Here and Happy

I got my new Mac computer and there has definitely been a steep learning curve. I think I've got at least a bit of it figured out and managed to edit a photo using Picasa3. Here's a pic of Bibi here in our new home:

So let's see. The move from France to Florida went smoothly. We used Animal Land pet movers to take care of Habibi and Howler - there's just no easy way to get those big boys out of their cages at the airport. I recommend Animal Land - they did a great job getting the boys to Paris as well as getting them back home.

Pokey and Lily were forced to wear the humiliating pink harnesses so that I had something to hold onto while they were out of their carriers. I held the harness AND the end of the leash to be doubly sure - almost losing Pokey at the airport in Washington DC a couple of years ago was terrifying. The little girls didn't make a peep the entire trip - they are good travellers. 

There was definitely some unhappiness when the kitties all arrived, but now they are all incredibly happy soaking up the sunshine. The little girls still hiss at each other - I expect that will last for a few months. Pokey discovered the joys of opening kitchen cabinets and after getting herself stuck in the one above the refrigerator we've had to block that off.

As I said, I crammed quite a few quilts, scraps and strings of fabric and even a bit of yardage into the two suitcases and two duffel bags. I brought a few items of clothing and even let my husband bring back a pair of shorts and some flip-flop sandals - awfully generous of me. Right now everything is a disaster - haven't figured out how to organize it all.

I brought Gwen Marston's Liberated Quiltmaking in my backpack - no chance of losing that. Speaking of Gwen, I spoke with her on the phone today. Very fun - what a gracious, wonderful, funny woman she is. I asked if she had any information to pass along to ya'all - this is her tip of the day: If your car doors are ever frozen shut you can get them open with a crowbar.

Eek.  You know there is a whole long story to go along with that one. And here I've been feeling cold at a relatively balmy 55 degrees. My husband is so desperate for some beach time that he went for a couple of hours today despite the chill.

I've been spending a lot of time getting set up, making this home for the next couple of years. I now have broadband internet - woohoo is this ever fast. I've also revelled in having all sorts of english language tv shows again. Good to just veg in front of them with hand quilting when I'm in need of zoning out.

In addition to those kinds of jobs I've been spending time with my husband while I can - he has to leave next week to go back to Paris for who knows how long. Additionally a friend is in town and we've had fun eating out - mmm Mexican food and hot wings - not at the same meal.

Okay, I gotta run. I'm getting a better handle on this computer so it shouldn't be so long 'til my next post. Take care.