Part A: Are you doing any holiday knitting? Yes!! I am making a SFS beanie, a pair of BBS for SFS, a dress for my daughter, tht will now be a June birthday gift - bum gloves for my assistant (outgoing) and slippers for my assistant (incoming).
Part B: Have you finished? Some - the beanie is done; the slippers are done.. that's it. We did Christmas on the 21st.. I wraped one sock with a note that the other would be done before the holiday ended.
I don't have internet at home and I am working reduced hours until January 5th.. So, If you comment and I don't reply, that's why!
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Santa's Little Helpers
First, let me say, this is not my son. He's everyone's son, really. The picture came with an email of a poem, similar to one I have previously posted. But as Christmas approaches - I wanted anyone who actully reads this blog to think about our service men and woman who protect us
day and night. It's cold in Afganistan right now. You may not agree with the war, but take a minute to thank those who serve that you can object to the war, our president, etc freely without risk of being stoned to death, imprisoned or worse.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Will You Give This To My Daddy? & Red Friday
As anyone knows who reads this (all 3 of you), I knit socks for Socks For Soldiers. The following was in one of today's Daily Digests. This is why I knit until my fingers hurt:
Will you give this to my Daddy?
As a Company, Southwest Airlines is going to support 'Red Fridays.' Last week I was in Atlanta , Georgia attending a conference. While I was in the airport, returning home, I heard several people behind me beginning to clap and cheer.
I immediately turned around and witnessed one of the greatest acts of patriotism I have ever seen. Moving thru the terminal was a group of soldiers in their camos. As they began heading to their gate, everyone (well almost everyone) was abruptly to their feet with their hands waving and cheering.
When I saw the soldiers, probably 30-40 of them, being applauded and cheered for, it hit me. I'm not alone.. I'm not the only red-blooded American who still loves this country and supports our troops and their families.
Of course I immediately stopped and began clapping for these young unsung heroes who are putting their lives on the line everyday for us so we can go to school, work and home without fear or reprisal.
Just when I thought I could not be more proud of my country or of our service men and women, a young girl, not more than 6 or 7 years old ran up to one of the male soldiers. He kneeled down and said 'hi.' The little girl then asked him if he would give something to her daddy for her. The young soldier, who didn't look any older than maybe 22 himself, said he would try and what did she want to give to her daddy.
Then suddenly the little girl grabbed the neck of this soldier, gave him the biggest hug she could muster and then kissed him on the cheek. The mother of the little girl, who said her daughter's name was Courtney, told the young soldier that her husband was a Marine and had been in Iraq for 11 months now. As the mom was explaining how much her daughter Courtney missed her father, the young soldier began to tear up.
When this temporarily single mom was done explaining her situation, all of the soldiers huddled together for a brief second. Then one of the other servicemen pulled out a military-looking walkie-talkie. They started playing with the device and talking back and forth on it. After about 10-15 seconds of this, the young soldier walked back over to Courtney, bent down and said this to her, 'I spoke to your daddy and he told me to give this to you.' He then hugged this little girl that he had just met and gave her a kiss on the cheek. He finished by saying 'your daddy told me to tell you that he loves you more than anything and he is coming home very soon.'
The mom at this point was crying almost uncontrollably and as the young soldier stood to his feet, he saluted Courtney and her mom. I was standing no more than 6 feet away f rom this entire event. As the soldiers began to leave, heading towards their gate, people resumed their applause. As I stood there applauding and looked around, there were very few dry eyes, including my own. That young soldier in one last act of selflessness, turned around and blew a kiss to Courtney with a tear rolling down his cheek. We need to remember everyday all of our soldiers and their families and thank God for them and their sacrifices. At the end of the day, it's good to be an American.
RED FRIDAYS ----- Very soon, you will see a great many people wearing Red every Friday. The reason? Americans who support our troops used to be called the 'silent majority'. We are no longer silent, and are voicing our love for God, country and home in record breaking numbers. We are not organized, boisterous or over-bearing. . We get no liberal media coverage on TV, to reflect our message or our opinions. Many Americans, like you, me and all our friends, simply want to recognize that the vast majority of America supports our troops. Our idea of showing solidarity and support for our troops with dignity and respect starts this Friday -and continues each and every Friday until the troops all come home, sending a deafening message that.. Every red-blooded American who supports our men and women afar will wear something red. By word of mouth, press, TV -- let's make the United States on every Friday a sea of red much like a homecoming football game in the bleachers. If every one of us who loves this country will share this with acquaintances, co-workers, friends, and family. It will not be long before the USA is covered in RED and it will let our troops know the once 'silent' majority is on their side more than ever; certainly more than the media lets on.
The first thing a soldier says when asked 'What can we do to mak e things better for you?' is...We need your support and your prayers. Let's get the word out and lead with class and dignity, by example; and wear something red every Friday.
Will you give this to my Daddy?
As a Company, Southwest Airlines is going to support 'Red Fridays.' Last week I was in Atlanta , Georgia attending a conference. While I was in the airport, returning home, I heard several people behind me beginning to clap and cheer.
I immediately turned around and witnessed one of the greatest acts of patriotism I have ever seen. Moving thru the terminal was a group of soldiers in their camos. As they began heading to their gate, everyone (well almost everyone) was abruptly to their feet with their hands waving and cheering.
When I saw the soldiers, probably 30-40 of them, being applauded and cheered for, it hit me. I'm not alone.. I'm not the only red-blooded American who still loves this country and supports our troops and their families.
Of course I immediately stopped and began clapping for these young unsung heroes who are putting their lives on the line everyday for us so we can go to school, work and home without fear or reprisal.
Just when I thought I could not be more proud of my country or of our service men and women, a young girl, not more than 6 or 7 years old ran up to one of the male soldiers. He kneeled down and said 'hi.' The little girl then asked him if he would give something to her daddy for her. The young soldier, who didn't look any older than maybe 22 himself, said he would try and what did she want to give to her daddy.
Then suddenly the little girl grabbed the neck of this soldier, gave him the biggest hug she could muster and then kissed him on the cheek. The mother of the little girl, who said her daughter's name was Courtney, told the young soldier that her husband was a Marine and had been in Iraq for 11 months now. As the mom was explaining how much her daughter Courtney missed her father, the young soldier began to tear up.
When this temporarily single mom was done explaining her situation, all of the soldiers huddled together for a brief second. Then one of the other servicemen pulled out a military-looking walkie-talkie. They started playing with the device and talking back and forth on it. After about 10-15 seconds of this, the young soldier walked back over to Courtney, bent down and said this to her, 'I spoke to your daddy and he told me to give this to you.' He then hugged this little girl that he had just met and gave her a kiss on the cheek. He finished by saying 'your daddy told me to tell you that he loves you more than anything and he is coming home very soon.'
The mom at this point was crying almost uncontrollably and as the young soldier stood to his feet, he saluted Courtney and her mom. I was standing no more than 6 feet away f rom this entire event. As the soldiers began to leave, heading towards their gate, people resumed their applause. As I stood there applauding and looked around, there were very few dry eyes, including my own. That young soldier in one last act of selflessness, turned around and blew a kiss to Courtney with a tear rolling down his cheek. We need to remember everyday all of our soldiers and their families and thank God for them and their sacrifices. At the end of the day, it's good to be an American.
RED FRIDAYS ----- Very soon, you will see a great many people wearing Red every Friday. The reason? Americans who support our troops used to be called the 'silent majority'. We are no longer silent, and are voicing our love for God, country and home in record breaking numbers. We are not organized, boisterous or over-bearing. . We get no liberal media coverage on TV, to reflect our message or our opinions. Many Americans, like you, me and all our friends, simply want to recognize that the vast majority of America supports our troops. Our idea of showing solidarity and support for our troops with dignity and respect starts this Friday -and continues each and every Friday until the troops all come home, sending a deafening message that.. Every red-blooded American who supports our men and women afar will wear something red. By word of mouth, press, TV -- let's make the United States on every Friday a sea of red much like a homecoming football game in the bleachers. If every one of us who loves this country will share this with acquaintances, co-workers, friends, and family. It will not be long before the USA is covered in RED and it will let our troops know the once 'silent' majority is on their side more than ever; certainly more than the media lets on.
The first thing a soldier says when asked 'What can we do to mak e things better for you?' is...We need your support and your prayers. Let's get the word out and lead with class and dignity, by example; and wear something red every Friday.
Monday, December 1, 2008
T'was the Night Before Christmas (army style)
T’was The Night Before Christmas
T’was the night before Christmas, he lived all alone,
In a one bedroom house made of plaster and stone.
I had come down the chimney with presents to give,
and to see just who in this house did live.
I looked all about, a strange sight did I see,
No tinsel, no presents, not even a tree.
No stockings by mantle, just boots filled with sand,
On the wall hung pictures of far distant lands.
With metals and badges, awards of all kinds,
A sober thought came through my mind.
For this house was different, it was dark and dreary,
I found the home of a soldier, once I could see clearly.
I heard stories about them, I had to see more
So I walked down the hall and pushed open the door.
And there he lay sleeping silent alone,
Curled up on the floor in his one bedroom home.
His face so gentle, his room in such disorder,
Not how I pictured a United States Soldier.
Was this the hero of whom I’d just read?
Curled up on his poncho, a floor for his bed?
His head was clean shaven, his weathered face tan,
I soon understood this was more than a man.
For I realized the families that I saw that night
Owed their lives to these men who were willing to fight.
Soon ‘round the world, the children would play,
and grownups would celebrate on a bright Christmas day.
They all enjoyed freedom each month of the year,
Because of soldiers like this one lying here.
I couldn’t help wonder how many lay alone
On a cold Christmas Eve in a land far from home.
Just the very thought brought a tear to my eye
I dropped to my knees and started to cry.
The soldier awakened and I heard a rough voice,
"Santa don’t cry, this life is my choice;
I fight for freedom, I don’t ask for more,
My life is my God, my country, my Corps."
With that he rolled over and drifted off into sleep,
I couldn’t control it, I continued to weep.
I watched for hours, so silent and still
and we both shivered from the cold night’s chill.
So I took off my jacket, the one made of red,
And I covered this Soldier from his toes to his head.
And I put on his t-shirt of gray and black,
With an eagle and an Army patch embroidered on back.
And although it barely fit me, I began to swell with pride,
And for a shining moment, I was United States Army deep inside.
I didn’t want to leave on that cold, dark night,
This guardian of honor so willing to fight.
Then the soldier rolled over, with a voice so clean and pure,
"Carry on Santa, It’s Christmas Day, all is secure."
One look at my watch, and I knew he was right.
"Merry Christmas my friend, and to all a good night."
(The original poem was written by James M. Schmidt, who was a Lance Corporal stationed in Washington, DC when he wrote the poem back in 1986. The poem has been modified over time to represent Marines, Army and Navy. After leaving the Corps, Corporal Schmidt earned a law degree and now serves as an entertainment attorney in Los Angeles and is director of operations for a security consulting firm. Information provided from www.snopes.com)
T’was the night before Christmas, he lived all alone,
In a one bedroom house made of plaster and stone.
I had come down the chimney with presents to give,
and to see just who in this house did live.
I looked all about, a strange sight did I see,
No tinsel, no presents, not even a tree.
No stockings by mantle, just boots filled with sand,
On the wall hung pictures of far distant lands.
With metals and badges, awards of all kinds,
A sober thought came through my mind.
For this house was different, it was dark and dreary,
I found the home of a soldier, once I could see clearly.
I heard stories about them, I had to see more
So I walked down the hall and pushed open the door.
And there he lay sleeping silent alone,
Curled up on the floor in his one bedroom home.
His face so gentle, his room in such disorder,
Not how I pictured a United States Soldier.
Was this the hero of whom I’d just read?
Curled up on his poncho, a floor for his bed?
His head was clean shaven, his weathered face tan,
I soon understood this was more than a man.
For I realized the families that I saw that night
Owed their lives to these men who were willing to fight.
Soon ‘round the world, the children would play,
and grownups would celebrate on a bright Christmas day.
They all enjoyed freedom each month of the year,
Because of soldiers like this one lying here.
I couldn’t help wonder how many lay alone
On a cold Christmas Eve in a land far from home.
Just the very thought brought a tear to my eye
I dropped to my knees and started to cry.
The soldier awakened and I heard a rough voice,
"Santa don’t cry, this life is my choice;
I fight for freedom, I don’t ask for more,
My life is my God, my country, my Corps."
With that he rolled over and drifted off into sleep,
I couldn’t control it, I continued to weep.
I watched for hours, so silent and still
and we both shivered from the cold night’s chill.
So I took off my jacket, the one made of red,
And I covered this Soldier from his toes to his head.
And I put on his t-shirt of gray and black,
With an eagle and an Army patch embroidered on back.
And although it barely fit me, I began to swell with pride,
And for a shining moment, I was United States Army deep inside.
I didn’t want to leave on that cold, dark night,
This guardian of honor so willing to fight.
Then the soldier rolled over, with a voice so clean and pure,
"Carry on Santa, It’s Christmas Day, all is secure."
One look at my watch, and I knew he was right.
"Merry Christmas my friend, and to all a good night."
(The original poem was written by James M. Schmidt, who was a Lance Corporal stationed in Washington, DC when he wrote the poem back in 1986. The poem has been modified over time to represent Marines, Army and Navy. After leaving the Corps, Corporal Schmidt earned a law degree and now serves as an entertainment attorney in Los Angeles and is director of operations for a security consulting firm. Information provided from www.snopes.com)
Thankful
I am back from my holiday travels! There is nothing like sleeping in your own bed! We had a fab Thanksgiving! Spent from Wed to Sat with my daughter, her hubby, and his parents - it was great! Oh, and my niece was there too! I was able to finish my current pair of "travel" socks. I always have a pair of socks to work on while traveling - they are small, can fit in purse for carry on items and I have the pattern memorized - it's perfect. I packed the dress I am knitting for my daughter - figured I could make good time on that project, but knitting around a houseful of muggles does not make for good knitting....so not much was done. and then - when i was knitting a bit - the stupid freakin yarn had a knot in it. This is not the first time that an expensive ball of yarn has had a knot in it. WHAT'S UP WITH THAT? So, not a huge deal, i cut the offending knot, joined in and contiued on my marry way, but then in the row above, it was this crappy gap, so i tacked down the ends, but then it really sucked - so i tinked back to start over at the join, but now there is this funky extra loop, not sure how the heck that happened.. so i am carrying it with me waiting to see when my yarn yenta will stop by my office to help me out of this pickle. I'll post pictures as I have found my camera (in my desk drawer of all places - whatever).
Monday, November 24, 2008
I got nuthin' Part II
Well, same sh*t, different day. Not too much new. We attended the UNR vs. Boise State game this past weekend, which was fun! On the knitting front (where the heck is that camera, anyway?). I am knitting on SFS sock #2 and will have a pair done before I turn 112, which is a good thing. Murphy's Law being what it is, the war (all of them) will be over before I finish all my SFS socks, which isnt' really a bad thing....ending war and all.... I am deceasing on a sock 2 of a pair of trekking socks...and now am giving serious thought to giving them as a gift.. i cast on thinking they'd be for me, but has the gift giving holiday approaches, I am thinking of giving them to someone kinda special and worthy of handknit socks. I am knitting each night until hand pain forces me to stop on the Interweave Knits dress for The Girl Child. We will be flying to see her Wednesday (hey - SP pal, I'll be out of town until Monday!!). and I'd sell my other kid to get it done to a point that she could try it on.. but selling adult children is against the law, apparerenlty and since I hate camping, I'm pretty sure i'd hate jail and/or prison, so, I'll settle for knitting a bit faster and see how it goes.
I'll dig for the camera and take some pics.. and try really hard to post tomorrow as we leave for the airport rather early wed. If i don't post until I get back.. ya'll have a great Thanksgving.
I'll dig for the camera and take some pics.. and try really hard to post tomorrow as we leave for the airport rather early wed. If i don't post until I get back.. ya'll have a great Thanksgving.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
I got Nuthin'
I am cheating here. I got nuthin' really. These pictures were taken at The Ritz Carlton in Half Moon Bay, CA in April. The sunset picture is of a bagpipe player who played each night at sunset - very cool. The other is of me (yes, that would be a glass of wine needing a refill). I LOVE the ocean and miss that I do not live near it anymore.
Knitting wise - I am pleased to announce that I did finish sock 1 of my Socks for Soldier Sock - Now for its mate. The leg is done, the heal is turned and the foot is about 3 or 4 " done... so it's not so bad.
I am frantically working on my daughter's dress (pattern from Interweave Knits). I think she thinks I can wave a wand and it will be done by Christmas - ya - not so much.
The good news is that with all my traveling lately, I have made great progress on a pair of socks for me. I've no clue what sock yarn I am using could be Trekking, its self striping wich is impressive to muggles. I have about another inch or so and then decrease for the toe. this is sock 2 so whooo hoo - i'll have one for each foot!!
I was at the Mission Inn in Riverside this past weekend (work related). Very nice, historical place. Loved it.. i'd go back for a fun trip for sure!
My next business trip will take me to the Bay Area the same weekend as Stiches West and I was upset that I could not attend this year as my meetings are at the same time as Stitches. Then it hit me - I could go part day on Thursday and part on Sunday.. then my husband says "why not leave tuesday night and spend all day Wednesday there?" OMG! What a great idea.. live out of suitcase for about a week, have fiber fun, work and then end it all with another dose of fiber fun on the way home! G*d, I love that man!!
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
SP 13 Questionnaire
1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with?
A: Soft to the touch. It's really hard to say. It seems my favorite is whatever I am knitting at the momment.
1.1. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
A: itchy, scratchy stuff. Colorwise, I don't like neon stuff.
2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
A: Have you been snooping in my stash closet? It's shameful, I know. I try, really I do. I have some adorable fabric needle holders that I have acquired from past swaps, those are in a basket in my stash closet (straights and DPNs). My circulars in in a canvas hanging thing. each sleeve is mrked with the needle size.. to TRY and keep me organized.
3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
A: I've been knitting for a few years now. Crocheting since I was probably 5 or 6 yrs old, but I'ts been ages since I've crocheted. I learned at my local yarn shop, KnitWits. I think by now I am an advanced knitter. leaning more towards the intermediate side.
4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
A: Yes, but it's probably been a year since i've even looked at it. Shame on me - there is a goal for something to get done this year.
5. What's your favorite scent?
A: Wet wool, but nobody else in the family likes it - go figure. Perfume wise? I like John Varvados, Jo Malone, I also like Clinique's Happy, and Calvin Cline's Contradiction.
6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
A: I am woman hear me roar "give me chocolate" - I like dark chocolate - even better if it's covering almonds.. (allll munds - not ALmunds).
7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
A: I do spin, but as far as other crafts, not really. I've made sugar scrubs before and tried homemade soap, that was a total disaster and will not be attempted again in this lifetime.
8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
A: I like all kinds of music and I have an ipod. and a CD player. Currently in the car is: Carrine Rae Bailey, or is it Bailey Rae??; Big Bad VooDoo Daddy, Chris Issac (he's so dreamy); Diedra Flit (a real hoot, check her out in itunes.. i have shuffle board queen, but need to download more). AC/DC Highway to Hell (ya, see I am all over the place with music).
9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
A: not a fan of the neon stuff. I tend to migrate towards the earthy tones, but also deep blues, rich reds, I don't have a "favorite" color.
10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
A: Married to my highschool sweetie for over 25 years. Two kids - both grown and out of the house. The Girl is married and a college professor - The Boy is in the Army and single. I am taking applications to date him - so if you know a nice girl, i'll send her an application and set up an interview. No pets currently (we shall not talk about my bitching about wanting annother dog and DH saying "no way"
11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
A: Scarves - Yes; hats - yes; mittens - yes. ponchos - if I had one, i'd probably wear it. Does anyone wear ponchos??
12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
A: Yes. Seriously, whatever I am working on tends to be my favorite. Sometimes I need the instant gratification of a small project, and other times I like the challenge of a larger project (think Interweave Knits, Tilted Duster).
13. What are you knitting right now?
A: 1. A dress out of Interweave Knits, for The Girl; 2. bum gloves for my assistant; 3. Socks for Soldiers BBSs (always have SFS on the needles); and 4. always have a pair of "regular" socks on the needles.
14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
A: yes.
15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
A: I prefer circulars. Using straights feels like rowing a boat, except DPNs - i guess 'cause they are so much shorter.
16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
A: Yes, almost mandatory for spinners.
17. How old is your oldest UFO?
A: about a year ago I cast on a sweater, decided i did not want to knit it on straights and there it sits.. i've not frogged it back, so technically those 2 rows are a UFO.
18. What is your favorite holiday? What winter holiday do you observe?
A: Besides my B-day, which Hallmark has yet to acknowledge as a national holiday? Thanksgiving is my all time favorite holiday. We observe Christmas.. as much as it saddens me how commercial it has become and for most has lost it's biblical significants (why are the stores already dispalying Christmas stuff? Let's get a bit closer to Thanksgiving please.. ARRGGG).
19. Is there anything that you collect?
A: the obvious of yarn & fiber - the newest is 1.25 magnifying "readers" for my poor eyes. I have pairs all over and never where I need them. Why is that?
20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
A: check out my ravely thingy. I did a pretty good job of logging in most of my books. I susbcribe to Interweave Knits, Spin Off and Wild Fibers magazines.
21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
A: two socks on 2 circulars, but honestly, I think i'd hurt myself.
22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
A: Yes. I wear a size 6.5 woman's shoe (US). I'd have to measure my foot for more accuracy.
23. When is your birthday?
A: May 7
24. Are you on Ravelry? If so, what's your ID?
A: BrookeKnits
A: Soft to the touch. It's really hard to say. It seems my favorite is whatever I am knitting at the momment.
1.1. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
A: itchy, scratchy stuff. Colorwise, I don't like neon stuff.
2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
A: Have you been snooping in my stash closet? It's shameful, I know. I try, really I do. I have some adorable fabric needle holders that I have acquired from past swaps, those are in a basket in my stash closet (straights and DPNs). My circulars in in a canvas hanging thing. each sleeve is mrked with the needle size.. to TRY and keep me organized.
3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
A: I've been knitting for a few years now. Crocheting since I was probably 5 or 6 yrs old, but I'ts been ages since I've crocheted. I learned at my local yarn shop, KnitWits. I think by now I am an advanced knitter. leaning more towards the intermediate side.
4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
A: Yes, but it's probably been a year since i've even looked at it. Shame on me - there is a goal for something to get done this year.
5. What's your favorite scent?
A: Wet wool, but nobody else in the family likes it - go figure. Perfume wise? I like John Varvados, Jo Malone, I also like Clinique's Happy, and Calvin Cline's Contradiction.
6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
A: I am woman hear me roar "give me chocolate" - I like dark chocolate - even better if it's covering almonds.. (allll munds - not ALmunds).
7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
A: I do spin, but as far as other crafts, not really. I've made sugar scrubs before and tried homemade soap, that was a total disaster and will not be attempted again in this lifetime.
8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
A: I like all kinds of music and I have an ipod. and a CD player. Currently in the car is: Carrine Rae Bailey, or is it Bailey Rae??; Big Bad VooDoo Daddy, Chris Issac (he's so dreamy); Diedra Flit (a real hoot, check her out in itunes.. i have shuffle board queen, but need to download more). AC/DC Highway to Hell (ya, see I am all over the place with music).
9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
A: not a fan of the neon stuff. I tend to migrate towards the earthy tones, but also deep blues, rich reds, I don't have a "favorite" color.
10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
A: Married to my highschool sweetie for over 25 years. Two kids - both grown and out of the house. The Girl is married and a college professor - The Boy is in the Army and single. I am taking applications to date him - so if you know a nice girl, i'll send her an application and set up an interview. No pets currently (we shall not talk about my bitching about wanting annother dog and DH saying "no way"
11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
A: Scarves - Yes; hats - yes; mittens - yes. ponchos - if I had one, i'd probably wear it. Does anyone wear ponchos??
12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
A: Yes. Seriously, whatever I am working on tends to be my favorite. Sometimes I need the instant gratification of a small project, and other times I like the challenge of a larger project (think Interweave Knits, Tilted Duster).
13. What are you knitting right now?
A: 1. A dress out of Interweave Knits, for The Girl; 2. bum gloves for my assistant; 3. Socks for Soldiers BBSs (always have SFS on the needles); and 4. always have a pair of "regular" socks on the needles.
14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
A: yes.
15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
A: I prefer circulars. Using straights feels like rowing a boat, except DPNs - i guess 'cause they are so much shorter.
16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
A: Yes, almost mandatory for spinners.
17. How old is your oldest UFO?
A: about a year ago I cast on a sweater, decided i did not want to knit it on straights and there it sits.. i've not frogged it back, so technically those 2 rows are a UFO.
18. What is your favorite holiday? What winter holiday do you observe?
A: Besides my B-day, which Hallmark has yet to acknowledge as a national holiday? Thanksgiving is my all time favorite holiday. We observe Christmas.. as much as it saddens me how commercial it has become and for most has lost it's biblical significants (why are the stores already dispalying Christmas stuff? Let's get a bit closer to Thanksgiving please.. ARRGGG).
19. Is there anything that you collect?
A: the obvious of yarn & fiber - the newest is 1.25 magnifying "readers" for my poor eyes. I have pairs all over and never where I need them. Why is that?
20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
A: check out my ravely thingy. I did a pretty good job of logging in most of my books. I susbcribe to Interweave Knits, Spin Off and Wild Fibers magazines.
21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
A: two socks on 2 circulars, but honestly, I think i'd hurt myself.
22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
A: Yes. I wear a size 6.5 woman's shoe (US). I'd have to measure my foot for more accuracy.
23. When is your birthday?
A: May 7
24. Are you on Ravelry? If so, what's your ID?
A: BrookeKnits
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Perfectly Proper Socks
As you can see, in the first photo we have my feet - one wearing a perfectly proper wool, self-striping sock. The other foot is sporting a BBS (that's Big Black Sock) that I am knitting for Socks for Soldiers (accept no substitutes, make sure you find the SFS group with Kim O as the founder). Anyways - back to socks - can you see that the civilian sock ends just past the ankle area? Not uncommon as I tend to get a bit of ADHD when knitting socks and want to turn the heal sooner rather than later. Do you see how BBSs go waaaay up to the knee? That's 12" freakin inches of ribbing folks! Now, can you just see my freshly painted toes peeping out of the BBS? My friends, I can't even THINK about decreasing for the toe until that little (i use the term loosely here) is 8" long. Then, and only then, can I think about decreasing. Want to just pee your pants in amazement?? To test your gauge on these bad-boys.. we pull them over the top of a 2 litre soda bottle! If it fits over that - it will fit over most stud-muffin military dude calves!! I took these adorable socks to Knit Night last week - turns out, I knit rather tightly and have a rather sturdy grip on the needles.. ya, well one broke! Good thing i've got enough size 1 DPNs to open my own needle store! OH BY THE WAY: I've ordered some regulation yarns for my two angels who said they'd knit some beanies for our troops. It's starting to snow in afganistan and our boys (ladies too) need to keep their heads warm. If you want to knit some regulation helmet liners, let me know.. i'll send you the pattern, the yarn and you'll promise to knit the hat and send it back to me so it can be properly submitted to Kim at Socks for Soldiers!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Irena Sendler, Hero
There recently was the death of a 98-year-old lady named Irena Sendler.
During WWII, Irena, got permission to work in the Warsaw Ghetto, as a Plumbing/Sewer specialist.
She had an ulterior motive... She KNEW what the Nazi's plans were for the Jews, (being German). Irena smuggled infants out in the bottom of her tool box she carried, and she also carried in the back of her truck a Burlap sack, (for larger kids). She also had a dog in the back that she trained to bark when the Nazi soldiers let her in and out of the ghetto. The soldiers, of course, wanted nothing to do with the dog, and the barking covered the kids/infants noises.
During her time and course of doing this, she managed to smuggle out and save 2500 kids/infants. She was caught, and the Nazi's broke both her legs and arms and beat her severely. Irena kept a record of the names of all the kids she smuggled out and kept them in a glass jar, buried under a tree in her back yard.
After the war, she tried to locate any parents that may have survived it, and reunited the family. Most, of course, had been gassed. Those kids she helped were placed into foster family homes or adopted.
Last year Irena was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize....
She LOST.
Al Gore won for doing a slide show on 'Global Warming'.
(Google her name for more interesting info, including a CBS moving due out later this year!)
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Wine, Weddings and Wool
Where to begin?? I've been a busy girl.
WINE: As you can see from the pictures - I've been wine tasting... it was very fun. We were in the Sonoma area of CA. We drove, our daughter, her husband & his parents flew up from Southern CA. Our daughter's sister in law (husband's younger sister) and her BF drove up from SF, the sister in law's BF's parents drove from the Bay Area.. all total - there were 10 of us! One great big happy family!! We rented a big van, which we called The Silver Bullet. This is the second time we've done this.. about a year ago we did the same thing, but in Napa. So - we did 3 wineries on Friday, 4 on Saturday and Sunday was a "go home" day... all in all very nice.
WEDDINGS: It was actually one one wedding. No pictures, sorry. One of our daughter's friends got married in South Lake Tahoe this past weekend. The chapel had a lovely view of the lake, the bride was beautiful, the groom handsome, etc etc. I have a few comments here on South Lake Tahoe - i've not been in about 20 years.. First - Harvey's Hotel/Casino - nice - i'd go back; MontBlu (the old Cesears casino/hotel) - seriously, don't waste your time/money. Here is the deal and go ahead call me an old stick in the mud. We met up with the bridal party after the reception... about 10p at the hotel's Club Blu - since we were not guests of the hotel, i got in free, but hubby had to pay a $10 cover charge.. EXCUSE ME?? The place was just about empty.. i think our group was about 1/2 the folks there. The drinks were served in PLASTIC CUPS! I ordred a vodka/cranberry w/Kettle One vodka.. you could not even tast the vodka in it.. horrible. The girls all went down to the bar to order shots of Kamakazi - all said it was the worst they'd drinken/drank/drunk... whatever. Then, and here is where I said "enough" - earlier we had kinda made fun of the 3 booth like things ajdacent the dance floor with brass poles.... you know where I am going with this?? So, i notice that one of the "booth's" lights are on, and who is standing there but some fairly flat chested young girl sporting pasties on her boobs and a g-string.... apparently it was body painting night.. I would have spent the money to write "my mom is so pround of me" across her tummy, but the idea of the body painting just made me want to puke. I did not go there for some strip club thing... it really pissed me off. So - MontBlu - you shall never again get a dime of my money.
WOOL: Before I headed off to SLT (south lake tahoe), I was checking out The Needlecrafters' Travel Companion (www.needlecrafterstravelcompanion.com) and discovered that about 3 miles from the hotel (on US 50/Stateline) was The Wool Tree, a lovely knitting shop. It's on the corner of US 50 /Stateline and Alameda Street, but that's rather deceieving.. in that its one of several shops on the corner in a little strip mall thing.. around the corner was The Yellow Submarine - where we grabbed some yummy sandwitches and had a picnic... but I digress.. The Wool Tree is a place I will go back to the next time I am in SLT... very friendly.. the ladies there at the Stitch and Bitch were very nice to me too. I got a little something in anticipation for SP13 to start too!
BACK TO WINE: So I can't recall all the wineries we went to, but kinda the funny part was - on Sunday just me and hubby driving home, we decide to stop at Kirkland Ranch, thinking its the winery that is at Costco, and joke, "do we have to show our Costco card to get in" ha ha ha. well, turns out - it has nothing to do with Costco, Kirkland just happens to be the name of the two brothers who have the winery. They had very nice wines - reds and white.. we got some of each. I'll do a better trip report on wines later.. but don't you think these pics are pretty?
Thursday, October 16, 2008
My Life...
Well, another week has gone by (where?) - It seems I get back from some out of town thing and I am packing again. I leave in the morning for a b-day wine tasting weekend.. not MY b-day - my daughter's sister in law..... I've started The Girl Child's dress from Interweave Knits - Fall 2008?? I'll have to post proper pictures. and I finished the English Driver's Cap from a book written by the 2 owners of a LYS......not thrilled really with the pattern. There were two "errors" in it - I called the owner/creator of the pattern and asked her a question on my first "error" (seriously, I think the instructions could have been more specific, like "turn work" - oh welll, the same thing at the very end... if it had said "turn" - then I would not have had to take out a row or 2 ... ok, confession - I did not take out anything.. my yarn yenta did for me! The batteries are charging in that brick I call a digital camera.. So, when I get back from my weekend away, I'll post some pics..
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Sheez - time flies
OK, I am not a total dork. I was obducted by crazy hurd of crocheters - who took me off into the hills and made me crochet with acrylic yarns!! They made me eat cheese whiz on saltine crackers and drink grog... or I am a sh*thead who does not realize how fast time flies.
Here is the scoop - I walk out the door in the am to head for a conference. Fun, but lots of work too.
I did receive a killer package from my SP12 buddy and need to post pics. the best part, besides the yarn - she sent me 1.25 reader glasses that are just very funky and cool. I'll do a proper thank you post when I get back.
My fiber swap outgoing package should leave the office today or tomorrow if my helpers follow thru with notes that are left all over the office for them while i am away.
that's it.. more later when things settle down.
Here is the scoop - I walk out the door in the am to head for a conference. Fun, but lots of work too.
I did receive a killer package from my SP12 buddy and need to post pics. the best part, besides the yarn - she sent me 1.25 reader glasses that are just very funky and cool. I'll do a proper thank you post when I get back.
My fiber swap outgoing package should leave the office today or tomorrow if my helpers follow thru with notes that are left all over the office for them while i am away.
that's it.. more later when things settle down.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Looking for a few Angels
Hi all you (2 or 3) blog snoopers! I have a favor to ask. As most of you know, I knit (slowly) for Socks for Soldiers. We knit regulation military socks from an approved pattern and use approved sock yarns. Some folks want to help, but don't knit socks - or don't like the committement terms of the program - that's ok... but you can still help out.
The care packages we send include beanies (we have a pattern and a list of approved yarns) - we send washcloths - handknit of course; and personal items. Some even donate handmade soaps!! The primary mission is SOCKS - and again - not being snooty, but we must use the official pattern andyarns. Why? Well, and this could be upsetting - acrylic yarns melt - so when a soldier gets "hit" we don't want his handknit socks to melt like molten lava to his leg - or his beanie to melt to his head - no do we??
If you can knit - beanies, washclothes - or donate anything at all (even a few bucks would help) let me know. just email me or reply to the post. Socks For Soldiers is not a political group - we don't advocate for or against the war - we simply want to support our deployed soldiers - regardless of the branch they serve in.
Thanks
The care packages we send include beanies (we have a pattern and a list of approved yarns) - we send washcloths - handknit of course; and personal items. Some even donate handmade soaps!! The primary mission is SOCKS - and again - not being snooty, but we must use the official pattern andyarns. Why? Well, and this could be upsetting - acrylic yarns melt - so when a soldier gets "hit" we don't want his handknit socks to melt like molten lava to his leg - or his beanie to melt to his head - no do we??
If you can knit - beanies, washclothes - or donate anything at all (even a few bucks would help) let me know. just email me or reply to the post. Socks For Soldiers is not a political group - we don't advocate for or against the war - we simply want to support our deployed soldiers - regardless of the branch they serve in.
Thanks
Find a Penny - Pick it Up
This is long, but worth the read:
Subject: A PENNY
Several years ago, a friend of mine and her husband were invited to spendthe weekend at the husband's employer's home. The boss was very wealthy, with a fine home on the waterway. He was quite generous as a host, and took them to the finest restaurants.
As the three of them were about to enter an exclusive restaurant that evening, the boss was walking slightly ahead of her and her husband. He stopped suddenly, looking down on the pavement for a long, silent moment. She wondered if she was supposed to pass him. There was nothing on the ground except a single darkened penny that someone had dropped, and a few cigarette butts.
Still silent, the man reached down and picked up the penny. He held it up and smiled, then put it in his pocket as if he had found a great treasure. How absurd! What need did this man have for a single penny? Why would he even take the time to stop and pick it up?
Throughout dinner, the entire scene nagged at her. Finally, she could stand it no longer. She casually mentioned that her daughter once had a coin collection, and asked if the penny he had found had been of some value.
A smile crept across the man's face as he reached into his pocket for the penny and held it out for her to see. She had seen many pennies before! What was the point of this?
Look at it.' He said. 'Read what it says.'
She read the words ' United States ofAmerica ''
No, not that; read further.''
One cent?'
'No, keepreading.''
In God we Trust?'
'Yes!' 'And?''
And if I trust in God, the name of God is holy, even on a coin. Whenever I find a coin I see that inscription. It is written on every single United States coin, but we never seem to notice it! God drops a message right in front of me telling me to trust Him? Who am I to pass it by? When I see a coin, I pray, I stop to see if my trust IS in God at that moment. I pick the coin up as a response to God; that I do trust in Him.
For a short time, at least, I cherish it as if it were gold. I think it is God's way of starting a conversation with me. Lucky for me, God is patient and pennies are plentiful!
When I was outshopping today, I found a penny on the sidewalk. I stopped and picked it up, and realized that I had been worrying and fretting in my mind about things I cannot change. I read the words, 'In God We Trust,' and had to laugh. Yes, God, I get the message. It seems that I have been finding an inordinate number of pennies in the last few months, but then, pennies are plentiful! And, God is patient..
Subject: A PENNY
Several years ago, a friend of mine and her husband were invited to spendthe weekend at the husband's employer's home. The boss was very wealthy, with a fine home on the waterway. He was quite generous as a host, and took them to the finest restaurants.
As the three of them were about to enter an exclusive restaurant that evening, the boss was walking slightly ahead of her and her husband. He stopped suddenly, looking down on the pavement for a long, silent moment. She wondered if she was supposed to pass him. There was nothing on the ground except a single darkened penny that someone had dropped, and a few cigarette butts.
Still silent, the man reached down and picked up the penny. He held it up and smiled, then put it in his pocket as if he had found a great treasure. How absurd! What need did this man have for a single penny? Why would he even take the time to stop and pick it up?
Throughout dinner, the entire scene nagged at her. Finally, she could stand it no longer. She casually mentioned that her daughter once had a coin collection, and asked if the penny he had found had been of some value.
A smile crept across the man's face as he reached into his pocket for the penny and held it out for her to see. She had seen many pennies before! What was the point of this?
Look at it.' He said. 'Read what it says.'
She read the words ' United States ofAmerica ''
No, not that; read further.''
One cent?'
'No, keepreading.''
In God we Trust?'
'Yes!' 'And?''
And if I trust in God, the name of God is holy, even on a coin. Whenever I find a coin I see that inscription. It is written on every single United States coin, but we never seem to notice it! God drops a message right in front of me telling me to trust Him? Who am I to pass it by? When I see a coin, I pray, I stop to see if my trust IS in God at that moment. I pick the coin up as a response to God; that I do trust in Him.
For a short time, at least, I cherish it as if it were gold. I think it is God's way of starting a conversation with me. Lucky for me, God is patient and pennies are plentiful!
When I was outshopping today, I found a penny on the sidewalk. I stopped and picked it up, and realized that I had been worrying and fretting in my mind about things I cannot change. I read the words, 'In God We Trust,' and had to laugh. Yes, God, I get the message. It seems that I have been finding an inordinate number of pennies in the last few months, but then, pennies are plentiful! And, God is patient..
Monday, September 1, 2008
SP 12 Question of the Week
Hi there strangers!! It's been a week or so - getting ready for conference, attending conference and the truck load of post conference work... all done in the name of love - the SP 12 question of the week is:
"what's the best thing you've ever received in the mail?"
Hmm, one may think FIBER or YARN or some other thing like that. To me the bestest ever thing I receive in the mail (real mail, folks, not email) are letters from my kids. Specifically, the best mail ever was when my son was in the USAF. He did not have ready accesss to email like he does now - and during basic training - i think they may have been "ordered" to write home!! Anyway, I saved all those letters and cards - to read how he was growing as an adult and realizing the opportunities he had growing up - compared to some of the other guys he was going thru training with - to appreciate - really appreciate something so simple as a piece of pie after a long march - was/is such a blessing. Now that he's in the Army and has access to email - we exchange email, talk on the phone, I visit his FaceBook page, etc. But I got to tell you - the best thing ever is getting a letter from your soldier son - miles away - and sharing his day with you!! That's better than anything - ever!!
"what's the best thing you've ever received in the mail?"
Hmm, one may think FIBER or YARN or some other thing like that. To me the bestest ever thing I receive in the mail (real mail, folks, not email) are letters from my kids. Specifically, the best mail ever was when my son was in the USAF. He did not have ready accesss to email like he does now - and during basic training - i think they may have been "ordered" to write home!! Anyway, I saved all those letters and cards - to read how he was growing as an adult and realizing the opportunities he had growing up - compared to some of the other guys he was going thru training with - to appreciate - really appreciate something so simple as a piece of pie after a long march - was/is such a blessing. Now that he's in the Army and has access to email - we exchange email, talk on the phone, I visit his FaceBook page, etc. But I got to tell you - the best thing ever is getting a letter from your soldier son - miles away - and sharing his day with you!! That's better than anything - ever!!
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
SP 12 Question of the Week & Pics
Here is the next edition of the "question of the week"!
I'm sure most of us have a proudest moment when it comes to knitting. A project or technique that you've tackled and completed beautifully. What is your proudest knitting moment??
Hands down - I think my best bet so far has been the Interweave Knits Tilted Duster sweater. It was the biggest project and my very first sweater. I'll have to post pictures.
And on the flip side? What is the one thing that you can't get right? What is that one project that you've never been able to complete? Or that you did complete but then hid away instantly because it was too embarrassing?
Well - this is harder. I guess the one project that seriously kicked my butt and was never finished was the Mystery Stole 3. It was my first lace project and I just could not get the whole chart thing. I'd get the clue and wait a day for the MS3 angel to convert the chart to a written pattern (Excel spreadsheet) and go. I ended up substituting yarn to a non-lace yarn, so I could see the stitches. and then decided I really did not love the yarn for that particular project...so - in the stash closet it sits - all alone and unfinished..
PICTURES: The "pastely" picture of the roving (braided) is from my Fiber of the Month Swap. The roving is called Glass Beach - and my assistant tells me that there really is such a place - not sand but glass - obviously its smooth glass or who would go?? then there is the lavendar "beak balm" and soap - it smells so good. My smart a## husband says "but you don't have a beak" - men, they just don't get it - do they?? The soap smells devine and inspired me to make some soap... what a disaster. Never again! I'll continue to get my handmade soap from qualified soap making swap buddies or the craft fairs... this gal ain't gonna try that again!!
I was gone doing some wine tasting in Napa, then off to a conference - now I leave again in the am for the famous (see the food network) for the Reno Rib Cook-off!! Yummmy for your tummy!! I'll be better at posting - i swear.
OHHH YA: SP12 buddy who spoils me? If you sent me an ecard - It accidentally got deleted (again). It was in my spam folder - and as I was hitting the "delete all" button I did one of those slow motion things "noooooooo - doooooon't deeeeleeeeete thaaaaaat onnnne" and Poof - it was gone. I am so sorry. If you send another, send me an email letting me know to be on the look out for it.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Swap Parcels
See how well I am spoiled? My Hush Hush Handspun Hootinany pal sent me a delightful parcel - as did my Ravelry swap buddy. One swap is spin 4 oz and send 4 oz, the other is just send 4 oz. Now, I take really good notes when a parcel arrives so I can post details.... except my notes are at home and my only computer with internet access is at work... which is why it is saturday at 5 pm and I am at the office.... boo hooo... should be home spinning or knitting.
I'll do my best..First, who could not use a diz?? That's the little wood gizmo in the top picture. You can measure your wpi (wraps per inch) in the notch and use the holes to thread your roving thru when you spin. Also, the wallet card for conversion of wpi to needle size - LOVE it. The handspun is about 440 yards if I recall from memory and the roving is a fiber I am not familiar with - i'll have to google it.... Finally, some tea! The Ravelry swap is a tad different - we just send 4 oz of fiber.. but I got a bonus - a delightful coaster/swatch, a little book made with homemade paper, the picture/postcard and my new fav - the money pen!! Even the pen is felted, not just the body of the monkey!! Thank you to both (all) of my swap buddies.
It has been rather hectic with life in general and with the swaps. I 've mentioned before that i signed up for 3 swaps - not realizing at the time that htey would all be happenig at the same time... so.. here I am - SP 12, HHHH and Ravelry fiber swap - keeping track and trying not to go nuts.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
SP 12 Question of the Week
I forgot to include this in my other post.. The question is: have I ever entered anything in a county/state fair? No. and here is the real rub. I belong to our local spinning guild - we have one member who is the pro on all things "fair" related - she takes her Jacob sheep to the fair she knows the book inside and out, etc etc. etc. Even with her loving reminders, gentle prodding and sometims downright scolding - I fail to enter completed projects in the fair. Each year I say I am going to and something comes up. I am out of town the day for forms must be postmarked (i wait for the last minute to do lots of things). I forget or think my project is not good enough. But NEXT year, I'm gonna do it.
Swaps and Wild Animals
How cute are these two little critters? It's two deer/fawns, not two pics of the same animal. The pictures were taken at work. I had this odd feeling that someone was looking at me thru the window. The picture of the deer on the lawn by the corner of the deck is the window to my right as I sit at my desk. the second picture (a close up) is taken from the window of my husband's office. The deer ar sitting a few feet apart on the lawn of our office - which ages ago was a house. The 3rd picture is the loot my SP12 sent me (I'D LIKE TO ACKNOWLEDGE HERE THAT I ALSO RE'CD A PACKAGE FROM MY FIBER SWAP BUDD AND HAVE NOT TAKEN A PICTURE YET, BUT DID SEND A THANK YOU CARD.). There was two bags of chocolate covered almonds, but I put one down in short order thank you very much! Do you see the candles in front of the book? they are battery operated - how clever - tealights that run on batteries w/on and off switch. So here is the office humor related to this package. When I route a file to boss-man/hubby and it really needs attention "now" - I'll write "hot" on it - sometimes I'll even draw flames to make my point... well, the day this box arrived, I had a file that was waaaay hot. I set it on the boss man's chair, turned the tealight on (the flame flickers) and TAAA DAAA - he got the hint the file was "hot" and needed his attention ASAP. I have all but one candle at home. I have kept one at the office for future "hot" files. The book should be a good read. The character works in the legal field, like me - so as long as she hasn't wacked anyone - Ha ha ha - The bubble bath smells sooooo good you have no idea. I am seriously thinking of using a drop or two to soak some handspun!! Gotta run - doing on line traffic school!! (don't ask).
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Thank You SP12 Buddy
OMG!! I'll have to take pics and post again. But Mr. Mailman came in with a box today!! It was a pamper box! All wrapped in bright yellow tissue w/pink ribbons - a big pink rubber ducky; some Bath & Body Works bubble bath in "fresh pineapple" - seriously, I thought about drinking some of it (any rum around here?); a book "In Her Shoes" by Jennifer Weiner (this sounds like a good book, one i've not heard of - so I am excited) I fly to southern cal on friday, something in additon toknitting to take with me on the plane). some chocolate covered almonds (yumm - my fav candy)- and the most clever card ever, its a tri-fold thing, picture on front of sweater, but when you open it up - ITS A PATTERN TOO!! Perfect size for tucking in your knitting bag.. ok, back to work and proper post with pictures later, but I had to say "thank you" to my SP12 pal for a wonderful package - amazing and I love it.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Who sent the E-card
OK, in my spam/bulk mail, is an e-card, but it does not say who it is from, of course it is mixed in with all the notices from crazy countries telling me I've won a lottery I did not enter and stuff to enlarge my non-existant penis... so... SP12 or Ravelry Fiber Swap buddy, if you sent me an e-card, let me know.... I don't want to open it and discover it's really some xxx rated link or a virus for my little ole computer.
Friday, July 25, 2008
RAvelry Fiber Swap - goodies from Morrigu
OOOOOh, nothing like getting a fluffy envelope on a friday to make your weekend that much better!! Look at what Morrigu sent to me! The roving reminds my hubby of sherbert ice cream! I can't wait to spin it up. and because Morrigu read on a blog post that I gave away a drop spindle (a long term loaner) she sent me another! and some roving (beige) that she says will be purrrrrfect for the drop spindle.... she does not know how clusty I can be... Very nice, A great big thank you to Morrigu!! I have this bright yellow car coat - I think If I spun up the "sherbert" and made a kinda lacey scarf to go with it - it would look prett cool.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
SP 12 Q of the Week
Here are my answers to SP12 for this week:
1. What is(are) your favorite place(s) to knit? I's say just about anyplace that is well lit.
2. What supplies (besides yarn & needles) make the setting perfect forknitting? I L-O-V-E love my clear gadget bag. I can see everything in it! I take it everywhere with me! What's inside: another must have is my folding scissors; a 6" cardboard laminated "Knitter's Annonymous" ruler; a sheep shaped tape measure (too cute); stick markers, several crochet hooks and some other odds and ends, the most useful - the small post it notes. I use them to leave myself notes on patterns, mark rows, hold the pattern to the dashboard of the car or to the seat ahead of me on an airplane (also, wedge the bottom of the pattern in the pocket and the top part in the closed tray table, use large paperclip to mark rows - works like a dream!! Oh, ya, and my "reader" glasses!! I'll knit abit without them, put them on and SHAAZAAMMM - I can see!
1. What is(are) your favorite place(s) to knit? I's say just about anyplace that is well lit.
2. What supplies (besides yarn & needles) make the setting perfect forknitting? I L-O-V-E love my clear gadget bag. I can see everything in it! I take it everywhere with me! What's inside: another must have is my folding scissors; a 6" cardboard laminated "Knitter's Annonymous" ruler; a sheep shaped tape measure (too cute); stick markers, several crochet hooks and some other odds and ends, the most useful - the small post it notes. I use them to leave myself notes on patterns, mark rows, hold the pattern to the dashboard of the car or to the seat ahead of me on an airplane (also, wedge the bottom of the pattern in the pocket and the top part in the closed tray table, use large paperclip to mark rows - works like a dream!! Oh, ya, and my "reader" glasses!! I'll knit abit without them, put them on and SHAAZAAMMM - I can see!
Friday, July 18, 2008
SP 12 Question & Knitting updates
SP 12:
1. What is your favorite type of project to take along on holiday/vacation?
A: Usually socks - or something that will end up being felted...so that if I screw up, it won't be noticed!! Fussy knitting is better left at home. Socks are good because they are small and can be worked on in an airplane.
2. Tell a story about a time you packed too much knitting or were stranded without knitting.
A: I can't recall the specifics, but I have been "without sticks" a time or two. I get twitchy. What a waste, to be sitting in an airport or where ever and know that you could be getting a few rows done. I think my "worst" story is knitting socks waiting for a plane, listening to a Lime and Violoet podcast, I guess I was laughing and when I'd tell my DH something, he'd look at me funny and say "you need to use your inside voice" - I've started some nice conversations with folks asking me about my knitting. The best "dumbest" was a lady asking me if I was crocheting. That's not the stupid part, the stupid part was when she said she had justed learned to crochet. OK, so lets think: you had ONE hook when you crocheted and I have 4 little pointy sticks.. do the math woman!! Sheez, I should not be a snot head about it, but it just struck me as a lame question... could have been she was trying to break the ice... we had a nice visit during our flight, but turns out based on our little visit, she was probably not the sharpest knife in the drawer to begin with.. lovely lady, just not bright. Probably safer that she does not knit - I could predict ER visits with her!! LOL.
1. What is your favorite type of project to take along on holiday/vacation?
A: Usually socks - or something that will end up being felted...so that if I screw up, it won't be noticed!! Fussy knitting is better left at home. Socks are good because they are small and can be worked on in an airplane.
2. Tell a story about a time you packed too much knitting or were stranded without knitting.
A: I can't recall the specifics, but I have been "without sticks" a time or two. I get twitchy. What a waste, to be sitting in an airport or where ever and know that you could be getting a few rows done. I think my "worst" story is knitting socks waiting for a plane, listening to a Lime and Violoet podcast, I guess I was laughing and when I'd tell my DH something, he'd look at me funny and say "you need to use your inside voice" - I've started some nice conversations with folks asking me about my knitting. The best "dumbest" was a lady asking me if I was crocheting. That's not the stupid part, the stupid part was when she said she had justed learned to crochet. OK, so lets think: you had ONE hook when you crocheted and I have 4 little pointy sticks.. do the math woman!! Sheez, I should not be a snot head about it, but it just struck me as a lame question... could have been she was trying to break the ice... we had a nice visit during our flight, but turns out based on our little visit, she was probably not the sharpest knife in the drawer to begin with.. lovely lady, just not bright. Probably safer that she does not knit - I could predict ER visits with her!! LOL.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Fire update; SP 12 Question of the Week & Swap updates.
Here are two pictures from our back deck - one is a view of our new bulldozed fire break, the other is of the nice CDF guys clearing brush....YOu can't really tell in the picture, but the yard is rather steep. the white blob in the one picture is a bag of fleece that was on the lower back deck.. Crazy, hu??
Here are the questions of the week for SP 12:
1) Where is your favorite place to go for vacation/holiday?
A: My favorite place to go for a holiday is to stay home. For vacation - just about any place!! I am not much of a world traveler. I've been to Canada as a kid - does that count?? I've been to Nevada - lots - we go to Reno several times a year - sometimes twice in one month!!2) Where is one place you'd like to go?
A: I was just talking to DH about this - I'd really like to go to Canada as an adult. I have a sister there - and I hear Victoria is beautiful. I'd like to visit all 50 states - ok, Alaksa and Hawaii too. How fun would it be to visit all state parks - yellowstone, yosemite, etc etc. I don't camp, but the natural beauty of it would be grand!! I love a good museum - so a visit to famous museums would be fun too. I'll be near San Fransisco in August, so I think we'll make a detour to see the blown glass exhibit at the newly remodeled de Young in golden gate park. and, while I don't particularly like the concept of zoos, I see the benefit of preserving some animals.. So, i'd like to visit some zoos too. I've been to the SF zoo and when my sister was stationed in Germany (about 20+ years ago) she send me pictures of big pigs.
Did I already say my Hush Hush Handspun Hootenanny swap buddy is outside the US?? I've exchanged some emails and have an idea on this one time swap package. I've got the fiber to send, now to spin my 4oz for her... and I printed out some stuff from the blog of my SP12 buddy. I'll either go to a LYS this weekend or do some internet shopping.. she gave me some great ideas on stuff she "needs" - LOL - like we all "need" more yarn.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
I am Sick of Fire and Smoke
First - I think I love all firefighters. They are working so crazy hard at all the fires in California. Having said that, firemen, take no offence - I am bloody sick of fire, smoke and all the crap that goes with it. We have not seen blue sky in about 3 weeks. Today the ash is so thick it flutters in the air like snow flurries.... barf/gag. I knew today would be bad, when the orange/yellow haze was so thick this morning - it looked like night... then - eerie stillness this am.. no birds, no breeze, nothing.... we have been in the process of moving since december and are fully functional in our new house. the old house is filled with DH's parents' stuff (they died within 3 weeks of each other in March/April of 2008)... anyway - the "old" house was part of the newest evacutation today.. DH went to grab his mom's jewelry and DD's old HS yearbooks. She said if she ever had kids - she'd want to show her kids your old yearbooks.
So, here I am - if I get lung cancer - it will be due to these stupid fires.
SWAP updates: I mailed off my fiber swap package to someone is Singapore yesterday!! I can't say what it is....oh crap. I forgot to take pictures. Sheez. OK. So, this fiber swap is cool. There are 4 in the group. swap runs July/August/Sept. we "round robin" in the shipping of packages.. so we will each get a total of 3 fiber packages. Sweet!!
I have my HHHH swap buddy - also lives outside the USA!! I sent her an email re fiber she may prefer. We send 4 oz of spun and 4 oz of fiber. and other stuff if we want. Since my swap buddies are international. I plan on making it educational. My Singapore pal got some postcards showing my local area. HHHH buddy will get info on my town too.
SP12: I was blog snooping and got some ideas for a package tonight.. so I am off to go shopping later this week.
gotta run..
So, here I am - if I get lung cancer - it will be due to these stupid fires.
SWAP updates: I mailed off my fiber swap package to someone is Singapore yesterday!! I can't say what it is....oh crap. I forgot to take pictures. Sheez. OK. So, this fiber swap is cool. There are 4 in the group. swap runs July/August/Sept. we "round robin" in the shipping of packages.. so we will each get a total of 3 fiber packages. Sweet!!
I have my HHHH swap buddy - also lives outside the USA!! I sent her an email re fiber she may prefer. We send 4 oz of spun and 4 oz of fiber. and other stuff if we want. Since my swap buddies are international. I plan on making it educational. My Singapore pal got some postcards showing my local area. HHHH buddy will get info on my town too.
SP12: I was blog snooping and got some ideas for a package tonight.. so I am off to go shopping later this week.
gotta run..
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
SP 12 Question of The Week
The "perfect sized" stash was a tough question for many of you toanswer. Maybe these stash related questions will be easier:
1) What yarn (that you don't have/haven't used) would make your stash"complete"? I have angora fiber, but have yet to spin it - or knit with it - angora bunny - I got to pet one at our last spinning guild meeting. A local lady has them and will hopefully be a local source for purchase of angora fiber in the future!
2) What yarn do you never want to be without? Sock yarn, but I have tons now... and at the moment i am having a hard time thinking of knitting socks.. sock burn out.
1) What yarn (that you don't have/haven't used) would make your stash"complete"? I have angora fiber, but have yet to spin it - or knit with it - angora bunny - I got to pet one at our last spinning guild meeting. A local lady has them and will hopefully be a local source for purchase of angora fiber in the future!
2) What yarn do you never want to be without? Sock yarn, but I have tons now... and at the moment i am having a hard time thinking of knitting socks.. sock burn out.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Flash Your Stash (like a drunk sorority girl)
FLASH YOUR STASH CHALLENGE: OK, I just made that up - but post pictures of your stash and a description of your stash and it's life expectancy - post a comment here and I'll draw a random name - winner gets - you got it - something from my stash.
My stash exceeds my life expectancy. Here are 3 pics of my stash closet. The floor is covered. Somewhere is one of those Costco clear tubs filled with crapy acrylic junk - we just won't go there. I can't find anyone I dislike enough to send it to. The big white blob with a black poofy thing on top is actually a lovely mesh bag containing the pattern (white blob) and yarn for the Knit PIcks' Tree of Life Afgan. You can see the yellow sheet of paper for my son's v-neck top down sweater and my size 25 knitting needles - A Stitches West find - and seveal knitting bags with projects inside. Can you see the basket - it's filled with "used" skeins of yarn from FOs - but I can't just discard the un-used yarn. You never know -sheep and alpaca my unionize and protest the shearing of fiber animals.. then where would I be?? I've taken a picture of part of the shelving. The bottom contains some baskets and what not of needle cases and supplies - the top shelve is actually somewhat organized. I have a tub (not pictured) of all my sock yarn, what you see is some of my handspun and lace weight skeins - Not pretty is it? I may need an intervention.
So FLASH YOUR STASH - post a comment and I'll draw names on July 17th - Thursday. To be "eligible" you must post pictures on your blog and leave a comment on my blog so I know you have "entered" - I'll post the winner and contact to get a mailing address for shipping of yarn from my stash.
Monday, June 30, 2008
SP 12 Week 3 Question
Stash: I swear I did this already. The question of the week is regarding out stash... let's just say mine exceeds my life expectancy according to the Social Security Administration and AARP. I did take pictures of my stash closet and will post them tomorrow.
On another topic: WTF - how did this happen?? It must be swap season or something - I have managed to sign up for 3 swaps - all during the summer months. I just have to keep my act together and it should all come off without a hitch. One is a Ravelry fiber swap - it goes for 3 months (July/August/September). There are 4 to a group - we all have each other's ravelry info - so it's not "secret" per se - Each month I send 4 oz of fiber to a member of my group. Cool, hu? That's it - nothing too fancy - 4 oz of fiber.
The other fiber swap is the Hush Hush Handspun Hootenanny swap. This was a blog-based swap. This is a one time swap. Pals are assigned beginning July 7 - the swap ends August 9th. We send 4 oz of unspun fiber and 4 oz of spun fiber. Cool, hu? I am excited to see who my HHHH buddy is.
then, of course the SP12 SWap - which I have always enjoyed. My first SP swap was SP5. I have gotten to know so many wonderful knitters, spinners, and fiber friendly folks thru the swaps. Blog snooping is fun!
OK, back to "work" for my volunteer job - then home to knit some more on my BBSs for SFS - that's Big Black Socks for Socks for Soldiers. I have put my pairs of BBS aside for too long. It's time to pick up those pointy sticks and get busy.
On another topic: WTF - how did this happen?? It must be swap season or something - I have managed to sign up for 3 swaps - all during the summer months. I just have to keep my act together and it should all come off without a hitch. One is a Ravelry fiber swap - it goes for 3 months (July/August/September). There are 4 to a group - we all have each other's ravelry info - so it's not "secret" per se - Each month I send 4 oz of fiber to a member of my group. Cool, hu? That's it - nothing too fancy - 4 oz of fiber.
The other fiber swap is the Hush Hush Handspun Hootenanny swap. This was a blog-based swap. This is a one time swap. Pals are assigned beginning July 7 - the swap ends August 9th. We send 4 oz of unspun fiber and 4 oz of spun fiber. Cool, hu? I am excited to see who my HHHH buddy is.
then, of course the SP12 SWap - which I have always enjoyed. My first SP swap was SP5. I have gotten to know so many wonderful knitters, spinners, and fiber friendly folks thru the swaps. Blog snooping is fun!
OK, back to "work" for my volunteer job - then home to knit some more on my BBSs for SFS - that's Big Black Socks for Socks for Soldiers. I have put my pairs of BBS aside for too long. It's time to pick up those pointy sticks and get busy.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Hush Hush Handspun Hootinanny Swap Questionnaire
1. How long have you been spinning? What skill level do you consider yourself? I have been spinning for about 2 years. I think I am an advanced beginner - heading towards intermediate.
2. What kinds of yarn do you create (singles/2-ply/3-ply/art yarn)? I am stuck spinning lacey singles - I don't trust them on their own - so I double and 3 ply - just started cabling.
3. What do you spin with (spindle/wheel/both)? I have an Ashford Joy and Traveler. Mostly the Joy. I have a navajo spindle I am trying to learn with.
4. What are your favorite fibers to spin with? Anything you don't like? I love the softness of alpaca and silk.
5. Who are your favorite crack dealers fiber sources (etsy or otherwise)? My 3 "dealers" are The Dizzy Ewe (my primary source); my local yarn shop, Knit Wits, or from the animal itself.
6. What kind of fiber do you want to try? Quivic - soy - crazy stuff like that.
7. Is there any techniques you would like to learn? I'd love to be able to spin bulky again.
8. Do you dye fiber? If not, would you like to learn? I did once. Ruth, of The Dizzy Ewe did a class "graduated shades from a single pot" fun fun fun.
9. Do you have fiber prep tools (and like to use them) or would you prefer ready to spin fiber? I have no tools (sad), just the wheels.
10. What do you do with your handspun? What projects have you completed? I've yet to knit with my own handspun - I 've given it away and added it to the stash.
11. Are you in need of any spinning gadgets (WPI Gauge, threading hook, etc)? Yup.
12. What colors "fall into your shopping basket"? Any colors you just can't stand? I like them all 0 no neon stuff.
13. What is on your wheel/spindle right now? I am getting ready to ply some lovely "orange-ish" merrino/silk - will probably be knit into socks.
14. What other crafts/hobbies do you have? I knit, love to read.
15. Other than crafts, what are you passionate about? Knitting -
16. Do you have an online wishlist? Amazon, but it's so outdated, I should answer "no."
17. Is there anything that you collect? besides fiber and yarn?? sadly, 1.25 magnifer glasses for reading and seeing my knitting. the funkier the better.
18. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What magazine subscriptions do you have? I subscribe to Wild Fibers, Interweave Knits, Spin Off - I have lots of books.. I don't think there is any must have pattern right now
19. When is your birthday? May 7
20. What book or movie character do you most resemble in personality? Ohhhh - hard to say. sometimes i'd have to say Uma Therman in Kill Bill - sounds nasty, hu?? I can get bitchy sometimes... I have to think abou this one.
21. What is the climate like where you live around this time (need to know for careful shipments of anything meltable)? We can get in the triple digets here.. it's so smokey from all the fires now.. for the summer, i'd say mid 80s to 90s
22. Tell us one weird fact about yourself! I have a birthmark on my arm shaped like Africa.
OK: for these, I have to post another day.. DH's b-day is today and I am running late.
Favoritesfavorite painting/picture(link):
Candy:
Food:
Drink:
Movie(s):
TV Show(s):
Book(s):
Guilty Pleasure(s):
2. What kinds of yarn do you create (singles/2-ply/3-ply/art yarn)? I am stuck spinning lacey singles - I don't trust them on their own - so I double and 3 ply - just started cabling.
3. What do you spin with (spindle/wheel/both)? I have an Ashford Joy and Traveler. Mostly the Joy. I have a navajo spindle I am trying to learn with.
4. What are your favorite fibers to spin with? Anything you don't like? I love the softness of alpaca and silk.
5. Who are your favorite crack dealers fiber sources (etsy or otherwise)? My 3 "dealers" are The Dizzy Ewe (my primary source); my local yarn shop, Knit Wits, or from the animal itself.
6. What kind of fiber do you want to try? Quivic - soy - crazy stuff like that.
7. Is there any techniques you would like to learn? I'd love to be able to spin bulky again.
8. Do you dye fiber? If not, would you like to learn? I did once. Ruth, of The Dizzy Ewe did a class "graduated shades from a single pot" fun fun fun.
9. Do you have fiber prep tools (and like to use them) or would you prefer ready to spin fiber? I have no tools (sad), just the wheels.
10. What do you do with your handspun? What projects have you completed? I've yet to knit with my own handspun - I 've given it away and added it to the stash.
11. Are you in need of any spinning gadgets (WPI Gauge, threading hook, etc)? Yup.
12. What colors "fall into your shopping basket"? Any colors you just can't stand? I like them all 0 no neon stuff.
13. What is on your wheel/spindle right now? I am getting ready to ply some lovely "orange-ish" merrino/silk - will probably be knit into socks.
14. What other crafts/hobbies do you have? I knit, love to read.
15. Other than crafts, what are you passionate about? Knitting -
16. Do you have an online wishlist? Amazon, but it's so outdated, I should answer "no."
17. Is there anything that you collect? besides fiber and yarn?? sadly, 1.25 magnifer glasses for reading and seeing my knitting. the funkier the better.
18. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What magazine subscriptions do you have? I subscribe to Wild Fibers, Interweave Knits, Spin Off - I have lots of books.. I don't think there is any must have pattern right now
19. When is your birthday? May 7
20. What book or movie character do you most resemble in personality? Ohhhh - hard to say. sometimes i'd have to say Uma Therman in Kill Bill - sounds nasty, hu?? I can get bitchy sometimes... I have to think abou this one.
21. What is the climate like where you live around this time (need to know for careful shipments of anything meltable)? We can get in the triple digets here.. it's so smokey from all the fires now.. for the summer, i'd say mid 80s to 90s
22. Tell us one weird fact about yourself! I have a birthmark on my arm shaped like Africa.
OK: for these, I have to post another day.. DH's b-day is today and I am running late.
Favoritesfavorite painting/picture(link):
Candy:
Food:
Drink:
Movie(s):
TV Show(s):
Book(s):
Guilty Pleasure(s):
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
What to Knit??
I have finished knitting my cabled bag. I need to charge camara batteries to take pics..will do tonight.. I have several pairs of Socks for Soldiers socks on the needles and one pair of socks for me on the needles - but right now the thought of knitting socks makes me want to barf - then the guilt for not knitting BBS for SFS - arrgggg. So, what to cast on next?? I dove into the stash closet this morning and pulled out the Tree of Life afgan I got from KnitPicks - its all beige with cute trees in the pattern - should not be too hard. As slow as I knit, another contender is the sweater for my son, yarn and pattern purchased at Knit Wits here in town. It's a neck down v-neck. I showed the yarn to The Boy when he was on leave - he approved - so perhaps that is the smarter choice, but then lace is calling me - I got some lace projects at Stitches West - just sitting in the lonely, dark stash closet. And then there are the knit along items - Hey Heather - are we still gonna knit those fingerless mits or what?? Hey Julie - did you ever cast on that "bag in a bag" we got over a year ago at Stitches West from Carolina Homespun?? - ya, me neither. Sheez, so much yarn, so little time.
Friday, June 20, 2008
SP 12 Question for Week 2
Going down memory lane - what did I look forward to most as a kid?? I have to say, the best part of summer as a kit was getting shipped off to my Aunt's house. I was put on a Greyhound bus as young as probably 5 or 6 in San Jose and rode the bus (alone!!) until my stop in the cute little farming town of King City (Monterey County). My Aunt would meet me at the bus stop. She never learned to drive so we walked home - the "bus stop" really was just the bus pulling to the curb outside a little diner. Her house was about 2 blocks away. I loved spending my summers there and did so until the summer between 8th and 9th grades. She and my uncle were like second parents to me. there was a fence between my aunt/uncle's yard and my grandma/grandpa - I'd walk back and forth between the two - and then my other grandma lived a few blocks away. My grandma "M" taught me to crochet - my grandma "J" taught me to sew; and my Aunt "M" taught me to be a proper young lady, do some cooking and just be a decent person. There all gone now - these fine woman and I miss them terribly.
Friday, June 13, 2008
Evacuations for Friday, June 13
I am not taking pictures because I think it would violate personal privacy. The Skilled Nurcing Facility across the street from my office is being evacuated. At about 10:30 this morning the office received reverse 911 calls advisiing of a precautionary evacuation...the system worked well, but you don't think about all the logistics of moving bed-ridden folks. It's amazing to watch. There is about 10 medi-vans and/or ambulance vehicles either in the parking area next to the SNF or next to our office (across from the nursing home). One by one, they either wheel out on gurnies, wheelchairs or help the residences walk to a vehicle. I don't know where they are taking them.. If you want to see what is happening - go to google and type in Paradise Post - that's our local news paper, or google "paradise california" one of the first links is the town's website, click on emergency services, you'll see the road closures and info on the Public Service Announcements.
We are a fairly small town.. as you can see from maps, only a few roads in/out of town. right now there is no way to get IN - all roads are only open to OUTBOUND traffic...
I am still at work - The Boy is still stick in Chico - if he can't make it home, then I will meet him in either Oroville or Chico and we'll go to Reno and hang out until Monday when we have to take him to the airport.. Nice way to spend your kid's leave time, hu??
We are a fairly small town.. as you can see from maps, only a few roads in/out of town. right now there is no way to get IN - all roads are only open to OUTBOUND traffic...
I am still at work - The Boy is still stick in Chico - if he can't make it home, then I will meet him in either Oroville or Chico and we'll go to Reno and hang out until Monday when we have to take him to the airport.. Nice way to spend your kid's leave time, hu??
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Evacuations Due To Fire
Well, this kinda sucks. Our town is under a state of emergency. Roads out of town (all 4 of them) are either closed or open to OUTBOUND traffic only. About 1/3 of our town is being evacuated... my friend's boss lost their home - everything gone - zip - nadda - nothing.... Be thankful for all you have..Say prayers for our firemen and those who lost their stuff.
SP 12 Q of the Week
Q: What is your favorite Summer beverage??
A: Ohh, this is hard....for adult libations - I'd have to say my modified Sea Breeze.. fill old fashion size glass with ice; add about 1/2 glass vodka, 1/2 cranberry juice and a splash of OJ. stir, drink, repeat.
On the kid friendly side: I have discovered a drink mix available from Tastefully Simple - it's their Vanilla Bean Chiller - i think it's like 2 cups of ice cubes, a cup of milk and then a scoop of their mix. It's deeeeeelish!!
More SP12 news - I did get an ecard from my pal and am frantically searching for the email with info on who i spoil... I 've checked my "real" email and my "secret" email, but so far no luck. My hostess is very kind about this and we are trying to figure out what the heck is up!
I'll take pics of my cabled handbag tonight and post pictures.. I have completed one side (front?), the bottom and the two sides. I am on row 8 or so of the back panel.
A: Ohh, this is hard....for adult libations - I'd have to say my modified Sea Breeze.. fill old fashion size glass with ice; add about 1/2 glass vodka, 1/2 cranberry juice and a splash of OJ. stir, drink, repeat.
On the kid friendly side: I have discovered a drink mix available from Tastefully Simple - it's their Vanilla Bean Chiller - i think it's like 2 cups of ice cubes, a cup of milk and then a scoop of their mix. It's deeeeeelish!!
More SP12 news - I did get an ecard from my pal and am frantically searching for the email with info on who i spoil... I 've checked my "real" email and my "secret" email, but so far no luck. My hostess is very kind about this and we are trying to figure out what the heck is up!
I'll take pics of my cabled handbag tonight and post pictures.. I have completed one side (front?), the bottom and the two sides. I am on row 8 or so of the back panel.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
On The Road Again..
On the road again... I just can't wait to get on the road again.. the life i love is makin' music with my friends and I can't wait to get on the road again. or On the wheel again, I just can't wait to get on the wheel again. the life I love is makin' yarn with my friends and I can't wait to make some yarn again!! OK, Willie Nelson, please forgive me!! I am back from my weekend trip - about 90% unpacked and organized.
The Boy Child is almost done with is 17 hour adventure home. He left Cinncinatti, OH at about 8am. this morning and will arive in SAC at 10:40pm. Today he has been to Ohio, Charlotte, NC, Richmond, VA, Atlanta, GA and Sacramento, CA - not all in that order!! We'll be leaving soon to go pick him up at the airport, its a drive of about 1.5 hours give or take a few - so it will be a long night and we work in the am - He'll be home for 8 days - leaves next Monday - and thinks he will not be deployed until December 2. If that holds true, I think we'll do Thanksgiving/Christmas both in November - presuming he can come home for turkey day... we shall see.
Gotta run - stuff to do. place to see
The Boy Child is almost done with is 17 hour adventure home. He left Cinncinatti, OH at about 8am. this morning and will arive in SAC at 10:40pm. Today he has been to Ohio, Charlotte, NC, Richmond, VA, Atlanta, GA and Sacramento, CA - not all in that order!! We'll be leaving soon to go pick him up at the airport, its a drive of about 1.5 hours give or take a few - so it will be a long night and we work in the am - He'll be home for 8 days - leaves next Monday - and thinks he will not be deployed until December 2. If that holds true, I think we'll do Thanksgiving/Christmas both in November - presuming he can come home for turkey day... we shall see.
Gotta run - stuff to do. place to see
Friday, May 30, 2008
SP 12 Questionnaire
WHOOO HOOOO. SP 12 is set to begin and here is the questionaire:
1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
REPLY: Ohh, this is hard. I am pretty open to lots of fibers/yarns. There are very few I do not like - or have met and said "ohh yukky"
2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? I have several ways of storage! I have two lovely fabric needle cases from previous swaps - one (from Japan) holds my small DPN, the other holds most of my "normal" needles. I have a very cool gizmo that hangs in my stash closet, that holds my circular needles. Mis-match needles are in a basket in my stash closet.
3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? I'm gonna guess about 3 years for knitting and learned to crochet when I was about 7 yrs old. (i'm in my 40s now). How I learned: I went into my LYS and said "teach me"
3.1. Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? I'm gonna guess intermediate/advanced. What's the bar here?? I can cable, I do socks, I've made a sweater.....
4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? Yes, and to be honest, my Amazon list is probably very outdated... shame..
5. What's your favorite scent? wet sheep.. LOL.. oh, that's not what you meant my that?? odd. I like lots of smells.. right now I have this amazing Lush soap in the shower - lemon scent.. deeeeeelishh! I have some Jo Malone perfumes that are to die for..those lines are fruity, grapefruit, honey and other stuff.
6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy? Well, ya' - I have a thing for chocolate covered almonds. (alll-munds - not auwl-munds) - live chocolate/peanut butter cups; not fond of coconut.
7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin? I knit, of course. I do spin - I have two wheels - an Ashford Traveler and Joy - I know how to crochet, but have not done so in many years. I have a boat load of stampin stuff, but have not done that crafty thing in ages. My last crafy adventure outside of fiberland was making body scrubs and bath salts.
8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) This will drive my pal nuts - I listen to everything from AC/DC to big band/swing stuff. I don't get into the heavy metal or serious punk stuff and I don't really get opera.
9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand? I guess I lean towards the earthy tones.... in the yarn world I am not a big fan of neon or crrazy stuff like that. It really depends on the project or location of color.. i may use a color in a throw pillow in the living room that I would not be found dead wearing... so I guess it depends.
10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets? Sheez, this is a good one. I am married - two grown kids - both out of the house and doing there own thing.. The Boy is in the Army and The Girl is a Professor - teaching economics... ya - smarter than her mama.....I had a dog, Lucy, but we had to put her down a few weeks ago - bone cancer.. it sucks... I am beggging like a 12 year old to get another dog. This time something small - a Yorkie - perhaps, so if it has to have a leg amputated, or carried 'cause it's so freakin' sick.. i can, without hurting myback..
11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos? Scarves - yes. It snows sometimes in the winter were I live.. yes to hats, yes to mittens. I had a store poncho and wore it a few times... but gave it away.. i'd wear a poncho if I had a cool one.
12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? things that bring joy to the person receiving the knitted item. I knit socks for me - I've only given one pair way (Heather got a pair of "drunken socks") and I knit for Socks for Soldiers. I had fun knitting my daughter a lacey thong!! I just enjoy knitting.. so, I don't have a favorite "item" per se - I enjoy the process of the project - thinking about the person who will one day wear it.
13. What are you knitting right now? A pair of black socks for Socks for Soldiers, I cabled knitted bag, I have several abandoned projects tooo - still on the needles, but not actively being worked on. booo hooo.
14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts? well, ya. duh!
15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? I have better luck with metal circulars - Audi turbo - good join, less chance of misplacing a pointy stick..
16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift? yes to both.
17. How old is your oldest UFO? It's possible that hte oldest UFO is a sweater....I love the yarn, love the pattern, but i've made some mistakes on it... a row with about 5" of purls that should have been knits... said to self "Self, no one will notice - knit on" Well, now the mistake bugs me.. I'ts headed to the frog pond.
18. What is your favorite holiday? Hands down, Thanksgiving. No so much 'cause of the food, but because of the people.. more family can make Thanksgiving than Christmas - and it 's usually at my house!
19. Is there anything that you collect? Sadly, after my last eye exam - it is 1.25% magnifyer reading glasses! The funkier the better. I have one pair - brown with pink polka dots... very cute, another pair that is plain and clear.. The Dr. said to get lots and have them everyplace around the house.. no kidding, in the knitting bag, by the spinning wheeels.. in my purse, very enough pairs!!
20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? I have a subscription to Interweave Knits and Wild Fiber magazines. I have all the Harlot books... I can't think of any I am dying to get my hands on, there is probably a lot out there I don't know about.
21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? Ruth, owner of The Dizzy Ewe, came and gave several classes to our local spinning guild (check her out on the web - google Dizzy Ewe). She did a class on plying - the cabling portion was interesting. I want to do more of that.
22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements? Yes. I knit socks. My foot is about 9" long from heal to toe. I wear a 6.5 shoe (US size).
23. When is your birthday? May 7
24. Are you on Ravelry? If so, what's your ID? Yes, "BrookeKnits" - could be a space between Brooke and Knits.
1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
REPLY: Ohh, this is hard. I am pretty open to lots of fibers/yarns. There are very few I do not like - or have met and said "ohh yukky"
2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? I have several ways of storage! I have two lovely fabric needle cases from previous swaps - one (from Japan) holds my small DPN, the other holds most of my "normal" needles. I have a very cool gizmo that hangs in my stash closet, that holds my circular needles. Mis-match needles are in a basket in my stash closet.
3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? I'm gonna guess about 3 years for knitting and learned to crochet when I was about 7 yrs old. (i'm in my 40s now). How I learned: I went into my LYS and said "teach me"
3.1. Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? I'm gonna guess intermediate/advanced. What's the bar here?? I can cable, I do socks, I've made a sweater.....
4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? Yes, and to be honest, my Amazon list is probably very outdated... shame..
5. What's your favorite scent? wet sheep.. LOL.. oh, that's not what you meant my that?? odd. I like lots of smells.. right now I have this amazing Lush soap in the shower - lemon scent.. deeeeeelishh! I have some Jo Malone perfumes that are to die for..those lines are fruity, grapefruit, honey and other stuff.
6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy? Well, ya' - I have a thing for chocolate covered almonds. (alll-munds - not auwl-munds) - live chocolate/peanut butter cups; not fond of coconut.
7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin? I knit, of course. I do spin - I have two wheels - an Ashford Traveler and Joy - I know how to crochet, but have not done so in many years. I have a boat load of stampin stuff, but have not done that crafty thing in ages. My last crafy adventure outside of fiberland was making body scrubs and bath salts.
8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) This will drive my pal nuts - I listen to everything from AC/DC to big band/swing stuff. I don't get into the heavy metal or serious punk stuff and I don't really get opera.
9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand? I guess I lean towards the earthy tones.... in the yarn world I am not a big fan of neon or crrazy stuff like that. It really depends on the project or location of color.. i may use a color in a throw pillow in the living room that I would not be found dead wearing... so I guess it depends.
10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets? Sheez, this is a good one. I am married - two grown kids - both out of the house and doing there own thing.. The Boy is in the Army and The Girl is a Professor - teaching economics... ya - smarter than her mama.....I had a dog, Lucy, but we had to put her down a few weeks ago - bone cancer.. it sucks... I am beggging like a 12 year old to get another dog. This time something small - a Yorkie - perhaps, so if it has to have a leg amputated, or carried 'cause it's so freakin' sick.. i can, without hurting myback..
11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos? Scarves - yes. It snows sometimes in the winter were I live.. yes to hats, yes to mittens. I had a store poncho and wore it a few times... but gave it away.. i'd wear a poncho if I had a cool one.
12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? things that bring joy to the person receiving the knitted item. I knit socks for me - I've only given one pair way (Heather got a pair of "drunken socks") and I knit for Socks for Soldiers. I had fun knitting my daughter a lacey thong!! I just enjoy knitting.. so, I don't have a favorite "item" per se - I enjoy the process of the project - thinking about the person who will one day wear it.
13. What are you knitting right now? A pair of black socks for Socks for Soldiers, I cabled knitted bag, I have several abandoned projects tooo - still on the needles, but not actively being worked on. booo hooo.
14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts? well, ya. duh!
15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? I have better luck with metal circulars - Audi turbo - good join, less chance of misplacing a pointy stick..
16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift? yes to both.
17. How old is your oldest UFO? It's possible that hte oldest UFO is a sweater....I love the yarn, love the pattern, but i've made some mistakes on it... a row with about 5" of purls that should have been knits... said to self "Self, no one will notice - knit on" Well, now the mistake bugs me.. I'ts headed to the frog pond.
18. What is your favorite holiday? Hands down, Thanksgiving. No so much 'cause of the food, but because of the people.. more family can make Thanksgiving than Christmas - and it 's usually at my house!
19. Is there anything that you collect? Sadly, after my last eye exam - it is 1.25% magnifyer reading glasses! The funkier the better. I have one pair - brown with pink polka dots... very cute, another pair that is plain and clear.. The Dr. said to get lots and have them everyplace around the house.. no kidding, in the knitting bag, by the spinning wheeels.. in my purse, very enough pairs!!
20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? I have a subscription to Interweave Knits and Wild Fiber magazines. I have all the Harlot books... I can't think of any I am dying to get my hands on, there is probably a lot out there I don't know about.
21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? Ruth, owner of The Dizzy Ewe, came and gave several classes to our local spinning guild (check her out on the web - google Dizzy Ewe). She did a class on plying - the cabling portion was interesting. I want to do more of that.
22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements? Yes. I knit socks. My foot is about 9" long from heal to toe. I wear a 6.5 shoe (US size).
23. When is your birthday? May 7
24. Are you on Ravelry? If so, what's your ID? Yes, "BrookeKnits" - could be a space between Brooke and Knits.
Well, that appears to be the end of the pop quiz.... happy reading....I can't wait until pals are assigned...
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Wuz UP??
Oh, where to begin????? Life has been crazy. I feel like I have recovered somewhat from the "death cloud" that has hung over me - death of MotherInLaw, FatherInLaw and dog in a month's time, there abouts - the looming deployment of son, while not under a "death cloud" - has added to the stress in my life. When the going gets tough, the Knitters knit - and spin..
I am working (always) on socks for Socks for Soldiers, and must get a pair out the door before The Boy Child comes home for his one week of leave. If she seems them, he'll want them and I am a marshmellow when it comes to The Boy...We shall see - if live gets crazy, i'll hide them from him.
Ruth from The Dizzy Ewe was a guest at our house and did some classes for our local spinning guild. Oh what fun - and I appologize to those (1) who sent me a ravely email.. I had not checked ravelry in ages and I did not see your email until it was too late - so sorrry. Ruth gave some amazing classes - so I have been spinning. I'll locate the camera and take some pictures.
I had some Louette "cotton candy" I purchased at my LYS (Knit Wits) and had been spinning sock yarn. 6 oz of the stuff and if i see another oz of it i'll barf, its lovely yarn now, but kinda sick of loooking at it.. in the one ply stage - plying is exciting. all of it has been plied using my handy little andian plyer paddle thing.. ohhh, the saddness when I lost an end the other day, found it last night and continued to ply, it continued to break, loose ends, find end, ply, repeat... seriously, i wanted a martini... but 11p came and I went to bed. more plying tonight.
I have finished the plying of the beasty wool (a lovely grey, but "hairy"). It was spun for the purpose of felting.. I was going to make Lucy a doggie bed, but that seems moot, now that she's dead and all. funny story - we picked up her ashes (Lucy is the dog by the way not my MIL) on the way out of town Friday... I did not want to leave her in the car, so I took her up to our hotel room. Now, I guess one can tell its a box of creamains, but it's a box - nice cedar box... and apparently a real conversation stopper in elevators.. My daughter said they probably thought "crazy lady - bringnig her dead spouse with her" - ya welll, whatever. I'd bring him too, but he's not dead. He was there, alive and everything..
I am signed up for SP12 - new twist , which I really like - we got pay pal invoices for $2.50 to cover the cost of "angel" packages if someone has to back out during the swap. Nice! Also, we could pick a $30 or $60 category to fit our budget - also nice. Go SP Hostesses.... you rock.
OK, i need to go home, do some knitting or spinning and start all over tomorrow.
TTFN
I am working (always) on socks for Socks for Soldiers, and must get a pair out the door before The Boy Child comes home for his one week of leave. If she seems them, he'll want them and I am a marshmellow when it comes to The Boy...We shall see - if live gets crazy, i'll hide them from him.
Ruth from The Dizzy Ewe was a guest at our house and did some classes for our local spinning guild. Oh what fun - and I appologize to those (1) who sent me a ravely email.. I had not checked ravelry in ages and I did not see your email until it was too late - so sorrry. Ruth gave some amazing classes - so I have been spinning. I'll locate the camera and take some pictures.
I had some Louette "cotton candy" I purchased at my LYS (Knit Wits) and had been spinning sock yarn. 6 oz of the stuff and if i see another oz of it i'll barf, its lovely yarn now, but kinda sick of loooking at it.. in the one ply stage - plying is exciting. all of it has been plied using my handy little andian plyer paddle thing.. ohhh, the saddness when I lost an end the other day, found it last night and continued to ply, it continued to break, loose ends, find end, ply, repeat... seriously, i wanted a martini... but 11p came and I went to bed. more plying tonight.
I have finished the plying of the beasty wool (a lovely grey, but "hairy"). It was spun for the purpose of felting.. I was going to make Lucy a doggie bed, but that seems moot, now that she's dead and all. funny story - we picked up her ashes (Lucy is the dog by the way not my MIL) on the way out of town Friday... I did not want to leave her in the car, so I took her up to our hotel room. Now, I guess one can tell its a box of creamains, but it's a box - nice cedar box... and apparently a real conversation stopper in elevators.. My daughter said they probably thought "crazy lady - bringnig her dead spouse with her" - ya welll, whatever. I'd bring him too, but he's not dead. He was there, alive and everything..
I am signed up for SP12 - new twist , which I really like - we got pay pal invoices for $2.50 to cover the cost of "angel" packages if someone has to back out during the swap. Nice! Also, we could pick a $30 or $60 category to fit our budget - also nice. Go SP Hostesses.... you rock.
OK, i need to go home, do some knitting or spinning and start all over tomorrow.
TTFN
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Army Strong
As most of you blog snoopers know, I knit for Socks For Soldiers. The other day a knitter posted that she received a call from her son, he was at the UPS Store, making one last call before sending a box home, including his cell phone - he was off to Iraq in the a.m. - I read that thinking "how will i react when The Boy Child calls one last call before deployment"? Will I have the strength to not cry like a big baby and upset him? I hope so.... I try not to think about it - and then to make me feel better - I asked "Why didn't he take his phone with him.. perhaps he already purchased his international phone and does not need his "reguarl" phone - put down the tissue, the kid will talk and email home alot... ohhh feeel better already! (not really).
The Boy is off for a week long "hiking/camping" trip with his unit - then he'll get some leave time with us (yippee) then to TX. He says it will be months before deployment, but I wonder....only time will tell. I'd rather have him in the US, but he's ready to go - so he says. He says his arabic wont do him much good in TX - LOL.
On the knitting front, i have a bit of ADHD - I am working on a lovely cabled bag - big yarn, big needles, lovely dark grey yarn....and of course a pair of BBs (big black socks) for SFS - a pair of socks for me - and my Mary Kay lady send me (unexpectedly) a ball of blue yarn with a note, "saw this, thought you could make it into a masterpiece" - well, could it be a hint? she's due in June - the 15th.. maybe she knows she's having a boy.. so some booties are going to be on the needles soon too.
TTFN
The Boy is off for a week long "hiking/camping" trip with his unit - then he'll get some leave time with us (yippee) then to TX. He says it will be months before deployment, but I wonder....only time will tell. I'd rather have him in the US, but he's ready to go - so he says. He says his arabic wont do him much good in TX - LOL.
On the knitting front, i have a bit of ADHD - I am working on a lovely cabled bag - big yarn, big needles, lovely dark grey yarn....and of course a pair of BBs (big black socks) for SFS - a pair of socks for me - and my Mary Kay lady send me (unexpectedly) a ball of blue yarn with a note, "saw this, thought you could make it into a masterpiece" - well, could it be a hint? she's due in June - the 15th.. maybe she knows she's having a boy.. so some booties are going to be on the needles soon too.
TTFN
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Me & My Peeps
A few weekends ago, Fiber Friendly Hubby and I went to SF and then Half Moon Bay.. while in SF, we saw our good friend, Katey. . . . . . She was playing at Hotel Nikko in the Raz Room - a wonderfully fantastic show! You may recall Katey from the TV show, Married With Children - isn't she as cute as a button and about as big as a NY minute. The show was fantastic as was the weekend.. we got an autographed CD " To B and C - Happy Anniversary xox Katey Segal" How sweet is that??
Funny, I thought I looked kinda cute, but now looking at the picture.. I look a bit toad like... I guess we all would standing next to Katey.....and dangggg - am I short or what??
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
A Fiber Friendly Husband
OK, so today is my b-day. I am turning 20 something (again). Ignore the fact that I have two kids 23 and 26. I've now resorted to telling them their "real" parents left us when we were young, I raised them and I am in fact their older sister....(kidding, but we had all be celebrating at the time, alcohol was involved and perhaps they believed it - if just for a few moments..but I digress.
So I tell hubby that I don't need/want anything for my b-day, but he could write me a poem.. (keep in mind that all cards come with somesort of poem from him.. is almost expected of him..
Here is what he wrote in my card:
"Think of the Spinderman tune . . . .
ahem ....... (ed note: see how he even cleared his throut in the poem??)
Fiberchick . . . . Fiberchick
Can knit a sweater with two dull sticks
See her dye, but she's not dead
can turn white yarn into bright red
Look out, here comes Fiberchick
When she spins, on her wheel
It goes so fast you want to squeel
She can ply, tigh or loose
If I'm not careful, she'll make a noose
Oh yeah, she is the Fiberchick"
How flippin' cute is that?? I did get some presents.. a nice framed picture of me and The Boy Child at his "Warrior" graduation (US Army); a DVD of our anniversary get away, the pictures in a slide show set to an Elvis Costello song, that I can't remember just now.. and some silver hoop earings.. aaawwwww - lucky lucky me!!
PS: I still have the spinderman jingle stuck in my head - you can thank me later if it gets stuck in your head too - LOL.
So I tell hubby that I don't need/want anything for my b-day, but he could write me a poem.. (keep in mind that all cards come with somesort of poem from him.. is almost expected of him..
Here is what he wrote in my card:
"Think of the Spinderman tune . . . .
ahem ....... (ed note: see how he even cleared his throut in the poem??)
Fiberchick . . . . Fiberchick
Can knit a sweater with two dull sticks
See her dye, but she's not dead
can turn white yarn into bright red
Look out, here comes Fiberchick
When she spins, on her wheel
It goes so fast you want to squeel
She can ply, tigh or loose
If I'm not careful, she'll make a noose
Oh yeah, she is the Fiberchick"
How flippin' cute is that?? I did get some presents.. a nice framed picture of me and The Boy Child at his "Warrior" graduation (US Army); a DVD of our anniversary get away, the pictures in a slide show set to an Elvis Costello song, that I can't remember just now.. and some silver hoop earings.. aaawwwww - lucky lucky me!!
PS: I still have the spinderman jingle stuck in my head - you can thank me later if it gets stuck in your head too - LOL.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Getting Back on the Horse??
Thank you to everyone for the cards, comments to the blog and emails regarding the 3 hits of loss we have had. My mother-in-law and father-in-law wished to be cremated and they have been. Lucy did not indicate her preference, but since I got to decide - and taxidermy was denied by The Big Cheese - I opted for cremation for her too. I joke that the trick will be in not confusing the 3 sets of ashes!! Lucy will come back "home" in a "nice cedar box" and mom and dad in urns.
Here are a few facts you probably did not know, but could come in handy during a lull at your next cocktail party: urns are metal and are sealed- therefore they CANNOT go thru airport security. Urns must be flown in the cargo area of the plane. Human cremanes (spelling??) (translation: ashes of humans) CANNOT go in CARGO, they must go in the passenger cabin and must go thru security via a plastic/non sealed container. Sweet. Do we have to buy them tickets too, or can the sit on our laps?? I know this 'cause the inlaws have plots in Southern California and we are taking them down personally - seems odd to FedEx your parents, you know? So, we are trying to figure out a weekend to do that.
Lucy will stay at home, probably on my dresser or bookcase. I miss her so much and still say "Hey Lucy Goosey - mama's home" when I go home at night. I know, what a dork. But it makes me feel better.
On the knitting front.. I got an old Circular Sock Kniting Machine for our anniversary!! I need to get some crochet threat #10 to "start" it and then do some practice with it.
I had Michelle, a SFS knitter in WI machine knit all my black yarn in to legs for me - so I have all these heals and toes to do.. and then it started to sink in and I said to myself "Self, do you have enough yarn to f inish these fine socks?" and I replied "Oh Shit! Self, I think we messed up - quick place an order at KnitPIcks - Black Essential quick like a bunny".
I have another pair of socks on the DPNs for me.. and got some Footootsie in Half Moon Bay this weekend - its red and bright and cheery and I need that now. I have socks up to my armpits and want to cast on something else. While in SF this weekend I went to ArtFibers or it is FiberArts? anyway, on Sutter - hung out there and got some yarn (a silk/merino blend) and cast on a drop stitich scarf - I have the yarn and pattern for the matching lace wrap, but did not want to cast on 160 stitches - so opted for the scarf as practice.
Hey YarnYenta - lets figure out our CSM together, OK... is yours put together?? Lets play!
Here are a few facts you probably did not know, but could come in handy during a lull at your next cocktail party: urns are metal and are sealed- therefore they CANNOT go thru airport security. Urns must be flown in the cargo area of the plane. Human cremanes (spelling??) (translation: ashes of humans) CANNOT go in CARGO, they must go in the passenger cabin and must go thru security via a plastic/non sealed container. Sweet. Do we have to buy them tickets too, or can the sit on our laps?? I know this 'cause the inlaws have plots in Southern California and we are taking them down personally - seems odd to FedEx your parents, you know? So, we are trying to figure out a weekend to do that.
Lucy will stay at home, probably on my dresser or bookcase. I miss her so much and still say "Hey Lucy Goosey - mama's home" when I go home at night. I know, what a dork. But it makes me feel better.
On the knitting front.. I got an old Circular Sock Kniting Machine for our anniversary!! I need to get some crochet threat #10 to "start" it and then do some practice with it.
I had Michelle, a SFS knitter in WI machine knit all my black yarn in to legs for me - so I have all these heals and toes to do.. and then it started to sink in and I said to myself "Self, do you have enough yarn to f inish these fine socks?" and I replied "Oh Shit! Self, I think we messed up - quick place an order at KnitPIcks - Black Essential quick like a bunny".
I have another pair of socks on the DPNs for me.. and got some Footootsie in Half Moon Bay this weekend - its red and bright and cheery and I need that now. I have socks up to my armpits and want to cast on something else. While in SF this weekend I went to ArtFibers or it is FiberArts? anyway, on Sutter - hung out there and got some yarn (a silk/merino blend) and cast on a drop stitich scarf - I have the yarn and pattern for the matching lace wrap, but did not want to cast on 160 stitches - so opted for the scarf as practice.
Hey YarnYenta - lets figure out our CSM together, OK... is yours put together?? Lets play!
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
The Dash
The Dash...
In July 2006, a short 3-minute movie was launched on the Internet called The Dash. Since then, over 40 million people from around the world havewatched it; and over 20,000 a day continue to watch it as a result of people passing it along.The movie has been more successful than anyone could have ever imagine.More importantly, however, it has inspired many, many people toreflect on their lives and ask that all important question, 'Are my priorities where they should be?'I hope you enjoy this movie and share it with those who are close to you
http://www.dashpoemmovie.com/
In July 2006, a short 3-minute movie was launched on the Internet called The Dash. Since then, over 40 million people from around the world havewatched it; and over 20,000 a day continue to watch it as a result of people passing it along.The movie has been more successful than anyone could have ever imagine.More importantly, however, it has inspired many, many people toreflect on their lives and ask that all important question, 'Are my priorities where they should be?'I hope you enjoy this movie and share it with those who are close to you
http://www.dashpoemmovie.com/
Monday, April 21, 2008
Miss Lucy
Our lovely Miss Lucy lost her battle with cancer today. (March 24, 2001 - April 21, 2008). We had taken her to the vet Thursday, thought perhaps she had a nasty muscle pull. X-ray showed no tumor in her hip - turns out it was not a bone cancer, but another type, it just took over her back right leg. She had her front right amputed in September. I miss her so much -
Friday, April 18, 2008
How to Say "Thank You" to our troops
Ever see someone in uniform and want to say "thanks" but just not sure how?? Check this out:
http://www.gratitud ecampaign. org/fullmovie. php
it has some sound, so if you're at work, turn it down.
http://www.gratitud ecampaign. org/fullmovie. php
it has some sound, so if you're at work, turn it down.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
What a week....welcome to my pitty party
I am taking this brief opportunity to whine shamelessly... My mom in law died on 3/20/08 - my father in law died on 4/13/08 (Sunday)...ok so that's enough to start making a batch of pitty party cupcakes, right??
Anyone who reads this knows we have our dear lucy - a doberman, who had bone cancer and had one of her front legs amputated in September... she's a lucky lucy dog... so last night she falls and can't get up.. it was like watching a cow with mad cow disease.. it was horrible, she finally did get up, but could not walk well.. I figured this is it.. she had full x-rays a month or so ago, no cancer in the lungs, legs, etc.. but maybe it grew really fast.. bad things happen in 3 - so this is it... i'll have to put my dog down....i take her to the vet this am... thank G*d - no cancer, she apparently pulled a muscle - they gave her a shot of moriphine and steriods...she still can't get up.. and now I have screwed up my back carrying her.. she fell when we got home... get this, the vet techs (2) brought her out to my car on a gurney... ok, so like how am I supposed to get 80 lbs of jello like dog out of the back seat of my car, ladies??
boo hoo.. i am so glad I still have a dog, but my back is KILLING ME. It could be worse right?? So, thank you for coming to my little pitty party.. wipe the frosting off your chin and back to work...
Anyone who reads this knows we have our dear lucy - a doberman, who had bone cancer and had one of her front legs amputated in September... she's a lucky lucy dog... so last night she falls and can't get up.. it was like watching a cow with mad cow disease.. it was horrible, she finally did get up, but could not walk well.. I figured this is it.. she had full x-rays a month or so ago, no cancer in the lungs, legs, etc.. but maybe it grew really fast.. bad things happen in 3 - so this is it... i'll have to put my dog down....i take her to the vet this am... thank G*d - no cancer, she apparently pulled a muscle - they gave her a shot of moriphine and steriods...she still can't get up.. and now I have screwed up my back carrying her.. she fell when we got home... get this, the vet techs (2) brought her out to my car on a gurney... ok, so like how am I supposed to get 80 lbs of jello like dog out of the back seat of my car, ladies??
boo hoo.. i am so glad I still have a dog, but my back is KILLING ME. It could be worse right?? So, thank you for coming to my little pitty party.. wipe the frosting off your chin and back to work...
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Stupid Blogger
OK, so i just spent i don't know how long locating pictures for a post or two, writing and then hitting publish post - only to get a freakin' error message. ^%$#@. So, bloging budddies.. i leave you with this: I am leaving in the am for the great state of Oklahoma. I'll be gone a week. When I get back - I'll post.. or maybe later today if blogger starts to be good. TTFN.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Q: Why do you knit for Socks For Soldiers?
Answer:
"If I should die before you wake" written, video recorded and made by a soldier in Iraq.
http://www.axpdf. com/wake/ index.htm
It's a slide show w/audio. Have your box of tissue at the ready. Feel humbled and pick up your pointy sticks. Don't knit socks? Send me some yarn. I'll knit them in your name and send them to SFS (Socks for Soldiers).
"If I should die before you wake" written, video recorded and made by a soldier in Iraq.
http://www.axpdf. com/wake/ index.htm
It's a slide show w/audio. Have your box of tissue at the ready. Feel humbled and pick up your pointy sticks. Don't knit socks? Send me some yarn. I'll knit them in your name and send them to SFS (Socks for Soldiers).
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