the chair. She did well. On Monday she walked 15 feet with the aid of a walker and gait belt with the PT supporting her. She's been so weak and we tried creative ways to get her to eat. I brought her apple crisp I had made and Dad stopped by to pick up a Wendy's frosty for her. Just the slightest little thing fills her up and she seems to prefer sweets over everthing else! Quoting Mom, "Do you have any idea how they can ruin Macaroni and cheese?" Her dr. had recommended that the next step be a long term acute care facility called "Select." It is housed in another hospital in town, not as close and convenient, but if this is what is needed, my Dad is very willing to give it a try. Finally after being "released" since yesterday, she arrived there at 5:00 PM. After we saw she was settled in, we left for home, exhausted from a long day.
At dinner later, I got an urgent call from the dr. saying my dad had mistakenly signed a DNR (Do Not Resusitate) order for MOM!! He gets very baffled at the medical terminology and the support staff don't exactly handle this kind of thing well either. Anyway, the dr. put her on "Full Code" for the night and we were supposed to go and resign the papers in the morning. I had no reason to believe she would stop breathing tonight, but the thought of it was daunting!
October 27-I think we have a "status quo" day today and Dad had decided to go to "tea" at the local ice cream parlor with a group of firends who are all married couples still in their 80s and 90s! He invited me to go along and it was such a sweet scene. Another Love Story! All except one couple are people who I knew growing up and who Mom and Dad have been friends with for over 50 years. The eldest is 96 and he can't hear or see, but boy does he had an upbeat attitude. He even remembered Alan's name and gave me a big hug and wanted to know all about my family. Now, that's admirable!It is very amazing that there would be still four couples at their age and still able to get out on their own each week to socialize! I enjoyed the time with them immensely and they were so concerned about Mom. They passed around a card and all signed it for her.
October 24-She has MMRSA in the would and it is antibiotic resistant. She is also short of breath and the dr. says it is from the hydration! So, she is on one antibiotic for possible pneumonia and another for the wound! If the disease doesn't kill you the doctors will!!!! They also checked for a blood clot because of the shortness of breath, but thankfully, that was negative. We needed some good news by now. Every visit, Dad would kiss Mom hello and goodbye, even if it meant stretching on tip-toes over the bedrail to reach her lips! She could hardly raise her head to help most times. I had to lower the rail to reach her for a kiss!
October 23-I got up at the crack of dawn to get to the hospital in time for Mom's surgery to debride the decubitus. I made it in time and the surgery started late-well, it didn't actually start! Her blood ooxygen levels were not good and the anesthesiaologist didn't feel comfortable putting her under. So, instead, they packed the wound and used a cream medication that will debride the wound as well. It is a much slower process, but the only alternative at this point. It is my cousin Laura's birthday today. She is a nurse at the same hospital. She has been so supportive and good to check in on Mom and Dad often, even though she has her own "full plate" at home.
October 20- I thought she was in good hands at St. Anne's, but Mom was having a rough time. She had night sweats and they sent off a urine culture to check for a urinary tract infection. She developed shaky hands, due to the medicine for confusion, so they finally lowered the dose and that helped. She has developed a bedsore and they are treating it with a paste. She is going to rehab daily but Dad says all she can do is stand with the walker and shuffle a couple of steps. Very very weak and Dad is so concerned. He visits her three times a day and I am worried that he is not getting enohyg rest or food. He insists on doing what he does and there is no sense trying to change his mind! He has repeatedly told me that if this ever happens to him, he doesn't want to go through all Mom has. I am not sure she wants to go through it either! This is the day that they finally took her to the hospital: dehydrated with a stage 4 (the worst) decubitus!
October 6, 2009 Mom graduated to the next step in her rehab process: St. Anne's Nursing home rehab facility.
October 1, 2009-Mom was moved to the Continuing Care Unit at the hospital where she can start some therapy for the hip. Mom is so weak from the pain meds that she is also resitant to any offers of exercise.
September 26, 2009-I left for MI to attend Nicole's first shower hosted by her work friends.The next day Mom received two pints of blood! Bleeding from the intestine was suspected because of the Coumadin and Dr. was hoping it would stabilize so she wouldn't have to do a colonoscopy to explore causes. The pain meds were lowered and the anxiety drug discontiued so Mom was beginning to come out of her fog. I greatly appreciated the family doctor who was keeping track of all the consulting doctors and very willing to talk to me long distance from home.
September 23-26-I was there advocating for Mom in the hospital. Her hemaglobin got low and this is always an issue when patients are on Coumadin. She is confused and sleeps alot probably due to the pain medication, dehydration. I got very concerned about "Delirium" and talked to my former boss, Donna. She was so helpful, and encouraging and gave me some goosd tips which I came armed with to the hospital.
Sunday, September 20, 2009-Surgery to repair the hip was delayed until today because Mom's blood pressure had spiked. I got the call from Rog as I was about to leave MI after visiting Nicole and Jeff and helping with some of the preparation for "Pippie's" arrival (Nov. 28)
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It has been said that crochet and probably any other form of needlework are good for one's health: relaxing, exercises the fingers and the mind and oh, let's see so much more. Tomorrow I begin research on an article I have wanted to write on this subject for years! I've collected bits and pieces and they're in a folder ready to browse and organize into some answers on the subject.
Recently, I went through a challenging experience when my mother had scheduled open-heart surgery on Thursday, July 30. At age 83, she was ready for her surgery, tired of not being able to breathe well and had a positive outlook about what the outcome would be. I had positive thoughts, also, about the outcome of the surgery because my cousin, Laura, is a nurse there and confirmed that Mom's cardiac surgeon is very good. The surgery was scheduled ahead of time, so I had time to plan ahead. My crochet was by my side through it all.
Dad, Lynn (sister-in-law) and I arrived at 6:00 AM with mom and amazingly Mom's pastor arrived at 6:30. She offered comfort to Mom with her prayer, I know. From then until 3:00 PM, Dad, Lynn and I endured the wait. Rog, my brother, got there when he could. Lynn is the best sister-in-law in the world! I know Mom and Dad think of her as a "daughter." She is always there willing to help with nary a complaint! I sure appreciate her being there so close in my absence! The nurses and staff were caring and ehlpful and kept us informed of mom's progress every two hours. We were so relieved to find that not only did she endure the long surgery and accompanying anesthesia, but she did quite well.
I've entered that "in-between" phases of my life: caring for elderly parents and awaiting our first grandchild. Read my post, "It's a Girl." Having a girl grandchild for our first one is all I could have hoped for. Her parents, Nicole and Jeff, are pretty excited as well. There are so many cute crocheted things I made and want to make for her, that my hands and mind kept busy during the surgery. The time passed quickly and I know it's because I go into a nice state of relaxation while I crochet and my mind wanders and time passes. One easy-to-make baby bonnet finished except for the variegated yarn trim which I forgot to bring along.
No biggie; I can quickly finish off this project when I get back home.We didn't lose our appetite during the day and had a decent breakfast with Lynn in the hospital cafeteria, lunch across the street at a nice restaurant and dinner at an upscale but casual restaurant nearby with my cousin who is in town from Florida.
We were finally able to see Mom in ICU and even though the nurses were excellent and explained everything to us, I know it was very hard for dad to see her on a ventilator which is breathing for her and in her "zonked" state from the anesthesia. There was nothing we could do for or say to mom at this point, so, exhausted, we called it a night and went home.
About two hours later, I got a call on my cell phone from an id in town. Turns out if was Mom's nurse telling me that she had started bleeding out of one of her chest tubes, an amount greater than normal. I could tell the nurse was anxious to get her attention back to mom as she was breathing pretty fast. She told me that the doctor was on his way and they didn't know where the bleeding was coming from and most likely they would have to take her back to surgery to fix it. Not more than twenty minutes later, the same dear nurse, Kim, called and said they were on their way to surgery.
My hands went cold and I was shaking inside a bit, but I had to remain calm for Dad and expalin it all to him. The nurse said we didn't have to come to the hospital because there was nothing we could do, but she also said we could if we wanted to. I left it up to Dad and he wanted to be there. The good news is that the hospital is just seven minutes from their house; so off we went. By now, we knew our way to ICU and we waited there. It was quiet and dad had a good half hour "doze." Earlier in the day, I had been cold in the various waiting rooms, so I had enough wits about me to grab mom's prayer shawl that her church ladies, bless their hearts, had given her when she had her pacemaker put in. It served Dad well as a "pillow."
It was eerily quiet in the ICU waiting room at 9:00 to 11:00 PM at , but I felt peaceful as Dad dozed and I crocheted. One mini-menagerie "elephant." well on its way to being finished. I didn't bring any fiberfil along, so his stuffing will have to wait 'til I get home!No probalem; it is not suitable for children under two so I can enjoy it until baby comes into the world and passes the two-year mark!
About 10:30, Kim let us know that Mom had come out of surgery just fine and that the doctor would be out soon to talk to us. He appeared shortly thereafter and gave us a thumbs up! He said Mom did just fine during the second surgery and a minor repair of a nick in her lung was taken care of with just one stitch. The good news is that the doctor said while he was in her chest, he could see that the heart repair was just fine and her heart is working well! He reassured us that opening her up the second time won't impede healing, but there may be a slightly increased chance of infection.
Whew, what a big sigh of relief. We could now go home and be asleep by midnight for hopefully some hard-earned rest!
Friday: Mom is struggling. The nurses say this operation is hard on a fifty-year-old let alone someone who is 83 and she had anesthesia twice in one day yesterday!She is opening her eyes slightly and seems to know we are there when we visit. The nurses permit us to come anytime we want and we can see her as long as they aren't involved in a procedure with her. She'll be sleeping a lot, so I can get some cooking done for the long-awaited reunion for my dad's side tomorrow! Yep, the timing is bad, but it has been planned for almost a year and relatives have arrived from out of town and we have come to far to back down now. "Don't forget to pick up the pavillion key at the Park Dsitrict; don't forget to pickup the key!" Setting aside her surgery worries beforehand, mom asked me what dad i needed to pick up the key! I hadn't read the contract carefully about picking up the key the day before. I would have never thought of it. Thanks, MOM! Ft. Wayne is not a huge town; it's easy to get around. Dad and I stopped by the park district and got the key after we left the hospital. I MUST fit in some crochet today too! My cousin joined dad and I for a light dinner tonight. He has very little family and is so happy to be visiting his uncle (my dad) in the town his father spent some childhood. He's been very dear to stop in to see Mom often. I know she wasn't really aware that he was there, but his caring is very much appreciated. We'll have lots to tell her later about what she's missed these last couple of days!
After dinner, we called to see if mom was awake and how she was doing. They were keeping her pretty well medicated with morphine and thus, asleep, so we took a break and went home for some rest.It was not late and I started another project, just for variety: a crocheted butterfly on a wire armature to be used a s yard art by my neighbor.
I already have one in other colors perched on my fencepost and she admired it and wanted me to make her one.Saturday: Up early to go to the park/rosegarden to set up the tables and make sure all is well for our reunion to start at 11:00. Putting the final touches on the food is easy today after all the prep I did yesterday. Getting excited about hubby, younger daughter and older daughter and her husband arriving soon. We had a very good turnout, about thirty people, at the reunion and tons of delicous food.
It all went smoothly and although I felt a bit stressed, everyone was very grateful that I had put together this first-ever Blakley Family Reunion. We had photo albums and memorabilia scrapbooks and even some of my aunt and uncle's art to share. 
Dad and I made a trip to the hospital at two PM to avoid the "change of shift" hubbub which prevents us from seeing mom. Alan and the kids came along. I've been strong and I have been the "chosen" memeber of the family to communicate with the doctors and nurses and to keep everyone informed as to mom's progress. They've depended on me and my nursing background has come in handy. Seeing my girls cry at the shock of how their grandma looks was all it took for me to breakdown. I had warned them that she doesn't look good, but I guess one never knows what to expect in situations like this. It's really a first exposure for our girls; they've had very little experience with hospitals, thankfully! Four of the five grandchildren and spouses were in town for the reunion, and they were all able to visit Grandma. Mom opened her eyes a little more and waved one hand. She knew us, but can't talk; still on the ventilator. She knew the kids, if only for the moemnt. We got back to the pavillion and finished up the cleanup. Some of the cousins had it well underway and that was greatly appreciated.
Alan, Beth and I checked into our hotel for the evening and Nicole and Jeff headed back to Michigan. Sure wish they could have stayed longer, but they had had a flood in their kitchen this week and had to get back to the big job or repair. We rested some and didn't feel hungry until about 8:00 PM. We joined my cousin at a wonderful Mexican restaurant and just had a Margarita and appetizers. What a welcomed change of scenery from the hospital! His flight in the morning was going to be early so we said our goodbyes and returned to our own hotel for some needed rest.
Sunday: Alan and Bethany returned to Chicago fairly early and I returned to my dad's house. Today was a turning point of sorts for mom, but not in a good way. By now, she was getting less morphine and waking up but severely confused. She kind of knows who we are but doesn't realize she is in the hospital and REALLY wants to go home! This was most likely due to the effects of so much anesthesia in one day and her creatanine levels were high which didn't help matters! We were reassured by the nurses that this is perfectly normal especially for someone her age. I accepted that and crocheted, but I know it was very hard for my dad to see her talking "crazy talk."! She had also vomited in the morning and there was concern about her ingesting some of the liquid food they have begun to give her.
S-I-L, Lynn, is looking for a teddy bear with her new granddaughter's name on it. We go to the consignment craft store, but it is closed on Sunday. Not all is lost, as we go next door to a faboulous re-sale clothes store, Clothes Mentor and do some shopping therapy. I found a pink sweater with "fibery" embellishment.
When we went back in the afternoon, Mom was sleeping real hard. The nurse told us she had had a sleepless night and this was the best thing for her. We didn't distrub her. When we called again at 6:00 PM, they said she was still sleeping and it was best for us to stay at home and not disturb her. Sleep is the best thing she can do. The nurses said she is stable and the chemistry levels in her blood are starting to go down.
Okay, time to get organized with the crochet, have a glass of wine and check out what I can start or finish now.I'm sleeping at my brother and sister-in-law's house and they watch tv everynight with a medicinal glass of wine. Good idea! I keep her company and crochet.Darn it, why didn't I bring along fiberfil? I am starting another imini-menagerie animal, this time a mouse.
Monday: What a difference and what a surpise when we got to the hospital at 10 AM! My cousin, Laura, was there also, and has been a great support. They took Mom off the ventilator "cold turkey" this moring instead of weaning her off and she was doing well with her stats remaining stable. As predicted, her confusion has passed; how wonderful to be able to talk to her and understand what she wanted to say. We even got a smile out of her! Mom doesn't remember much of what she has been through, but that is not such a bad thing! Later in the afternoon when we visit we find that they have mom back on the ventilator. Her kidneys output is not sufficient and they are giving her Lasix. She may need a lung specialist consult and the dr. has decided that weaning is a better thing for her, so she is two hours on and two hours off. We are reassured that this is not an emergency, but Mom is just taking "baby steps" in her recovery. She was pretty well de-conditioned before her surgery due to her leaky mitral valve, so she has a long road to restore her strength ahead of her. She's still getting the IV protein but taking some ice chips now. Yeah!
Lynn and I take a break and return to the craft store. Unfortunately, there are no bears with "Kaylee's" name. Lynn was kind enough, though, to go with me to a JoAnn store nearby and even gave me her coupon so I could buy some elastic cord I need for the baby booties I am making. One pair of crocheted Baby UGGS booties complete! They are precious and adorable and kudos to Pamapaloza who designed them and offered them on Ravelry.com. Not only is it satisfying to finish a project that turns out so well, but the anticipation of my daughter, the new mother, opening up this gift at an upcoming shower is very exciting!I know she will think they are funny and the cutest!
Gee, I thought I had planned well. I brought lots of yarn, patterns and hooks, but it's the little finishing touches and I didn't bring along. During our evening visit, Dad, Lynn and I found that Mom has progressed to taking clear liquids and she's holding them down real well. Rog hs been visiting Mom every day after work. Things are looking up.
Tuesday: Dad goes out to breakfast with his cronies for his weekly meet-up at a local restaurant. This is a good sign that he is feeling much more comfortable with Mom's progress and ready to get back to some of his routine.
We visit Mom at 10:00 AM and she progressed rapidly to thick liquids and was eating pudding and jello when we visited this morning. They are getting her up to a chair and it's going to be a good day and she will progress more rapidly now with some real food going into her system. There is talk of her going to a regular hospital room today or tomorrow. We're sure happy about that news.
After Lynn's twin granddaughters go home, she and I do a little shopping for baby clothes at Once Upon a Child. Her new granddaughter is due any day and my first in November. What fun is this! Shopping therapy is always good for distracting the mind from stress, just like crochet! The amount of CUTE baby things for all ages in this store woverwhelmed me, but I did pull through and pick up quite a few wonderful ensembles for Baby Wawpk!
During our afternoon hosptial visit, we find that Mom's on her way to her new room in the cardiac unit. She continues with heavy lquids tonight for dinner, but the nurse asked her if she wanted a regular breakfast in the morning. Mom has a good appetite and said, "yes."
My friend and co-author of the Kids Can Do It Crocheting book Jackie Young,
invited me to join her at knitting group tonight at Panera. It's my best chance of fitting in a visit with Jackie and a nice diversion. I had a great, relaxing time and Jackie said I was her 'show and tell!" I took the mini-UGGS for show and tiell. They had seen the knitted version and thought the crocheted ones were pretty nifty! It was a great getaway with some very enthusiastic knitters. I met one lovely young woman, "SpoonsnSpools" on Ravelry who is a physician. We are friends on Rav now.Wednesday: Mom's feeling like her hair is a mess today and this is a real good sign. I brushed it for her and put it up in a tidy knot. She said her breakfast of bacon, fruit and oatmeal was good and that they serve a lot of food. She'll be getting out of bed and sitting in a chair today!
Dad goes to afternoon "tea" at the ice cream shop. The ladies are included in this gathering. Everyone is concerned about Mom and sends their well-wishes. Dad's getting back in the groove!
My "shopping therapy" today is a trip to he collectible/antique shop. Ever since I blogged about Ginny doll, I have been searching all over the house for the re-issue version that I bought in the eighties, to no avail. I do have the box, so I know I am not dreaming about having purchased her. I have done some searching on line and Ginny's were released each decade since the 1950s and are still being produced using the original mold. i want to replace the one I had bought, but didn't want to spend $50.00 or more. Low and behold this shop had ONE Ginny, from 1984 and I thought it was reasonable at $35.00 with a ten percent discount with cash. SOLD! Oh, I'm excited to have this in a box that appears it has never been opened. The title on the box is "Going Shopping." Hmmm, appropriate!
Thursday: This morning we saw Mom take a walk with her walker out in the hall for a short distance and she had also walked to the bathroom. Cousin Alan and his son, Paul came to visit also and mom enjoyed chatting with them, but it doesn't take much to get her completely worn out!We leave her to rest until lunch time.
In-between hospital visits, I treat myself to a visit to a new yarn shop, "Knitting on Broadway." highly recommended by the ladies at the knitting group. My only complaint is that the name of the store is limiting and screams crochet rejection. I believe a mother-daughter team own the shop and it is surprising that the younger of the two didn't choose to use a "bi-textural" name for the store to be all-encompassing instead of limiting! As I appraoch a store like this and don't see my choice of needlework included as a welcoming gesture, I limit my purchases. Today I couldn't resist a very cute needle case adorned with a bright flower to take to my friend in Mexico when we go later this month. Awakening people to the value of crochet is like Mom's health: it takes patience and baby steps!
I am beginning to think I will be able to return home tomorrow or Saturday. The nurse says she is not quite ready to go to rehab today, but most likely will tomorrow. The rehab unit is in the hospital and she is a candidate for this unit because the doctors want to visit her a little more often. She has her final chest tube out and that is a pre-requisite for moving off this floor.
Dad gets a dinner invite from a friend to go to the Legion Hall. He accepts and it is good for him to get back to seeing his friend.s I cooked pork chops with brother, Rog, and Lynn. I harvested some rhubarb from Rog's garden and made a pie too.
Friday: At the hospital today, we are getting mixed messages about the move to rehab. The nurse says she never promises an exact day because the census is large and beds need to empty before one can move there. I took Mom a pie of rhubarb pie and she seemed very enthusiastic about eating it. She is enjoying the hospital food, but says they give her too much. She is looking much better and almost like herself. She continues to gain a little strength each time she gets up to walk.
I kiss Mom goodbye and she asks me when I am coming back? Probably in ten days, depending on how she progresses. Niece, Liz, is coming to town from FL soon, and I don't want to overlap with her too much due to lack of beds. I do want to see her though, so will return before she leaves, probably August 19.
I'm determined to make my drive home a pleasant and leisurely one. I am starving by the time I get to Plymouth, so I stop for a hamburger at Schoop's. Yummy, with cheese fries. (eating therapy!) Heading down the road, progressing well; all of a sudden my car takes a sharp right curve, just after I've seen a sign for "American Girl Clothes"!! I have seen this sign numerous times and have wanted to check it out, but usually I'm with Alan and He prefers the "shot-of-out-of-cannon" method of getting home, with minimal stops! One mile off the highway is a lovely house with one huge room dedicated to the American Girl clothes home-abased busines, called "Imbue". Again, I am overwhelmed by the choices, but do manage to pick out a pair of adorable blue sneakers for mine. I enter my business card in the free-outfit drawing and the owner notices, Fiber Impressions and asks me what I do. I tell her crochet and she gets very excited. She believes skull caps for the doll would be a best seller and tells me if I make some for her she will take them in trade. At the moment, I am making a crocheted ribbed jacket and hat for my doll, so we will see what inspires me after that. See my blogpost: "Ginny, Barbie, American Girl: Influences Through the Generations."
Home Sweet Home about 5:00 and I enjoy a lovely meal at a new Italian Restaurant with Alan.
Saturday: Today was spent busying myself around the house, unpacking and catching up on email I also had to "unpack" what I had started to pack for the CGOA crochet conference in Buffalo. I had to make the hard decision to NOT go this year because of Mom's surgery. All my plans to go and take classes as well as celebrate the fifteenth anniversary of CGOA (www.crochet.org)were signed and sealed. However, the timeing was just bad. I would have felt too guilty to go and wouldn't have been able to concentrate. The Celebration plans were in able hands of www.crochetwithdee.com and http://designingvashti.blogspot.com, as well as BJ and the other Past Presidents so I didn't have to worry about that. I decided it's best I just bite the bullet, cancel my flight and try not to think about it. I am content with my decision. Dad didn't stop telling me how much he appreciated my being there and that he "couldn't have done it without me." I am not so sure of that. The human spirit is strong and comes through, especially intimes of crisis! I'm anxious to hear reports from friends who were there and photos of the event are starting to appear on some of the online groups, so I can live vicariously through them.
Sunday: The weekend passed pretty uneventfully for Mom, while she waited for a room in rehab to open up. She exercised by walking, but PT doesn't happen during weekends. Apparently not in rehab either!I got in some crochet time and finished up little details on the projects I had in progress. That is a real satisfying feeling of accomplishment when several projects come together all at once and I can count them as finihsed!
Monday, August 10: Mom goes to rehab at St. Anne's Assisted Living facility.. No rooms ever became avaialble at the hospital and Mom needs to get started on her rehab. St. Anne's was her second choice and off she went. When I talked to her this evening, she was settled in and said it was nice. She walks down the hall to the cafeteria and says the food is real good. She does have to share the room, but coincidentally, her roommate is from the town where Mom grew up!
Tuesday: Wearing "real clothes" today! Mom says that makes her feel real great. She had an excercise session that lasted two hours and said that it wasn't vigorous the whole time, but that the therapists were happy with her ability to do some of the things thay didn't expect she could. Go MOM! They had an orientation today to the facility and she is so excited because they told her that Dad could bring their dog, Jack, to visit!
Mom before surgery with jack
My crochet got me through this tough experience and the love and support of family and friends got mom through (not to mention the doctors and nurses). Maybe when I vist Mom next in rehab, crochet will become part of her therapy!
Thursday: Two weeks today since her surgery and Lynn said tonight that Mom looked like "herself" for the first time today; hair combed, regular clothes on and wearing her glasses. Now that's the next chapter in her recovery!
Sunday: I called Mom at 1 PM and work her up. She said she hadn't slept well, but knew of no cause, like pain. She reported that Dad and Lynn had brought Jack to visit as planned on Friday night and he was all "wiggly" when he saw her. It didn't take long for him to settle in and relax on Mom's bed. Niece, Liz, is in town from FK and she came to visit Nanny on Sat. night after she had been to dinner with Lynn, Rog, Dad and niece Sarah and her family. Mom said she hasn't even thought of Dad bringing in food from a restaurant. She likes the food at St. Anne's but is not eating big portions.
Other big news from MOM: Sheila passed a kidney stone and feels SOOOO much better now. She will be induced this Wed. if Kaylee doesn't come before. Sheila, medical student that she is, asked her doctor if it could be a kidney stone and he "poopooed" the idea." Sheila retrieved the stone and will take it to show her doctor. UH! OH!!
Mom also said that her sister fell and cracked her hip. She was to have surgery to repair it today, but Mom hadn't heard anything. She is three years older than MOM and a dear lady. I told Mom the next thing we know, they will be roommates in rehab!
Wednesday,August 19, 2009 I returned to Ft. Wayne to check in on Mom in the hopes that she is progressing well enough that I will feel comfortable leaving for vacation to Mexico next week! I didn't arrive until 1PM and Dad had already seen Mom in the morning during her workout. So we had lunch together and I got to take in my workout at the local Curves while Mom was resting. We went to see her about 4Pm and boy, was she looking great in her lavender sweater, hair combed and sitting upright! Such an improvement in her voice now that her throat has had time to heal from the ventilator tubes who were her friend for many days! A good strong voice conveys strength! Mom is still weak, but the PT people are saying she is doing agreat job on her exercise routines and mom said that they have been surprised at how well she has done also. They eat early in rehab, so Dad and I joined her in the dining room Mom is walking with a walker and an aide walks with her using a gait belt,just to assist with her steadiness.
Thursday: I got to St. Anne's in time to observe Mom in the rehab room and I also thought she was doing great. She did tend to get a little distracted bytalking with a lady friend, but she told me it was okay and needed rest! I was very impressed that she did an arm exercise non-stop for fifteen minutes! She is doing leg-lifts with weights, bicycling, and hitting a balloon that is tossed to her. After Mom is done with an exercise session, she is pretty well wiped out and goes to lunch and that naptime calls to her. So, I left her and spent the afternoon doing some errands and grabbed a little lunch while I was out. Dad and I joined Mom for dinner at 5PM and it is obvious that Mom hasn't lost her social characteristics. She was pointing out the friends she's made and sharing their stories with us. Dad's friend had invited him out to the VFW again, so I joined Mom for dinner. They make great desserts in rehab!
Friday: Lynn is babysitting her 5 year old twin granddaughters, Paris and Mariss, and so we all go together to visit "Nanny" She was busy in the rehab room when we got there and was, of course, glad to see the twins. Mom has really progressed and is walking very steadily, with her walker still, but without the aid of a person or the gait belt now!The girls were excited to meet Mya, the golden retreiver who hangs out in rehab too! Dad was there too and Roger showed up for a quick visit on his lunch break. I was told by the PT lady that they will be doing a home assessment next week and after that they will decide if Mom can go home about next Thursday. Yeah, this is really good progress!
There was a bonus as St. Anne's was having a garage sale which we perused befored taking off to do some errand that Lynn and I had. I like the pace; it's relaxing. We went to McDonald's when the girls started to get a bit impatient. Lynn treated them because it is the last day of "Grammy School" They are starting Kindergarten next week and Lynn has been their primary caretaker while Sarah worked ever since they have beenn infants! The first day of Kinder is going to be just as hard on Lynn as it is Sarah!During my afternoon visit to see Mom I took my Ginny doll which I had purposely brought because I thought she would enjoy seeing this special doll she gave me when I was ten. Ginny was very special to me because all her clothes were made by my grandmother, many from fabric used by my Mom to sew dresses for me! Mom hadn't seen her in fifty years, and I had hoped, she really enjoyed reminiscing about the doll and the fabrics. I also brought along a snapshor of me dressed in one of the dresses my Mom had made and had Ginny dressed the same!
Dad is tired and growing weary of the many trips to visit MOM. He needed a break tonight and didn't even want to go to Pizza Hut, so I accompanied Lynn to a Lia Sophia party at her friends house. It was a nice diversion and Lynn bought a lovely cross necklace for daughter-in-law, Sheila, who is giving birth any day.
Saturday: It is Saturday already and time for me to go home. I had talked Dad into trying a new Pancake house in the building where Burger King usedn to be. He was skeptical and habitually only goes to Bob Evan's. I took a chance, but it worked out. Dad loved it and thought Mom would slso enjoy it once she is back home. Dad and I then went to see Mom and found her lounging in bed; no rehab on Sat! Dad and I visited for about an hour and encouraged Mom to get out of bed and sit up. No laziness; gotta keep up that strength. Dad also has to learn to not cater to Mom's every wish, but to use each opportunity to let use those muscles which so need to be kept strong. We're aiming for continued progress and no back-peddling when she gets home.
Tuesday: Dad called to tell us goodbye and wish us "bon voyage" and said Mom's home assesment is tomorrow.
Wednesday: Lynn reports via email that the assessement went well, Mom passed, and she is going home tomorrow! Mother had to go to the house and show the PT supervisor all around and explain all her daily activities and show how it all would work out. Three weeks and she is outta there! Good work, MOM!
IT'S A GIRL!!!!!
I'm going to be a grandmother and I am READY!
I can remember a time when I wasn't ready to be a grandmother, like before she was married. That wouldn't have been cool! AAabout a year ago, I began to atart getting ready. Before that, it just didn't seem like me. Then, little tidbits started coming out in conversation with the new mom, Nicole and hubby, Jeff. Gradually, I started getting used to the idea and getting excited about what all it means. Now, I'm ready in many ways. Eotionally, I am excited about a new little being I can pamper and we were especially THRILLED last Saturday when they told us it is going to be a GIRL!!! I like girls! Schedule wise I am ready. My book is done. Yeah, yesterday, I turned in the final edits to the editor.I've been at it for fifteen months and it is a relief and a pleasure to be done and to go into "waiting mode" for the book, The Fine Art of Crochet, to be released in Spring 2010!
Of course, crochet-wise, I am ready too! In fact, I have been crocheting baby things for years and laying them away for the eventuality that one day I would be a grandmother. I must have made the christening gown ten years ago! So, maybe I have been more ready than I thought. No, I don't think so. I just like to crochet things when I see a pattern that strikes my fancy! I love to crochet! To see the things I have made already, go to my page on Ravelry:
www.Ravelry.com/crochetkween
I can remember a time when I wasn't even ready to be a parent. Alan and I were married for ten years before Nicole came along. No, we didn't have trouble. We knew what we were doing! I worked as a Family Planning Nurse Practitioner and had all the modern conveniences of birth control at hand. I think I wanted to try each and everyone so to be well versed for my patients! Kidding aside, we were just living life, serving in the Peace Corps, serious about our careers and when the time was right, it was perfect right! Nicole was a wonderful additon to our family and we cherish everything about her presence in our life. She and Jeff are taking their pregnancy very seriously, studying, listening and doing everything right for a helathy outcome. We wish them every blessing that we have had as parents!
Four years later, we were ready again and that's when Bethany came along. I couldn't say it during the preganacy, but gee, did I want another girl. Imagine the joy when my dream came true! Just young marrieds of one year, we don't know if there is another grandchild from Bethany and Ryan in our future. That's okay, when they are ready, we will be ready!
I can remember a time when I wasn't ready to be a grandmother, like before she was married. That wouldn't have been cool! AAabout a year ago, I began to atart getting ready. Before that, it just didn't seem like me. Then, little tidbits started coming out in conversation with the new mom, Nicole and hubby, Jeff. Gradually, I started getting used to the idea and getting excited about what all it means. Now, I'm ready in many ways. Eotionally, I am excited about a new little being I can pamper and we were especially THRILLED last Saturday when they told us it is going to be a GIRL!!! I like girls! Schedule wise I am ready. My book is done. Yeah, yesterday, I turned in the final edits to the editor.I've been at it for fifteen months and it is a relief and a pleasure to be done and to go into "waiting mode" for the book, The Fine Art of Crochet, to be released in Spring 2010!
Of course, crochet-wise, I am ready too! In fact, I have been crocheting baby things for years and laying them away for the eventuality that one day I would be a grandmother. I must have made the christening gown ten years ago! So, maybe I have been more ready than I thought. No, I don't think so. I just like to crochet things when I see a pattern that strikes my fancy! I love to crochet! To see the things I have made already, go to my page on Ravelry:
www.Ravelry.com/crochetkween
I can remember a time when I wasn't even ready to be a parent. Alan and I were married for ten years before Nicole came along. No, we didn't have trouble. We knew what we were doing! I worked as a Family Planning Nurse Practitioner and had all the modern conveniences of birth control at hand. I think I wanted to try each and everyone so to be well versed for my patients! Kidding aside, we were just living life, serving in the Peace Corps, serious about our careers and when the time was right, it was perfect right! Nicole was a wonderful additon to our family and we cherish everything about her presence in our life. She and Jeff are taking their pregnancy very seriously, studying, listening and doing everything right for a helathy outcome. We wish them every blessing that we have had as parents!
Four years later, we were ready again and that's when Bethany came along. I couldn't say it during the preganacy, but gee, did I want another girl. Imagine the joy when my dream came true! Just young marrieds of one year, we don't know if there is another grandchild from Bethany and Ryan in our future. That's okay, when they are ready, we will be ready!
Ginny, Barbie, American Girl: Influences Through the Generations
My dear crochet friend, Dee Stanziano (www.crochetwithDee.com) started a lively chat this week about her experience with her "Barbie" doll and how "she" was the inspiration for many creative hours of crocheting for Dee. BJ responded passionately about how she is "anti-Barbie" as a feminist who worked hard to climb up the ladder of success. BJ doesn't like the iMarisol dressed in crochet, 2005mage projected by Barbie about women. As a feminst mom myself, I didn't allow my girls to have Barbie's. I even refused to get caught up in that 80's marketing ploy for the "Cabbage Patch" dolls. I refused to stand in line and pay that kind of money. To this day, my girls tease me about how they were traumatized by not having an "official" Cabbage Patch Kid. (I bought the plastic heads and made the bodies myself!)Finally, I did break down and give in and buy them each a Cabbage Patch baby, but by then there were no lines to stand in!
I grew up in the fifties and my doll was the "Ginny" Doll. To this day, I still remember so clearly the Christmas I received her along with a complete wardrobe sewn by my grandmother, Myrtle. I suppose I was 8 or 9, but even then I sensed something very very special about this gift. Scraps from dresses my mother had made for me were used for Ginny's clothes, so we had matching outfits. My grandma was ahead of her time, wasn't she? I still have everything I got that Christmas: Ginny's carrying case, all her clothes and of course, Ginny herself! At one point, when I was an adult, I replaced her hair and bought her a new "wig." I know some many years later they came out with a new version of Ginny and I bought one. I have the box in the basement; what haas happened with the doll.Me wearing the dress my mother made. It is brown fabric with texture, but the type of fabric is unknown to me.
Ginny's Matching Dress
My girls had baby dolls, porcelain dolls, "Strawberry Shortcake", and lovely (and expensive) stuffed dolls from craft fairs, but it was always me who enjoyed dolls more than they did. In 2005 I bought my own American Girl Doll, the "American Girl Today" version which is supposed to look like me. I love her and boy, was I thrilled when a catalog came and I found that she has accessories that are crocheted! As I was chatting with Dee today, I checked on her in the guest room and good thing I did! She was stifling in her poncho from the winter and looks so much "cooler" in her cargo pants and baby blue t-shirt that matches her eyes! I also discovered an article from Associated Press I had kept and it has some interesting things to say:" In buying dolls, parents must decide what message they want their children to get from their toys. Girls used to have one doll on whom they projected any kind of fantasy. Now there is a doll for almost every mood or personality that the little girl might imagine," says independent toy consultant Chris Byrne. Patricia Farrell, a psychologist says the choice of a doll will tell you what the little girl's aspirations are, how she is being pushed by her family. Sociolgists stress how important a role dolls play in shaping a girl's values. Patricia Leavy, a sociology porfessor, 'Dolls are part of one's identity.'While observers are heartened that more dolls are multicultural-a big contrast to Barbie, who dominate fashion dolls for 40 years-its still hard for dolls that don't fit the American ideal to be accepted."
Oh, and now that I am going to be a GRANDMOTHER, you can bet that whichever it is-boy or girl-it will be sure to have lots of dolls!! We're so excited about our FIRST
grandchild brought to us by Nicole and Jeff around November 29, 2009!
I grew up in the fifties and my doll was the "Ginny" Doll. To this day, I still remember so clearly the Christmas I received her along with a complete wardrobe sewn by my grandmother, Myrtle. I suppose I was 8 or 9, but even then I sensed something very very special about this gift. Scraps from dresses my mother had made for me were used for Ginny's clothes, so we had matching outfits. My grandma was ahead of her time, wasn't she? I still have everything I got that Christmas: Ginny's carrying case, all her clothes and of course, Ginny herself! At one point, when I was an adult, I replaced her hair and bought her a new "wig." I know some many years later they came out with a new version of Ginny and I bought one. I have the box in the basement; what haas happened with the doll.Me wearing the dress my mother made. It is brown fabric with texture, but the type of fabric is unknown to me.
Ginny's Matching Dress
My girls had baby dolls, porcelain dolls, "Strawberry Shortcake", and lovely (and expensive) stuffed dolls from craft fairs, but it was always me who enjoyed dolls more than they did. In 2005 I bought my own American Girl Doll, the "American Girl Today" version which is supposed to look like me. I love her and boy, was I thrilled when a catalog came and I found that she has accessories that are crocheted! As I was chatting with Dee today, I checked on her in the guest room and good thing I did! She was stifling in her poncho from the winter and looks so much "cooler" in her cargo pants and baby blue t-shirt that matches her eyes! I also discovered an article from Associated Press I had kept and it has some interesting things to say:" In buying dolls, parents must decide what message they want their children to get from their toys. Girls used to have one doll on whom they projected any kind of fantasy. Now there is a doll for almost every mood or personality that the little girl might imagine," says independent toy consultant Chris Byrne. Patricia Farrell, a psychologist says the choice of a doll will tell you what the little girl's aspirations are, how she is being pushed by her family. Sociolgists stress how important a role dolls play in shaping a girl's values. Patricia Leavy, a sociology porfessor, 'Dolls are part of one's identity.'While observers are heartened that more dolls are multicultural-a big contrast to Barbie, who dominate fashion dolls for 40 years-its still hard for dolls that don't fit the American ideal to be accepted."
This is a pattern I designed for Himalaya Yarns: It's called "Best Friend and Me Ponchos" and is available for purchase at my Etsy store: www.etsy.com-crochetkween1 or on my website: www.crochetqueen.com
American Girl dresses some of their dolls in crochet and that's a great thing! Maybe we should start a letter writing campaign to get them to include crochet in the stories that come with the dolls. They are historical and surely there could be a mention of crochetsomewhere back in history. Will an Irish doll be coming out soon? Dee had her daughter, Mini-Dee, do some research and she found that crosstitch or needlepoint is mentioned already along with sewing. Equal opportunity is needed for crochet, as always.
Marisol dressed in crochet, 2005 
Kit dressed in crochet, 2004
Another dear crochet friend, Noreen Crone Findlay is the consumate doll person.
http://www.blisstree.com/hankeringforyarn/ She lives, breathes and sleeps dolls and has written many wonderful books on how to make them. What I love about Noreen is she combines the best of both-hooks and dolls- and makes crochet hook dolls! She gifted me a very special one which I named "Prin" (short for Pincess) and sometimes she travels with me. She is a member of the little mutual admiration society Noreen and I started, "The Sisterhood of the Traveling Hook." I'm bringing her to Buffalo, so maybe you'll get to meet her.
Prin in the Dominican Republic with Gwen, April 2008
Currently my dear artist friend who uses crochet in her art, Bonnie Meltzer has an exhibit in Portland, OR called "Clothing Chronicles: Biography in Very Mixed Media." In this new body of work she ponders our connections to clothes. To see photos of the works and read more, go to http://portlandopenstudios.wordpress.com/2009/06/19/bonnie-meltzer-at-beet-gallery/
Oh, and now that I am going to be a GRANDMOTHER, you can bet that whichever it is-boy or girl-it will be sure to have lots of dolls!! We're so excited about our FIRST
grandchild brought to us by Nicole and Jeff around November 29, 2009!
A Crochet Newbie's Orientation to the LYS
Recently I have been teaching a bright young woman friend how to crochet. She is a clleague at work so we have spurts of time when I can teach her a stitch or answer a her cro-quandries. She is learning quickly and very apt at understanding the concepts. On her own, she explored JoAnn Fabric and Crafts and found some yarns to make a special scarf for her mother. After her first lesson, mom requested the scarf, so the pressure was on! I talked to her about the differences between acrylic and natural fibers and also the price point differences.
Her new exctiement about crochet and her carry-along project revealed to her that she also knew others who loved to crochet. She saw some other neat projects friends were doing and Two or three scarves later, I thought she was ready for her orientation to the Local Yarn Store. I chose "I'd Rather Be Knitting" in Long Grove, IL not because I have any allegiance to this store but because of its convenient location for us both to meet there.
Knowing that the vast array of textures, colors and prices could be overwhelming to this Newbie, I invited to take her and give her the rundown. We were greeted warmly by the owner who had no other customers in the store. She asked if she could help and I explained I was giving my friend, the new crocheter, an orientation. We wandered around the store and I pointed out the various brands and fibers. Luckily, the store has two rooms and we were in the "other one" when Newbie asked me, "Now, didn't you say I can get this Debbie Bliss yarn at JoAnn's?" I cringed and said, "I think that was Debbie Mumm."
I felt I had to whisper when I showed her the Plymouth Encore. I wanted her to know that this is the best equivalent of what she will find at JoAnn for basic crochet and that the store was offering an incredible variety of color and shades. I explained variegated and hand-dyed and showed her some of my favorites. Of course, she was attracted to a gorgeous hank that cost $56.00. Sticker shock was setting in.
We made our way to the front room where the owner was busy at the front desk. I think newbie commented on a swatch and I explained it was knitted. At this point the owner jumped in and declared, "You can make knitting look like crochet, but you can't make crochet look like knitting. I tried to refute her and said that there are books that show how to make crochet look like knitting stitches. "NO" she said in an even louder voice, "YUou can't make knitting look like crochet." I continued and explained that my freeform crochet often fools knitters because it is so textural and colorful, but knew I had to let it drop.
So with the shop owner now standing within earshot, Newbie says, "So would this skein be like a number 4?" Yarn shop owner pipes up with "What do you mean #4?" I explained that it was a way of designnating yarn weights and she started to roll her eyes back in her head realizing we were talking about cthe Craft Yarn Council and their campaign to standardize Big Box (Michaels, JOAnn) yarns, but she thought better of it and caught herself.
She went on to say that she doesn't crochet much but has two wonderful crocheters who work for her. I knew that because I taught one of them crochet when she worked in another LYS. At this point I had an opportunity to tell her I am with the Crochet Guild of America and she recognized my name. So now she decides she's going to be a little more hummble. To her credit, she was friendly for the most part, but I just felt like she was eavesdropping the whole time and really hoping to snag a sale in the last hour of her day.
So now we're there past closing time and newbie didn't buy anything but I bought 3 skeins off the sale table! I told her thank you and that we appreciated her help. She made sure to tell us she is a "crochet-friendly" yarn shop. Did she feel she needed to explain that because we might not have figured it out on our own because of her behavior? The name of her store, "I'd Rather Be Knitting" instead of "I'd Rather Be Stitching" was our first clue and maybe that was why I felt like I had to measure each word I used to Newbie.
Over coffee afterwards, newbie mentioned that she felt the dis-cromination. Had I mentioned that Newbie is a quck study?
Her new exctiement about crochet and her carry-along project revealed to her that she also knew others who loved to crochet. She saw some other neat projects friends were doing and Two or three scarves later, I thought she was ready for her orientation to the Local Yarn Store. I chose "I'd Rather Be Knitting" in Long Grove, IL not because I have any allegiance to this store but because of its convenient location for us both to meet there.
Knowing that the vast array of textures, colors and prices could be overwhelming to this Newbie, I invited to take her and give her the rundown. We were greeted warmly by the owner who had no other customers in the store. She asked if she could help and I explained I was giving my friend, the new crocheter, an orientation. We wandered around the store and I pointed out the various brands and fibers. Luckily, the store has two rooms and we were in the "other one" when Newbie asked me, "Now, didn't you say I can get this Debbie Bliss yarn at JoAnn's?" I cringed and said, "I think that was Debbie Mumm."
I felt I had to whisper when I showed her the Plymouth Encore. I wanted her to know that this is the best equivalent of what she will find at JoAnn for basic crochet and that the store was offering an incredible variety of color and shades. I explained variegated and hand-dyed and showed her some of my favorites. Of course, she was attracted to a gorgeous hank that cost $56.00. Sticker shock was setting in.
We made our way to the front room where the owner was busy at the front desk. I think newbie commented on a swatch and I explained it was knitted. At this point the owner jumped in and declared, "You can make knitting look like crochet, but you can't make crochet look like knitting. I tried to refute her and said that there are books that show how to make crochet look like knitting stitches. "NO" she said in an even louder voice, "YUou can't make knitting look like crochet." I continued and explained that my freeform crochet often fools knitters because it is so textural and colorful, but knew I had to let it drop.
So with the shop owner now standing within earshot, Newbie says, "So would this skein be like a number 4?" Yarn shop owner pipes up with "What do you mean #4?" I explained that it was a way of designnating yarn weights and she started to roll her eyes back in her head realizing we were talking about cthe Craft Yarn Council and their campaign to standardize Big Box (Michaels, JOAnn) yarns, but she thought better of it and caught herself.
She went on to say that she doesn't crochet much but has two wonderful crocheters who work for her. I knew that because I taught one of them crochet when she worked in another LYS. At this point I had an opportunity to tell her I am with the Crochet Guild of America and she recognized my name. So now she decides she's going to be a little more hummble. To her credit, she was friendly for the most part, but I just felt like she was eavesdropping the whole time and really hoping to snag a sale in the last hour of her day.
So now we're there past closing time and newbie didn't buy anything but I bought 3 skeins off the sale table! I told her thank you and that we appreciated her help. She made sure to tell us she is a "crochet-friendly" yarn shop. Did she feel she needed to explain that because we might not have figured it out on our own because of her behavior? The name of her store, "I'd Rather Be Knitting" instead of "I'd Rather Be Stitching" was our first clue and maybe that was why I felt like I had to measure each word I used to Newbie.
Over coffee afterwards, newbie mentioned that she felt the dis-cromination. Had I mentioned that Newbie is a quck study?
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