DubiQuilts - Quilts and Fiber Arts

New Member Of The Family

2010-07-15T12:46:00.005-05:00

Welcome Shelly!

Summer and Crystal have been gone just over 6 months and our family has had a big hole in our hearts. Max has been very sad and attached to his human dads side and JBs when he came home from college. Now he has Shelly to play with and love. Shelly and Max are best of friends. As you can see Shelly is very happy in her new home.

RIP Summer and Crystal

2010-01-27T09:38:00.002-06:00

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Army Soldier and U.S. Navy Midshipmen
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Farewell

2010-01-03T19:55:00.010-06:00

I wanted a perfect ending. Now I've learned the hard way that some poems don't rhyme and some stories don't have a clear beginning, middle and end. Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment and making the best of it, without knowing what's going to happen next. Quote by Gilda Radner

I bid my fellow blogging friends a Good Bye. It has been one hell of a ride and I have enjoyed every minute. The past two years have changed the path of my life and I find myself going in a new direction. My marriage of 25 years has ended, seven heart attacks, my two sons are grown up they have started their own lives in the military and I am in a new relationship learning new things. I don't know what is next for me but I hope one of paths includes creating art.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Army Soldier and U.S. Navy Midshipmen
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Army Son Graduates Basic Training

2009-08-19T09:46:00.016-05:00

Bill is getting ready to ship to Arizona for training for the next 4 months. After that he should be able to come home for the holidays and then he ships over seas.

Front gate leading into Fort Leonard WoodTaken two weeks into Basic Training.

Taken nine weeks into Basic Training.

He has lost about 20 pounds, walks and stands a bit straighter.

BUT the Army did not take away his smile!

Nine weeks into Basic Training
Day of Basic Training Graduation

Please keep all of the Military Men and Women in your prayers.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Army Soldier and U.S. Navy Midshipmen
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

I Love Riding

2009-07-14T19:19:00.004-05:00

Sorry for my lack of posting and creativity. I am admitting to myself and the whole world I've lost my desire to create art. I am enjoying my new life with Mark. Part of this new life is riding on the back of the motorcycle with Mark. Mark rides almost everyday for work, we ride together for fun and ride with three motorcycle groups. Motorcycle riding is my new love. I hope to find my creative side again when fall and winter are here in Chicagoland. Mark will still ride in the winter for work. I will ride once in awhile so I will have time to play with fabric.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Army Soldier and U.S. Navy Midshipmen
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Happy 4th Of July

2009-07-04T13:55:00.005-05:00

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Army Soldier and U.S. Navy Midshipmen
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Your Help Is Needed

2009-06-29T19:08:00.005-05:00

The Navy son can not find the sound track to the Song "Slow Motion" by the group The Flaming Lips. We have researched the World Wide Web and what we found is that the song was not released in the US but was released in the UK.

Upon its release, The Soft Bulletin was subject to record company demands for commercial-sounding music, hence the inclusion of remixes of several songs. In addition, the US and UK CDs each contain one track that the other does not, "The Spiderbite Song" and "Slow Motion" respectively.

If you live in the UK can you help find the sound track for this song and if online send me the link?

Thank-you Very Much,

The Navy Son and Me.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Army Soldier and U.S. Navy Midshipmen
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Out Of Town Family = Sight Seeing Downtown Chicago

2009-06-16T13:40:00.030-05:00

June 11, 2009 Photos from Millennium Park and Downtown

June 12, 2009 Photos from the Field Museum

June 13, 2009 Photos from Sea Dog River Architectural Tour

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Army Soldier and U.S. Navy Midshipmen
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

A Day Not To Be Forgotten

2009-06-08T18:00:00.002-05:00

Twenty four years ago a young groom and bride took the vows to love and honor each other until death do them part. Today this young groom and bride are older, the parents of two sons and are no longer together. They are doing their best to remain friends and good parents to their sons. The day is full of memories of the past 24 years of good times and some not so good but could not end without remembering.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Army Soldier and U.S. Navy Midshipmen
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Navy Son's Life Milestones - Sr. Prom and High School Graduation

2009-06-08T12:03:00.010-05:00

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Army Soldier and U.S. Navy Midshipmen
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

There’s a road I’d like to tell you 'bout,

2009-06-01T09:55:00.023-05:00

Yesterday Mark and I rode with High Road Riders down and backup Lake Shore Drive on Chicago's Lake Front. Enjoy the Song Lyrics and some of my photos.

Aliotta, Haynes & JeremiahLake Shore Drive Lyrics:

There’s a road I’d like to tell you 'bout,

Lives in my hometown.Lake Shore Drive the road is called,

And it’ll take you up or down.

From Ratz on up to Riches,

Fifteen minutes you can fly.

Pretty blue lights along the way,

Help you ride on by.

And the blue light’s shinin' with a heavenly grace,

Help you ride on by.
And there ain’t no road just like it,

Anywhere I’ve found.

Runnin' south on Lake Shore Drive,

Headin' into town.

Just slippin' on by on LSD,

Friday night trouble bound
It’s starts up north from Hollywood,

Water on the drivin' side.

Concrete mountains rearin' up,

Throwin' shadows just about five.

Sometimes you can smell the green,

If your mind is feelin' fine.

There ain’t no finer place to be,
Then runnin' Lake Shore Drive.

And there’s no piece of mind or place you see,

Ridin' on Lake Shore Drive.
And there ain’t no road just like it,

Anywhere I’ve found.

Runnin' south on Lake Shore Drive,

Headin' into town.

Just slippin' on by on LSD,

Friday night trouble bound.
It’s Friday night and you’re lookin' clean.

Too early to start the rounds.

A ten-minute drive from the Gold Coast back,

Makes you sure you’re pleasure bound.

And it’s four o’clock in the mornin',

And all the people have gone away.

Just you and your mind and Lake Shore Drive,

Tomorrow is another day.

And the sun shines fine in the mornin' time.

Tomorrow is another day.

(whoo.)

And there ain’t no road just like it,

Anywhere I’ve found.

Runnin' south on Lake Shore Drive,

Headin' into town.

Just snakin' on by on LSD,

Friday night trouble bound.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Sailor and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Taking The Oath and Basic Training

2009-05-29T08:36:00.007-05:00

It is offical, the Army son was sworn in again at Chicago MEPS and a few hours later he shipped out to Basic Training for 9 1/2 weeks at Fort Leonard Wood, MO.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Sailor and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

The Big Check

2009-05-15T11:13:00.006-05:00

The Navy son with his Navy ROTC scholarship check.What more can I say that navy son's smile doesn't already say.

JB worked hard all 4 years of high school and it paid off big.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Sailor and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-09T20:42:00.006-05:00

Happy Mother's Day to all our Moms

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Sailor and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Bloglines My Feeds ERROR - UPDATE

2009-05-09T16:30:00.003-05:00

Thank-you Leah from Stitched With Love Leah wrote me after she checked bloglines and had the same error as me. She switched over to Google Read and is very happy with it. I am testing it with a few blogs that I read. If I like it I will switch over.

As of 4:30 pm Chicagoland time Bloglines is back up and running.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Sailor and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Bloglines My Feeds ERROR

2009-05-09T14:07:00.005-05:00

Is anyone having problems with Bloglines??? I can not access My Feeds. Is there a scheduled outage?

I get the error: Internet Explorer cannot display the webpage

It maybe time to move to Google Reader.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Sailor and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Bill Graduates College

2009-05-07T20:58:00.007-05:00

Today Bill (AKA the Army Son) received his Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Bill

Mark, Bill and MomDad, Bill, Jacob and Mom

Dad and Bill

Bill and Jacob

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Sailor and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Using Year Old Fabric Dye

2009-04-26T14:13:00.014-05:00

I have always wanted to try and dye fabric with left over easter egg dye and this year I remember to save the dye. The colors are very pale and may wash out. I will post photos after I wash the fabic. If the color washes out I will redye the fabric so the fabric will not go to waste.

This was dye with left over Easter Egg Dye - Before Washing

I found bottles with dye that is over a year old. I do not know if any color will be left after I wash the fabric.

Year Old Dye Was Use -Before Washing

Year Old Dye Was Use -Before Washing
Year Old Dye Was Use -Before Washing
Year Old Dye Was Use -Before Washing

Year Old Dye Was Use -Before Washing

Year Old Dye Was Use -Before Washing Year Old Dye Was Use -Before Washing

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Sailor and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Happy 18th Birthday Navy Son

2009-04-21T16:04:00.005-05:00

Happy Birthday Jacob!!!!!

Love,

Mom, Dad, Billy, Your Family and Friends

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Sailor and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Senior Awards Ceremony

2009-04-19T20:48:00.020-05:00

Today the Navy son was honored with an award from his High School for his outstanding achievements the past four years in NJROTC.

In the front of the room there was a screen with photos of all the award recipients. This is Jacobs yearbook photo. Jacob being presented his award from Master Chief F.Jacob and Master Chief F.Award Front Award Back

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Navy Sailor and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T07:23:00.001-05:00

Easter Blessing to my Family and Friends

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

NJROTC Son - If Looks Could Kill

2009-04-09T19:56:00.007-05:00

If looks could kill they would. He really is a nice guy. LT. JG son soon to be NROTC Midshipmen with his game face on. I think he is handsome but then again I am his Mom.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Happy Passover

2009-04-08T21:32:00.003-05:00

Happy Passover to my Family and Friends

Passover is probably the best known of the Jewish holidays, mostly because it ties in with Christian history (the Last Supper was apparently a Passover seder), and because a lot of its observances have been reinterpreted by Christians as Messianic and signs of Jesus.
Passover begins on the 15th day of the Jewish month of Nissan. It is the first of the three major festivals with both historical and agricultural significance (the other two are Shavu’ot and Sukkot). Agriculturally, it represents the beginning of the harvest season in Israel, but little attention is paid to this aspect of the holiday. The primary observances of Passover are related to the Exodus from Egypt after 400 years of slavery. This story is told in Exodus, Ch. 1-15. Many of the Passover observances are instituted in Chs. 12-15.
The name “Passover” refers to the fact that G-d “passed over” the houses of the Jews when he was slaying the firstborn of Egypt. In Hebrew, it is known as Pesach (that “ch” is pronounced as in the Scottish “loch”), which is based on the Hebrew root meaning “pass over”. The holiday is also referred to as Chag he-Aviv (the Spring Festival), Chag ha-Matzoth (the Festival of Matzahs), and Zeman Herutenu (the Time of Our Freedom) (again, all with those Scottish “ch”s).
Probably the most significant observance related to Passover involves the removal of chametz (leaven; sounds like “hum it’s” with that Scottish ch) from our homes. This commemorates the fact that the Jews leaving Egypt were in a hurry, and did not have time to let their bread rise. It is also a symbolic way of removing the “puffiness” (arrogance, pride) from our souls.
Chametz includes anything made from the five major grains (wheat, rye, barley, oats and spelt) that has not been completely cooked within 18 minutes after coming into contact with water. Traditional Jews of Ashkenazic background also avoid rice, corn, peanuts, and legumes (beans) as if they were chametz. All of these items have been used to make bread, thus use of them was prohibited to avoid any confusion. Such additional items are referred to as “kitniyos.” We may not eat chametz during Passover; we may not even own it or derive benefit from it. We may not even feed it to our pets or cattle. All chametz, including utensils used to cook chametz, must either be disposed of or sold to a non-Jew.
The process of cleaning the home of all chametz in preparation for Passover is an enormous task. To do it right, you must spend several days scrubbing everything down, going over the edges of your stove and fridge with a toothpick and a Q-Tip, covering all surfaces that come in contact with foil or shelf-liner, etc., etc., etc. After the cleaning is completed, the morning before the seder, a formal search of the house for chametz is undertaken, and any remaining chametz is burned.
The grain product we eat during Passover is called matzah. Matzah is unleavened bread, made simply from flour and water and cooked very quickly. This is the bread that the Jews made for their flight from Egypt. We have come up with many inventive ways to use matzah; it is available in a variety of textures for cooking: matzah flour (finely ground), matzah meal (coarsely ground), matzah farfel (little chunks, used as a noodle substitute), and full-sized matzahs (about 10 inches square, a bread substitute).
The day before Passover is the fast of the firstborn, a minor fast for all firstborn males, commemorating the fact that the firstborn Jewish males in Egypt were not killed during the final plague.
On the first night of Passover (first two nights for traditional Jews outside Israel), we have a special family meal filled with ritual to remind us of the significance of the holiday. This meal is called a seder, from a Hebrew root word meaning “order.” It is the same root from which we derive the word “siddur” (prayer book). There is a specific set of information that must be covered in a specific order. This is the seder. An overview of a traditional seder is included later in this page.
Passover lasts for seven days (eight days outside of Israel). The first and last days of the holiday (first two and last two outside of Israel) are days on which no work is permitted. See Extra Day of Holidays for more information. Work is permitted on the intermediate days. These intermediate days on which work is permitted are referred to as Chol Ha-Mo’ed, as are the intermediate days of Sukkot.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

My Heart is Bionic and Lined with Steel

2009-04-05T09:09:00.004-05:00

Three more stents. A total of eight stents are keeping my heart pumping, the blood flowing and keeping me alive. I am home and doing great. Full update another day.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Another Hospital Visit

2009-04-02T05:56:00.002-05:00

It is time for Dr. Sethi to play with my heart again. I am having chest pain again. I am going to have a anagram and depending on the results I may have bypass surgery. I paid for the new wing last year and now the new rooms need to be furnished. I hope they like the quilts I picked for the beds.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Purim Begins Tonight At Sundown

2009-03-09T16:25:00.004-05:00

The Story of Purim

From About.com

The story of Purim is a great tale. There is a beautiful, courageous heroine, an all powerful king, a loyal cousin, and a villain who gets foiled by his own evil plans. Read and enjoy!

Once upon a time, between the destruction of the First Temple and the building of the Second Temple, the Jews were almost destroyed. In the city of Shushan, Vashti, the Queen of Persia, refuses to obey the order of the King of Persia, Ahasuerus, to appear before his guests. The King then searches the country for a new queen. From among hundreds of applicants, Esther, cousin of Mordechai the Jew, is chosen. The King's Prime Minister was an evil man named Haman. Haman, a descendant of the tribe of Amalek, hates the Jews and decides to kill them. He convinces King Ahasuerus to issue an edict which orders the destruction of all Jews in the land. Mordechai pleads with Esther to save the Jewish people by talking to the King. At the risk of her own life, Esther appears before the King without being summoned by him. She reveals her own Jewish identity to the King and reveals Haman's evil plans. The King is outraged at Haman, and he issues a decree to make Haman the victim of his own infamous plot. Haman and his sons are killed, and the Jews are saved.

To commemorate this miraculous turn of events, Jews celebrate Purim on the 14th of Adar by reading the Megillah (the story of Purim), enjoying a Purim Feast, sending gifts of food to our friends and the needy, and having great fun.

This About.com page has been optimized for print. To view this page in its original form, please visit: http://judaism.about.com/od/purim/a/purimstory.htm

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

2009-03-09T15:59:00.009-05:00

Happy 23rd Birthday

Billy!!!!!

Billy with his Dad in the NICU

Billy's Army swearing in ceremony

Billy with his recruiter
It seams just like yesterday you were just over four pounds and tiny little thing. Now your neck, arms and legs are the size of a telephone pole. In a few months you will be going to Basic training and then off to parts unknown as a US Army Soldier. Your family and friends are very proud of you.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Where and What I am Working On

2009-02-12T18:35:00.007-06:00

This is where I was sewing today. I am using my Mom's Janome Harmony 2049 sewing machine. It has 23 built in stitches, is light weight and easy to move for meals. It is not as good as my Janome Embroidery machine but will work in a pinch.
These eights block are for the Tu B'shevat trade that I am doing. The tree shapes are from leaves I used in a quilt that I did when I took a class from Frieda Anderson. I am going to do a small amount of machine stitching tomorrow and then the blocks will be mailed to my trade sisters.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Morning Full Moon and Kitchen Table Studio

2009-02-10T12:56:00.006-06:00

As I walked out the door this morning to take Princes C to school this was shining in the sky. The photos were taken at 6:49am.

Mark, your kitchen table is now my art studio. I do not guarantee it will be clean by time you get home. I am working on my tree blocks. What you can't see is the iron, ironing board and plastic container on the floor over flowing with fabrics. Next time I go to the B&B studio I am bring a sewing machine and spools of thread.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2009 DubiQuilts

Studio Time - Tu B'Shevat The New Year for Trees

2009-02-09T20:44:00.005-06:00

I spent time in the studio playing with fabric. It has been over a year since I pulled open my wire basket that I store my fabric in. I am making eight blocks that are nine inches to represent the Jewish holiday Tu B'Shwvat which starts today. Last week I designed my block. I am a big fan of fusing so my blocks are going to be fused. I have been ironing fabric, fusing fabric to wonder under and cutting my shapes . I am using a mix of my hand dyed fabrics and commercial fabrics. Once all eight blocks are in the hands of my sister traders I will post photos.

You may be asking what is Tu B'Shevat The New Year for Trees. I found the following at http://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/3264/jewish/Tu-BShevat.htm

Tu B'Shevat, the 15th of Shevat on the Jewish calendar -- celebrated this year on Monday, February 9, 2009 -- is the day that marks the beginning of a "New Year for Trees." This is the season in which the earliest-blooming trees in the Land of Israel emerge from their winter sleep and begin a new fruit-bearing cycle.
Legally, the "New Year for Trees" relates to the various tithes that must be separated from produce grown in the Holy Land. These tithes differ from year to year in the seven-year Shemittah cycle; the point at which a budding fruit is considered to belong to the next year of the cycle is the 15th of Shevat.

We mark the day of Tu B'Shevat by eating fruit, particularly from the kinds that are singled out by the Torah in its praise of the bounty of the Holy Land: grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives and dates. On this day we remember that "Man is a tree of the field" (Deuteronomy 20:19) and reflect on the lessons we can derive from our botanical analogue.

Good Night and Sweet Dreams for everyone here in the US
Good Morning and Have a Great Day for everyone on the other side of the pond.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Weekend Recap

2009-02-08T17:42:00.003-06:00

Friday and Saturday I went to the 28Th Annual Cycle World International Motorcycle Show in Rosemont, Illinois. Mark did take a few photos of me sitting on a Honda Rebel but he is on his way to Minnesota so I can't post photos. When he gets home I will make sure I download the photos. The list Mom from an online group I belong to gave me the nickname of Quilting Biker Chick. I am a Quilter but not sure if I am ready to be a Biker Chick. I do wear leather when we ride and for Christmas Mark gave me a really cool leather vest. I decided I liked the vest so much that I want to be able to wear it with jeans when I go out. I purchased another vest at the show that I am going to sew my patches on.

Mark and I did rode the bike Friday and Saturday to the show. It was great being on the bike and I do miss riding with Mark. The weather here in Chicagoland was in the 40's during the day and in the low 20's to 30's when the sun went down. I was warm, comfortable and can't understand why people do not ride in the winter. We attended a yearly meeting with our motorcycle club in the morning and only one other person rode their bike. Pat you are a Rebel just like Mark and me. I was shocked by the number of people in our club who were shocked that Mark and I rode that day and the day before. If Mark could ride every day and all day he would. Someday he will live in a state were the winters are mild and he will ride every day and not have to worry about snow, salt and wind.

This afternoon I took Princes C to the library, then I went to CVS and stopped at Jewel for food. Tonight I am going to watching TV, read blogs and check my online quilting groups. Right now I am sitting in the King's Chair typing this post, Princes C is reading a book and you could hear a pin drop in the house. I wonder how long this will last.

Enjoy your silence if you are as lucky as I am.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

You Got Mail - Again

2009-02-05T14:15:00.006-06:00

Marine Son has been accepted to Marquette University and

has received a Full Ride Naval Scholarship.

Congratulations Jacob you worked hard!!Student of the Month Award.

February 2009

Application for Student of the Month.
Written by Mrs. M.

Jacob we are all so proud of you and what you have accomplished despite the odds. You never gave up when others told you that you could not do it. Your Dad, me, your family and friends knew all along you would achieve your goals. You proved to the others they were wrong!!!! Thank-you Mrs. M and all who kept telling Jacob you could do it. Thank-you US Navy for trusting in Jacob.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

More Good News For The Marine Son

2009-02-03T11:55:00.007-06:00

More good news!!!

Thank-you Ms. M for nominating Jacob!!!

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

You Got Mail - Surprise!!!

2009-02-02T18:21:00.017-06:00

Mail from January 22 The Marine Son Has Been Accepted to College.

This is one of his five choices of schools.

This Came In The Mail Today.

My thinking is this is a form to be filled to apply for a scholarship.

Inside the white envelope was a thick folded piece of paper.

I was driving so I did not know what the Marine Son was opening.This was on the inside flap.
I still did not know what the Marine Son was opening.

This was inside the thick paper.
OMG! I could not believe what the Marine Son was reading.
I almost drove into a parked car when I realized what he was reading.
He did not apply for a scholarship from the college but did apply for an
Army ROTC scholarship. He is still waiting to hear about that.
The college wants to give him money for tuition for all four years.
WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Army Soldier
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Today Is My 3rd Blogiversary

2009-01-27T21:58:00.003-06:00

I smiled, frowned, laughed, cried as I read and looked at photos from the past three years. What a ride my life has been. I am not sure where or who I am going to ride with this year but I know it is going to be fun. The bad times are in the past, only good times await me so if you want to hop on the ride you are welcome.

LCN are you still willing to hold my hand on the "DubiQuilts Ride of Life"? I can guarantee you ups and downs. I promise you my heart, body, mind, soul, and love forever and ever!!!!!

Blogger Stats: 38,286 visitors
4,388 profile views
565 posts

THANK-YOU!!!! THANK-YOU!!!! Everyone who has stopped by DubiQuilts these past three years.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Soldier
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

The Army and Marine Sons

2009-01-22T21:07:00.012-06:00

Jacob (Marine Son) is on the left

Billy (Army Son) is on the right

1994

For the holidays I cleaned the studio (dinning room), storing almost every outside in the sun room and now I can not find anything. Today I have been looking for a folder with papers that the Army need ASAP. I have five folders but one is missing. I tore apart the studio and house looking for the missing folder. When the "Army Son" got home he asked if I made the phone calls today and I said I will still missing one folder from his freshman year and I need it before I could make the calls. He gets up from the dinner table goes into his room from hell, comes back and hands me a box marked school supplies freshman year 2004 - 2005. All he said is I bet the folder is in here. He has known for weeks that I was missing a folder and just tonight he knows where it is. He is lucky he is not home now and when he does get home I will be sleeping. Tomorrow will be another day and I will get my revenge.

The "Marine Son" has one final left tomorrow, got a "B" in drivers ed so he does not have to take the written test. He also found out the college his ROTC scholarship will pay for room and board. I can not wait to see the check in June at the NJROTC awards and graduation night. His hard work and determination is paying off.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Soldier
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Life Updates TWO - Billy Is A US Army Specialist

2009-01-21T08:52:00.015-06:00

On December 20, 2008 our oldest son Billy enlisted in the US Army. Billy is a senior at the University of Illinois at Chicago and will be graduation in May of this year. Until last year he wanted to be a high school special ed teacher and gymnastics coach. With his brother Jacob in NJROTC in high school and now a Marine, Billy did change his mind. He too wanted to be an officer in the Marines. Billy had been talking about going to Marine Officer Candidate School when he graduated from College. Somewhere along the line he changed his mind for the tenth time, he wanted to enlist in the Army and start from the bottom working his way up to officer. During winter break he asked me to take him to the recruiting office. To add to his Moms heart break he did enlist.

Once again my heart is breaking but at the same time I am very proud of him and his decision. Again in just over a month I spent the night in Marks arms crying. He again kept telling me everything would be OK.

Billy taking the oath to defend the US as a Army Solider Billy with his recruiter.

Do I ask a second time? Does Billy look happy and Proud?

I am sure he is.Billy was a Gymnast in High School. He went to State his Junior and Senior Years, finishing fourth on the Still Rings. His Senior year Billy was US High School Champion on Still Rings scoring a 9.9 He still holds the US record and is also the record holder at his high school with a score of 9.7 He competes in College and here are a few photos from a meet in December 2008.

Thank-you everyone who left comments and sent me emails when I posted about Jacob enlisting in the Marines. Now you know the rest of my story. My heart was tested many times this past year and I did survive. I am still here, I can take what ever is next. I may be depressed at times and feel sorry for myself but I no longer have time for that. I have places to go, quilts to make, fabric to play with and a motorcycle fluff seat that is calling my name.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Soldier
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Life Updates - Jacob Is A US. Marine

2009-01-20T13:59:00.009-06:00

On October 7, 2008 our younger son Jacob enlisted in the US. Marines. He has also applied for a US. Army and US. Navy ROTC scholarship for college. Part of his enlistment to the Marines is if he receives a scholarship and is accepted to college he will be discharged from the Marines. As of today he has received a Navy Scholarship. He is still waiting to be accepted to college to hear about an Army Scholarship.

Because Jacob in under the age of 18 his father and I had to give written permission for him to join the military. His Dad served in the Marines so it was easy for him to sign his name on the forms. I on the other had found it very hard to do. I was disappointed that Jacob may not be able to get his college degree before being deployed to parts unknown. I have always wanted my sons to go to college get their degrees and then do what they wanted. I also was having a hard time knowing my baby was no longer a baby. Sometime in the past few months my second born son turned into a man and was making the biggest decision of his life. I did sign the forms and knew it was what Jacob wanted. My heart was breaking and I was very proud of his at the same time. Being a Mom sucks sometimes. That night I cried in the arms of Mark as he reassured me everything would be OK. Mark never lied to me so he must be right, everything will be OK.

Jacob taking the oath to defend the US as a Marine.

Do you think he was happy and proud? I know he was.

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Soldier
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Happy Birthday

2009-01-18T20:33:00.005-06:00

Happy Birthday Paul,

Love Your Family

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Soldier
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

My Walk In Winter Wonderland Today

2009-01-18T18:25:00.035-06:00

The path to somewhere and back again in winter wonderland. Today for the first time in months I decided it was time to start walking. The temperature was 11 degrees, the sun was shining and the sky was bright blue. I was reminded how much I love walking and don't mind the cold weather when dressed properly. I had on my new long underware, 2 pairs of winter socks, heavy boots, flannel lined jeans, fleece shirt and hooded sweatshirt. I was warm the whole time I was outside. The only thing missing was a hat and something to cover my nose and mouth. I am officially a heart patient, the cold air was a killer. On Friday I have to get to the sports store to get a hat and mask.

Here are photos of my walk

The Bunk and BBQ

Two of three Bunk and BBQ watch dogsWho is in there?Miles walkedSteps taken on walk

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Soldier
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

One Year Ago Today

2009-01-17T18:49:00.003-06:00

One year ago today on Thursday, January 17, 2008 I underwent Angioplasty and Stenting of the Left Anterior Descending Coronary Artery of my heart. I do not remember much of the day which I am sure is because of the medications I was given.

Today as I reflect on that day I keep wondering how did someone invent angioplasty and stenting. How many people died because it did work and how many people are alive because it did work. Who ever invented angioplasty and stenting THANK-YOU!!

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Soldier
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

One Year Anniversary

2009-01-16T15:15:00.004-06:00

One year ago, today I had a massive heart attack. I was having chest pains and did have seven heart attacks in a month but being stubborn, I would not go to the hospital. I am very lucky I survived to tell about it. One-year later four surgeries, five stents, six hospital stays, and paying for the new wing at the hospital I am alive and kicking. Life is good! I am learning how to respect my body and be a better person.

To my family and friends THANK-YOU for you support. I could not of done it without you!

LCN you are in my heart!!!

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Soldier
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Life In A Hole, Hitting Bottom

2009-01-12T20:00:00.011-06:00

I feel as if I have been living in a hole for the past year. Not a bad hole but a hole where I feel comfortable, safe, scared, and confussed sometime all at the same time. I am mostly unmotivated to climb out of the hole to see what's next.

I have a great collecting of fabrics, sewing, quilting, crafting supplies, fantastic sewing machines and a good studio. My studio in is the dinning room of the Bunk and BBQ (AKA my house). A few months ago my family opened our home to a young man who has moved in and a few weeks ago another young man joined us for a short time and is now back to his home. The house has been given the nick name Bunk and BBQ and I am one of the innkeepers. I am not much of an innkeeper so this title really belongs to PB. He is the caregiver for BB, JB and our three dogs. PB does all the cooking, cleaning, laundry, feeds the dogs, walks the dogs and is the taxi driver. PB does a great job keeping everything in order at the Bunk and BBQ and still has a real job everyday.

For the holidays I had to clean the studio and convert it back to a dinning room. I boxed my fabrics, supplies and returned the cutting table to a dinning table with chairs. As I walk past the dinning room I am reminded I have a sewing, quilting life but I am unmotivated to create. All I wanted to do is run away so that is what I did.

Just after the holidays I ran away and have been staying at a friends house. This house is where I am comfortable and safe. I miss my family, dogs and my things but I am unmotivated to do anything about it. I know taking the first step will be the hardest but once I take it I only have forward to go. I feel like an addict who has to hit bottom before being able to move forward.

I have been thinking about the past year and I am burned out. I just needed a break from my health problems, doctors, hospitals, family, friends, sewing, quilting, blogging, and my life. 2008 was a year of many changes for myself and everyone who shares my life.

I am very thankful I survived seven heart attacks, six surgeries and six hospital stays. With my family and friends at my side I have survived, made changes for healthier lifestyle, and changes to become a better person. To quote a friend I am a work in progress (WIP).

Speaking of WIPs in 2008 I started five projects and finished three, have two WIPs. Not a good record for a quilter but not bad for a person who spent the year in recovery mode.

I belong to a Jewish Yahoo Online Quilting group and they are starting two new projects and I have been think about joining them. I have to make a decision by January 18Th. I don't want to rush it so I will wait until the last second. I am trying to be motivated but can't convince myself to do so.

I did write this post and will post it so maybe I did it bottom and this is the first bounce forwards.

LCN you are the sun shining at the rim of the hole!

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Soldier
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

4th Night of Hanukkah and Christmas Eve

2008-12-24T21:01:00.008-06:00

HAPPY HANUKKAH and

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Debbi
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Soldier
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

3rd Night of Hanukkah

2008-12-23T19:00:00.004-06:00

On the third night three candles were lit. I am not at home tonight so my son lit the candles. This is a photo from last year.

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Soldier
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

2nd Night Of Hanukkah

2008-12-22T22:12:00.004-06:00

On the second night two candles were lit even if it was way past sundown and the family was not home.

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Soldier
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

How A Man Enjoys A Quilt Show

2008-12-22T16:25:00.007-06:00

As I was enjoying the Greater Chicago Quilt Exposition in Schaumburg, Il. with my friend Cathy, the love of my life was doing this.

MRG was sick and up all night but insisted he take Cathy and I to the show. He is the best and I am very luck to have him.

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Soldier
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

1st Night of Hanukkah

2008-12-21T16:33:00.006-06:00

Happy Hanukkah

From Dubiquilts and Family to

You and Your Family!

The Hebrew calendar states an eight-day Jewish holiday beginning on the 25th day of Kislev, is an astounding festive called Hanukkah, and is also termed as the Jewish Festival of Lights. This holiday may fall anytime between late November and late December. This festive season is celebrated due to the upcoming of the Second Temple at the time of the Maccabee insurgence. Thousands of candles illuminate the Jewish homes during festival.The word Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival Of Lights is deciphered from the word dedication. After the victory of the Maccabees over the Seleucid Empire, the re-dedication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem took place. The internal flame in the Temple was lit for one full day. According to Talmud, the flame phenomenally lasted for eight days; hence the festival of eating and playing games came into being one of the longest festivals in the world lasting over an entire week. The Jews celebrated these eight days with downright gratification. After the second temple was re-dedicated Judah and his brothers agreed to commemorate this eight days every year. The deuterocanonical books of the Maccabees mentioned the festival of Jewish Festival Of Lights with great honor and respect. The entire Israel parishioners have been celebrating these eight days since a long time. Joyous times are shared between friends and family. Execution and torture was also linked to the Jewish Festival Of Lights according to an old Talmudic Story. Various rituals take place during this festival. Some rituals are common for all and some within the family. These rituals are performed throughout the eight days. Prayers are personalized and meals are extended. Work hours become less as they have to return home under the sunlight. Schools are closed for the whole period despite of no attachment to the religion. Jewish Festival Of Lights is also known as the Chanukah. Hundreds of songs are linked with this festival. One of such songs is dridel, dridel, dridel, sung in English. Another song called Chanukah, Oh Chanukah is sung in harmony in every home. It is now considered a national holiday. Songs are often interpreted in English to commemorate the verses, such as the Kad Katan is meant to be A Small Jug and Mi Yimalel as Who Can Retell.Celebratory food is enjoyed in all households throughout the eight days of Jewish Festival Of Lights . Among the Ashkenazi families, the Surfganjyot with jelly potato pancakes are traditionally very famous. Food is either baked or fried in olive oil. The significance of olive oil goes back to the eternal flames that lasted for eight days in the temple. Fruits-filled doughnuts, fired in olive oil, is one of the main courses along with Kosher foods.

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine and U.S. Soldier
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Thanksgiving Wishes

2008-11-27T06:55:00.003-06:00

From myself and my family we wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving.

To all the men and women serving in the military around the world you are in our hearts, we thank-you and we pray for your safe return home.

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
Proud Parent of a U.S. Marine
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Summer and Putting My Cards In Order

2008-09-07T17:58:00.012-05:00

As the summer comes to an end the nights are getting colder, I need to wear a sweatshirt at night to keep warm and the pool is being emptied I find myself very sad. When I was reflecting on what I did this summer I realized all the plans I had back in the winter never occurred. I did not ride my bike, I did not take walks, I did not go camping, I only sat by the fire in my back yard twice, I only swam in my pool a few time, I did not dye any fabric and I did very little in my quilting studio. This summer sure was not what I had planned.

What I did do this summer is shown in the photos below.

I went to quilt shows with friends.

I rode with Mark on his motorcycle.

I floated in my pool and listening to my iPod.

I spent time at Cathy's with friends and enjoyed a campfire.
My summer was not what I had planned for during last winter but was filled with many changes and exciting times. I learned how much I love riding with Mark on his motorcycle. I truly can not explain the freedom I feel when I am on the bike with him. I feel safe and trust Mark with my life, but know no matter how safe we are I still understand the dangers of riding a motorcycle.

In July just after the 4th Cathy asked me if I wanted to join her on a road trip for a week. She called me at 7:00 am and asked what I was doing and if I wanted to go on a road trip with her for work. I gave it a whole two second of thought and said yes. I told my family I was leaving for a week and did not give them a chance to say don't go or change my mind. This was the first time I had been away from home since having my heart attacks and surgery. It was just what I needed and I have been forever changed. I have a new friend in Cathy and Cathy's family has also become very close with me and my family.

Both Mark and Cathy have come into my life when I needed true friends. They have been with me everyday and are helping me through my health issues. I love you both and I am thankful to have you both in my life.

This afternoon I needed to put my cards in order before surgery tomorrow. I packing for the hospital, cleaned the quilting studio (dinning room), gathered important papers, talked to my brother, and sister. Tonight I talked with my sons and after finishing this posting I am going to watch the Bears game and hopefully I will get some sleep with the help of a sleeping pill. I need to be at the hospital at 8am and surgery will be about 9:30. Until the Doctors gets inside of my heart I will not know what will take place. She may find the stent on the left side of my heart (from January) has collapsed, there may be additional blockages, or the damaged to my heart can not be fixed. If the stent has collapsed I will need bypass surgery. If additional blockages are found they maybe able to fix it with stents and if not bypass surgery will be done. I still have additional blockages on the right side, back of my heart and have a valve that is leaking blood back into my heart. These may also be fixed at this time. It is the not knowing that is driving me crazy. Oh well I only have to wait for 14 more hours for the party to begin.

To the love of my life LCN, family and friends I can not do it without you!!!!

Until I can post again I wish you all the best and happy crafting! Thank-you for being my blogging family!

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Where Did Summer Go and the First Change at DubiQuilts

2008-08-28T19:36:00.006-05:00

Summer is my favorite time of the year because I love the heat and floating on a raft in my pool, sitting outside reading and sitting by a fire at the end of each day. For the past five years I have spent most of my summer days doing just that. As I reflect back on this summer I can count only ten days that I floated on a raft in my pool, read a book and I only started two fires the whole summer.

As the sun is setting I am sad because I have realized summer is coming to an end. The daylight is getting shorter, the temperature each day and night is getting lower. Soon the leaves will be turning orange, red and snow is not far behind.

Where did summer go I ask myself. What did I do this summer? Did I accomplish anything this summer? Why am I a stranger in my quilting studio. Why have I not painted or dyed one yard of fabric this summer.

My family tonight at dinner said I have become a stranger in their lives also. I have spent most all of my days, nights and weekends away from them. This is all true and I do feel like a stranger at times in my own life. I am changing, I am a different person, what was once important is no longer important. What I once loved I no longer love, who I once loved I no longer love, now I love new people, places and things. My love for my family, friends and dogs has not changed and they are still the most important part of my life.

Tomorrow I am going to clean the sun porch and put away all of my fabric dyeing supplies. I left a mess the end of last winter and never cleaned it. I am going to box everything up because I no longer have the desire to dye fabrics. If the desire does not return by spring I will give everything away. I have been giving a shelving unit, and work table which need a home. When my mom passed away many of her belongings were stored there and they need to be cleaned up and DubiQuilts family is expanding. We are opening our home to a young man who needs a safe and loving place to live. Our den that is the fourth bedroom of our house and that is going to be MS's bedroom. Right now we use this room for watching TV and for the computers. I am going to miss having the den because it is out of the way and it has become the "guys space". I rarely step foot in that room and I am not sure what I am going to find as we move the TV, computers and other stuff out of the room.

I believe each of my sons need their own bedrooms and MS is no different. I have been using the dinning room as my studio and this is going to become our new den. I am going to keep my sewing machines and shelves with fabric where they are. I will be moving my computer to my bedroom. The computers, TV and couch from the den are moving to the dinning room. If this does not workout then we will have a family meeting and decide what to do next.

As summer ends, families grow and life changes all I can say is what a ride it has been and I am not ready to get off.

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Changes In The DubiQuilts House

2008-08-27T20:24:00.006-05:00

My family is going through many changes and one of the biggest ones is JB is learning to drive. JB is taking drivers education the first semester and this is the first time he is in the car. Tonight he had to practice backing up, learning where and what all the gages are. He is a cutie if I say so myself. He has such a great smile.
Looks like Dad is holding on for dear life.

Many other changes are on the horizon and I will keep my blog updated as each once occurs. Most all of the changes are good but some are not. I am in for the fight of my life for the second time this year. I may not win but I will live each day to the fullest. Life is never boring at DubiQuilts.

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Missing Dog, Your Help Is Needed!!!!!

2008-08-26T20:38:00.006-05:00

This is a posting from a fellow blogger, Valerie Mills at Wolf's Den who is missing her family dog. Please post this on your blog and help return Bommer to his family.

Our dog was picked up in Floyd County, VA by a lady that lives in Charlotte, NC. She took the dog to the vet because it had Animal Care Clinic tags on its collar as well as Rabies Certificate and a Name Tag with phone number. The vet refused to board Boomer because we were not a home at the time because they said it was against the law to Board Boomer without his Bordetella Vaccine. She then took Boomers collar/tags/identification off to remind herself to call us Monday to let us know Boomer was with someone from out of state (very stupid). The Animal Care Clinic let our dog walk out of their office with no identification with a total stranger from out of state. The story was then that the lady put Boomer on the back of her truck where she drove down RT 221 North or South and Boomer jumped off. We have posted at least 100 flyers and animal control has searched the area thoroughly and we have had no leads. If this story is not true and the lady brought Boomer back to NC with her he maybe in area shelters.Please look at him and let us know if you have a dog that fits that description.

Thank you,

Valerie Mills

BOOMER

Tan Lab/Hound Mix,

Very Skinny, No collar,

Very Sweet DogLarge about 80 pounds,

All Shots Current

218 WHITE OAK DRIVE FLOYD,VA

540-745-3772 or 540-808-7347540-808-7346 or

call the Animal Care Clinic of Floyd 540-745-2004 or

Floyd County Animal Control at 745-9365

Vet has tags REWARD IF FOUND

Please call immediately if you have seen or have our dog.

Thank you the Mills Family

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

What Is In A Name

2008-08-20T21:30:00.002-05:00

What Debbi Means

You are balanced, orderly, and organized. You like your ducks in a row.
You are powerful and competent, especially in the workplace.
People can see you as stubborn and headstrong. You definitely have a dominant personality.

You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone.
You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together.
At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together.

You are full of energy. You are spirited and boisterous.
You are bold and daring. You are willing to do some pretty outrageous things.
Your high energy sometimes gets you in trouble. You can have a pretty bad temper at times.

You tend to be pretty tightly wound. It's easy to get you excited... which can be a good or bad thing.
You have a lot of enthusiasm, but it fades rather quickly. You don't stick with any one thing for very long.
You have the drive to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Your biggest problem is making sure you finish the projects you start.

What's" Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

La Cosa Nostra is the above true?

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

I Am Alive and Kicking

2008-08-18T20:53:00.004-05:00

It has been over six weeks since I have posted to my blog. Today was the first time I have logged into blogger and I was surprised to see the changes. I had to look up my password because I could not remember it.

As you can see from the numbers of unread posting from bloglines (over ten thousand total) I will be lost in bloggerland for many hours.
I have no excuses for my lack to blogging. I have been enjoying time with friends doing things I have never done before. I have two very good friends who are very aware of my health, they both are keeping me busy, grounded, sharing time with me, showing me new things and taking me new places. I have been to quilt shows, traveled around Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin and hopeful later next month I will be traveling from Illinois to North and South Dakota with a few more states in between.

My health is OK but not great. Over the past 6 weeks I have been to many Doctors for testing and the news is not great. Last Tuesday I had a stress test to verify the angioplasties from January and March has improved my heart. On Friday I got the bad news that I had flunked my stress test. I will be going back for a third angiogram in the next few weeks because the left side of my heart is not pumping blood as needed. The stents may not be working, additional blockages need to be opened with stents, bypass surgery may be needed and/or the damage to the left side of my heart can not be fixed. No matter what the outcome of the angiogram I know I have done the best I can these past seven months to improve my health and life.

The past four days I have spent much time reaching deep into my soul, testing my faith, emotions and I know what I need to do. I only have one regret and that is the pain my family and friends have endured these seven months dealing with the never ending bad news about my health.

Despite the bad times with my health the past seven months rates on my top ten list as being the best time in my life.

I hope everyone is having a great summer and happy quilting!

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Happy 4th Of July

2008-07-04T09:22:00.004-05:00

Bless America

I hope everyone enjoys and has a safe 4th of July. Ours hearts are with our Service Men and Women all over the world.

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Fabric Painter

2008-06-30T20:07:00.003-05:00

Michael's is one my favorite crafting stores and it is even better when I have a 50% off coupon. This is what I got this past Friday for only $10.85 with tax. I found writing on fabric with a syringe was not easy for me and I hope this will help.

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Day One - Family Time

2008-06-26T23:01:00.005-05:00

I had an outstanding time with my family today. I took a lot of photos these are just a few of them.

Family reflection on the Bean.

My Nephew with his daughter.

Me, My Twin Brother and our Sister

Family resting in The Chicago Cultural Center in the cool air conditioning. It was good!
Tomorrow I will show some of the tile work from the Cultural Center, it would make great quilt designs.

Hope everyone had a great day!

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Running Around and Family Time

2008-06-25T19:51:00.007-05:00

I have family coming in town tonight from Louisiana so I had to run a whole bunch of errands and had lunch with a friend. I will be having family time for the next few days and will post all about.

I did find time today to look at my fabric dyes and supplies. I need to place an order and will do so next week if I get paid for the sewing I did last week.

I have not looked at or touched my hand dyed fabric at all this year. I have forgotten what I did last year. Below are a few of the photos I found. Wow I did forgot all about what I did last year.
After my family leaves I need to spend time looking and touching my hand dyed fabrics. Maybe this will give me the incentive to create and get back to my studio.

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Lack Of Sleep and Is It Time To Leave Blogger

2008-06-24T04:36:00.005-05:00

It is 4:35AM and I can't sleep. I have been having troubles sleeping the past few nights and I do not know why. I do sleep great when I take a sleeping pill but I hate taking them.

My life is full of stress but nothing that should keep me from sleeping. I really am at peace with my life troubles for the first time in many years. I am just starting to accept the loss of my Mom, having heart attacks, heart surgery, wondering why I lived, why others die, and the loss of love.

What does a girl do when she can't sleep? I read blogs. Nothing gets me to relax and fall back to sleep like the soft touch of a friend but he is not here so reading blogs which is the next best thing.

I have not been blogging much and did not realize that blogger is having many problems. I am not getting notifications when a comment is left on my blog. This is not good for me because I need all the help I can get keeping up with my blog. I do not get many comments but I still need help knowing when they come. Maybe it is time to move to a new blog platform. What do you think? Anyone else having troubles? What is another free blog that works better then blogger?

Thank-you SweetP for your email and comments left on my blog, and letting me know about blogger problems.

Thank-you to everyone else who still reads my blog and leaves comments.

Now it is time to get back to your outstanding quilting, fiber arts and just darn good works of art!

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Email Notifications Test

2008-06-23T19:14:00.006-05:00

This is a test. The email notifications are not working when I have a new post or when a comment is left on my blog. Is anyone else having the same problem?

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

My Places and Quilted Heirlooms

2008-06-23T10:13:00.007-05:00

Yesterday was a beautiful day to be outside in Chicagoland. I visited two of my favorite places that are very special to me. I wanted to share them with my friend for many weeks. I am not sure my friend enjoyed seeing my places or being part of my past but I was very happy to be able to share it.

My friend wanted to take me somewhere that was a surprise. We went to the Arlington Heights Historical Museum to see a collection of antique quilts. The exhibit is called Quilted Heirlooms. Here is a link to the Daily Herald article about the museums collection. Photos were not allowed but you can see some of the quilts on the link.

Seeing my places and the quilts were outstanding but the best part of the day was being with my friend.

No matter what we need to talk about you will always be in my heart. La Cosa Nostra is forever!

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Today I Was Lucky

2008-06-21T18:57:00.004-05:00

This morning I went to the drive-up window at the bank to cash a check. When the teller was doing her thing and young man came to the window and said I won today's gift from the bank. He place a gift card in the window drawer and sent it to me. It was a gift card for $100.00 dollars at Marathon Gas. It took me awhile to understand what he was saying. The bank opened just two weeks ago and is having a give away each Saturday and today I was the winner. If I was not seat belted in my van I would of been jumping up and down, screaming and I would of hug the young man.

Today was my lucky day and I am very thankful for this gift!!!!!!!!!!!!

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

My Sleeping Angel

2008-06-20T19:11:00.004-05:00

What does your child cuddle when he sleeps? Mine cuddles the remote control for the TV. Just after this photo was taken his brother woke him up by banging two pan lids just over his head. Oh yes brotherly love runs deep in our house.

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Shouldn't I Of Learned This Before?

2008-06-19T19:05:00.006-05:00

People assume love and hate are opposites but they are really very closely related.

Love and indifference are truly opposites, if you don’t care one way or the other you’re really over a relationship the other person can no longer hurt you.

The time has come to let go of the past and move forward.

I am getting older, running out of time, and I need to live each day to the fullest.

I am not perfect but I am damn good so just do it.

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Father's Day and The Storm Before The Softball Game

2008-06-16T21:55:00.005-05:00

Father's Day is always fun to spend with the family. Between my two sons, my sister's three sons and our husbands my sister and I are out numbered seven to two except now we can add Baby "T" to the list of girls. Baby "T" is my nephew Tony's daughter who will be a year old the beginning of July. The photo below is my sons Jacob, Billy and DH with Baby "T". Baby "T" is the first baby in the family in sixteen years. I am always amazed when I see her with her Dad, two Uncles and two cousins. The five of them are so gentle, loving and caring with her. Some how our sons who were monsters growing up turned into men before our eyes.

The storm just as we got to my Brother-In-Law and nephew's softball game.

I see the rainbow but where is the pot of gold?

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Happy Father's Day

2008-06-15T13:34:00.003-05:00

Happy Father's Day

to all the Dad's in our lives and

in memory of those who are no longer with us.

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Downtown Chicago

2008-06-14T19:15:00.009-05:00

Our day in Millennium Park on the lake front in Chicago at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion and Bean.
The Symphony Orchestra was practicing at lunch time. I am amazed how great the sound is out in the field under the speakers. Click on the video I did with my camera.

Jay Pritzker Pavilion

Paul with Billy

Me with Billy

The Bean

This is me taking a photo of our reflection on the side of the Bean.

Looking up at the middle of the Bean

I worked many years ago in the building to the left of the Santa Fe building.Hope Everyone is Enjoying Their Weekend!

Mark's Quilt

2008-06-13T08:15:00.004-05:00

Military Order of the Purple Heart Award

2008-06-12T19:19:00.005-05:00

Photo of Jacob getting his Military Order of the Purple Heart Award for Leadership at the last Awards Night of the NJROTC 2007 - 2008 year.

Also photos of what is the Purple Heart Medal, certificate and the award are below. You can click on the photos to enlarge.

NJROTC - Military Ball 2008

2008-06-11T18:18:00.003-05:00

This is my son Jacob at the Military Ball this past May. If I say so myself he is a great looking young man.

Our 23rd Wedding Anniversary

2008-06-08T13:02:00.006-05:00

Today is our 23rd Wedding Anniversary

Where did this young couple go?

DubiQuilts is alive, healing from medical issues, taking much needed time away from the studio and blogging. I have been trying to keep up with everyone but I am not doing a very good job. Thank-you to everyone who has sent me emails over the past months to check up on me and for sending your well wishes.

Remembering Mom On Her Birthday

2008-05-28T21:31:00.006-05:00

In memory of our Mom who would of been 72 years old today. You are missed and loved by all of your family.

Road Trip

2008-05-12T17:06:00.005-05:00

Today I went on a road trip with a friend from Palatine to Rockford, Illinois. My friend Kathy travels a lot for business and this was a short trip so she invited me to go along for the ride. It was great to get out of the house after a week of being inside after my surgery. The traffic was not bad, the sky was bright blue but a bit cool outside so it was a great day to be in the car. It was also great to spent the day with a friend.

Tomorrow is another road trip if we can fit it in before my doctors appoinment late in the afternoon.

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-11T09:20:00.004-05:00

To All Our Moms And
In Memory Of Our Moms Who Are Not Here With Us
I Wish You A Very Happy Mother's Day!

Love, Debbi

Good News!!!!

2008-05-10T08:41:00.001-05:00

The mass removed from my hip IS NOT CANCER! Finally some good news.

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Recuperation

2008-05-07T18:09:00.007-05:00

The surgery on my hip to remove a mass went much better then I expected. I am up and moving slowly. I do have some pain but it is manageable with Tylenol. I am having a hard time sleeping because I like to sleep on my right side. I did take photos of my hip before and after the surgery but they are yucky and I will keep them to myself. I am waiting for the results from testing but I do not believe the mass is cancer.

This afternoon I walked around my yard and here are some photos for my flowers and dandelions. I have been trying to grow Bleeding Hearts for years but the dogs had other plans and killed the plant the past three springs. The plant is doing great and I think it is a tribute to new friends, new love, my heart attacks and heart surgeries this year.

This is Summer. She is the only dog who will sit long enough to have her photo taken. Max and Crystal are always in motion so no photos of them.

Hospital Time Again

2008-05-04T20:37:00.005-05:00

Tomorrow I will be having surgery on my right hip to remove a tumor. I do not know the extent of the surgery at this time, just that the tumor has to come out. Unlike my two heart surgeries earlier this year this surgery does not have me scared for my life. I am sure I will be back to normal life in a few weeks and blogging in a couple of day. Until then happy quilting!

La Cosa Nostra has gotten both of us through the bad times and you are the best friend I could of hoped for. You are forever in my heart.

The End Of DubiQuilts Website

2008-04-30T21:52:00.002-05:00

Dear Family and Friends,

After much thought I have decided to end dubiquilts dot com website and
dubiquilts at dubiquilts dot com email address. Please use dubiquilts@yahoo.com for all emails.

I am planning for now to keep DubiQuilts Blog but this may change in the next few weeks.

I have been tossing this around for many months and decided with all the changes in my life it is time to to say good bye to my website. My blog has far more hits each day and the cost is free.

The past week has been very busy, I have not found the time to sit down to blog. I am behind in my sewing and quilting projects. I did finish an art quilt that I promised to make for a friend. I have not finished my Passover Postcards and I really do not have an excuse for this. I started this project months ago, came to a screeching halt and just have not been able to move forward. I need to do some soul searching and get this project done.

I have spent so much time away from the computer the past week that I will never catchup reading blogs or email so I just took the pressure and stress of myself by marking everything as "read". Tomorrow is a new day and I will start with all new emails and blog postings.

Good Night and Sweet Dreams Everyone!

Debbi
dubiquilts@yahoo.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Gymnastics JV Season Is Over With A Bang

2008-04-24T21:51:00.004-05:00

The JV team finished the season as Second Place Conference Champions. There are a total of 11 teams in our conference so they did great. The teams are lining up before the meets starts.

JB finished in 6th place out of 50 places on rings. You can see the air cast on JB's right ankle. He hurt his ankle on Monday doing a dismount on the rings. There was no way I was going to keep him from competing at the conference meet. We have a family history with gymnastics and now it is JB's turn to shine. My other son BB was the 2004 Varsity Conference Champion and the 2004 USA High School National Champion on rings. BB still hold the national record with a score of 9.9 and the schools record of 9.7

Jacob is the 2008 JV Conference High Bar Champion out of 46 places. If some one would of told me I would have a son who is a high bar champ I would of said they are nuts. For many years I have watched our team on the high bar with my eyes closed most of the time because they were not very good and got hurt a lot. This year the high bar team is outstanding and they did a great job.

Sunshine All Around Me

2008-04-23T18:58:00.003-05:00

I have not done anything in the studio this week, my mind just is not on quilting. I have spent time sitting outside in the sunshine and reading. I have been walking each morning, listening to music on my iPod and enjoying the warm Chicagoland weather. Walking Man was there Monday and today. Today we did not talk or even get close to each other. I saw him from the far side of the park but our paths never crossed. My son BB has started running each morning and meets up with me, we walk for a while, then he takes off runs a few more laps and then he runs home.

Enjoy and live each day as if it is your last!

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Iron Man Two

2008-04-22T18:57:00.004-05:00

JB's 2008 gymnastics photo. JB will be competing on Thursday for the Conference Meet. He will do his normal routine just not dismount.

The Birthday Boys Gets An Unwanted Present

2008-04-21T19:39:00.003-05:00

The Birthday Boy has a high ankle sprain. JB landed hard from a dismount on the rings at Gymnastics practice this afternoon. He landed with both feet bending the right foot up to his ankle. He has a temporary cast and has to go to an orthopedic doctor in the next few days for an MRI and see what damage has been done to the ligaments. He is in a lot of pain but in good spirits.

Happy 17th Birthday Jacob

2008-04-21T05:18:00.008-05:00

Happy 17th Birthday Jacob

You are an outstanding son.

You came into this world

fighting for your life and you never gave up.

Today you are a strong, smart and fun loving young man and the best son a Mom could ask for.

I Love You Very Much!

A Peaceful End To A Busy Weekend

2008-04-20T20:36:00.006-05:00

Weekend recap Saturday: We went to Anderson, Indiana for the JROTC Ebbert Mega Drill Meet. Jacob and his NJROTC team won first place for PT and Academic. Jacob is the caption of the PT. They also place second or third in seven other events and were second overall.

Weekend recap Today: First fire outside of the year. I am a fire bug, I can sit and watch the fire burn for hours.

Happy Passover/Pesach

2008-04-19T03:46:00.005-05:00

Happy Pasach to my Family and Jewish Friends. For everyone who does not know about the Jewish Holiday of Passover here is a lesson.

Pesach, known as Passover in English, is a major Jewish spring festival, commemorating the Exodus from Egypt over 3,000 years ago. The ritual observance of this holiday centers around a special home service called the seder (meaning "order") and a festive meal; the prohibition of chametz (leaven); and the eating of matzah (an unleavened bread). On the eve of the fifteenth day of Nisan in the Hebrew calendar, we read from a book called the hagaddah, meaning "telling," which contains the order of prayers, rituals, readings and songs for the Pesach seder. The Pesach seder is the only ritual meal in the Jewish calendar year for which such an order is prescribed, hence its name. The seder plate contains various symbolic foods referred to in the seder itself. It will have bitter herbs, a shankbone, charoset, parsley, and a hard boiled egg. Today will be spent making a brisket and turkey and the Charoset. Charoset is made from apples, nuts, cinnamon, and wine. It is all ground together and symbolic of the mortar used by the Hebrew slaves to build Egyptian structures. The charoset is sweet because sweetness is symbolic of God's kindness, which was able to make slavery more bearable.

Printed from Chabad.org

Passover A to Z A quick overview of the Passover process

Please note: 5768 (2008) is one of the relatively rare years when the day before Passover falls on Shabbat. Please pay close attention to the following schedule, because many details are different than other years.

A month before Passover:
Begin learning about Passover and studying its laws.
Begin the house cleaning process. Methodically inspect and rid every part of your home of any traces of chametz. Be on the lookout for crumbs of all sorts, hidden stashes of crunchy chocolate, fermented drinks (nearly all are made with grain), etc. Make a list of all the rooms in your house, and cross off each one as you complete it.Enforce the pre-Passover house rules: No food may leave the kitchen. After eating, clothes must be brushed off and hands thoroughly washed.
Set aside a special space or spaces to stash the chametz you will be selling for the duration of Passover (see next item). This can be a closet, a cabinet in the kitchen, or a room in the basement, as long as it can be locked or closed off and inaccessible to you for all of Passover.
Arrange for the selling of your chametz. Fill out a form and bring it to your rabbi, delegating to him the task of selling your chametz before Passover. (You can also sell your chametz online.)
Buy the Passover essentials: purchase your matzah and wine in advance, and store it in a place where it is absolutely safe from any contact with any chametz.If you're not making a Seder at home, your local Chabad-Lubavitch center has reserved a place for you! Click here to register for a Seder at the location of your choice.

A few days before Passover:
Begin work on making your kitchen "Kosher for Passover." Put away all utensils that have been used year-round, and lock or seal those cabinets. Put away all non-kosher-for-Passover food, and seal those cabinets. Once your kitchen is completely clean, do the special procedure to kosher your kitchen and appliances for Passover.(Now that your kitchen is clean and all your non-kosher-for-Passover food put away, you will only be able to prepare and eat kosher-for-Passover foods there. If you're not ready to start eating only kosher-for-Passover food yet, you can buy ready-prepared food and eat it outside of the house, or in a place that will be "sold" for the duration of Passover.)

Take stock of your Passover inventory. Take out any special-for-Passover dishes or silver from where they are stored. Polish the silver. Make sure you have Haggadahs for the seder.
Do your Passover shopping. Buy the seder ingredients, plus general food for Passover. Store these in your newly cleaned refrigerator and cabinets -- empty, of course, of any non-Passover food. You can now begin cooking for the holiday in your Kosher-for-Passover kitchen.
Make sure that your holiday clothes and shoes are ready, ironed, and polished. Treat yourself to something new -- an outfit, shoes, or even just a tie.

Thrsday (April 17th)
If you are a first-born son, or the father of a first-born son under the age of Bar Mitzvah, participate in a Siyyum or other mitzvah feast, in order to be absolved of the "Fast of the Firstborn."

Thursday night (48 hours before Passover):
Do the ritual search for Chametz. Take a candle, a spoon, and a feather, and search the house for any remaining or forgotten chametz.

Friday morning:
Burn any leftover Chametz that is not being sold, including anything that was found Thursday night at the Search for the Chametz. The only chametz which should remain is the challah which will be eaten by the two Shabbat meals. The chametz is burned before the end of the fifth "seasonal hour" of the morning (click here for local times.) By this time, all cabinets and areas containing chametz that will be sold should be sealed.

Friday Afternoon:
Prepare for the Seder. Ready the items for the Seder plate. Light Shabbat candles before sunset (click here for local times).

Friday Night:
Enjoy a Kosher for Passover Shabbat meal. The only chametz eaten, the challah, is carefully consumed over a paper napkin or tissue. Afterwards, the paper, together with any remaining chametz crumbs, is flushed down the toilet. Extra care should be taken that no chametz crumbs should fall on the floor.

Shabbat morning:
The morning services are recited early in the morning in order to allow enough time to start the Shabbat meal and eat the challah before the end of the fourth seasonal hour. Once again, The challah is carefully consumed over a paper napkin or tissue, and then, together with any remaining chametz crumbs, is flushed down the toilet. The deadline for eating chametz is approximately two hours before midday (click here for local times). Past this point, no chametz is eaten until after the festival. During the fifth seasonal hour, the nullification of the chametz (Kol Chamira) is recited.

Shabbat afternoon:
Recite the "Order of the Passover Offering," recalling and reliving the Korban Pesach which was offered in the Holy Temple at this time.

Saturday night:
Light the festival candles after nightfall from a pre-existing flame; click here for local times. Then go to the synagogue for the evening holiday services, which include the special addition of the Hallel prayer.
Hold the first Passover Seder. Follow the 15 steps, recite the Haggadah, tell and relive the story of the Exodus, and enjoy the matzah, wine, and bitter herbs. Make sure to eat the Afikoman by midnight.

Sunday morning:
Go to the synagogue for the Passover prayer services (which include a special prayer for dew) and Torah reading.

Sunday night:
The Omer Count begins tonight.Outside the Holy Land, tonight begins a second day of Yom Tov (hallowed festival day) which is basically a repeat of the first. Light the festival candles from a pre-existing flame (as it is forbidden to create a new flame on Yom Tov) after nightfall. The entire Seder is repeated tonight. (This time, however, there's no midnight deadline; you can go on until morning.)

Monday:
Today is the second festival day; go to the synagogue for the special Passover prayers and Torah reading.

Monday night:
Tonight begin the four "intermediate days" of Passover. Celebrate the intermediate days with matzah, kosher-for-Passover cooking, family trips (in the newly cleaned car), and more retelling of the Exodus story. It's still Passover, so we don't eat, own, or derive enjoyment from Chametz, but most activities prohibited the first and last two days are permitted. We also add special passages to our prayers: Hallel, Yaaleh Veyavo, and Musaf.
Friday evening:
Tonight begin the final two festival days of Passover. Light candles at the specified time, and enjoy festive meals Friday night, Shabbat afternoon, Saturday night, and Sunday afternoon.Some have the custom to stay awake Friday night (the night of the Splitting of the Sea) and study Torah through the night.

Sunday morning:
Yizkor, the memorial prayer for departed parents, is recited following the reading of the Torah during the morning prayer service.
Sunday afternoon:
As the day wanes, spend the final hours of Passover with "Moshiach's Meal" -- a special feast in honor of the Redemption. We've spent eight days celebrating the exodus from Egypt. Now, as we leave Passover, we pray for the exodus from our present exile and a brighter tomorrow.

Sunday night:
At nightfall, the Passover holiday comes to an end. Make Havdalah over your last cup of kosher-for-Passover wine. Put away the Passover dishes, Haggadahs, and all other Passover items, locking them away until next year. Then, ...You can once again enjoy chametz food and drinks, and feast on pizza, bread, beer -- anything kosher. (Just make sure it's not chametz that was in the possession of a Jew during Passover.) But as you do, don't forget the eight days of freedom you've just experienced, and remember that throughout the year, as you enjoy all your leavened food, you still carry a bit of the matzah spirit with you!

The content on this page is copyrighted by the author, publisher and/or Chabad.org, and is produced by Chabad.org. If you enjoyed this article, we encourage you to distribute it further, provided that you comply with the copyright policy.

Earthquake In Southern Illinois

2008-04-18T17:42:00.003-05:00

It was another night when I could not sleep and I was up at 2AM. I was on the computer at 4:30AM and my dogs went crazy and wanted to go outside when the eartquake hit about 250 miles from my house. I did not feel the earthquake but my son JB did. To read more about the earthquake click here.

I did not walk at the park today but walked with my son BB as we shopped most of the day. We went to Borders and BB got 2 books about the Iraq war. Then we walked around Woodfield Mall and window shopped. We stopped at Dicks Sporting Goods and BB got a pair of running shorts and then we stopped at the grocery store. I forgot all about going to staples for ink for my printers. That will have to wait until Sunday. I wanted to print the back of my passover postcards and get them in the mail today. It was great fun spending time with my son and when he off fighting the war I will remember our time together.

On Saturday I am going to Ebert, Indiana for a NJROTC Drill Meet. We are leaving at oh dark 30 in the morning (4:30AM). I will be riding the bus with the team so I should be able to sleep both going and coming home. I went to the meet last year and it was a lot of fun, but a long day.

Have A Great Weekend!

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Color Guard, Spring Flowers and Walking

2008-04-17T18:56:00.011-05:00

Tonight was our high school Knights Gymnastics Invite and my son JB and fellow cadets did the color guard. JB is on the team and the head coach always wants JB and his NJROTC unit to do the color guard. This is new for the NJROTC unit to do sporting events at our high school. Last year JB asked the athletic director and now it has become a tradition for the NJROTC unit.

The past two days it has been warm in Chicagoland and my flowers are popping out all over. Here are a few from my gardens. This is the first year that I am unable to work in my flower gardens and they are showing the lack of loving. I have not done a spring cleaning, turned the dirt or edged the beds.

Yesterday and today I went to my favorite walking path for the first time this spring. I could not walk the path all winter because the snow on the path was not plowed so I had to walk on other paths. Yesterday I walked around the path twice for a total of three miles. Today I walked around four times for a total of six miles. Before my heart attacks I was walking six miles each day and it took almost three hours and each step was a struggle. I was not having chest pains but I was always out of breath, my legs hurt and each step was just hard to take but I kept at it for eleven months. All winter long and after each angioplasty I started walk taking very easy at first until I was up to three miles. With the warmer weather today I felt like I need to walk more and so I did. I am not having any chest pains but I do feel a heaviness in my chest. I am not sure what this means but it did kill me. When I walk I listen to quilting podcast and music on my Ipod. For me walking is an escape from the troubles of my life and a time to let my mind relax.

Last year I met a man who also walks on the same path as I do. He walks much faster than I do but once in a while he would slow down and we would walk together. We walked and talked a bit and off he would go. We never gave each other any personal information about who we are. We did this until winter and said we would meet up again in the spring. Yesterday I did not see him and today he walked up from behind me, tapped me on the shoulder and said hi. I still do not know his name so I will call him walking man. We walked and talk for an hour today and off walking he went. When I was done I sat on a bench to cool down and today walking man sat with me. We talked for another hour and we still do not know anything about each other. After we went our separate ways I started thinking about who he is. Maybe I should at least ask him his name. What would he think about me calling him walking man? Maybe he calls me walking women.

Tomorrows plans: Walking, Passover Postcards, Lunch with BB and Shopping.

Studio Time, Sewing, Meeting and Walking

2008-04-16T16:25:00.005-05:00

What a great day to be outside here in Chicagoland. Today was the first day in six months that is has reached 70 degrees.I spent some time in my studio this morning and cleaned the cutting table. Yesterday I finished sewing more patches on Mark's motorcycle vest.
Had a meeting at my son's school and then went for a three mile walk. It is good to be out and about with out having to wear a jacket.

Happy Quilting!

My Weekend In Photos

2008-04-15T16:15:00.008-05:00

A friend took these photos of Wrigley Field from a Sky box on Sheffield.

JB at his NJROTC's Drill Meet

Color Guard "B" team
JB as guide on with unit banners.

Unarmed Exhibition Team

Bad Dreams Or Are They Nightmares

2008-04-10T05:13:00.004-05:00

For the reader of my blog this is a posting that you may want to skip. It is mostly a note to myself after a bad dream.

At 4:30am I woke up in a cold sweat and shaking. I must of been having a bad dream or it was a nightmare. I do not know because I can't not remember a thing. I laid in bed for half an hour trying to get back to sleep but my mind and body would not cooperate.

I got up went to the bathroom and decided to read my emails and scan my bloglines list. I sent a email to a friend who is having heart surgery today. He has sent me the warmest and loving emails and handwritten cards the past three months and now I am sending him my wishes and prayers for a safe surgery and speedy recovery.

I know the past few days I have been stressed about my own health, the health and life of another friend, my family and everyday "things". A day does not pass when I do not think about my Mom who passed away almost two years ago and my cousin Gail who passed just over a year ago. I am the oldest living female in my family, at the age of 51 and I almost died in January. Mom and Gail died within a year of each other and I almost died within a year of Gail. I often wonder why not me? How much can one family take? What plans does G-D have for me? What plans do/should I have for myself?

I have this feeling that something really bad is going to happen and I just can not get it out of my mind no matter how hard I try. Most days I feel like I am running in circles and at the end of the day I have very little to show for my time. I have not accomplished or completed any quilting, sewing or craft projects in months. On days when I am having a good day and as evening approaches all hell breaks loose. There are days when no matter what I do it turns sour. Other days are just perfect. As each day ends and I get into bed I am thankful for that day no matter if it was good or bad because I am alive. When I wake up each day I look forward to the day because I am alive. All I can do is take each day as it comes and live each day to it's fullest.

I always dreamed and wanted a "special friend" who I could talk with, not judge me, spend time with, be my "turn to person", be my soul mate, love for a lifetime and I be all this and more to them. I had given up this dream years ago and put it out of my mind thinking it only happen on TV or in movies. Just before I had my first heart attack this person came into my life and changed everything. La Cosa Nostra is a dream come true and a blessing.

I have an outstanding family who I love and loves me. I have outstanding friends who are a great inspiration for me, who I love and who love me.

As I look at the clock an hour and half has passed, soon the family will be getting up to begin their day and I will get back in bed and try to get some more sleep.

Happy dreams and good days to all!

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

What A Great Day - Quilt Art Meeting

2008-04-09T21:20:00.003-05:00

For the first time in months, today I went out in public. I attended my Quilt Artist Group's monthly meeting. Today one of the guests was Bonnie Lyn McCaffery. Anyone who wanted, was interviewed by Bonnie for one of her vidcasts. Yes, I was interviewed and hopefully it will make it into one of the vidcasts. I really miss going to the meetings and seeing the wonderful work each artist is or has done. I am so inspired by each of the artist. Now if I can get my mind off my health and troubles it may be time to finish my UFOs and or move on to new creative projects.

Happy Quilting Everyone!

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

My Mood and The Weather

2008-04-08T18:13:00.005-05:00

It is cold, grey and raining here in Chicagoland . My mood is also cold and grey. I have had to have my blood tested every day for the past 8 days and my arms hurt. The good news is no more heart surgery for awhile, no more blood tests for awhile and only one more doctors appointment next week for awhile. After next week I am medical free for 5 weeks accept for a stress test and the possibility of surgery on my hip.

I have to get back in the studio and do some sewing, quilting and crafting. Tomorrow I will be going to my Art Quilters meeting and I am so excited. Being with other art quilters is just what I need to give my creativity a jump start. I also have a client project to work on and sew more patches on my friends motorcycle vest.

Have A Great Evening!

I give up just I was about to press the publish post button my cell phone rings and it is my internist calling to say there is a problem with the echo of my heart. I was at the cardiologist yesterday. The cardiologist who did my angioplasties was called to do an emergency surgery so I saw her associate. He said my Echo was OK.

IF I DO NOT HAVE ANOTHER HEART ATTACK AND DIE IT WILL BE A MIRACLE. I am seeing five doctors and each one is tell me something different. I liked it better when I did not know I was sick, when I was not taking any medication and when I was not seeing any doctors.

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Walking and Riding

2008-04-07T11:31:00.005-05:00

Yesterday I went for a three mile walk very early in the morning. It was about 50 degrees and felt good to be outside in the Chicagoland weather and not freeze.

These photos are from Busse Woods in Elk Grove, Illinois. This is another great path were I ride my bicycle.

The guy in the kayak stopped paddling in the middle of the lake and started fishing. I watched him as he drifted for a while then I got back on my bike and headed home.

These kids were having fun fishing, not sure if they caught any fish.

I spent the rest of the afternoon and evening with friends. We all had a great time and it felt good to have the sun shinning on us and the wind in our faces. La Cosa Nostra is what it is all about.

This week I have put my mind to spend time in the studio sewing. I have a few projects I want to finish before I have my next surgery.

I have another doctor's appointment today to talk about the Echo I had of my heart last week and a follow up from my last angioplasty. I can not believe how fast the past four weeks have flown by since I had the angioplasty. I feel great except for the heavy feeling I have in my chest and the problems with my low blood counts. I know I have said this before but being sick sure does suck.

I am trying to live each day to the fullest with family, loved ones and friends.

Hope everyone has a GREAT day and enjoy it.

Bicycle Ride

2008-04-05T16:25:00.005-05:00

Sounds and Sights from my bike ride today at Deer Park in Palatine, Illinois The path that I ride is three miles and I did it twice. The temperature in Palatine was in the low 60's. Today was the nicest day of the year and many people were out enjoying the day. After this I finish this post I am going to take it easy. It is to late in the day to take a nap and to early to get in bed for the night so I will have to fight the desire to fall asleep for at least 3 hours. Hum? Wonder if I can do it. I may have to go for a walk and get some energy back.

Frogs saying hi to everyone riding, skating and walking by the pond.

One of many ponds just off the path. With all the snow and rain I was surprise more of the park is not flooded. In some of the shaded areas of the park there are still piles of snow.

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

TGIF - But Where Did The Week Go?

2008-04-04T20:19:00.004-05:00

How did it got to be Friday already? This week passed by so fast and I have very little to show for it. I have had doctors appointments and testing at the hospital almost everyday this week, walked only two days and rode my bicycle only once. I opened my book once and read 10 pages. I have been reading this book for 3 months and I am on page 139 of 441. I can read a book with this many pages in a day or two but right now I can not focus for very long. I did finish 3 other books in the same 3 months. I also have spent 10 days in the hospital been under the weather for most of the 3 months so I guess I am really doing OK with my reading. Now if I can only get my mind to focus long enough to work on a quilt or the 8 Passover Postcards I have half finished I would be really happy.

I keep getting bad news calls from the doctors about the blood tests reports coming back with critically low counts and how I should be in the hospital. I do not go out in the public where there are crowds of people, I stay away from sick people, I wash my hands all the time and I am taking good care of my self. I am not sick, I do not have an infection and I am not running a temperature so why should I be in the hospital that is filled with sick people. I would have to be in an isolation room, wear a mask when I was out of the room, others coming in the room would have to wear a mask, gloves and a gown. I would go crazy in a matter of hours and they would have to find padded room for me because I would crack up. Hospitals are for sick people and right now I am not sick so I am not going. That is my story and I am sticking to it. I am lucky the doctor said OK for today but it can change with tomorrow morning's blood test. I have to be back at the hospital at 6:30am for another blood test. What a great way to start the weekend off.

Next week is another week with doctors appointments. I am hoping I can plan the next three surgery's I need to have. Then I will have to be in the hospital because I will be "sick". OK enough venting, it is time to move on to the good part of living. The weather in Chicagoland tomorrow is going to the in the 60's and I want to get outside and feel the wind in my face. I want to walk around the yard and look at the damage to the grass from the dogs, see what spring flowers are growing, and see what flowers are popping out of the ground for summer. My tulips are growing very slowly this year, they are only 6 inches high. This is the first time in along time I can remember we are having "spring".

Thank-you to everyone who is stopping by my blog to read what I have to say and for leaving your comments. It really helps me get through the days. You are the best friends a girl could have!!!!

I feel like a crappy friend because I am not able to read your blogs and leave comments daily. I know this will pass and soon I will be back to a "blogging normal" life.

I hope you have a GREAT weekend and happy crafting!

La Cosa Nostra and Sweet Dreams!

Blogger Friends Are The Best Friends In The World

2008-04-02T20:48:00.003-05:00

This the front of the get well card I got from Sara at FabricNFiberFanatic It came in the mail some time ago and I found it in a pile of JoAnn's, Handcock's and Art sales adds on my cutting table. Sara knits, quilts, loves dogs and cats. I try to knit, love quilting, dogs and cats so this card is perfect.

Thank-you Sara!

Serger Time and New (hand me downs) Clothes

2008-03-31T20:43:00.004-05:00

Not much going on in the studio. I was given clothes from a friend who is much taller then me. I have to cut off about three inches from all the pants and I still one inch for the hem. Yep I am short or as my friend Mark says my ass is just low to the ground. Most all of the pants are a bit big and the sweaters and shirts are perfect. Last year my sister gave me 3 bags of clothes that many of the pants, shorts and shirts were to small so I put them away. I never figure I would loose enough weight to fit in them and I would just pass them along. The five heart attack diet worked so well for me I have lost enough weight that most of the clothes are now to big for me. I love having new clothes. My friends and sister have good taste and spent their money very well. I am getting comfortable with my new smaller size and now it is time for me to pass my clothes on to another person.

Have A Great Evening!

It Is Spring in Chicagoland and Time To Get Outside

2008-03-29T23:01:00.008-05:00

I know it is spring in Chicagoland but what is with the snow and cold weather. Early today it was cold, the sky was bright blue, the sun was shining and I went for a walk. I only walked a mile because I wanted to ride my bicycle later in the day. All my life I have been an avid bicycle rider and for the past four years I have not been able to ride because of knee problems. I rode for a few miles and it felt great. I am so happy my butt, my knees and heart are doing fine. I am still having tightness in my chest and it did not get any worse when I walked or rode my bicycle. I did take a three hour nap this afternoon and had to be woken up for dinner.

This photo is from when I was on a bike ride with my family on Chicago's Lake Front.

The date on the photos is 04/25/2004.

This is just three weeks before I was diagnosed with MDS.

I am still reading "Blood Covenant" by Michael Franzese. I have only 20 pages left and will finish it tomorrow. If I have a bad dream again tonight, I will finish the book instead of laying in bed shaking for hours. I still can not remember what the dream was about, but it did have me scared. This book had touched me in many ways and I can see how it can change a persons life.

Most of my day was spent downloading CDs to my computer. When I had to replace my hard drive and external backup drive I lost all of my music. I was very upset today when I was downloading my songs to my iPod when it had a disk error and locked up. I have been trying all evening to unlock it and just about threw it against the wall when it finally unlocked. It just finished downloading 759 songs, 1.9 days and 2.59 GB and I am only half way thru my CD collection. I will have to count my CDs but if I had to guess I would say I have at least 300 CDs.

When I walk I listen to quilting podcast and today it was not any fun walking without Alex Anderson. I have had my iPod for four years and it may need to be replaced. If only I could find the money tree growing in my backyard. Until the money tree does grow I will have to deal with it locking up as long as I can keep unlocking it I am happy.

Debbi
dubiquilts@dubiquilts.com (email)
©2006 - 2008 DubiQuilts

Resting and Reading

2008-03-28T19:15:00.003-05:00

I have been resting, watching TV, downloading CDs to iTunes and reading.

I am so looking forward to warmer weather here in Chicagoland so I can be outside, walking, spending time in the pool and being with family and friends. Next week is going to be very exciting because I have doctors appointments and tests at the hospital every day of the week. Being unhealthy really sucks!!!!!!! Can you tell I need to get a life and get out of the house.

I am currently reading "Blood Covenant" by Michael Franzese. The cover tells the whole story, he was in the mob, quit and still is alive today. It is and outstanding book. I only have 100 pages left and most likely will finish reading it tonight. Not to worry I have more unread books just waiting for me. Without cosa nostra I know life would not be any fun.