O'Brien Christmas Original

As promised, here are pictures of my third Christmas quilt - a small wall hanging. It was fun to make this because it was an 'original' design and took on a life of its own once I started. 

The design began with one flower blossom, not even a poinsettia. I had purchased some very cheap applique shapes at Tuesday Morning (won't make this mistake again!). I liked the shape of the flower and thought it looked a little like a poinsettia, so I started making more of them in the Christmas red fabric. 

I used a large plate to make the round shape for the wreath. Found the reindeer as part of a Santa/reindeer/sleigh pattern and liked the position and the striking contrast of colors. Found the leaves, inner blossoms and stars online, so that made the job really easy. Sent it off for quilting and was stunned at the expense, so as I noted in my previous post, I must learn to free motion quilt. 

After the piece was quilted, I embellished it with green iron-on crystals for the center of the flowers, the red collar and horn "ornaments" for the reindeer. I had found some snowflake buttons which I used for the center of the stars, then added a gold crystal on top of the button. 

It is very simple, but DH really likes it, which makes me happy, of course!

I was, however, very disappointed, that the fabric frayed so much when it was quilted. I learned my lesson about using a stabilizer when doing applique. Won't make this mistake again! 

I'm starting on a whimsical art quilt depicting our neighborhood. I'm excited to see how it turns out. 

Onward into my sewing room and . . . 

"Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!"

Christmas Quilting

Despite some marginally chaotic activity this year, I did manage to produce three Christmas theme quilt tops. 

The top picture is an adorable quilt I saw in a magazine and just had to make it. Because the center is just one large panel, it was easy to make fairly quickly. The holly leaves at the corners are applique with red buttons for the berries. Really sweet. I liked the silhouette images as well as the red, black and white color way. Different for a Christmas theme.


The second quilt (below left) is a Thimbleberries "Holiday Stars" pattern. I've blogged about this one before so I won't repeat everything again, but will note that there were what seemed to be millions of small pieces comprising the blocks. 


The time taken making this was well worth the effort. This may be the first top I have made where practically every seam matches, points are precise and strips that are supposed to be vertical or horizontal are straight. This is amazing given the complexity of the top. I took my time; I started working on it in late September. The picture does not do this quilt justice. The colors are very rich and beautiful. This is the best quilt I've made since I began this hobby in September 2008. At the risk of boasting, I am quite proud of it. 


The last top I made is an O'Brien original. I will post a picture later, when I have the proper lighting. It's just a little wall hanging, but I did develop the idea, find images online for the templates and did the embellishing with crystals and buttons. I spent entirely too much money having this one quilted and won't do this again.


I am completely committed to learn how to do free motion quilting so I can quilt some of these smaller tops I make. Given the economy and what's going on here at O'Brien Manor (with DH's health situation), I need to economize wherever I can. Between these three Christmas quilts, I spent about $300 having them quilted. Yikes, that's a lot of money!!! I am taking an online free motion quilting workshop which I hope will help me learn this skill.


I have a couple of quilting goals for 2012 besides learning how to free motion quilt. I want to continue to direct my time to making art quilts. I would also like to learn how to do foundation piecing, something I've not done yet. There is a great project I found in a magazine that I'm going to tackle to learn this.


In early 2012, my friend, Mary, and I are launching our business, Paws4Purpose. I will be blogging more about this as we get closer to our "go live" date. Hoping to eek out some $$$ from this little effort, but mostly it's about helping protect pets. The picture below is of Mary (right) with Breezy and me with our adorable, wonderful BoBo (aka 'Boris'). I love this picture because of the way Boris is looking at Breezy. It's so, so cute.

Wishing you, Dear Readers, a wonderful, love-filled Christmas and New Year. 

Onward The O'Brien family goes into 2012 with hope, optimism and faith. 

Four legged friends

My dear friend and riding buddy, Mary, and I are some of the subjects of an article that will appear in Sacramento Magazine in February (the issue hits the stands on January 20th). 


This week we had the photo shoot. Of course, Mary and I wanted to make certain that the animals were the main focus of the pictures. 


Mary convinced the photographer that the venue for the photos should be The Knicker Knob Stable in Loomis, where Mary and I ride every Monday. As you can see, it makes a very nice backdrop. 


Despite the fact that my pant leg is riding up ("Oh no!"), I think this picture is adorable. Boris, our 4-year old Samoyed rescue pup, has his big smile on. This is so sweet. Breezy is a 28-year old lesson horse at the stable. I won my very first horse show blue ribbon on Breezy. She has a special place in my heart.


DH came along as our animal handler. I'm so glad he was there because this was the first time Boris had been around horses. He (Boris, not DH) was very excited about the entire event. He was yipping and barking, letting everyone know he was there and ready for "Lights, camera, action!" He is such a good dog and is incapable of taking a bad picture (unlike me :-(


Breezy is Ms. Mellow. Having a new dog around, being photographed, being hauled on a lead didn't phase her one bit. She just went with the flow of things. Kelly, the stable manager and our riding instructor, gave Breezy a bath minutes before the pictures were taken. Breezy was soft as a bunny, as Mary said, and she was right. Don't think I've ever felt a horse's coat that soft. 


Figuring out what to wear was a big decision. I settled on the fleece horse theme jacket I recently made. It was the first piece of clothing I have made since high school Home Ec class. What an ordeal! That said, it turned out cute and I think it looks good in the picture.


Took a riding lesson yesterday afternoon in the beautiful fall weather. It was the perfect way to start the Thanksgiving weekend. DH is home for four days ("Yay!), so he'll be able to get lots of rest and relaxation. I'm in charge of making Thanksgiving dinner. This is one scary thought! We might end up at the local casino if things go south in the kitchen for me. I'm committed to proving to DH that I can cook despite my many catastrophes in the kitchen.


Onward into the cooking fray, with fear, trepidation and a good sense of humor.

Second Therapy Dog Observation

Boris and His Daddy
Therapy Dog Observation #2
11-11-11

On Friday, Veteran's Day, DH decided to go with Boris and me for our second Therapy Dogs, Inc. observation visit. I snapped this picture of them sharing a quiet moment before we entered the assisted living facility we visited.


The set-up for this observation was great and, frankly, better than in an acute care hospital. The residents were brought to a central location, so we knew if they were there, it was because they liked dogs. In the hospital, you never know if the patients like dogs, have just gotten bad news or much of anything else. It's difficult to enter a patient's room under these circumstances. 


We knew that the dozen or more residents were definitely animal lovers. They adored Boris and loved seeing all the dogs (there were a total of four, but none as spectacular as our boy!). We spent 90 minutes visiting. All the credit goes to BoBo (our nickname for Boris) who was as-good-as-gold and made a lasting impression on the people who met him. 


Boris is great with people and other dogs. Each dog was very well-behaved, but I think Boris - all pride aside - was the very best at making contact with the residents; the need for interactions with humans is an integral part of the Samoyed breed.


The most touching visit was with a 91-year old veteran of WW II. He is a highly intelligent, articulate and social person. When I asked if he was a veteran and then thanked him for his service to our country when he replied on the positive, he broke down and cried, telling me how the government keeps making the same mistakes over and over and asking how many more people will have to die before we stop this. It was difficult for me to keep my cool as I wanted to break down and cry myself. I put my arm around him, let him talk and compose himself. I asked him if we could come back and visit him. He said, "I'd really like that." Then I told my friend, Maddie, who goes to Mass at this facility every Saturday, that she needed to sit next to him at Mass because he needs some extra care right now. 


It was wonderful having DH with us. Boris was very happy his Dad came along! When I was talking with the veteran, DH came over to take Boris then started circulating and talking with the elderly people. It was very heartwarming to see him do this. I was so proud of both of my "boys" for the joy and comfort they brought to these residents. 


Once again, Boris passed with flying colors. One more observed visit next Wednesday to Mercy San Juan Hospital, then we will be an official Therapy Dogs, Inc. team! 


Onward with gratitude to every veteran and active military person for our freedom. We will never forget their sacrifices. 

Mostly Boris and Then Some

Boris in his new raincoat getting
ready for a walk with his Daddy.

Henry and me at Mercy Folsom
Hospital getting ready to visit
patients on Christmas Day 2004.
Check out his big red holiday bow.

Within seconds of meeting Boris (we mostly just call him BoBo), the 4-year old spectacular Sammie we rescued from San Francisco Samoyed Rescue in May 2011, we knew he would make an exceptional therapy dog. Having been involved in animal assisted therapy with our previous Samoyed, Henry (see picture on the right), we know the qualities necessary for a dog to provide that special kind of canine comfort to people desperately in need of it - those in the hospital, in nursing homes, in hospice, in rehabilitation centers. The most important qualities include being well-mannered, enjoying human contact and basic obedience skills. But in our opinion, there are others that increase the likelihood of a pooch being successful in this role. These include a strong people-orientation, that uncanny canine insight, calmness and trust. Boris has it all and a lot more, as did our beloved Henry, who we lost in 2005.

We gave Boris ample time to settle into our home before deciding to pursue registration with Therapy Dogs Inc. (www.therapydogs.com). While there is no formal training required, there is a process of assessment, which includes evaluation by a TDI tester and three observed facility visits.

Boris had his first assessment on November 5th at Mercy General Hospital in Sacramento; as we expected, he passed with flying colors! We have two other visits scheduled by the end of November. Upon successful completion, Boris will be a registered therapy dog and able to make pet visitations to any facility that would like him to share that special Sammie joy and love with patients and/or clients.

Boris had some practice at pet therapy even before the formal assessment with TDI began. DH experienced an unexpected health crisis in August which resulted in a medical leave of absence from work. During this time, whenever DH would take a nap, Boris would climb up on the bed and watch him until he was sure his Dad was asleep. Then - and only then - would Boris go to sleep, not leaving his Dad's side until nap time was over. 

Not every Samoyed may be suited for animal assisted therapy, but our previous experience with Henry and now Boris has demonstrated that the core characteristics of this wonderful breed make them strong pet therapy candidates.

Christmas Quilt 2011

On the quilting front, here is my Thimbleberries "Holiday Stars" quilt. This top took forever to complete, but I am very pleased with the way it turned out. One question however: Why do they call a gathering of Thimbleberries quilters "a club"? Given the number of tiny pieces of fabric in one of these tops, it should be called a support group! 

Here is a picture of my completed horse-theme jacket. This is the first piece of clothing I have made since I was in Home Ec in high school. What a challenge this was! That said, after having to let out seams because it was too small (despite selecting what I thought was the right pattern size), it's a cute top that will be great for winter rides, whether in the arena or on the trail. 


Don't think making clothes is my "thing" but I'm happy with the outcome of this sewing adventure, regardless of the problems with it. Lord forbid anyone who really knows how to sew looks at the inside of this jacket. What a mess! 


Onward into the holiday season with great gratitude. 

What's Wrong With This Picture?

What we were supposed to paint

My painting
Unfinished 10/2011

I have proven to myself that as an oil painter, I'd make a great house painter.


After taking drawing and oil painting classes, I came to the tragic - but true - realization that I cannot paint. 


I have proof-positive, to wit:


1. I was the only student in the class who did not finish the painting. Everyone else left with a completed 'masterpiece.' I spent too much time getting the pitcher and bowl to look the way I wanted because I didn't like the one in the original picture.


2. The instructor asked all the other participants what they were going to do to continue painting now that we had finished the class. She assiduously avoided me when she made her rounds! I'm sure she was thinking, "Don't make eye contact!" 


3. My picture bears no resemblance to what we were to paint, except that the subjects are similar in nature. I broke out of the mold, painting what I wanted, not merely reproducing what was required. Oops! That wasn't the assignment. Oh well.


In my defense, the vase and flower are not finished at all, I still was working on my pitcher and bowl and hadn't even started any detail work. 


You don't know if you don't go and try something, right? I'll stick to quilting and not spend money getting the supplies to finish my painting. I don't have the heart to trash it, so I'll store it in my sewing room closet as a reminder not to try this hobby again. Even DH - after seeing my painting - suggested that I stick to my other activities. The cruelest cut of all! :-(


Onward, but not in oil painting land! 

Just Horsing Around

My very first horse show
ribbons

My friend and riding buddy, Mary
and me at the stable on the
day of the show

My second place in Novice Trail,
with ChaCha, a great horse

What a day at my first-ever horse show and after only riding for five months. 


At the ripe old age of . . . er, let's just say "getting closer to Medicare" . . . I participated in a schooling horse show at The Knicker Knob Stable in Loomis, CA where I ride and take lessons. Who would have thought even a year ago that I would be taking home three ribbons for the day, let alone be on a horse? Will wonders never cease. Apparently not!


It was a great day, full of jittery nerves (the positive variety) of excitement, some surprises (the horse I usually ride, Jessie, had a back problem and was pulled from the show), fabulous support from DH and my good friend and riding partner, Mary, and loads of terrific people who were there for their kids or themselves.


The lead-up to the show was not good, with DH's health issues still worrying me and my being sick on the Saturday before the event. That noted, I woke up on Sunday knowing I was strong enough to ride. I had absolutely no expectations of what would happen never having been in any horse show in my life. In many ways, this was a very good situation; without expectations, I didn't fret about where I would end up in my classes when the dust settled (literally). I just got up on the horse and did what our instructor - the fabulous and oh-so-sweet Kelly Williams - had trained us to do.


First up was the Pleasure Class. The objective: The rider needs to make it look like she could ride this horse all day long, that she'd just love that, that she'd never want to get off the horse, etc., etc. This requires big smiles (I'm not good at this part in any sport), good posture, relaxed gait, and the ability to exude what fun it is to ride. When the announcer started with 5th place, working her way down and I hadn't heard my number called, I thought, "Don't worry. Equitation is next. You should do better in that class." Then I heard "And first place goes to 289." I nearly fell off the horse. 


My placement was truly a shock because at the very last minute, the horse I usually ride was pulled from the show due to a back injury. I was literally plopped on Breezy, a lesson horse equal to me in age, I think, who I had never ridden. I thought I had done really poorly in the class, because getting Breezy to move out was any other than, well, a breeze. 


When I realized that I'd gotten first place and turned to pick up my blue ribbon and leave, I saw DH and Mary standing there, all smiles, clapping and shouting, "Way to go, Karen!" I was stunned and very happy. In addition, a friend of mine from the skating rink who used to ride had made a somewhat surprise visit to the show. She was very happy for me, telling me I did a great job and holding my crop and other riding accouterments while I dismounted. I know she used to ride in shows when she was a young adult (even broke her arm as a result of doing jumping when she was 20). It was nice to have someone else there who knew about the class I was riding in.


Equitation was next. I thought I would do pretty well. The class, which was 18 & over, was not large (6 or 7 riders). I made two fatal errors right out of the proverbial gate: passing on the wrong side of another rider and not maintaining adequate space between the horses. I haven't seen the judges' comments yet, so I don't know what else I did, but I came in 3rd. I admit this was a disappointment, but Mary told me I looked more tense than during the Pleasure class so I am certain that has something to do with my placement. 


Last was Novice Trail. This class was essentially 10 riders of all ages, but basically all at a relatively beginners level. The course consists of obstacles you and the horse maneuver at a certain pace (a walk, a trot). I don't understand the judging criteria, but I know I really enjoy this class. It's fun, challenging and provides more variety than just going around the arena. As I waited for the results, I had no idea how I had done. I figured probably 4th or 5th. Again, I was stunned and very happy that I came in 2nd.


The only pall on the day was that Mary did not participate. There were not enough horses once Jessie could not be ridden. Mary wanted people (children) who had parents or a spouse (like DH) there to be able to participate in the show. She is such a wonderful person to think of others that way, but I was quite disappointed she did not ride. We've been taking lessons together since May; Mary was very ready for the show. But, we vowed that next year we will both be in more events, as well as help the stable get more organized for the show (things were a bit chaotic, but it didn't ruin the fun).


My lesson is later this week. Kelly, my instructor, told me she is going to put me on "H," a beautiful American Paint who is for a more intermediate rider. My heart is already pounding with excitement! 


Onward we go with a "Whoa, Nelly!" or in this case, "Whoa, H!" on our lips!

Show day before leaving for the stable.
New pants and black riding boots because
"It's not how you ride but
how you look when you ride that matters!"

Wanted: Artistic Talent

Still Life
September 2011

Let's get something straight right from the start. I have not posted this picture because I think it represents any degree of decent or even marginal art. For me, this blog is an online journal, so I like to capture things I've done, whether good, bad, wretched and everything in between.


This is the finished product from my first of two drawing classes. We started the still life last weekend. I had to complete it from memory as I hadn't taken a picture of it in class. DH found a persimmon picture on the Web so I knew what one looked like. In case you are wondering, the persimmon is the squat, nearly unidentifiable fruit on the far right, next to the gourd that DH says looks like an eggplant. He could be right! 


Today we drew sketches of landscapes and a portrait. I managed to limp through the landscape unscathed, but when it came to the portrait, the proverbial artistic wheels came off. 


The instructor had selected a lovely picture of Jackie Kennedy (a beautiful head shot) for us to sketch. After struggling for what seemed like forever, I produced what looks more like some alien creature than Jackie. OMG, the poor woman is turning over in her grave at what I drew. It was absolutely horrid, in every way. In fact, I refused to post it because anyone reading this would probably die from laughter and I don't want to be sued for "Death by hysterics." 


All right, a portrait artist I am not and I have no desire to be one. My friend, Mary, who is in the class, and I agreed that we want to get to the painting class so we can stop drawing; in fact, drawing was merely a means to an end (starting the two session oil painting class). Thank goodness for me that we'll be working on still life in the painting class! 


Onward in art land, humbled and with apologies to Jackie O, one of my idols, along with Audrey Hepburn. 

Grape Expectations

I made this quilt for our contractor and his wife, who completed the extensive outdoor project to extend our living space by some 1,000 square feet in the front of our home and making the space in our back yard much more usable.


In our development, every home has a mini-vineyard, so I wanted to make something that would reflect that element of our environment.


This beautiful grape-theme batik fabric really made this design pop. You will have to click on the photo to see the grape motif, but it is just magnificent in design and colors. Rich, lush and stunning. 


Rick and his wife, Deanne, were very grateful for the gift.It is always so much more fun making quilts for other people than for oneself.


After promising I would never make another Thimbleberries quilt, I am now tackling a Christmas quilt. After cutting out 600 pieces, I realized that was only about 30% of the total pieces required for the top! Yes, there are hundreds of very small pieces! I'm doubtful that it will be completed this Christmas, but there is always next year. 


Onward in quilt land! 

The "Perspiring" Artist

Pitcher sketch
September 2011

This picture is the first thing I've drawn in a class since I was in summer school, between my freshman and sophomore years in high school. I was too math-phobic to take a required math class, so I opted for an art class. I can't even remember what we drew, but I do recall it was some sort of still life.


Imagine me breaking out in a cold sweat when my friend Mary and I attended the first of two beginner art classes, in anticipation of taking an oil painting class. Mary figured we'd likely need to draw something to paint. Isn't that just like a lawyer (which she is) to think so analytically? 


While my sketch resembles a pitcher of some shape, it hardly reflects the object we were supposed to draw. Fortunately, there are other students in the class with the same general lack of innate artistic talent as I possess. On the other hand, there are others who can genuinely call themselves "artists." 


The class was fun and the instructor is excellent. I enjoyed the relaxation factor of the class; seems like no one is taking themselves too seriously. Mary and I sit next to each other and giggle over our respective efforts, so that makes things quite humorous and entertaining. 


I tried finishing up our other drawing (a still life with three elements) and ended up with a dismay outcome. My persimmon looks like a cow patty and the gourd, as DH pointed out, looks like an eggplant. Now I know where the expression, "Back to the drawing board!" originates.


Onward with pencil and sketch pad in hand. 

Of Halloween, Horse Shows and Half-Chaps

Halloween Quilt
Completed September 2011

Close Up of One of the Blocks

I had never made a quilt from charm squares (5" pre-cut squares) so I went searching for some to make our Halloween quilt. I was glad to find a Halloween theme Moda Charm Pack on e-Bay, at a pretty good price. Then, of course, I had to find a pattern which wasn't too difficult. 


When I received the fabric, I wasn't sure I liked the squares. I did alter the pattern to accommodate the directional squares and didn't rotate some of the squares as the original pattern suggested. But I now love the high contrast and entire look of the top. 


I hadn't made a pieced border before, so it was fun to make one. It took some real planning to make sure I had enough variety in the rectangles. I'm pleased with the way the border turned out. Off to the long arm quilter tomorrow. 


Now for things horse-related. I didn't think at the advanced age of - er, well let's just leave it at "over 60" - that I would be in a horse show. In fact, if you asked me two months ago, I would have said "Never!" But leave it to our instructor, Kelly, to ask Mary (my riding buddy) and me to participate in the schooling show at the Knicker Knob Stable in October. I have no idea what one does in a horse show like this, never having been in one. I do know that it involves judges watching you and providing feedback. "Oh, great!" My very favorite thing. I'm sure I will like receiving judges' comments as much as I do in ice skating. But, Mary and I are committed to supporting "The Knob" (as we call the stable) and so we agreed to just "man up" and do it. 


Being in a horse show means you've got to look good, right? So, I went online and found some half-chaps that, of course, I absolutely must have. They were only $29.00, so I'm sure they are not going to be great, but I am hoping they will help with the raw spot that I have on the inside of my right knee from riding. Kelly suggested I get these as "That's what English riders wear" so I took her advice, always wanting to look appropriate while riding. Between my outfit and the horse, maybe the judges won't look at my riding acumen! 


Life has been up-and-down for us the last month and we are now adjusting to a "new normal" as the result of a very unexpected health condition that DH was just diagnosed with. But, we are trying to get back to some degree of normalcy and predictability, as much as possible, that is. We had a great appointment with an expert at Stanford Medical Center and came home feeling more optimist and positive than we did before going there.


Onward through life we go. 

Gratitude at Its Purest, Most Simple Form

As some of you know, our next door neighbor's youngest son, Michael, died in a terrible drowning accident about three months ago. This was a tragedy of such magnitude that it was hard to even comprehend that such a thing could happen. Two months after Michael's death, the family - including their remaining son, Gregory - went to Greece to visit their family.  


During that time, I made a Spiderman quilt for Gregory. I really wanted to make something that would be just for him and might bring him a little joy. 


The family recently returned home, so I had the opportunity to give the quilt to Gregory. As I was in bed with a wretched migraine, he brought this thank you note (see picture) over and asked DH to give it to me. 


I cried when I read it. What an example of sweet gratitude expressed in a simple, touching way. I particularly love the "Have no fear!!! Spiderman is here!!!" part. 


Sometimes when you make a quilt, something remarkable comes back to you. For me, this is what occurred with the Spiderman quilt. The design wasn't anything complicated, but it was fun and apparently perfect for a Spiderman-loving 6-year old. I hope this quilt brings Gregory and his family some comfort and peace.


Onward in life, as difficult and tragic as it can be at times. 

At the Fair

Here are some pictures of Traveling Shoes, the clogging team I dance with, at the Nevada County Fair when we performed there on Saturday, August 13. 

What a spectacular venue for dancing. The fairgrounds are beautiful. The fair activities were abundant. My friend, Mary, was the perfect "Clogging Mom" - she carried the easel/poster and even put rhinestones on our skirts, at the last minute. 

Our performance was great fun and I enjoyed being there with the 

other team members. The audience enjoyed our dancing, which is what it's really all about. 

Even my college roommate who lives in Nevada City watched us. She and a friend were at the Homeward Bound Golden Retriever booth, as they are actively involved in that organization. It was great to see her at the event. 

After our performance, Mary and I spent the remainder of the day at the fair. We watched a fabulous exhibition (including some jumping) by the Gold Mines Pony Club, a program with dogs herding sheep (being a human Mom to a Collie, this was very interesting; this is what our DeeDee was born to do; too bad we can't keep sheep at home!), ate a huge frosty ice cream cone, went for a ferris wheel ride and listened to blues music. It was a really enjoyable day. 

Here is a short video of me as the announcer for Traveling Shoes. Note to self: need a voice coach to get rid of that Minnie Mouse voice. 

Back to clogging class the first week in September. I'm looking forward to learning some new steps and dances.


Clogging onward! 

Magical Mornings

There is something very special about early mornings at the rink that reminds me just how much I enjoy skating. Yesterday was just such an experience. I'd like to write that I had some extraordinary skating break-through. Not so. In fact, it was the ordinary nature of the day that was special. 


I'm a 'ritual' person and they don't get much better than waking up when it's still dark, grabbing a cup of coffee, getting ready, pouring another 'cuppa' for the drive to the rink and arriving well before the madness, chaos and commercialism of the place truly begins.


I am working on Silver Moves in the Field, which means nothing to non-skaters, I know. Forgive me. Now I've been working on these for two years, but really not in earnest. I decided that I really need to improve my edges so my free dancing is better. After all, in skating, everything begins - and ends - with moves. Yesterday it was primarily the first set of required three turns. OMG, these are hard, but Coach J was pleased that I could do them in both directions with what she referred as to "comfort." She clearly didn't hear my heart nearly leaping out of my chest. But, Coach was holding my hand, too. No way am I able to do these on my own yet. I have strict orders from her that I am not allowed to practice these alone, but I did sneak in a couple of turns when she wasn't looking. 


Moves, as an activity, is about the precision of this sport. There is no fudging them, like in free skating. You either do them correctly or you are likely "arse" down on the ice. That's why I enjoy them so much; the structure, the intellectual challenge, the need for exactness, the sound of the blade cutting into the ice all appeal to me. There isn't the need for speed (at least for the three turns) so it's a great activity for us "adult onset skaters"(as my best skating buddy Janet refers to those of us who took up this sport later in life). Speaking of Ms. J, every time I work on Silver Moves I think of her testing these so perfectly and Coach J being so proud of her, as was I. Her test inspires me to continue working on these.


Then it was on to Free Dance 6. This tango program is so cool! Coach Chris is doing a fantastic job of putting the program together. He keeps assuring me I will be able to test it before year end. Given that only about 30 seconds of the required 2 minutes 30 seconds is done at this point, that seems a stretch, but I trust him. The opening elements are just fantastic; very sexy and fun for a "mature" lady to do. I have that inner self screaming to release another side of me. When I work on this program I am completely absorbed in the elements. There isn't time to think, "What would happen if . . ." - there is only trying to be that tango dancer that Coach C claims I'm supposed to emulate. 


Finally, the dreaded Ten Fox. Two pretty good patterns in "attack" mode. Then the wheels came off when I balked at the outside Mohawk. "Oh darn!" as Coach J says when I botch something in a lesson. I have got to get out of my head when I do this dance!


Had some quality time to chat with J about various topics. Another treat of being at the rink early! 


All-in-all, a good day at the rink. 


Skating onward. 

Back in the Saddle - English that is - again.

I hadn't been in an English saddle since I was 9. That's a very long time, in case you are wondering. A very, very, very long time. 


As my goal is to ultimately do dressage, I made the decision on my way to the stable Monday that I would try riding English. Kelly, my riding instructor, was very supportive of my idea.


Forgetting just how many parts there are to an English saddle, I was a little intimidated when I was tacking up Jessie. Once in the arena, I recalled how comfortable riding English is and decided that I will ride this way from now on. We didn't do much on Monday, which was good because this hip injury I sustained was still problematic. We mostly walked, with me just getting the feel of the saddle again.


Kelly gave me many tips and some of them came back just like I had never been away from English riding. Had a great time and was pleased that I had no pain on Tuesday morning. Was wondering if this could be due to the shift from Western to English. That quickly changed after clogging practice on Tuesday. The repetitive movement of clogging is not good for this hip. 


One of the horses at the stable, GQ, has a terrible allergy to flies. He had fly larvae in his eyes and on his nose. This condition was giving him tremendous problems. I watched Kelly, who is the stable's resident "para-vet," remove them, flush the wounds with wormer and apply other medicines. She was amazing. GQ was such a brave boy when Kelly was doing all of this. Most horses would have flipped themselves over, but GQ stood there, pulling his head away occasionally, but for the most part, letting her take care of him. 


I love GQ. He was abused by not only his first owner, but also by a second. He is a lesson horse. I am going to ask Kelly if I can start riding GQ. He is a very sweet horse. I feel so sorry for him, but he has a very good home at the Knicker Knob Stable.


Onward, back in the English saddle again! 

Cantering like Crazy

Jessie and me after cantering

I'd like to brag that I can canter like the young woman in this YouTube video - http://youtu.be/gOxrlfthclM - but today, I did spend the better part of my lesson in the canter, a gait between a trot and a gallop.


I was back riding Jessie today. What a wonderful horse! He is so responsive that it takes little to no effort to put him into a canter. 


The four or five times we managed the gait properly, I was letting out shrieks for having accomplished this. My friend, Mary, who also takes lessons on Monday, thought I was screaming because I was terrified I was going to fall off. Not so. It was a wonderful gait to ride and I was having the time of my life. These were shrieks of joy!


If you want to see someone cantering who knows what they are doing, check out the video. "It's a beautiful thing," as the expression goes.


Onward in a canter. 

Back to my skating 'roots'

Coach Chris and me
Opening pose for FD5 program
December 2010

I've been skating for a fairly long while now. I started because I dreamed of being an ice dancer. My journey has taken me in many skating directions - ice dancing, pairs, freestyle, synchro, and free dance. What a range of disciplines in this sport!

Sometimes I need to be away from something to realize how much it means to me. That's how it has been for me with ice dancing. It fell off my skating radar screen, while I concentrated on doing Free Dance (which is a form of ice dancing) and Free Style skating.

After working on the European and American Waltz dances recently, I realized that there is nothing that trumps traditional ice dancing for me. I know that my pathway has been circular; I'm back to why I started skating. It feels absolutely spectacular to be in the arms of a partner (who knows what he is doing!) and dance. Yes, the waltzes have had a profound effect on me and my choice to stick with dancing exclusively for the rest of my skating 'career.' But, there are other dances, like the Paso Doble, which are at the opposite end of the dancing spectrum from a waltz, that feel as great - but different - than a waltz. So I know it's not just a 'waltz high' that lead me to this decision.

I still want to test as high as I am able in Free Dance because I love the combination of ice dancing and free style elements that make up a Free Dance program. The Tango music we are using for FD6 is fantastic and so sexy to dance to. I love the Argentine Tango dance pattern that's a requirement for this level. 

It feels so good to truly look forward to skating again, to be excited about going to the rink, to know that there's an attainable goal. Mostly, it just feels 'fantabulous' to make the dream I had so many years ago front-and-center again. 

Onward, ice dancing my way through life. 

"Lord, Give Me Wisdom, Strength and Appreciation"

I am relying on God's wisdom to help us through a difficult time. 


Our next door neighbor's 3-year old son drowned in the family swimming pool three weeks ago. Going to the burial and service required every ounce of courage we had. We didn't know what to say to these grieving, devastated parents. Knowing we can no longer look out the window and see little Michael playing in the driveway ever again has been nearly impossible to comprehend. We are trying to find the 'right' way to memorialize Michael, but it is hard to know what to do.


When I feel like life has gotten away from me or things happen that I do not understand - like my friend, Susan, losing her 13-year old daughter to cancer and Michael being lost in a drowning accident - I turn to quilting. This activity requires me to focus and gives me time for reflection. I can create something that may provide some comfort, no matter how small, to people who need it now. I am making a Spiderman quilt for Gregory, our neighbor's remaining son, who is 6, and a lovely batik quilt for Michael's parents.


I feel especially appreciative of my own family and friends right now. When faced with the reality that life can change forever in a matter of minutes, I want to put my proverbial "wagons in a circle." I want to be close to home and make sure that everything is as it should be. 


With our major exterior construction project, house painting, and other things going on, it's been hard to find quality quiet time with our doggies. Our latest rescue, Boris, a 4-year old Samoyed (pictured here) has helped bring joy into our lives every day. He has an abundance of sparkle and is so much fun to be around. DH walks Boris in the morning and really enjoys his time with him. These little things are helping us soldier through a painful time. 


I went skating today mostly to see my best skating buddy and dear friend, Janet, and to get some exercise. I needed to stretch my legs and feel the cold of the rink as I took a breath. Everything felt so clean there. I didn't have a lesson, just skated by myself. I had a pleasurable time; it felt good to feel something positive today. 


I have more appreciation than I could ever express for DH. He continues to astound and amaze me at the depth of his sensitivity, compassion, and extraordinary strength, even during this most profoundly sad time. At Michael's burial, he offered to stay to make certain that everything was done properly. While Michael's father said it wasn't necessary, I was so proud of DH for offering; it was such a reflection of the immense heart he has. 


In closing, "Thank you, God, for the blessings you have bestowed upon me, for which I am grateful beyond expression. Give me the wisdom, please, to know how to bring some solace to Michael's parents. Help me never let a day go by when I don't show DH the appreciation he deserves for saving this little bird with a broken wing and making a life with her that she never imagined could be."


Onward with Your Grace. 

Coco Jambo

In class this week, we learned a dance that I am so hoping we are going to add to the repertoire for Traveling Shoes, our performance clogging team. When doing this dance, you cannot feel anything but happy, happy, happy. I love the Caribbean rhythm. The steps are cute, different and fit the music perfectly. Give this song a listen (clink on the link below) and you'll be guaranteed a happy day! 


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bY-oMCmrvPM&feature=related


This week, I made a sales call for Traveling Shoes by dropping in to the Loomis (CA) Chamber of Commerce office. I asked how we could be considered for entertainment at the annual Eggplant Festival, which is being held in Loomis this year on October 1. I was given the contact information I needed. Also learned about Community Day on June 12 in Loomis. My task for next week is to follow-up on these leads. There are many events that are 'ripe for the picking' for our team, I believe. 


We are also being considered for an invitational golf tournament at Lake of the Pines on June 28. There would be about 100 women in attendance. Would be really fun to perform there. While we are not a "shoe-in" (no pun intended), I think we've got a good shot at being selected. 


I'm going to a clogging class in Sacramento next week with a woman I met in clogging class. She is a delight and dances with AfterShock, a performance clogging team based in Sacramento. Judy invited me to tag along with her and two other ladies to go to their class on Thursday night. Looking forward to seeing the teaching style of other clogging instructors. I love my instructor, Kathy Kaplan - who is awesome beyond words - but it's always good to see and hear how others many teach clogging. 


I'm having a ball with my clogging activities. So glad I took up this form of dance!


Clog on!