Saturday, April 13, 2019

Digging Out and Digging In

It sure hasn't been the spring we planned. But we're poking along. (If you missed the post on Rick's surgical update, it's here.)


I suppose I shouldn't complain that it seems to be taking its own sweet time in arriving -- or at least, sticking around for more than a day or two. We've had big snows in April (in fact, we woke up to a snow-covered yard and trees heavy with clumps of white yesterday morning and though it melted by afternoon, more is predicted this weekend.) Spring feels sorely needed, for my psyche, if nothing else. I often think of looking across the lake from my porch, blue skies, blue water, warm temps. This can't last forever. That said, we do have our now-and-then blue-sky days and I took a walk down to the ditch on one of them.


There was no sign of Harry, but the geese are out in force!


They stocked the pond with a new batch of fish -- at least, I presume so.


The water isn't nearly so clear as it was in the Cotswolds!


I'm doing my best to keep Rick reasonably comfy and well fed. During the time leading up to the surgery he gained a lot of independence, able to sit more hours and work, even play the guitar a bit. One day he walked about six blocks and back with his crutches for his pre-op blood tests. He wasn't even wearing his boot all that much and the night before surgery, baked bread. It's hard to keep a good man down. That all changed when the doc read him the riot act -- leg up, boot on. He's behaving! (Pain aids in the behavior part, too, unfortunately.)  The Marx Brothers help; so do our wonderful friends!


I'm doing my best to practice self-care in a variety of ways that range from cleaning the cupboards in the kitchen to poking wool to painting.  Before I "moved" over to Rick's, I was getting out the spring dishes and thought, "I wonder if I can pick up some counter space by using that hard-to-reach cupboard for some not-so-often things." It was one of those really icky cleaning things, since it's never opened. (You'd think, since it was never opened, it wouldn't be so bad!) After a good scrub down and a lot of pitching of things it got filled with -- vinegar!

I found (in another cupboard) 18 bottles of vinegar. Champagne, rice, ginger infused, balsamic, cider, red wine, white wine, malt, blueberry. Some was relatively new, some -- well, we won't go there. Google says vinegar has a forever shelf life, but I bid farewell to some of it and put one of each (and two of the blueberry vinegar) in my newly cleaned cupboard. They're stacked two or three deep but I can still get at them.


I overbought flowers for the house. I couldn't help it. I needed the color. Ranunculus, primroses, daffs and tulips. They're all dead now but it worked for awhile.


I "Eastered-up" my hutch and still have to bring out the egg tree. At the moment I have no idea where I'll put it. Maybe this year it will take a break and I'll follow one of the beautiful bloggers I saw posting last week and put the eggs in a vase (I only wish I could remember which so I could link you!) First world problems.


I have been trying to paint most days. Life is good when you put on a "Midsomer Murders" or "Death in Paradise" and start to paint! I took on one of my favorite scenes from Massachusetts here...


...and turned a calendar painting from last year's Metropolitan Museum of Art into this.


And I've done a few cards, too, some of which you may have seen on this post on caregiving/Rick update. A couple of these may end up being notecards for the Gypsy Caravan in the future.


And yes, poking wool too. I promised you a visit from Girl Bunny. Here she is.


And with her beau, Sad Bunny. (These names are as bad as the ones I named my kittens when I was five -- Blackie, Whitey and Pansy. Bet you can't possibly guess what they looked like!)


My good friend Maryanne sent me a wonderful little kit of Wool Buddy penguins. These little guys make me smile.


So, that's my story and I'm sticking to it! And now, to the basement to bring up a few springy dishes. That'll help! And speaking of sticking, I'm doing a pretty good job of not over-poking myself with the needle! Here's a little flop-eared fellow!


And a few more felties here! The sheep and bunny yard!


And of course, my favorite redbirds!


I leave you with a spot of yellow to brighten up these erratic days of spring!

Up the primrose path!

Sharing with:   Best of the Weekend       /     Pink Saturday    /    Let's Keep in Touch     

48 comments:

bobbie said...

I had to laugh ~ the visual of Rick being read the riot act by the doctor! Poor guy ~ I hope he continues to be a good patient.
YAY for you for practicing good self-care ~
Sending hugs ~


Valerie-Jael said...

Lovely post today. Those little red birds are gorgeous. Beautiful art, felted pieces and photos, too. Here we've had a couple of icy days, too, but next week it should be warmer. Hope Rick continues to behave and get better! Have a wonderful weekend, hugs, Valerie

I need orange said...

I'm glad you are finding time to attend to your art and to your spring-i-fying. I know those things nurture you and help you with other tasks.

It's really hard for someone who is always active to wait and rest and get stronger, but I'm a firm believer in "get enough rest now, and feel better sooner."

Sending you both good vibes. Surely the returning sun will help with health and strength and wellness.

Hugs!

Karen @ Beatrice Euphemie said...

So many beautiful paintings and sweet little woollies! Good to see that you are keeping your creativity going through it all. I had to laugh about all the vinegars. I'm afraid I may have a few expired goodies in the back of my pantry, too. Spring does seem to take its own sweet time some years and hopefully it will turn a corner soon. Hope the healing is going on as scheduled and the patient is in good spirits. Take good care, my friend. Hugs xx Karen

Denise said...

I had to smile at your vinegar collection, I had a similar one.

Misadventures of Widowhood said...

You can't "over buy flowers for the house." How did you ever get that idea? Love your paintings. Love your bunnies and the penguins. I'm going to see if I can find a kit to make some.

I'm glad Rick's doctor read him set him straight and keeping his leg elevated and following orders. When I read that he'd walked that far on crutches without a boot I thought to myself, "That's not good!" He's going to be a handful...pace yourself!

William Kendall said...

I like your watercolours.

Joyful said...

I love this post Jeanie. I see you are coping very well with everything. I'm not surprised. I'm glad to hear Rick is also adjusting and listening to the doctor so he can heal up real well. All your paintings are lovely and bright. xx

coffeeontheporchwithme said...

Lovely watercolours, Jeanie! Are you now inspired to use some of your vinegars? Never fear... Spring will come, and stay, eventually. And then a week later it will be summer! ;) -Jenn

Pamela said...

My best to Rick as he recovers. Being the patient is so difficult! Great photos and I love your paintings. You have really taken to the felting recently. I haven't tried it but seeing all your creations is making me want to try it.

Susie said...

I loved all the photos...especially your art works. Hope you are doing well. Blessings, xoxo, Susie

Deb said...

Well, you are certainly staying busy, Jeanie. It's amazing all the jobs we can find when handed a lot of time to fill.I love your paintings and the one from the calendar...oh my gosh...that is gorgeous. It makes you feel happy just looking at it.
I sure hope Rick is healing and you can see a light at the end of this tunnel.
Keeping you both in my thoughts and prayers. Deb (Annie and Wilson are waving)

Miss Val's Creations said...

I wish I could send you a quicker to arrive spring Jeanie! Your felties are so adorable. Age of the bottles aside, it is impressive that Rick has so many cooking goodies in the cabinet. I hope he listens to the doctor so he can heal up faster. Beautiful paintings. I am sure it is therapeutic to paint!

The Joy of Home with Martha Ellen said...

It looks like you are doing many things that are "taking care of you!" You have such a variety of talents to fill your heart with joy. Being a caregiver is tiring and thankless at the time. Hopefully Spring will come in earnest and Rick will be well soon. Take care, friend. xo

My name is Erika. said...

Oh I know exactly what you mean about winter. Most years I am wrapping up my raking by now and I bark mulch during my last week of April vacation. (I was all raked by the time I left for Japan last year which was 51 weeks ago). Today I tried to rake and my foot sunk down to my ankle and some of the leaves were still frozen to the ground. But i am loving the art and the spring decor. It is time, isn't it? Enjoy your weekend. hugs-Erika

krishna said...

Oh dear! you made loads of stuff. they are very beautiful!

Lynne said...

Thank you for giving me some inspiration;.
Felted poked woolies, to watercolor wonders, clean cupboards, to inspiring caregiver.
You’re the gal . . . now if only we can muster up some warmer, temperatures,
with no wind . . . it might be almost perfect . . .

BB said...

Our weather has turned warmer, but it's raining this weekend. H has mowed the lawn twice. I think spring has really sprung here.

Your bunnies are cute and those penguins make me smile, too. I haven't decorated this year except for putting a wreath on the front door.

Those grand babies are precious.

Keeping you and Rick in my thoughts.

Iris Flavia said...

A mix of good and bad, is it.

Sami said...

Glad Rick is behaving and resting.
I had no idea there were so many types of vinegars!
Love the little felted toys you're making and your paintings, my favourite is the scene from Massachusets.
Have a good Sunday Jeanie.

R's Rue said...

Beautiful.

Liz@ HomeandGardeningWithLiz said...

Wow he really is a hard man to keep down! 6 blocks with crutches!! Well hopefully now he is giving the leg a rest. Sounds like you’ve found a few things to keep you busy. I cleaned out my mini pantry and well we won’t discuss how old some things were! I always wondered about vinegar and how long it lasts. Your felted creations are adorable. Love your paintings- what a wonderful way to remember your trips!

La Table De Nana said...

Things are starting to look up:) Love the Metropolitan museum of fine art rendition.Very Provence..Impressionistic flowers..almost Van Gogh..ish:)
The boys are so cute.
Have a good Sunday..best wishes to Rick.

Carol @Comfort Spring Station said...

I'm loving your art - prayers with Rick and I'm wishing you warm days that stick around.

Joanne Huffman said...

Love your felties. Later this month, I'm going to Columbus OH to learn to make felted dolls. It's good you're remembering to take care of yourself as you take care of Rick. May you both have a good recovery and may spring finally arrive to brighten things up.

Victoria Zigler said...

Glad Rick is doing OK.

Sounds like you're enjoying some lovely hygge days. Hope you get some proper Spring soon though... I know Winter has gone on too long for you this year.

I still haven't done the robin felting kit. Been working on some other craft projects though.

Sandra at Maison De Jardin said...

Jeanie, you are a talented artist. I do love your work. About spring, hang on - she will arrive in all her glory and it will be wonderful for you and Rick. We are to have bad storms today and snow tomorrow. Spring!

Every day will be better for Rick and for you. Oh, and Jeanie - you can NEVER over purchase blooms. More is always better when it comes to flowers.

Take care of you and keep us posted on Rick. Have a lovely day and week ahead.

Rita C at Panoply said...

Your felties are the cutest little things! It's wonderful that you have so many activities to toggle while you pass the time waiting for spring and better mobility for Rick. In case I get too deep into my own list of things going on this week coming (our move is scheduled for 4/23!) have a Happy Easter, Jeanie!

Nikki - Notes of Life said...

Your paintings and cards are beautiful. I keep meaning to pick up my watercolours and get painting, but it's finding the time and energy.

Bleubeard and Elizabeth said...

I love your paintings. You paint so well. You have really livened up your home with fresh beautiful flowers. They make spring seem so much nicer.

I have a lot of vinegars, but I don't have 18. You must like vinegar a LOT. Good job on the organizing, too.

Your felted animals are stunning. I've only wrapped soap, so I truly admire what you have accomplished. Beautiful.

Stay healthy, dear, and don't get depressed.

Red Rose Alley said...

Jeanie, Girl Bunny is too cute. Oh my, it's still snowing! I have a few other blog friends whose areas still have snow. Those pink fish in the pond are so pretty. And there's my beloved geese. I just saw one or two this morning after church. I love how you put a few Easter items out in your hutch. I do hope Rick feels better after surgery, Jeanie. It sounds like what my son had to do, leg up and elevated, but he's walking now and got his cast off his hand this week. Your cards are delightful, especially that bunny and chick. Wishing you wonderful April days, and hoping Rick's recovery is a smooth one.

~Sheri

Red Rose Alley said...

ps.....that is the cutest picture of your grands and the red cardinal. : )

Lowcarb team member said...

So lovely to see all of your photographs here … especially those two adorable children :)

Your art work looks lovely, the paintings and the felt-work … a very nice mix.

Can you ever have too many flowers about the house? I think not, especially in spring-time.

Take care of yourself and Rick.
Healing thoughts are coming your way.

All the best Jan

Running on empty said...

I’m loving your felties and paintings, Jeanie, and have been reading your posts at the library, I lost the mobile internet at home.
Please wish Rick to get well soon, from us in Australia.

Cath

Pam Richardson said...

Jeanie, your felties are so adorable as are the grands! I am thrilled to know that Rick is being obedient, he will heal much faster. Love your paintings, notecards are always needed. Can you believe that it was 41 here this morning? The tornadoes and strong thunderstorms brought cooler temps. Hopefully spring will arrive and stay at your house soon!

Marilyn Miller said...

Even though your spring is different than planned it does look like you are filling it with spring time in other ways. Love your paintings and your felted animals. Take care as you care give and clean. Wow! That is a lot of vinegar. I love vinegar. I could have taken some off your hands, ha! So happy you had a moment for a walk at the ditch too.

Hena Tayeb said...

Lovely watercolors.
Wishing Rick a swift recovery.

At Rivercrest Cottage said...

Those little fluffy characters are adorable! Thanks for stopping by recently. I appreciate your visit and words of comfort. r/sugar

Tammie Lee said...

You have been quite busy, lovely spring art pieces and even wool, cute too.
cleaning, clearing and caring. Your spring looks much like mine these days. Wishing Rick swift healing.

Lisa from Lisa's Yarns said...

The woolies you've been making are so adorable! My favorite photo in this post is the one with the baby grands, though. They sure are cuties!!!

We missed out on 8" of snow while we were gone. I was NOT SAD to miss what was hopefully our last snow storm. The snow was mostly gone by the time we got back on Saturday. It's supposed to be in the 60s today so hopefully spring has finally sprung. I'm ready for a warmer season after a long day! We enjoyed some gorgeous blue sky days in Florida. I hope we have some here in Minnesota soon!!

Anca said...

18 bottles of vinegar?! Wow that is impressive. I should show my husband your post... so that he will not comment on how many types of flour I have (most likely about 18 :)) ).
Hope he feels much better now.

thepaintedapron.com said...

Mother Nature is certainly not making this already very difficult Spring any easier with April snow! You are smart to fill your house with flowers and I'm loving seeing so many of your paintings! You seem to have gotten much done during this time of care giving, and I hope Rick continues to improve daily. As for the vinegar, it definitely goes bad, I threw 2 bottles out last week!
Jenna

Karen (Back Road Journal) said...

One nice thing about snow in April, it quickly melts. It looks like you have found lovely ways to bring spring into your home.

Judy at GoldCountryCottage said...

Jeanie, we are having a bright, sunny day today, and not a raindrop in sight until the weekend. Is that supposed to make us feel good? The gardens are perking up though so the rain has been good for something. The new little girl bunny should perk the Sad Bunny right up. She is so bright and cheerful and those little red birds are so cute.. Keep plugging along..xxoJudy

Little Wandering Wren said...

Good on you for getting through the depths of winter... Spring is on its way, at least we've got full on sweaty Betty 'I can't stand it' heat here, so something must be moving around the world! I'm so happy that one upside, other than Rick's clean cupboards is time to paint and make felties, which are almost as adorable as the little ones. I do love red waterwheel in Massachusetts!
Here's to all the time blue skies days, and Rick to be well on the mend.
Wren x

Calypso In The Country said...

You truly are talented. Love those paintings and all the cheerful colors you use. Your post was one of my features at Best of the Weekend this week! Swing by and link up any recent posts when you get a chance. Hoping your husband is feeling better!
Shelley

Mary K. said...

Jeanie I had no idea about Rick. I'm going to read that post after I'm done here. I love the painting of the winter scene with the house and the red details. And am glad you are adding spring to your decor. I have added a bit of Easter just this last week as we are celebrating now. Jeanie what is poked wool? I've never heard of it. Although the results are very pretty.

Katie Mansfield said...

Your wool creatures are adorable. I need to get felting. I love your paintings too.

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