Thursday was road trip day.
A mid-afternoon appointment in Winston gave me plenty of time for a new audio book as I drove my way down beyond the Blue Ridge parkway to Wilkesboro, and further into the piedmont where allergy season is in full swing!
After two hours where "the pretty things bloom" it felt like my eyes were blinking sand! Oh yay! Spring!
My favorite color of all the blooming things - BRIGHT PINK!
This is the azalea in the front yard at the Wallburg house. While I brought SOME stuff home, and dropped some things off to Jeff & Ashlyn in Jonesville - my main goal of the day was to fill the garbage can as the next day was "trash day."
Any small amount of progress I can make is good progress - even if it is only an hour or so.
That azalea - a favorite!
The neighbor's dogwood - SO delicate!
Spring - you delight my senses!
100 miles away, up on the mountain - we are just seeing blossoms on the trees, leaves have not started yet. Distance and Elevation mean I get to enjoy spring for just a while longer yet.
Every day I am watching that dogwood in front of Quiltville Inn, hoping to see it also bloom in the next couple of weeks.
Yesterday's Friday afternoon date!
Inoculation #2 is in the arm!
No matter the controversies and conspiracy theories out there, I choose to believe in the science that will also provide protection for those who are physically unable to receive the vaccines themselves - I wish not to be a carrier for those who can't protect themselves.
So far - the only side effect I've had is a bit of fatigue, but It's only been 18 hours. My arm is no more sore than when I got the shingles vaccine, or a flu shot.
I'm not focusing on the possibility of other side effects - if they come, fine. It's part of the process.
I can say a weight has been lifted. I really miss hugs. And handshakes. And being in close proximity to others where I can see their smiles.
Redbuds blooming on our way home -
You know how when emotional things happen, and you just can't settle in anywhere - you find some mundane thing to do just to be doing something?
Maybe I'm just describing myself!
I tackled and rearranged the spice cupboard in the kitchen.
I discarded things that were WAY past their expiration date. (Can red wine vinegar go bad?! LOL!)
I put the favorite things at the most accessible level.
If there were 2 or 3 partially consumed shakers of the same thing, I combined them. (Don't tell the hubster - he hates when I mix brands!)
At one point I had a "disposable" pepper grinder that I was trying my darndest to open, to refill a refillable one. That thing was SO ornery that I smacked it on the countertop.
And then it gave up and the peppercorns went FLYING - little buggers! It was worse than stepping on Legos trying to clean up that mess.
Just take my word for it - just toss the pepper grinder, corns and all - it wasn't worth the time it took to clean up the mess!
Are you one of those that worries about spices losing their flavor if they are too old? I'm not really - not if they've been kept in a dark/cool place in an airtight container.
And anything that is "salt" based is already pretty much preserved by the salt content.
Thoughts? (Dare I ask?!)
I thank you so much for your support. I know you are going to have fun with this one.
Did you enter our gift-Away on yesterday's introductory post?
You are going to LOVE the rainbow rolls from Cotton To Quilts. They are the perfect size for pairing one color with one neutral to make your blocks.
Get your entry in ON THAT POST! We'll be drawing for our winner on Monday, April 26th.
The printable PDF pattern for Catching Rainbows is now available at the introductory price of $9.00 in the digital patterns section of the Quiltville Store. That's a 25% savings over the regular price of $12.00.
This price drop is good until May 1, 2021 when the price reverts back to full.
The great thing about PDF patterns is that they do not sell out! There is no shortage of merchandise, they are instantly available everywhere around the world no matter where you call home.
You can view the files on your desktop, laptop, tablet or phone! You don't even need to worry about printer ink and paper if you choose not to.
If this is your first time downloading digital patterns from my store to a computer click HERE.
If you intend to download to an iPhone/iPad click HERE.
Quilt size: 86’’ x 95.5’’
So today - what's up for today? I still haven't finished the nine-patch cornerstones I want for the setting of the Rocky Road to Kansas blocks. That may happen.
We shall see - I'm playing fairly loose with my schedule just incase.
I call for a low key weekend ahead!
How about your own weekend plans? Anything fun going on?
Quiltville Quote of the Day -
Get in there and allow yourself the privilege of making some really wonderful mistakes on your way!
Have a wonderful weekend - I'll catch you back here on Monday!
Catching rainbows is stunning. Thanks for sharing the pictures of your beautiful area (nature and quilting spaces). Have a great weekend
ReplyDeleteBonnie, I have not be able to find McCormick California Style Garlic salt. Is it available in your area? It is one of my favorites and use it all the time. Down the the last dribs of it :-(
ReplyDeleteThis is as close as I can find: https://amzn.to/2OUXgYc
Deletehttps://www.mccormick.com/spices-and-flavors/herbs-and-spices/blends/california-style-garlic-powder-with-parsley
DeleteI finally went through my spices , I swear there were spices from the seventies
DeleteHaving seen one of my spices WALK AWAY from me - I now go through my spices at least yearly! and yes, it was a VERY TINY spider I would not have noticed otherwise! UGH!
DeleteMcCormick's website shows Lawry's Coarse Ground Garlic Salt with Parsley. Lawry's is a California restaurant - maybe that's the current version? They also have a reduced sodium version.
DeleteThis is another blog post that reminds me why the world needs you so much! You give us inspiration and hope sharing photos of beautiful quilts and nature, and reminding us to make informed decisions based on the research of solid science. It just gives me hope for humanity when I read your blog! And also makes me want to run to my sewing room!
ReplyDeleteI always combine spices!! AND I don't pay too much attention to expiration dates on them. Some more than others. I know that there are expiration police out there and would not agree, but to each their own!!! Love, love love your blogs and quilts. Thanks for sharing with us!!!
ReplyDeleteI think as long as a spice still has its fragrance, it's good to use. You may need to use a little extra if it's loosing its punch. Got some in my cabinet that could be 15 years old!
ReplyDeletethinking expiration dates are merely a scam to get us to discard unused product and buy more!!! and Yes, i agree, Linda W. as long as it has a fragrance, and i may up the amount, AND i do not hesitate to combine in a useless attempt to use up any given spice... i must be hoarding them too!! LOL Cats in Carlsbad CA
DeleteGreat spring pictures and, as usual, good inspiration. Kudos on second shot. Just what I've been hearing here, still wear your mask in spaces where there are lots of people. I am fully vaccinated but still wear mine into stores. Happy sewing day, I'm off to spring cleaning. Ugh!
ReplyDeleteMy spices aren't as old as I am, lol, spilled the cinnamon all over the place last night, made the room and my hands smell wonderful. Thank you for the beautiful pattern, and for encouragement to go ahead and make those mistakes.
ReplyDeleteI am enjoying seeing the spring blooms too. I don't know if spices spoil, but I have had spices that lost their flavor and smell.
ReplyDeleteI went through the spice cabinet last year. Tossed almost everything. My husband asked if he should replace everything and I told him "not until it's needed". Cabinet is still very empty.
ReplyDeleteThank you for taking the vaccine. With the number of children getting COVID19 increasing I hope adults take the vaccine is greatly increased to get those unable to protect themselves are protected. some people will choose no vaccine but by September my grandbabies will be vaccinated. I worry about the very young.
ReplyDeleteOld spices can be refreshed by toasting them in a pan. They are always doing it on Food Network.
ReplyDeleteAnd why didn't I get a sticker when I got my vaccine? I'm jealous!
Chain piecing half square triangles on tap for today! I am like you,aimng for an easy weekend ahead, but it looks like another trip to town tomorrow. Glad that your symptoms have been minimal. I had flu-like the first day after, but then each day gets easier. And, yes, the only down side to Spring is the blooming allergies that come with everything! But I use FLonase, so I am pretty good. As for the spice cabinet, I try to keep what I use to a minimal and up front where I can access it easily. Have a great weekend! :)
ReplyDeleteGood for you at keeping those spices past their expiration date! I do too! However, last year I cleaned out my 93 yr old mother's spice cabinet. There was one with a 1968 expiration date. That one got tossed!!
ReplyDeleteGood on you for getting vaccinated! The only side effects my husband and I had was a bit of fatigue, redness in the arm and a bit of itching. Lasted only a day or two. Because of the vaccine I was able to spend 3 relaxing days at quilt retreat with fully vaccinated friends and it was wonderful!
ReplyDeleteI started writing the date I purchased the spice on the label to see how fast I was using my spices.
ReplyDeleteIt must have been "the to do it day" after months of procrastinating I emptied and cleaned out my pantry. Feels good.
ReplyDeleteI don't worry about expiration dates on a lot of things. Stuff is way too expensive to be tossing because the label says I should, not because I need to. If it tastes good and smell good it stays where it is.
ReplyDeleteI am one of those 'people' who can not get the vaccine--I can not even do the regular flu ones nor the shingles one--people just don't understand--even my 2 grown kids don't so it is hard--!!! But I work hard at keeping myself and other safe and that is all I can do--and quilt every day!!! I do feel left out--like I am missing something important--but it is what it is--I guess! Love all the photos--
ReplyDeleteluv, di
Bonnie, what a hoot! The great spice debates! I should get in there and release the ones I never use or that have lose their mojo. But I'd rather quilt, so.... chances are good the spices may wait another day! We have spectacular sunny spring weather so outdoor work will happen too. Hope your reaction to 2nd shot is mild!
ReplyDeleteOur dog trainer is coming this afternoon for a group session. The first in a series of ten. I think there are four of us with pooches to be trained. We are doing it here, because we have the property and well...why not?
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed all of the pictures you shared, it is all so beautiful there. (here too, just not as many different colors!)
Take a hot air dryer to the disposable pepper grinder. Once warmed the top can usually be popped off.
ReplyDeleteLove the new pattern! This AM I started on my scraps and have 3", 4-1/2" and 2-1/2" squares. The next is 1-1/2", 2" and 2-1/2" stripes. Feels so good to make a start.
ReplyDeleteHi, Bonnie. Lots of good topics today. I am one of those who had no reaction to the vaccine except a sore arm for the first one (but not at all on the second). If a spice smells like it's supposed to when I open the jar, it stays. I'm a bit hyper-vigilant these days as to masks and hand washing since my sister, who is currently being treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, is living with me. The treatment has taken her immune system down to almost nothing. Her world is limited to my house and car and the medical facility and hospital where she receives various treatments. This requires that we wear masks even in our home when we are in the same room with her, more frequent housecleaning, and disinfecting everything that comes in the door including groceries, even so far as changing clothes after we've been out before going into areas she lives in. I only share this so people may be more aware that there are many reasons people might require COVID-like restrictions even when COVID was not/is not a concern any more. I had hoped what we've experienced during this pandemic would have made people more considerate of others, but what I see is so disappointing. Your attitude and sharing your experience and thoughts is encouraging. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteThank you for making the point that not all folks can/should get the vaccine and can be vulnerable. Thankfully, most of us can and that will help protect those who cannot.
DeleteThank you for sharing this - here in Canada there are still many problems with COVID - a shortage of vaccine - and a reluctance of many to take the vaccine. We have been isolated for over a year now, and wish that more people would understand that it helps EVERYONE if they mask, distance, and take the vaccine when offered
DeleteThe only dates I ever worry about are on meat and dairy. Pretty much everything else is fine.
ReplyDeleteThis weekend is beautiful and in the 80's in the PNW. We are thining out the strawberry patch, preping the garden spot, and planting some gifted blueberry plants this weekend. Can't take the country out of the girl!
ReplyDeleteI believe in science and in vaccinations. If not for me, then for immune compromised folks like Di and Valeri’s Sister!! Love your comments on the situation. You have never disappointed me in that regard!! Hugs your way!!
ReplyDeleteOh, I love the flowers, that don’t grow where I live! ðŸ˜
ReplyDeleteIt does feel like a relief to have our Covid vaccines, even if we may have to have a yearly booster. I pray those that want one will eventually get one and anyone that gets Covid, like we did in December, does not get seriously sick. I have a bestie who is a long hauler and it’s heartbreaking to watch.
Bonnie, someday you could,nor I’ll say, need to come up with a coffee table book of your quilt quotes. I so look forward to it every post. Or playing cards, for those that do that?
On sources, I try and buy them in bulk, so I can tell that they’re fresh and buy only what I need. The ones I use regularly I buy more of, the ones I don’t,I’m buy less of. I used to have to buy them at a health food store, now my regular grocery store has a bulk section too. Win win.
Welcome to the 2 jab club :) I feel so much better knowing I could be 95% safer than I was before, but still being careful of my surroundings. I smiled at the *slap your mama* spice tub - that's a name you won't forget haha. Happy Sunday to you and your family :)
ReplyDeleteI just love reading your posts. As far as spices go, I just wait for my son to visit. He loves to cook, is quite a chef, as he looks through my pantry I hear him ‘groan’ and toss into garbage! 🤣🤣
ReplyDeleteSpices! Ha! We constantly struggle with when to keep versus toss.
ReplyDeleteIn the more important topic. Thank you for getting your vaccine and being a voice of support. We cannot relax until people are vaccinated!
Well the sun finally came out this morning. It has been snowing for the last 4 days here. Hopefully this will be the last of it. I enjoy your pics of Spring. I keep my spices too. I also write the purchase date on the jar. thanks for the Chasing Rainbows pattern. The quilt is lovely.
ReplyDeleteNo comments about the spice/herbs - I just want to know where you got that lovely pepper shaker. Blue and white china - right up my alley. I have had both Moderna shots and I am feeling more secure now that on the very limited trips I take out of the house I can't bring Covid back to my very sick husband. And still trying to figure out how to get him vaccinated when he is bed-bound. His home-visit doctor doesn't have any answers. Loading him on a gurney (twice) to go to the ER for a vaccination is not the answer.
ReplyDeleteOh, I think I will add a comment on the spices - when we remodeled the kitchen I cleaned out the pantry and was absolutely embarrassed at the stuff that was very out of date. I try to be better now.
ReplyDeleteWe got our second shots this past Monday. My husband had what the doctor thought might be a reaction. It was about a forty-minute trip back from the Edison, NJ mega site. Both times, just before getting home, he had motion sickness. He hasn't had that for years. I had a virusy feeling a few days later. Not sure if it was related to the shot or not, but I think even if it was, it was well worth it. I figure they have been making vaccines for over 100 years and science just keeps getting better. I trust Dr. Fauci and other medical experts. Just waiting for all my kids to be able to get the shot. I am so grateful to the people staffing these vaccination sites. The site where we went is in Edison, NJ. It was staffed by members of our NJ National Guard and FEMA workers. It is super organized and everyone we dealt with was really nice. Before we efven got inside, one of the men checking ID's outside offered to push my husband's wheelchair over the bump at the threshold. As to spices, I just read an article saying most of themare fine well after the expiration date. By the way, I think the discussion regarding irons a couple of weeks ago jinxed me. A couple of days after that, my iron started turjing itself off. Two days after that, it died. I was using a Singer that I paid about $40 for about five years ago. I had to switch to my expensive ($159 on sale) Olisio and I'm not happy about that iron. I just ordered a Black and Decker and hope I like that. For years, I used an old Proctor Silex tat someone gave me and I loved that iron.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful pictures of the shrubs blooming. I have allergies too so I understand the tearing, but they are so pretty. I love the spring colors. Downloaded the new pattern so I have that to enjoy pulling fabrics for and to remind me spring has sprung. :) We received our 2nd shot yesterday! Like you, I feel fine and feel better knowing I should be safe to go around others, with the mask. Will be glad when we can get rid of that too. Thanks again for the upbeat blog. Take care!
ReplyDeleteYou spoke about the pepper grinder and peppercorns all over the place. My daughter's children have enjoyed Legos so much that they asked her if she would resort them into the original 39 sets they have and with they have created so many other items. We talk to one another every Sunday and today, she mentioned that she had finally finished after 11 days of sorting and no one being able to use the living room floor! Everyone was thrilled and had already started using Legos as original sets.
ReplyDeleteShe doesn't keep very many spices!!
Blessings for all you share!
Thank you for posting the picture of the redbuds. We just visited our son and family who recently moved to Tn. We kept driving by those trees along the highway starting in lower Indiana, Kentucky and into Tn. They are not a tree found in northern Michigan where we live. They were so pretty and a great pop of color. Love your newest quilt pattern.
ReplyDeleteThank You for the great pictures. Nice to look back on. Ours here in SW Mo are in bloom. Just wonderful. I went to use my garlic powder and it was hard as a ROCK! Was not expired. Maybe I didn't close it tight. Just put it in the blender and sifted it back into a canning Jar with one moisture packets. Works great. Everyone get out and enjoy this weather while you can. Thanks Bonnie.
ReplyDeleteI moved about a year ago, and discarded so many expired spices! I think the oldest was 2012? If I haven't used it by now, I never will! We downsized, and my current spice cabinet is the same size and shape as yours. I've put a small Dollar Store basket on each shelf, and put most-used spices in the lowest basket. Stuff we seldom use on the top! We are organizing geniuses, Bonnie! :)
ReplyDeleteI know I'm way late with my comment. Thank you for getting your shots, it's the only way we'll get rid of this virus and be able to go back to a normal life. And you may be saving another's life as well as your own.
ReplyDelete