What a Crazy Few Months.

I apologize it has been so long since I have posted. Things have been crazy around here. We took a trip to Mexico.  My husband had surgery to remove cancer, they removed a portion of his kidney.  Then he had cataract surgery on the left eye, this week he will have the right eye done.  It is not anything life threatening, but due to covid crap it has it's own set of obstacles to navigate.

On a brighter note, my youngest daughter is due to deliver any day now.  A baby girl. I had so many things I wanted to sew up for the new baby, but have just not been getting any sewing done.  I need to get myself organized so I can get back to doing what I love.

The garden is a big disappointment.  It has sprouted, and just kind of stuck there. A few plants have started to bloom, but not setting any fruit.  I think that maybe the problem is with the potting soil. Next year we will try mixing some top soil in with it.  My hubby doesn't agree, but I think I am going to purchase some shade cloth to lay offer the top of the planters.  

I have already figured out that next year, I will find a spot some where and start seeds, then transplant the sprouted seeds.  This year, so far, only a couple of veggies that I planted from seed actually have sprouted.  The marigolds have started to bloom, the carrots look like they are going to make it. Still waiting to see how the cucumbers and beans do, but it is not looking too good.  However, taking care of the plants, I have come to a few conclusions about my garden. 

1. I am not going to grow enough produce to preserve. I kind of re-evaluated my thinking.  I wanted to grow cucumbers, to make pickles and have for salads.  I wanted to can up green beans, because I love canned green beans.  I wanted some fresh okra through the summer.  I guess, after thinking it over, I will check around and see if I can find some place to buy some produce from.  There are a lot of farm stands around here, just need to see if the cost works out. I mean realistically...due I need to spend $100 to make 6 jars of  $3 pickles.  The same with green beans, all though I REALLY do love canned green beans.

2. Is the garden really worth the time and expense?  While I do enjoy the garden...some days I really don't want to spend an few hours watering plants I know probably won't make much.  I am going to keep taking care of it, and hoping that I can at least have some harvest for a few daily meals at least.

On to other topics.

We have a friend that runs an auction business. He purchases returns and overstock products then runs an auction to sell them.  He calls me when he has sewing items, I usually know exactly what they are and can help him determine if they work properly, if all the parts are there and possible value. He ended up with a Brother SE 1900 and I was able to get it at a really great price.

This is a combination sewing/embroidery machine. It has a 5 x7 hoop and color screen. The tension is perfect.  I have not tested the embroidery unit out yet.  I am looking forward to trying this machine out.  Then, he was helping a friend clean out a relative's barn and found a true gem.

A vintage sewing machine, straight stitch only, released in late 50's to early 60's. For the price, this is as close to a feather weight as I will probably ever get. It is in the original case. I am so happy to have this machine, it will go nicely in my collection.

Okay, so now to get some housework done so I can actually sit and sew.