There's Good News (Sutherlin, OR)

And of course, there is bad news. I'll start with the good news. Dan saw his VA Podiatrist on Monday. The doctor did a comparison of the 3 week-old x-rays with the recent ones taken on Monday. He believes the fractures are healing on their own. Dan has three separate fractures in his left foot's Cuboid bone . No surgery necessary unless something shifts or it doesn't heal as expected.  We should know more in January at his next appointment.

Eastern Towhee

The bad news is no weight on the foot allowed and he should wear the boot as often as possible. 12 weeks total expected for healing. He is only into his third week.  It is going to be a long winter for Dan.  It is a good thing he likes to read and spend time on his computer.

Scrub Jay

Until Dan can walk on his foot again, we will probably be staying in Sutherlin, OR at the Escapees Co-op.  The people here have been wonderful by offering to help out with shopping and even driving Dan to his appointments.  

Scrub Jay

I'm happy to stay here for Dan's healing time.  I know this area fairly well and don't mind taking care of business on my own.  I had looked forward to spending our winter on the coast, but there will be plenty of time to do that in the future. 

Dusty:  "Birds?"  "Birds!!"

Plus, we are not too far away for Shaun to drive down during his holiday break.  I'm looking forward to his visit.

Bird - not sure what kind

For some different entertainment, I have been feeding the local birds.  Our feathered friends are keeping the cats and us happy with their bird calls and all their little shenanigans to eat more seeds than their pals.

Eastern Towhee - side view :)

We watched the turkeys run in circles around the scattered seeds trying to get the best spot for the feed.  They act like the turkey next to them is getting more, so they keep pushing each other over and no one eats!  They finally do get smart enough to stop though and when they do, they eat everything in sight.  I'm not putting out a lot of feed since they would eat the whole 25 lb bag in a day, but they are certainly funny to watch when they come by.

- and from the back

In-sync Quails?  The two males would scratch together......

Good!  You're getting the hang of it!

...then eat together.  

And again 1, 2, 3 and 1, 2, 3!

On The Cutting Board
I never heard back from the one customer wanting a second black cat quilt.  Which is fine.  I listed the quilt this week and I'm sure it will find a new home soon.

Between taking care of Dan, running errands, and keeping up with the motorhome,  I received a large custom order request on December 2.  The customer wanted to order 6 vintage trailers with family names.  I wasn't sure I could finish them in time for a Christmas delivery.

 I explained my tight schedule and this customer was so understanding and such a sweetheart that I could not say no.   I really did worry about the limited time for the first week.  Since the customer did not have special color requests or wanting extra embroidery, the work went very fast.

 I surprised myself by finishing all six within two weeks!  I mailed them yesterday.  Now, I know that I could finish six mug rugs in a two week time.

Having this Etsy shop has given me great opportunities to meet some wonderful people.  Not just customers, but some very talented artists as well.  It has been a wonderful experience.

Merry Christmas!