My Little Room

Amhra'n

2011-02-15T13:18:00.002-05:00

Amhra'n
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

It has been a long time coming. But...My favorite sweater design is once again available for purchase.

This sweater is heavily cabled, worked from the bottom up and has minimal seaming. (just the collar facing is seamed) It is a bit of a bear to set up, but, once done, the pattern is almost too easy! Wouldn't recommend for a beginning knitter however.

If you are looking for a project that will keep you busy, not bored and loving your knitting, this could be the one.

You can find it on Ravelry. Just follow the link. Or, if not a member, just send me and email and you can purchase it through Paypal.

Contrast and Color

2011-02-14T13:36:00.001-05:00

Contrast and Color
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

Another pic that I just love!

B & W In the Gray of Winter

2011-02-14T13:27:00.001-05:00

B & W In the Gray of Winter
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

Just a pic using the new camera. Had to share!

My Catty Muse

2010-12-18T10:36:00.002-05:00

Sometime an inspiration strikes. You don’t always know where it comes from or why it strikes at that particular moment. It could be the way your brain synapses fire, it could be a color or combination of patterns, or it could simply be your muse found you. But, whatever the cause, an artist is always glad when it does strike.
My muse deserted me for years; I mean years! I would get ideas, but they wouldn’t make it from my head to my hands. Something stopped the process and I would go find an already written pattern and be happy.
Then, one day last week, my muse not only struck, but whapped me upside the head! “Bev,” said the annoying little being, “You are such a Catty Bitch!” And there it was! A thought. An idea. Something I could get behind – cuz let’s face it, my muse was spot on with the evaluation.
I went looking through my color palette of yarns. Blue? Nah – too calm. Tossed it aside. Yellow? Hmmm…Overdone. Threw it back on the shelf. Orange? Hey – it’s a Catty Bitch, not a fruit drink! Again, to the floor. Brown? Could be a good start, we all know what brown is. Then to put some other colors with it. Heathers for the times we want a little cloudiness and subtlety to soften our edges. Rust to calm the brown in our lives. And green! Green for no particular reason other than it was incongruent with the background color. Sounds good to me.
Then, needles in hand, I preceded to listen to my muse. Make it curl! Throw a few bumps in there. Braid a bit. Make it sassy! I laughed to myself as I knit. I threw myself into the project with a vim and vigor that hadn’t been mine in so long. It was fun and people wondered who the crazy person was, sitting in the corner laughing hysterically. They were afraid to come close for fear of a needle in the eye. And, yes, I had many – 5 to be exact.
A few hours later what lay before me was worthy of all the laughter and fear that that laughter had evoked. What lay before me was worthy of the long desertion by my muse. What lay before me was…

Catty Bitch Mitts!

And they are now available on Ravelry. If you aren't on Ravely, you can get a PDF copy if you ask nice. Have a blast making yourself or for some dearly beloved Catty Bitch of your own.

Patterns Anyone?

2010-10-01T12:17:00.000-04:00

I have just uploaded two Emma’s Daughter original designs onto Ravelry.

The first one is a sweater that I designed a few years ago for Knit Picks. It has been languishing within a pile of patterns that I have sold in the past. Now, resurrected, it is again available either on Ravelry or by going to my Sweater Patterns page, above.
The second is a new pair of socks made with a sport weight sock yarn. These are quick and easy to knit. Slipped stitches add an extra layer of warmth, making them an excellent winter sock! The pair pictured were made using Zwerger Garn’s Opal 6ply.

Cascade Cash Vero

2010-09-14T09:07:00.000-04:00

I am currently knitting samples for the new store.

Sample garments sell patterns - of which I don't carry many because of Ravelry being so rich with free ones. I am knitting up a pair of Susie's Reading Mitts for a future class. And let me tell you, they are so soft that they may not make it to the sample display!

But, sample garments also sell yarn. And the yarn I am using now is like knitting with butter! It is Cascade's Cash Vero DK. I have to say it is similar to Debbie Bliss CashMerino in that it has just a small amount of Cashmere. But oh does that Cashmere pack a punch!

Cascade's blend is 55% Extra Fine Merino, which gives the yarn a wonderful elasticity and makes it behave as a good wool should. Then they added 33% microfiber acrylic to the blend which gives the yarn a nice handle and added sturdiness. Add 12% cashmere to the mix and you have knitting heaven!

I don't know how it washes up yet. But I can tell you it is truly a dream to knit with. The mitts slide on and off so easily. They are so warm and so soft that I want a pair in every color! And there are many to choose from. Currently I have given this yarn top place in my baby yarns. I carry the soft baby colors of pink, blue, mint green and white, along with black, wine and gray. As the cash flow pick up I hope to bring in more colors.

If you have never tried a cashmere blend yarn before I would highly recommend this as a starting point in your fiber exploration. It is easy to knit with, relatively affordable at under $9 a ball, and so soft that you will want to spoil yourself and knit up something to keep! Head to your LYS as soon as you can and give it a touch and a fondle. If you don't have it locally, give me a holler - here, on Ravelry, or Facebook and we can get you taken care of. You have to try this yarn!!!!

I give it a Blue Yarn Ball!

+It is soft to the touch

+It is easy to knit with and doesn't have a tendency to split

+It show great stitch definition

+Is relatively affordable

-Only has 125 yards per ball.

Too Much To Say!

2010-09-10T17:12:00.000-04:00

After a couple of months...who am I kidding...after a summer off from blogging I realized too much has happened and there is too much to say to leave the doors closed any longer. So here I am, dusting off the bookshelves so to speak and sticking my toe into the blogging waters once again. (How do you like those mixed metaphors?)

It was a busy summer.

The beginning of June saw the Boyfriend and I taking our first "couples" vacation in over 20 years! We drove down to the D.C. area to visit our mutual and much loved friend Becca. She gave us a whirlwind tour of the monuments and the city. We stayed at her home and branched out from there. It was only 3 days, but it was 3 days that changed my life.

As a result of our visit I went back to work. Not just any work mind you. With a bit of prodding from Becca and the support of the BF, I am now the proud owner of a small yarn shop in Clinton, NY. I. Love. It!

Shortly before the shop opened I was in a bicycling accident and broke my shoulder and my wrist. That was a minor set-back, let me tell you. Talk about crazy! Still, almost 3 months later, it is still painful.

But the shop is now open and an internet store is under construction. This minor change in my life has lent new focus to this blog and will undoubtedly give me so many more things to chatter on about. Yarn, knitting techniques, knitting groups, new friends...it will all find a place here.

Hope to see most of my old friends find there way back here and hope many more stop in. I am glad to be back!!!

Closing the Door

2010-05-13T12:19:00.000-04:00

This is a post to let any reader that remains know that I am closing the door to my room. Well, not really. I am still babbling away. But for personal reasons the babble is now on Facebook and available for my FB friends to see and read.

Why the move? FB allows for a bit more privacy. And, most of my friends are there anyway. If you aren't sign up and look for me there! Bev Warner, at Face Book. My logo is my avatar. Looking forward to seeing yo there.

My Kohl’s Boycott

2010-03-24T16:47:00.001-04:00

Before I start my story let me say that my family is military; I am retired Air Force, the DH is a Senior Master Sergeant in the Air Force, my son is an A1C in the Air Force. My son-in-law is also military as was my father during the Korean war and my Grandfathers during WWII.

With this in mind, read about why I am no longer shopping at Kohl's. The family boycott is on!

Today I was walking through our local Kohl's to pick up my daughter. In front of me was a young man wearing his dress blue uniform. He looked proud. After he had walked by, one of the employees said to another - “He is in the Air Force. That is the sissy's way out.”

I took a few more steps and froze. I wasn't angry so much as truly annoyed. Who was this kid? What was he saying? Did he even know what he was talking about? I turned and looked. With my military instructor background I sized him up and he wasn't going to fit! I walked over to him and this is what followed.

Me: Excuse me. Did I just hear you say that the Air Force was the sissy's way out?

Him: I was just joking.

Me: Oh. I didn't find it funny. I am retired Air Force and I found it rather offensive. I also found nothing “sissy” about the Air Force.

Him: I was joking...

His manager walked over into the fray to save his hide.

Her: I didn't think we were talking about anyone in particular. And, I don't believe it was meant for your ears.

OMG! What was she thinking?! Of course it wasn't meant for my ears, but it landed in them nonetheless!

Me: I am sure it wasn't meant for my ears. But that doesn't mean I didn't hear it. I managed in retail for years and know that some things are best not said on the sales floor. Maybe you should discuss that with the young man. I won't be back.

Her: I am so sorry mam...

She was talking to my back.

So, I am boycotting our local Kohl's. I am writing to their corporate headquarters and the district manager. If an employee will say that and be allowed to get away with it I will never set foot in that store again! Maybe I am making a mountain out of a molehill, but I am proud of my husband, I am proud of my son, I am proud of my family history of service. I am proud of any person that puts on a uniform and stands up for this country.

Unexpected Hilarity

2010-03-02T19:51:00.002-05:00

Years ago I saw a segment with Steve Martin - "Teaching Your Children To Talk Wrong". Although not his most famous routine, it was one that I found to be his funniest. When I had children, I set about doing just that! It was fun, it was entertaining, it was interesting to watch them wrap their limited experience around the concept.
How does one teach their children to "Talk Wrong"? It is simple really. All you do is take one of the small, baby babble words they use everyday and use it too.
With my oldest daughter it was Kikity Kat. I must admit, she was very bright. It didn't take her long to figure out the Kikity Kat was, in truth, a kitty cat. The day I discovered this revelation on her part was a sad day for me. Very sad indeed as she refused to play along. She would not allow me to repeat after her. It was always, "Mommy, what is it really?" She questioned to the point of me feeling absolute distrust on her part. To this day I just don't understand. Where did I fail.
Hija Primera must have clued her sister in on the evil game as Segunda never uttered a word until she could speak in complete sentences with a preciseness reserved for a professor of phonics. Not just complete sentences, but sentences packed with three and four syllable words! Where is the fun in that. A child that is quiet until they are six years old, save the occasional bleat or whinny. No, I am not kidding. This child wanted to be a horse when she grew up. Her animal sounds were so convincing that creatures large and small would answer! Cattle were lowing right along with her. Horses would stop their grazing and run to the fence to see the small human that spoke their language. Cats would meow, dogs would bark, Segunda would answer in kind. Then, one day...She spoke! And. Never. Shut. Up.
Then along came Hijo Segundo! Another opportunity to excel in the art of parental mis-guidance. I waited the first year as he learned the basic sounds. Then, as he uttered his first words. The normal Mama, Dada, and mundane words for his day and needs. Then it happened...Da Da Da Dumm... "Look Mommy! A hoe hopey!" He shouted pointing at an antelope. There is was! The perfect thing to teach him to say wrong. From that day on it was Hoe Hopey. Not antelopey, not Hoelopey, but Hoe Hopey! Always said with delight and exuberance. This went on for years...and years...and years.
Tonight I found out just how long his belief that antelope were Hoe Hopeies went on. He was 18! All I could do was fall over in fits of laughter. Tears running down my face, legs crossed to alleviate the urge to...well, you know the result of hysterical laughter. As it turns out, he was driving home with his brother and his girlfriend. They turned onto our country road as a large herd of antelope ran in front of his 4-runner. "Look and all the Hoe Hopeies!" He said with delight and exuberance. His brother thought nothing of it as that is what we always called them. His girlfriend on the other hand, hadn't gotten the "Talk Wrong" memo. "What are you talking about?" she asked him in puzzlement (she had no sense of humor that girl). "The antelope?"
And I was busted. The child/parent bond was shattered. I was evil. From that day on he asked his father things. Everything from how do you get to Denver from Cheyenne to how much salt to put in a pot of water for pasta. I was unworthy.
Was this Grand Canyon of a rift worth it? Hell Yes! Steve Martin, you are my hero.

Small Victories

2010-02-18T15:33:00.002-05:00

Last fall I whined and moaned about my Dr.'s request that I go on a diet and stop with the sweets. The diet she suggested was a Mediterranean, not difficult - actually rather fun. The sweets were difficult. I am of the opinion that humans are genetically wired to eat sweets until they explode, thereby decreasing the surplus population.
The weight loss seemed to be non-existent. In fact, my scale was really stubborn about allowing itself to decrease in the numbers shown.
What was going on? I analyzed my food intake. I looked through a microscope at the ingredients on my food purchases. Any more than 4 ingredients (sometimes 5) and it didn’t make the cut in my hunter-gatherer expeditions to the grocers. I shopped the outside isles of the store, rarely venturing into the center isles. My vegies were fresh; my meats organic. What was going on?
Then, one morning a few days ago, after looking at the stingy movement of the scale, I got dressed.   I looked in the mirror. Now, this is something I avoid for the most part. Mirrors and I don’t get along. But this time, as I gazed at my reflection, I noticed that my clothes didn’t fit quite right. The jeans were baggy in the butt. They required a couple extra notches taken in with the belt in order to stay up. My shirt was lacking that little bit of padding around the mid section.
Had to be my imagination.
Later that day I went out to purchase a bit of new bedding and decided to get a pair of jeans as I had worn out a pair earlier in the month. I grabbed my favorite brand in my “size” and tried them on.   Low and behold! The mirror in the store revealed the same poor fit. The sales woman ran, giggling, to grab a size smaller.
A. Size. Smaller!
Yes!
It took months. Lots of months. My weight is almost the same. But, I am a size smaller than when this little ordeal began!
Small Victories.

Knitting Away the Hours

2010-02-02T14:04:00.002-05:00

Knitting has been an on-going thing – still one of my favorite activities. I have joined quite a few groups this year and am feeling as though too much has been bitten off. But, I won’t drop out and I won’t stop.
My only independent project is Crocus Pocus. It is coming along fine. Had to frog it a couple of times. First because I didn’t read the pattern correctly. (A procrastination problem, as in – why read the directions now? It can always be done when I need help.) The next time was when I made an error in chart 2 and tried to tink back. The lace ended up all discombobulated and I had to frog. (again a procrastination thing - “Why put a lifeline in? I can do that if the going get rough.”) But, once I read the directions and put in the trusty life line, things began moving right along.
Then, the KAL projects are really moving! First, the Basque hat that I cast on for the Knit a Norwegian KAL was started the 1st of January and finished a few days later! It was promptly taken by Hija Primera and, frankly, looks really cute on her.
Another KAL, the Smart Assed Yarn Ho’s Sock a month KAL started out the year knitting Thuja. I made this one in Knit Picks Stroll, for Hijo Primero. He says they are a bit too warm!
Then, there is the SSYC KAL. It didn’t start until February 1. I cast on to knit a pair of socks for the Boyfriend. For these I am using Opal Rainforest, 6 ply sport. They should work up quickly.
Then, for the February Smart Ass KAL, I am re-working an older pattern of mine – previously seen at Knit Picks as the Twisted Sock. It is getting a re-write and a new, more imaginative name. It, too, is knit with Opal Rainforest, 6 ply, sport.
Love that yarn! It is smooshy, soft when washed, wears well, and comes in myriad colors! What is not to like? You can find it at SSYC. All my favorite sock yarns come from Allison!
The next KAL hasn’t started yet. This one, I am sure is going to be the end of me. It is the Evenstar KAL, knitting a shawl designed by Susan Pandorf, inspired by the pendant worn by Arwyn in the Lord of the Rings. I have the yarn and the desire. But, the time? We shall see.
On top of all that, there are the 2009 projects screaming for completion. And a new project on the way from the cyber LYS – a cardigan to add to my Norwegian KAL. Will it all get done? Heck, maybe.

Procrastination

2010-01-24T15:56:00.001-05:00

Why do I procrastinate? Because procrastination is my middle name. You didn’t know?

I hit the snooze alarm on my cell phone until it gives me no choice but to get up or go back to sleep. My house is in dire need of cleaning, but it will be here tomorrow. The dust bunnies are lazy, they aren’t going anywhere. And that pile of stuff in the basement called fiber? It hasn’t moved an inch! Why should I help it?

When things get the slightest bit uncomfortable, I just don’t do it if at all possible. It has been the bane of my existence since day one. When it isn’t something that really strikes my fancy at the moment, I wait until it does.

Not a good practice. It leads to clutter. It leads to dust bunnies so large that you have to name them. It causes your school aged children to rush out the door for school without that “most important meal of the day”.

Yes, there are boxes in my attic that date back to the move, but I haven’t the desire to unpack them. There are clothes that need to go to Good Will, but I haven’t the will to move them.

With all this spare time that is mine because of my refusal to do anything of import I should have something to show. You would think this to be true. But…well…maybe I do.

I finally got Open Office loaded on my new computer and have not one, but two, maybe even three new sock patterns! There is the “Jus’Chillaxin’”, the re-write of Twisted Sock, newly named “Re-Twisted”, and a man’s sock “Geoffrey Alloisius III Esq.” Now if I could only get a few pics of them that were cover shot worthy, all would be good. But, for the life of me, every time I pull out the old camera, the pictures are fuzzy. Or cockeyed. Or bad color. Oh, well. There is always tomorrow.

And, yesterday was the first ski trip of the season. Don’t ask me why I procrastinated on this one. Totally ridiculous! Finally got the Boyfriend out, thanks to Hijo Primero. We all hopped in the car and headed to the hills – haven’t had enough snow at our level yet this season! But, it was good. The drive to the snow was only about 30 minutes, past beautiful scenery, into the Adirondack foothills. We stopped in Booneville, and trekked the easy Black River Environmental Improvement Association trails. It was a beautiful day; sunny and warm. It was such a great day, that the Boyfriend said he would do it again! Now that is astounding!!!

Let’s see. What else have I procrastinated? Dance classes. The Boyfriend has agreed to submit to learning Ballroom dance. He agreed to this almost a month ago. Have I found a dance studio yet? Are you kidding me? No. This morning I did go online and fill out a form so some search agency could find one for me.

So life goes on, as it will, with or without me. All I have to say is that a Procrastinator will never start a insurrection.

Why do today, what you can put off until tomorrow?

Playing Well With Others

2009-12-30T16:44:00.000-05:00

This year is ending on a high note. And, by virtue of the new year coming immediately after the old one, it is starting on that same note. To end the old and ring in the new, we are doing our family cioppino night and I am starting 2 new Knit Alongs.

Cioppino is a given. We do it every year and look forward to it all year long. The recipe will be posted, if it isn't already, on the kitchen blog soon.

The KALs on the other hand, aren't something I do very often. These 2 will be my 3rd and 4th.

The first one is hosted by my friends Jewelspurls Sheriffofknittingham and Wrappedaroundmyfinger . A group of us on Ravelry are going to be knitting Norwegian garments. The ones I will be working on are a Hat and Gloves .

The second KAL is an impromtu thing. It came about from a comment on another message board at Ravelry. One of the members Phro5gg said that in 2010 she wanted to knit 12 pairs of socks. That was one I could get on top of! A pair of socks each month for the entire year. Don't have to buy a thing to accomplish that one. Sock yarn stash - beware! The first pair are Thuja, designed by Bobby Ziegler for Knitty.com. They should take very little time and make one of the men in my life very happy.

So, here's to a new year, right around the corner. Here's to knitting with friends. Here's to being an active member of these KALs and playing well with others.

I Don't Know What To Call This Game

2009-12-28T14:23:00.004-05:00

Okay, it goes something like this...

HP (Hijo Primero) - I need a new tooth brush.
Me - I just gave you one.
HP - But it isn't soft enough.
Me - So now I am a hard person.
HP - Why do you not like light fixtures.
Me - and you don't like my lamp either.
BF (boyfriend) - puzzled look on his face as he comes up the stairs.
Me - Hon, your son doesn't like the lamp in his bedroom.
BF - I picked out that lamp.
HP - All I want is a new toothbrush.

Later in the day.

Me - coughing because of this stupid cold I have had since before Christmas.
BF - Your Mom is dyin'.
Me - (to HP) Yer dad dosn't want me to live here anymore.

Again, later in the day.

Me to HP - What are ya drinking?
HP - (Rishi) *Irish Macha.
Me - That stuff tastes like poo.
HP - It tastes far different from poo, I'll have you know.
Me - Yer right. It tastes like horse doopy.
HP - Why do hate beverages?
Me - I don't hate beverages, it isjust that green isn't my favorite color.
HP - So you hate the planet too?
Me - (to BF) Hon, yer son is being mean to me.
BF - Stop bein mean to yer mom.
HP - I am not being mean to mom. She hates the planet and beverages.
Me - And you hate your father!

This is basically how my day has gone. And I still don't know what to call this game. It all ends when you don't know what to respond.

Oh, and here is my shopping list, amended by HP.

Butter
Cream Cheese
Whole Chickens
Corn meal
chicken feathers for voodoo.

Maybe it should be called "Its not what you said, it is how you said it". Or, "This is what you said, but here is what you meant."

I guess you have to be here to really get it. Have a happy New Year!

*Irish Macha tea is a vibrant green color, almost too green!

Life Is Like A Valley Full Of Fog

2009-12-25T13:07:00.002-05:00

With each and every one of us going into it blindly, not knowing what we will find or where we will go. But we venture forth and, quite by surprise, find many amazing things.
If we are lucky, we find love, we find good friends, we find a mate with whom to start a family and share life’s moments.
Enjoy your valley, with all its twists and turns, gifts and surprises, for it is yours and yours alone.

Why, Yes, I Have Been Knitting! Amongst Other Things

2009-12-22T16:59:00.001-05:00

I has been a long time since I posted anything knitting related. S’pose I have just been lazy about taking out the camera and getting pics. So, sit back, put your knitting eyes in and take a look at what has come off my needles the past couple of months.

First, a pair of socks made for my non-sweater liking son. These a Daughter’s original design called “Geoffrey Alloisius III Esq.” Why the name? Hijo Segundo used this as his name when he wrote stories for his English classes in Jr. High. The socks are his, the name should be too. They have just a couple fun touches. First, the cable continues down the side of each heel. Second, and not pictured, the pattern continues down the top of the toe.

They were presented to him yesterday, Yule, as his small token of my love and appreciation of him. He love, love, loves them!

Next in the knitting line-up are a pair of mitts made for Hija Primera.

These are the “Black Rose” mitts, a free pattern from "knitty". Oh, and by the way, they are made to match the socks! Yes, those socks, the ones just below…

The yarn I used on both of them was given to me by one of my favorite people on the whole big planet, and the universe to for that matter, Jewel. She always has a hug and a smile to share, no matter how far apart we are. I love you Jewel!

That is all I have to show for now. There are another pair of socks on the needles - my “My Son’s A Senior Airman” socks. These are for Hijo Primero to wear while in uniform. And then another, similar pair – “My Boyfriend/DH is a Senior Master Sergeant” socks. They are both being knit with Brown Sheep’s Wildfoote in the Mistletoe colorway. This yarn is almost an exact match to the new sage green color accepted by the Air Force.

Also in knitting news, Hija Primera is getting her Crocus Pocus shawl soon. The beads came in and are awaiting my hands to get them onto the yarn.

In home news, with the Boyfriend’s promotion came a promise of a new desk/credenza for his mancave. We went to Stickley again and, with the help of the wonderful Carmelita we purchased an office unit similar to this one. It isn’t the same, but close enough. Will look absolutely amazing in the mancave!

With the holiday looming close and the majority of the family safe and warm in our home, we are looking forward to a joyous season.

“Rahr! Rahr! I am the snow leopard of the Solstice! Be afraid. Be very afraid. Can’t you see I am ferocious?!”

Homecoming

2009-12-17T08:34:00.000-05:00

Today Hijo Primero arrives from Wyoming. He chose to stay behind when we made our move. However, after his visit last Thanksgiving, he became smitten with this area of the country. Last month, Thanksgiving day to be exact, he made it known that he wanted to move out here to stay. He wanted to come home.

"Home is where your parents are," he explained. So, home he is coming.

He has a job to get him by until he can find full time, meaningful work. He has put college on the back burner for the time-being. That is alright as long as it is a temporary thing.

As the Mommee Person, I am both thrilled and concerned with his move. Thrilled that he is going to be close, concerned as to how he will blend with this society. It is far different than that of his birth state. I like to think that because of his father's and my background we raised him to be flexible and adaptable. Although he has never lived anywhere but Wyoming, he wants to expand. This should be a real experience for him.

His flight arrives tonight. I can't wait to see my son!

Its Gonna Be A Crocus!

2009-12-16T07:22:00.000-05:00

Ordered Opalescent beads from Beadwrangler and silver bead bells from Fire Mountain beads. Should look great with the black Gloss yarn. The bells are clapperless so doubled up the amount to give the proper sound when wearing for belly dancing. Getting really excited about this project!

This shawlette is smallish; only 25" at the point. As the daughter is smallish as well, this should be perfect. Can't wait to see it on her as she teaches a class. Everyone is going to want one of these!

Garden Variety Fun

2009-12-14T13:41:00.001-05:00

I have often admired the beaded confections that some knitters are producing. Many a time I have looked at these wonders and thought to myself, "B, you need to learn to do this." And then promptly forgot my self-talk and moved on to the known and comfortable cables and lace.

Well, I am truly excited to say that I finally listened to myself and purchased the entire, yes the entire "Garden Variety" collection from Susan. Not just 2009, but 2008 as well. Now my problem is figuring out which one to make first!

My decision must come soon as I have beads and plenty of yarn beckoning. I am really leaning toward Crocus Pocus It would make a great hip scarf for my belly dancing daughter.

If you pass by and check out the link, give me your thoughts.

Its All Pretty and White…

2009-12-09T18:09:00.003-05:00

Until the snow blower won’t start. Then, the expanse of driveway and parking pad that once seemed so small becomes an island nation. The road it attaches to a distant river of black.
Why? Why does the old and semi-rusty snow blower start for the Boyfriend. It is almost as though they have a secret relationship. One that I am not, nor ever will, be allowed to share. When the Boyfriend goes out to start the rusty heap, it turns right over. Granted it turns over with a chug and a belch, but, hey, she’s old. And she still runs. She sat next to the garage all summer long without running her motor. Then, early this fall, the Boyfriend went out, took a bit of spray paint and gave her a shiny, new looking auger compartment and she acts as though he presented her with the Hope Diamond! He gave her pull starter a small tug and she purred like a contented kitten. She chugged a bit, emitted a bit of smoke from her exhaust and moved on into the garage for her winter duties.
Then, this morning we had snow. Heavy, wet snow. The kind that gives senior citizens heart attacks. I went out, gloves donned, opened garage door, checked the gas level in the old girl, moved her into plowing position and gave her a prime. I grabbed her pull starter and gave it an energetic pull and…nothing. Pulled again. Nothing. Pulled again and again and again. Nothing, nothing, nothing! Okay. There is an electric starter as well.
I grab the cord, drag it over, plug it in to her discretely hidden starter outlet. Giving another prime, I push the starter button. Rumble of the starter mechanism occurs. She gives a shimmy. She give a shake. She doesn’t start. Again. Shimmy, shake. Again. Shimmy, shake.
I spy the snow shovel. It looks like a small spoon compared to the snow blower. But, if the thing won’t start, what choice is there? We can now call the driveway cleared. Done the old fashioned way. With blood, sweat, slipped L5 disc, tight shoulders and wet hands.
Yes. The snow is all pretty and white. We are supposed to get more tonight and tomorrow. Hope the shovel doesn’t give me any problems.

Purrfect Holiday

2009-12-08T08:17:00.010-05:00

Anchovy, Anchovy

2009-12-07T16:06:00.001-05:00

"You are so delicious!
I love you more than all the other fishes!" said by Dawn Summers, Buffy, Season 7.

As I looked at my fledgling shopping list, I noticed that Anchovies were at the top. Now, don't get me wrong, I do enjoy these little fishes on occassion. They impart a subtle flavor to things like pizza, sauces, and the ever popular Ceasar Salad Dressing. But, alas, last time I made my favorite Ceasar Dressing, the anchovy was very flavorful and not so subtle.

Hence, I have decided it is time to re-evaluate my relationship with the tiny object of my flighty affection. We must take a bit of time apart to see if we still enjoy one another's company; or, if our affair was one of culinary lust, each of us wanting something from the other that neither could provide. Did I try to change my little anchovy into something it wasn't? Or, did my little anchovy try too hard to be what it thought I wanted? I prefer to think it was the latter.

We shall give a trial separation a shot. Maybe with some time apart we can both determine if we want the same things in life. If, after a period of time, we cannot come together as two individuals with different tastes and different purposes, then it is time to move on.

Maybe to salmon.

The Longest Week

2009-12-04T07:07:00.000-05:00

It has been a long week. A really long week. It began almost 2 weeks ago! But, it errupted the evening of Thanksgiving.

Without going into the gory details, let me just say, I will be happy to have another of my children living close. It boils down to my oldest son missing his family so much that he is moving home until he can get himself situated out here. I am happy. I am relieved. I am exhausted. His sister, Hija Segundo has decided to stay out west. I miss him and his sister so much that it is a physical thing.

When my children were just that, my children, I would sometimes look at them and think, "One day I won't have you all around, then I can relax." But now, with Hijo Segundo looking forward to a college that will take him away from home, I think, "My life will be so empty when you are gone." But he wants to stay close. Maybe it is because of where we live. I know that is part of the reason his brother is coming home.

Now it is time to prepare a room for an extended stay. Stock up on foods. Prepare for the upcoming holiday and most of my family under my roof. We will miss you Hija Segundo.

Doing It Alone...

2009-11-24T16:29:00.000-05:00

In public no less!
I have taken to gathering up my knitting of an afternoon and heading out to my favorite local cafe, http://collegestreetcafe.com/ There I sit. At the table, in the corner, knitting away. It is a vigil that I keep every Wednesday afternoon. Religiously. Me, my corner by the window, my needles and coffee. It is a lonely vigil. A vigil not to be taken lightly. A vigil of love and endurance. Just how long can I sit there, knitting away, before someone joins me. It is my quest. This must be done for knitters everywhere. Kind of like a movement. So what if the movement has been going on in other places for much longer with varied rates of success. It is time for this to happen in this small outpost. The movement has been a great success just 15 miles up the road in Rome, NY. There, a group meets weekly and often has no room left for others to join. Every table is full. Every chair occupied. Can that happen here? It must! And, until it does, I will continue to occupy my table in the corner by the window at the College Street Cafe and Artists Studio.

Join me?

Holidays On The Way

2009-11-22T09:15:00.000-05:00

There are times when little things begin to scratch away at you. A little niggle within the cerebral cortex. A small knot in the throat when hearing an old song. A small laugh when you catch a little memory flitting around in your head.

With the first of our holidays looming I am reminded of holidays past. Not because of what we are doing this year, but because of what we have done in the past. Does this mean I am getting old? Won't go there! But, I digress -

This Thanksgiving is going to be the first in years that I haven't been surrounded by family. My older children are scattered across the country, spending the holidays with their family or can't come for one reason or another. My siblings and father are in California and don't even think about heading across the country for a turkey dinner. And, my husbands family is in Wyoming and will more than likely be sharing the day with my oldest son.

What little thoughts have been flitting through my head this year? That I miss my father's wry sense of humor. He is one of the kindest and funniest people I have ever known. Yes, even kinder and funnier than my beloved Boyfriend. I miss my mother-in-law's pies. She can bake a pie that would put Marie Calendar into a frenzy of competitive pique! I miss the gentleness that is my father-in-law. I miss the outrageous, outlandishness of my brother and the quiet, stillness of my sister. I will miss the clamor caused by too much family around a too small table, that, in the past was an annoyance at best, but now, that it isn't mine to be annoyed about, is a small comfort. Family.

If possible, be thankful for the family you have around you now, because they may not be there tomorrow.

To my family - all of you - and my friends - all of you too - Have a wonderful holiday season and know, you are in my thoughts as that little niggle in the cerebral cortex, the little knot in my throat, and the song that plays in my heart.

Freedom!

2009-11-21T16:02:00.004-05:00

If you are hooked on cables, like I am, you know how fast knitting seems to move along when that awaited cable row is being worked. You have done your knitting like the good little knitter you are and happily begin the row that you have anticipated.

You get this gleam in your eye. Your fingers flex in anticipation. Your heart races. Then, you reach behind your ear, over to the table, next to your chair and "!@#! Where did my cable needle go?"

What is it with those things? Do they grow legs and saunter away thinking, "just wait, she'll never find me now". Or, is it the DH or DS? Calmly picking up that little stick thingy and using it to clean their keyboard or pipe? It could be the cat, the famous Captain that decided the cat toys were too tame and the cable needle presented a challenge yet to be beaten. Whoever the culprit, the cable needle is always gone.

I gave up trying to find the bag with the cable needles in it months ago and resorted to using a dpn. But then...the dpn went missing. Probably out having a great laugh at my expense with the bail jumping cable needle!

That was it. There was no more procrastinating. Throwing my wip down in disgust I relented and paid a visit to a couple of well known bloggers http://www.grumperina.com/cables.htm
and http://www.yarnharlot.ca/blog/archives/2004/06/04/cable_this.html

I chuckled as I envisioned the Yarn Harlot on the train frantically trying to figure out how to retrieve her dpn. And, I came to the conclusion that I wanted to spare myself that embarrassment. With knitting in hand, I followed the tutorial provided by Grumperina and took the plunge.

With their help I was able to tell the cat, the DS, the DH, and yes, the cable needle itself, that I was FREE! Free of the dependency of a shorter, wannabe needle. Free of the need to keep track of more than my regular 5 dpns. Freedom!

It was easy! Imagine it would be easier if the yarn wasn't black! But still!

Pixie Boy

2009-11-19T16:42:00.002-05:00

Daemon
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

Shortly after Daemon and his mommy arrived here this past summer I began knitting for him. His first Grammie creation was this little hat; a much needed item in the northern climes.
It isn't quite finished as I haven't had a chance to put the pompom on the pointy end. But, how can one do a pompom when the hat is on a child's head? I ask you!

Yin Yang

2009-11-17T09:19:00.000-05:00

I have been going through a sewing thing of late.

Since the move, yes it has been a while, my machine has been languishing in the un-opened sewing cabinet. There isn’t enough room to sew in “My Little Room”. If I were to drag out the ironing board, the cutting table, the dress form, the sewing machine and all the little items that go along with the craft, there would be no room for me!

As a result of the limited space in my room, I began the whining thing. Hey, you do what works, right? I opened up the ironing board…”Gee, there is no room to open my sewing cabinet…” I whined pathetically. I moved the ironing board into the dining room and opened up my sewing cabinet. “I can’t get around to get my serger out,” I said woefully. I spread my pattern and muslins out on the dining room table. At dinner time, the boyfriend threw his hands up in surrender and helped me move it all down into the basement apartment. Yay! I now have a real live craft area that is the size of a small, well…apartment! It has hot and cold running water, a private bath for those unfortunate blunders with beverages while sewing, it has space for my dressers full of fabric and yarn. It is going to be wonderful as soon as I can get rid of the mancave stuff that keeps wandering in.

The first project that came from my newly acquired sewing space was a Yin Yang bag, designed by ScrapBags. The first bag was done in a Chinese brocade. It was fun to sew. I loved the contrast between the front of the fabric (Yin panel) and the back of the fabric (Yang panel). However, after a long hiatus from sewing, the fabric was rather challenging. It wanted to slip and slide and play around. Not cooperative at all! I was not extremely pleased with the completed project.

The second bag was much more fun! I used a cotton Chinese printed quilting fabric (yin panel) and a light weight plastic cloth (yang panel). I also made a few minor changes to the finishing. On this bag there is a pocket on the inside and one on the outside. And the cute little red button and the join. I also tacked the handle rather than try to sew it down completely.

My sewing area is now set up and ready for my at the drop of a pin. I no longer have to whine and drop hints about the lack of space I am allowed. At this point in time, there is a muslin ready for a tunic top of crushed burnout velvet. Will get to it sometime this week.

After all is said and done, I have to wonder. What was it, my Yin or my Yang, that caused my inner 2 year old to come out long enough to get an apartment?

Just a Trial Post

2009-11-16T11:04:00.002-05:00

Trying out new things with my new computer. This is a shot of Mirror Lake. Hmm…wonder why it is called that? I did a sepia effect and tilt from Windows Live Writer. Then I expect to send it to my Blogger account for posting. Will it work? We will see.

Why am I doing this? Because I am having difficulty with pictures on Blogger. I take a picture url from my flicker account, upload it to Blogger and it goes directly to the top of the page. It doesn’t matter where I tell it to go, it goes to the top. Then, I have to move it and I don’t like that I can’t get the text wrap when I do that.

I don’t want to move my blog because of the hassle of re-directing traffic. Just leave it where it is and import from here. Let us see if that works.

Oh…before I do, let me try bringing a picture over from Flickr WWell, that seems to work. At least it came to the bottom of the page. And, in case you were wondering, this is the main street in the Olympic Village area of Lake Placid, NY.

and this ends my 100th post

Waterfall in Autumn

2009-11-15T11:17:00.006-05:00

Waterfall in Autumn
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

Although I haven't been blogging much, I have encountered wonderful blog fodder; too much to even try to get into one post. So, I will start with this picture of a waterfall in the small upstate New York town of Ticonderoga.

We went on a mini vacation for my birthday, traveling through the Adirondacks and into Vermont, via the Ticonderoga Ferry. To say it was beautiful would not be enough. The autumn color was astounding. And, we missed the peak of color by a month!

Traveling from New York state, across the river and into Vermont was like moving through time. The scenery was punctuated with bucolic farm settings and quaint towns. We stopped for an early afternoon walk through Montpelier and then moved on to another ferry trip back to New York. This time the ferry was across Lake Champlain; our destination, Lake Placid.

We arrived in Lake Placid just as the sun went down. The air was crisp with just a bit of a bite to it. The Olympic village portion of the town alive with pedestrian traffic and lighted with turn of the century street lamps was a vision to behold.

Because we hadn't a clue where we were going to end up on this trip, we hadn't made hotel reservations. Our first stop for a stay was a downtown hotel that looked promising from the outside. Once inside that promise was quickly broken. We left quickly to say the least and headed for a hotel more in line with a wonderful birthday weekend get-away...the Marriot. To say this was a nice hotel is an understatement.

The next morning we arose and walked around the lake. I pity the people that have to live here all year long. The beauty and serenity would have me feeling as thoug I lived in a different time, a gentler time if there was one.

We spent the morning browsing shops and windows; enjoying one anothers company. Then it was time to head back.

The longer I live in this area of the country, the deeper in love with it I fall. Each new day, each new season, brings with it a different type of beauty and creates, within me, a serenity I have never felt before.

I Think I Am Back

2009-11-13T21:48:00.002-05:00

It has been a long time! A long time since I posted, a long time since I wrote anything, a long time since I have had a working computer to call my own. At least 3 months! My last little laptop died a slow and painful death from the N1H1 of computer viruses. It wouldn't even allow me to load a new operating system! It was laid to rest in a small, private ceremony shortly thereafter. I have been sneaking onto the Boyfriend's computer for short peaks and chats on Ravelry. No time for blogging. Not on "his" computer, thankyouverymuch! But now, I am back.
It has been a long time.

Weaning Time and Countdown

2009-07-24T10:54:00.002-04:00

The countdown for my return home has begun. Next week at this time I will be on the final leg of my journey to Clinton, NY. I look forward to this with both joy and concern. I can't wait to be back in my beloved adopted home. I want to bundle my father up and take him with me.
He is doing so well. So well in fact that I am now allowing him to take care of me. Last night, he prepared dinner. This morning his is making banana waffles! Yummm...
His tendency toward over exertion is becoming apparent as he tries to do too much. That is when, like a mother hen, I shoo him to the safety of his easy chair and television. He knows better than to argue and is fairly well behaved as he grumbles and shuffles off to his forced relaxation.
This visit has also shown me - and here is where my concern comes in - that my siblings are very busy with their lives. Their jobs take them away from home for hours a day, the commute eats into their off time, their relationships pull their attention down another road. This is understandable. This is normal. But...I worry that the dad person will be left alone to sit and fall into the depression that surrounds him as a result.
He has told me that he doesn't cook when it is just him. He doesn't enjoy cooking for just himself. As with most men, he doesn't clean the house well and he doesn't want a housekeeper. He doesn't want to rent a room, or bring in a roomie to help him occupy this huge house either.
These things concern me.
On a high note, as a joke, he started a "Bucket List". He wants to see Niagara Falls. He wants to go to the Aztec and Mayan ruins in Mexico and Central America. His dream of an Alaskan cruise is in the process of being fulfilled. My wonderful sister in law is busily planning a cruise on the Inside Passage of Alaska for next spring. And the dad person is allowing me to book him a flight to New York for as soon as possible after his release from the Doctor's care! These are all great things.
But back to the titled subject...I have begun the weaning process from caring for my father to him caring for himself. I am leaving him at home alone for a few hours today and most of the day tomorrow.
Today, his newly hired grounds keeper will be here working in the back, so he won't be completely alone. He gets to stay and pet his dog, watch television, and try to use his Spanish to talk with Manuel, Lupita and son.
Me? I get to hop in the car with Karin, my sister in law, and head to Petaluma to visit Kniterly! Partake of their sale goods and fondle yarn.
Tomorrow Karin and I again hop in the care, but this time to head further south to San Francisco and a city wide yarn crawl with the lovely and vivacious Jewel! This is the little trip I have been looking forward to for the entire month. I came armed with a merino fleece for Jewel and cash for any yarn purchases I may make. Of course, yarn purchased will be used for Christmas presents. These are not purchases for me. Truly.
So the weaning process has begun and the countdown is looming over our heads. I am both happy and sad. We both need the weaning.

Venturing Forth

2009-07-14T17:44:00.002-04:00

Because I have intermittent Internet service at best I am saying thanks for all your support here. When I get home I will be able to send each and every one of you a heartfelt thank you in an email. But, thanks for hanging in there with me and for all your well wishes.

Yesterday was the first trip the Pa person took out of the house since surgery.
He decided that he needed a new dishwasher. I must agree; he did. His old one was older than my oldest son and in such bad shape that you wash the dishes and put them in the "dishwasher" to rinse and dry.
With his announcement we jumped into his truck - alright, maybe more of a slow slide - and headed to the local Home Depot. Once there, we searched for the handicapped carts. That took a while as they were hidden in the corner by the contractor entrance. After getting my invalid settled into his vehicle, we set about learning the finer points of navigating one of these conveyances. *First, hit the forward switch. Second, squeeze the accelerator lever and pray there is nobody in front of you. Third, release the accelerator lever. Fourth, apologize for running into the nice person with the power tools. Repeat from * until shopping complete.
He did really well with his first attempt. Only 3 direct hits, 4 near misses and a damaged refrigerator.
After lining up the delivery and set up of his new improved dish dryer, we headed off to Wal Mart for more fun and games.
The carts there were a bit more sophisticated. The accelerator switch had both forward and reverse built right in! That was trouble. Squeeze it to the right and you went forward; to the left, reverse. And these babies hauled invalid ass! I had to quick step to keep up with him. And there, the employees joined in the game - ducking and running around and coming up behind. It was so funny. He looked like a kid on a carnival ride! A large, dangerous, conniving kid on a carnival ride.
The trip complete, we returned back to the house in time for the 10 foot tall Home Health Nurse Nazi to show catch us pulling into the garage. Ooops...busted!
Next time we head out will be to his first post op appointment and to Miracle Ear so he can watch television without blasting me into the next room.

Update from California

2009-07-11T00:11:00.002-04:00

First I would like to thank everyone for the comments and good wishes. I cannot tell you how much that means to me.

Secondly, the dad person is doing really well. Up and moving around. Complaining because he is tired all the time. Grumpy because he can't do as much as he wants to do. Happy because he can do more now, 1 week after surgery, than he could for years before surgery.

Due to the sporadic availability of internet service, I can't promise another update soon. But, rest assured, I will be back, I love you all, and I hope you are having a great summer. Mine will start the beginning of August. Lots of fun to pack into a mere 30 days!

I Have Arrived

2009-07-01T12:03:00.003-04:00

I have a huge, long blog post, however, due to my low functioning brain, no pics. Left the all-important camera cord at home on my desk, where it belongs! LOL
But, here is a post anyway. Sorry about the no pics. I did get pictures of Luther Burbank gardens, Julliard Park, and my very first apartment in Santa Rosa. Those will all be posted as soon as I can get Hijo Segundo to send the cord to me.
So, without further lame excuses, here is the first, very long, very melancholy, California post.

I landed in California on the afternoon of June 26th. It was a warm, sunny day by New York state standards; cool and partly cloudy by those of the California crowd. My sister, my best friend, greeted me at San Francisco International with a huge smile on her beautiful face and a hug for me. As soon as my bag was retrieved, we set out for the North Bay area – Sonoma County.

The trip north was like a trip back in time. The heady scent of my childhood home, a mixture of eucalyptus and redwoods, fennel and dill, was like wine to my senses. Calming and invigorating all at once.

San Francisco was just as I remembered. A dichotomy of past and present. The pastels of the old Victorian homes clinging to the hillsides, the peace signs and psychedelic art of the 60s revived on store fronts and walls, and the chrome and gloss of the current era, all melded together to form the city.

We reach the Golden Gate. The rust orange bridge is a tourist attraction in and of itself. People travel miles to walk across it. People travel miles for the privilege of standing in the center of the structure to gaze to the east toward Alcatraz and west to the great, massive waters of the Pacific. It is a beautiful sight. If you haven't seen it, you must.

As we near the home of my teens the changes became more apparent. The orchards and fields and dairy farms gone; replaced by condos and homes and shopping centers. The occasional “green area” or park hinted at what once was. A plum tree in this one. An old barn, now a sitting area, in another. The field, where I would ride my beloved horse is now an “exclusive” neighborhood, not a trace remains of the trails or the stream my horse and I visited.

My father's house with the rose bushes, ponds and garden that my mother cherished is now overgrown. The grass a patchy remnant, the roses clinging bravely to life. The jasmine and gardenias, although still there, are being choked by blackberry bushes. The walkway to the front door is almost a memory as the juniper grows to cover most of it. This first view of my old home is a vivid, shocking, slap upside the head at the condition of my father's health, of his rapid decline from strong and active to weak and near invalid.

My internal checklist began to kick in. Yard work: prune and water roses – check – reseed lawn – check – Paint Front Door – stat! How he must feel. Knowing that his decline is reflected in the decline of his home.

I steel my heart for what I knew I would see once inside. But, I was spared. His health was a gentle decline. His spirit intact. His eyes glinted with the humor that was his and his alone. Although his body and pace were saying age, his words and laughter spoke of defiance. He was ready to live again; live as he hadn't since my mother's death in 2002. I was so glad to welcome him back, excited to meet my father again.

We had a few days to relax before his hospital stay. It was nice to be with my dad. His was a comfortable companionship. We laughed, we talked, we made plans. We. Made. Plans! So different from my last visit when he was giving up. Yes, I was so glad to welcome him back.

Today, I sit in the surgical waiting room, awaiting the visit from his surgeon, telling me that the aortic valve replacement went well. It has been a long wait. The surgery began this morning at 7 am and it is now almost 2 pm. My brother has called 3 times. My sister, 4. And, as I write this, Nieves, the surgical family counselor informs me that he is out of surgery and I will be able to peek in at him within the next half hour.

So, until next time...

Westward Ho!

2009-06-25T20:00:00.000-04:00

I am now going off-line in preparation for my trip to sunny, beautiful Sonoma County, California. Will be posting for the next month from that location. Hope to show you some beautiful sites, wonderful yarn stores, and smiling faces in and around the area that was my childhood home! Until I land in San Francisco...

Wordless Wenesday 6

2009-06-24T09:02:00.002-04:00

Wild Strawberry Blossom
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

Clearing Out the Yarn Jungle

2009-06-23T08:17:00.003-04:00

This announcement may be a bit premature, but after wandering around in a knitting funk for months now, I must admit this. I haven't been able to finish a thing since Christmas. Not a thing, except for a pair of socks and a lace scarf. Started plenty. Finished nothing. And why? Because I hate my stash and my stash hates me!
With that being said I have decided to sell it all. All except for some very special gifted yarn and a few of the purchases I made with a specific project in mind. When I return from my caretaker trip to California I will be putting the entire Yarn Jungle up for sale. First in Ravelry and on my blog, then, a week or two later, in Ebay.
Before I moved I sold over half of it and still there is a small yarn store upstairs. Made a promise to myself that I would not purchase more yarn until the stash was down to a reasonable mountain. So what happens? I don't knit! This has to stop.
The stash has to go. The stash is holding me down. The stash is an albatross around my neck...a ball and chain to my needles...a cork in my bottle of creativity! I hate my stash and my stash hates me!

Renaissance Kitty

2009-06-20T16:48:00.001-04:00

Renaissance Kitty
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

Jack has decided that he wants to be famous. He doesn't want to be just Captain Jack Sparrow. He wants to be Captain Jack, the Renaissance Kitty, Sparrow. I have tried to tell him that being a renaissance kitty is tough work. Some have tried and not succeeded. His response? Get a portrait! So I did.

Abercrombie and Yesterday's Bouquet

2009-06-19T10:46:00.001-04:00

Yesterday's Bouquet
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

Last night I moved my bouquet of Peonies and Mock Orange out to the porch. The Mock Orange was beginning to shed its blossoms and getting all over the kitchen table. By moving it outside I hoped to get another day or two of enjoyment.
This morning, as I carried my morning mocha out to the porch to sit and enjoy the morning, I saw Abercrombie looking around for a bite to eat. Poor little Abercrombie. So tiny. So hungry.
I turned silently and went back into the house. Grabbing a small handful of granola and my camera, I proceeded back out the door. Placing the granola next to the vase of flowers, I sat and waited for Ab's return.
I didn't have to wait long. Abercrombie is a very brave little squirrel. He even sat patiently while I snapped his picture over and over again. If you want to see more of this little guy, Click on his pic. That will take you to my Flikr photostream and you can see him in all his adorable cuteness.

Halfway Measures

2009-06-17T12:41:00.007-04:00

This post may offend some readers. If it does, I am sorry. If it does maybe you should ask yourselves why.

As the Aunt and Cousin of a lesbian and a gay, and the Mother of a wonderful, responsible and giving gay son, I have to ask myself why. Why? A thousand times why? Not why about my wonderful cousin, my adorable niece and my beloved son. But why about our president's attempt at appeasing the gay and lesbian community with a halfway measure.

Why does a portion of our population insist on believing that another portion of our population does not deserve the same rights and privileges, benefits and recognition under the law as the other portion? Why?

In the not so distant past it was women. Women were deemed unable to make a decision. Women were not allowed to voice an opinion. Women were discouraged, often violently so, from speaking out in a public forum. And why? Because men interpreted a "book" as saying that the woman was to be the caretaker of the home and hearth. She was "weak" and needed "protection" and a "guiding hand". Why?

Also, in the not so distant past, a person of color, be it black, yellow, red, was placed under the blanket of "weak" and "not quite as intelligent" as the "white male" and even -heaven forbid - the "white female"! As recently as WWII, black men were not allowed to serve in any position of authority. "They could not see at night." "They can't swim." But they sure can cook! The majority of our black men that served during WWII were placed in positions of service to the "superior" white race. Men like my friend Vernon Baker (his citation can be read here) and 6 other soldiers of color were finally recognized for their bravery in 1996, long after their actions had saved lives. How many men lived to see another day because of the heroic actions and dedication of these men? Why did it take so long for them to be given the honors of heroes?

Today, although there is still racism and prejudice, our U.S. has elected a black man to be president of this country. A long way from Dorie Miller, taking matters into his own hands aboard a ship at anchor in Pearl Harbor.

And now...

Our president is signing a bill to give same sex partners of government workers benefits that have been enjoyed by the "other portion" of our society. A brave action, given the polarization of the GLBT issues. But why Mr. President, are you stopping short of giving these non-traditional families health benefits as well? Why must my family members be treated as second class citizens? Why must my family members be denied the rights that their other family members can freely embrace?

WHY?

Wordless Wednesday 5

2009-06-17T09:49:00.001-04:00

Trail Mix
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

Wordless Wednesday 4

2009-06-10T07:36:00.001-04:00

I Am An Irresponsible Twit!

2009-06-09T10:40:00.003-04:00

Note to self: Don't work! At least not for someone else or for corporate America. You. Don't. Like. It! And please don't forget that. Okay?

And just why is this? Because I went and got a job and it lasted approximately 2 weeks. There is some character flaw that I possess that no longer allows me to have the patience to work outside the home. I want to do things my way. Inefficiency drives me to distraction. And the insistence that I perform in an inefficient manner makes me crazy!

Case in point. The job I obtained was with a company I had been employed with in the past, as management. I was in a management capacity for over 10 years. At the end of that 10 year period I wanted a life, the job was no longer fun, and the expectations of the corporation didn't mesh with my own. Hence, I gave up the position. Fast forward to 2 weeks ago. I was bored, or so I thought. Applied for a position with same company in shipping and receiving. After all, I had done this before. It was easy and I was fast. On day one, I set about doing the job I had been hired for. Scan box, open box, sort books by section, place sorted books on carts to be shelved. Not a problem. As I went about doing this in my fashion, the one that had worked for 10 years, I observed my fellow receivers perform the job that they had been doing since they were hired. It went something like this - Scan box, open box, take a book, put it on the cart to be shelved, do another book. Magazines went something like this for them: Scan box, open box, take a stack of mags, 1 title only, run it to the front, place it on the rack, go back, get another. For me: Scan box, open box, place magazines on a v-cart, wheel cart to front, place mags on rack. Done. Huh? They were running around like little bees, flitting from one cart to the next, running from the back of the store to the front of the store and back again. I was standing in one place, working until the stacks were too high to stack any more, then moving said stacks to the awaiting carts. Something was wrong here. After a couple of days of me getting exhausted just watching my co-workers, I was called into the managers office. There I was told that my method, though efficient and fast, was not going to work. Again, Huh? Why? Because my stacks were distracting to my fellow co-workers and my use of the v-carts was just not done (although it was a good idea and they might give it some consideration). My response? Inefficiency drove me nuts. That is all it took. I said thank you very much for the opportunity to observe your back room and stocking techniques, but I don't believe this is a good fit for me.

Oh well, I suppose I am just an irresponsible twit. Or maybe I just have the luxury of having worked for a retirement check and work is now a choice.

Swimming In The Frog Pond

2009-06-07T11:10:00.002-04:00

I love Colinette kits. The finished product is pleasing to look at. The knitting in simple and fun. The textural contrasts are interesting. This is my second one. I was excited to start.
How difficult can a Colinette throw be? I mean, k3, yo, sssk, and so on and so on. Easy peasy. I worked diligently for a week and became bored with the incessant pattern. This morning I awoke and realized the recipient's birthday is only 3 weeks away!
Quickly I pulled the bag that contained this beauty out of the hibernation cave and reattached the needles called for in the pattern. I did this only to realize that in my haste to begin, I used the wrong sized needle to start with! The pattern calls for an 8mm not a size 8! To my despair, if I continued with a size 8, the fabric would be more dense and therefore the yarn would not make the size required or desired.
Into the frog pond we went. Let me tell you. Frogging a Colinette is not as enjoyable as knitting a Colinette. The mohair does what mohair does and you have to coax it out of the stitch. The ribbon twists and turns and doesn't want to behave on the ball.
Maybe next time I should be a bit more careful in my reading of instructions. I don't like swimming in the frog pond with Colinette!

Wordless Wednesday 3

2009-06-03T07:05:00.004-04:00

A Thousand and One Pieces

2009-06-02T08:58:00.004-04:00

NY Spring 076
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

As children, we cannot wait to grow up.
To be bigger.
To be allowed to stay up as long as we want and not have to ask our parents if we can.
As children we are so unaware.
As we grow to our teen years, that yearning increases.
That yearning comes forth as rebellion in some.
It causes us to reach out to friends before family.
To explore our lives and challenge our limits.
If we are lucky,
our parents allow us to test our boundaries
and accept the consequences of our actions.
If we are lucky,
our parents provide us with that much needed safety net in life.
As young adults,
if we are lucky,
that safety net is still there.
It is still there even if it is a bit of a fall to get there.
If we have been lucky enough to have close friends and a supportive family,
our young adult years go as smoothly as can be expected.
Then,
we have children of our own.
We watch them grow.
We do the best we can to prepare them for their adult lives.
We allow them to make mistakes.
We hurt for them.
We laugh with them.
We glow with pride at their accomplishments and
cry with them when they fall.
As they grow to adults,
we realize that the hearts of our parents are so invested in us.
Us, the adults.
We realize that because now,
our hearts are invested in our children.
Each step they take causes our heart to break;
not in a bad way mind you but break nonetheless.
Our children take a bit of our heart with them on their journey through life.
They may not know this,
but their lives turn our hearts into a thousand and one pieces of joy and sorrow.

To my children - take those pieces of my heart and build a bridge to your dreams.

Jack and the Tale of Errant Yarn

2009-05-31T09:21:00.003-04:00

Jack in the Cupboard
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

Mom's been knitting again. When she does that, I have to hide. Hide and make my attack from a hidden location. If she sees me, the yarn, the slinky, slippery, jumpy yarn gets hidden. So here I sit, awaiting the opportune moment. The moment that the yarn isn't aware of me, the Captain of Jack, the attack trained kitty. That is the moment I shall POUNCE! Capture the errant stringy stuff and bring it back to my kitty lair for later consumption.

Oh, Hairballs! She put it away!!!!

This yarn has been driving me crazy. It changes colors! Does it change flavor as well? She sez it is the leg of a sock and won't let me test it on my head. Every time I even touch it with my paw, she sez "No, Jack!" no jack no jack no jack... And then, to make matters worse! It grew into a long tube thing with a sharp turn and a dead end! What is up with that?
If that isn't enough, she has this long thing...she calls it a scarf. I call it a long thing, that is hiding a scary face! She sez it is for Hijo Segundo, whoever that is. All I can say is I am a skeart of it.
I overheard her say that if I, the Captain of Jack, are not careful, she will make one for me! Think I will stay in hiding.

That's all, you can go away now.

My First Piece of Stickley

2009-05-31T07:27:00.001-04:00

My First Piece of Stickley
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

Ta DAAA! Here she is...

Built With Care

2009-05-30T08:47:00.004-04:00

Today Boyfriend and I are headed over to pick up my first piece of Stickley furniture!
Yes, I am a furniture snob. Hate cheap furniture. Would rather live without. Have searched for years to find just the right pieces to go in each room. It took almost 15 years to find the dining room furniture I have. But I love it!
My bedroom furniture? Same thing. For years my bed was a bed frame with a box spring and ma tress thrown over the top of it. Finally, after years of searching - 18 years to be exact - I found the perfect cherry sleigh bed. Now, 5 years later, I am still searching for the perfect accompaniments for the sleigh.
The furniture in the parlor is perfect as well. A huge overstuffed leather sofa and easy chair with an ottoman. An antique oak trunk for a coffee table. Simple, makes a statement, not over done.
But, I digress. Today is Stickley day! On Mother's Day, the Boyfriend and I took a ride. (I love riding through the NY state countryside.) Our wanderings took us over to Fayetteville where the Stickley showroom sits in an out of the way corner of a strip mall. We walked in and meandered about - the Boyfriend gazing and making comments about certain pieces, me drooling over everything. I had to jerk my leash back and think about what I needed in my home. Can't have it all!
To make a long story short, we purchased an entertainment cabinet to place in the front parlor. And, Stickley isn't the all assembly-lined, boxed in a warehouse, waiting to be purchased type of furniture! You see it. You say you want it. You select the wood. You select the finish. You pay...yes you pay, sorry. The sales person - for us the lovely Carmelita is our assigned salesperson. (yes, she is ours until she no longer works there) takes our order. Carmeltia explains the time it takes to construct it. The craftsman in the factory builds it. The factory sales person calls you when it is finished.
Truly handcrafted furniture. Made by hand in central New York state by someone who cares! Hand rubbed, solid wood. The kind of furniture that not only retains its value, but increases in value over time. An heirloom. The kind of thing you purchase to take care of for your children, whether they want it or not.
I believe I must have all my children over for the holidays so they can fight over who gets it when the parentals move on to greener pastures. Or maybe I will just tell them who gets this piece and get a few more pieces...I like that idea better.
I also believe I will take my knitting along for the ride to pick up my precious cargo.
Pics will be added later this afternoon - check back

In Search Of The Perfect Ice Cream

2009-05-28T07:59:00.002-04:00

Small Moose Tracks
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

One of the things I discovered upon my arrival last summer was that going out for ice cream of an evening is one of the most popular pastimes in the area. You could even call it a sport of sorts. An Olympic event. People line up, not just a few, but hoards, to partake of this summer delicacy. When I witnessed this phenomenon, I asked myself how one decides which particular ice cream stand to patronize. Hence...
This summer, my first entire summer in central New York state, has a purpose. My friend and fellow explorer EM and I are in search of the perfect ice cream.
We live in Oneida County. As such, we are beginning our search for the Perfect Ice Cream right here. We shall venture forth, accompanied by our trusty research assistants when necessary, to explore and find this rare and much sought after prize.
As any good scientist and explorer knows, you must have criterion to allow for a good comparison during any study. So what are we looking for?

1. Cleanliness of facility.
2. Selection.
3. Serving portion to price
4. Flavor
5. Friendliness of staff

Our first foray into the jungle took us to Mr. Frostee, in Clark Mills, New York. It is one of the closest to our homes, practically the perfect, "meet you in the middle" location. Here is what we found.

Mr. Frostee is a newer stand and as such, very clean. Inside there is a seating area that sparkles. Outside, the tables and fountains, yes fountains, are clean. Not a spot of ice cream or other remains. Oops, EM's research assistant found a napkin tucked beneath the table. Isn't that where chewing gum is supposed to go? He removed the offending napkin and placed it in the nearest refuse container. What a great assistant!
The menu at Mr. Frostee seemed limited. Limited until you see all the little side boards with added extras. Hard, soft, chocolate, vanilla, sprinkles, dips, nuts, and the list goes on. Personally, I want my add ons in the ice cream. Less, mess, more goodies.
The ice cream served is truly marvelous! Creamy, rich, full of flavor. My favorite, "Moose Tracks" is on the menu as well! What a deal!!!! To make things even more hazardous, the small serving, pictured above, is truly huge! But, as all true researchist know, nothing is to be wasted and the cone was consumed with gusto.
As far as friendliness of staff, the server had a brusque and not too friendly attitude. You would think, that serving a sweet concoction to the masses would cause one, through osmosis, to become rather sweet as well. Not true, my friends, not true. Our lovely, young, scooper, was not chatty, not friendly, not willing to discuss the merits of her product. So sad. Such a shame. The only mark against this wonderful island of creaminess in the small town of Clark Mills.

Wordless Wednesday 2

2009-05-27T18:46:00.004-04:00

Taos2007
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

Nubby Socks

2009-05-26T09:56:00.002-04:00

This is a post without a picture. The picture will have to wait until I decide if it is going to be submitted for publication or kept as my own. Either way - I. Love. These. Socks!

They are boot socks, so cuddly and warm. Knit with a sport weight sock yarn, quick to boot! (no pun intended) Also, they are designed to fit the smallest woman to a rather large man. Socks with sizing! Gotta love it.

Well into the second draft of the design. Wanted to have them finished in time to submit to Knitty for their fall issue. No gonna happen. Maybe, if I can hold them back long enough, they can be a contestant in the Winter issue. Maybe winter would be better anyway.

Back to knitting a boot sock. Mine are in Opal yarn. Will make the Boyfriend a pair too. Never made him a pair of socks before. Wonder if he will wear them...

About Wordless Wednesday

2009-05-20T11:00:00.002-04:00

This was the idea of a young woman I "met" on Ravelry. I was so taken with the idea that I asked if I could play too. The purpose is to find or take a picture that inspires you, leaves you speechless, in awe of the beauty of nature, any thing that makes you think. If you want to join in, make a link to the other players in your sidebar or a weekly post - not your wordless one. Would love to see what you don't have to say every Wednesday!

Wordless Wednesday (Sem Palavras) 1

2009-05-20T10:55:00.004-04:00

As Far As The Eye Can See II
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

Fickle Little Muse

2009-05-18T08:45:00.003-04:00

I have not been able to come up with a design in so long that I had just about given up.
My muse up and left.
My muse got tired.
After a whiz bang sweater

she decided I didn't need any help for a while.
I tried on my own but couldn't even come up with a decent pair of socks!
I begged her forgiveness.
I grovelled at her feet.
I cried in the night...
but she didn't return.
No, she didn't return
until last Friday morning at about 1 a.m.
Damned muse!
Kept me up all night!
She gave me not 1
Not 2
But 3 ideas!
Albeit sock ideas.
But IDEAS nonetheless.
And along with the ideas

she gave me mental images

of the sort I haven't had since the whiz bang sweater!
I could see them.
They wouldn't let me sleep!
I had to get out of bed and begin writing them down.
I mean, after all,
what the Muse giveth
the Muse can taketh away!
One of the ideas is a boot sock using a sport weight yarn.
It is (and this is where I give Muse credit for an extra idea)
in 3 sizes!
It is unisex!
It works up quickly!
It is worth 2 points for the Muse.
Maybe 3.
The other one is a toe up confection that came from my new love of fiddle head ferns.
Haven't gotten that one beyond jotting down the idea and a very poorly drawn sketch.
(My Muse doesn't help with the drawing aspect)
I danced the dance of joy.
I wept.
I...maybe I am getting carried away.
My Muse returned for a little tête-à-tête.
Fickle little Muse.

Another Damage Pic

2009-05-14T12:10:00.003-04:00

NY Spring 092
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

Here is a shot taken by the Boyfriend from directly beneath the damage. I was too afraid to straddle the tree to get a shot like this as the other half of the tree is still whipping around in the wind!

Evidence of the Damage!

2009-05-14T12:03:00.002-04:00

NY Spring 087
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

This is the corner of my house. A mere 1 and1/2 stories up from where I was sitting at the time of the incedent. My poor house was hit. I am sure it was friendly fire as my neighbor is not home and did not have the slightest idea that her tree was ready to topple in my direction. All I can say is that I aged 20 years in 2 seconds. My poor Jezzie won't come into my little room. She it too afraid of the next one falling. I don't want to be in my little room!

Collateral Damage

2009-05-14T11:33:00.002-04:00

My neighbor's tree was a victim of a wind gust. It was a huge, beautiful old pine that shaded my yard nicely and allowed my ferns to grow without fear of the sun.

Yes, my neighbor's tree was a victim of a wind gust and my house received collateral damage. Will get pics when the wind dies down enough that I am not taking my life in my hands to snap them. Poor tree...My Poor House!

If I May

2009-05-14T08:46:00.002-04:00

If I may, I would like to say that I know people come to this blog. I can see it in the stats.
If I may, I would like to say that I like comments. It lets me know what people are thinking.
If I may, I would like to say that when I visit a blog, I make a comment. It lets that person know what I am thinking.
If I may, I would like to say that if someone visits my blog, I pay the same courtesy. It encourages exchange and conversation.
If I may, I would like to ask if comments could be left. Please.
If I may, I would like to ask that if I visit your blog would you visit mine? Please.
If I may.

I Am Not Worthy!

2009-05-14T07:19:00.002-04:00

I am not worthy.

Yes, that is right.

The knitting Goddess told me so.

I cast an aspersion upon her yesterday because of her mean sense of humor over a friends sweater.

Yes, I did.

Now she is angry and getting even.

The beautiful bit of work that was resurrected yesterday.

Beautiful knitting on my part.

Nothing wrong there.

It is the yarn.

Why did I not double check the yardage on the cone?

Why did Brown Sheep discontinue the color?

Not only do I not have enough yarn,

I can't get any more either!

Poor Maidenhair.

A victim of the whims of a fickle Goddess.

She must have known,

years ago,

when I started the sweater,

that this would happen.

I am not worthy!

Don't mess with the Knitting Goddess!

Let Your Life Bloom!

2009-05-13T11:15:00.002-04:00

Make a Smilebox postcard

click on the heart next to the box to see the caption

"There is no use trying," said Alice; "one can't believe impossible things."

"I dare say, you haven't had much practice," said the Queen. "When I was your age, I always did it for half an hour a day. Why, sometimes I've believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast."

Lewis Carroll; Alice in Wonderland

Maidenhair, Ferns and Flowers

2009-05-13T09:16:00.002-04:00

NY Spring 070
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

Yesterday my knitting was in the category of doom and gloom. Today the apocolypse was averted and the world, my world, is safe again. Oblique is cast upon the heap of "maybe I will fix" things. She is shunned for now.
My change of knitting heart came as I looked through my hybernation pile - a Vesuvius sort of pile - and saw a sad, forlorn bit of work peeking from beneath.
No, not the fern. That is an Ostrich fern, The one I saw peeking is a Maidenhair! A knitted Starmore Maidenhair. A beautiful piece of knitted art that I have been working on for a few years now. Begging for attention. Asking nothing more than to be loved and cuddled and nurtured to fulfillment. She has been so patient. Lying there, waiting for my attention. My fickle knitting attention. After the disaster that was Oblique, a nice, attention to detail, straightforward Starmore design was just what the doctor ordered. So, out she came in all her glory. The substantial wool a blessing after the blend used for Oblique. The cables and aran openwork a breeze after the repetitive lace of Oblique. The solid fabric a joy compared to the lightness of Oblique. I am now in a state of knitting bliss. I love this bit of knitting named for a fern. My knitting disaster has led me full circle back to the bottom of my knitting pile to a nice, attention holding work.
I love Alice's designs. I want to knit them all.

Call Me Cranky!

2009-05-11T19:11:00.002-04:00

My knitting hates me.

It has for so long that I think I should just quit!

I work a cable.

It isn't even.

I do a bit of lace.

The yarn overs are different sizes.

My Fair Isle of late?

Ha!

And, to pour salt into the knitting wound,

Oblique is being rather obtuse.

I know I measured.

I know my gauge was spot on.

I know I measured from the same place on each sleeve.

Why then is one sleeve 3 inched longer than the other?

What is going on?

Did I offend the knitting Gods and Goddesses?

The scissors are sitting next to it.

Poised.

Awaiting my command.

Cut the F.....!

I Hate This Sweater!

Well,

Maybe not.

Just call me Cranky.

Harlingen Girls!

2009-05-11T10:02:00.002-04:00

Party Girl
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

I know, I know, shameless of me. But these socks have been available for months now and no takers! They are truly cute and girlie! I wear mine with a skirt and some little skimmy flats. Get comments galore about the socks.

"Oh, where did you get those?"
"Will you make me a pair?"
"How cute are those!"

All from non-knitters. Now, here comes the shameless part - they are available on Ravelry or Payloadz.
Hangs head in shame and embarrassment.

Tomboy

2009-05-11T09:58:00.001-04:00

Tomboy
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

This is a sock I designed several years ago and for some reason, never made public. It is a really quick and easy sock to knit. Don't know why it has sit, languishing away in my "to be tested" file. Have tweeked it and tried new things with it and come back to the original pattern time and time again. The yarn used is Briggs and Little Tuffy. Not a soft yarn, but one that holds up well to abuse. I have worn and washed the pair pictured numerous times and they still look great. Made a pair with Cascade 220 as well. Although much softer, they didn't last the way these have. I know, Cascade 220 isn't a sock yarn, has no nylon in it and felts easily. Webbs carries a yarn called Yarn for Sox that has the same qualities as the Tuffy. Same manufacturer? Anyway, I would like to get these tested if anyone out there has access to the required yarn and doesn't mind a heavy...I mean really heavy, scratchy wool sock. I certainly love mine and the name is so appropriate. Heavy, rugged, wear 'em with boots, yet femine sock. Leave me a comment if you want to give them a try!

Sounds of Silence

2009-05-09T21:50:00.006-04:00

Lilac
Originally uploaded by emmasdaughter

My morning routine has settled in along with spring.

Coffee, in the form of an iced mocha or hot, depending on the weather,

Jammies still on,

Boy-o off to school or in bed of a Saturday morning,

Me time.

The back porch beckons.

It beckons daily.

This morning was no exception...

As I sit on my back porch enjoying my morning coffee and relative silence, I realize that the silence is not quiet.

Aside from the cars traveling past, an annoyance at best, are the birds.

They are raucous in their joy of the morning.

The songs they sing a harmonious tune to the rising sun.

A lone red-winged black bird sits in the middle of the expanse of lawn, looking for his sheltering grasses. "They are down the hill at the pond," I say more to myself than to him.

A brave chickadee sits quietly on my porch rail as if to give me company.

So brave.

A robin joins the blackbird as a raven sends his boisterous call into the beyond.

A pair of doves, cooing at their approach, land beneath the feeding station to clean up after the rest of the diners above them.

A pair of bright, yet diminutive gold finches exchange seeds in a lover's ritual. He must have dropped his as she is now scolding him severely.

Ernie and Earl, the resident chipmunks get into an argument over the pumpkin seeds in the ground feeder.

Earl wins the disagreement as Ernie runs off, squeaking his departing threats.

A nuthatch, living in his upside down world, watches the encounter before resuming his downward path on the old maple tree, disgruntled chipping sounds aimed at Earl.

A fat squirrel, larger than Earl by at least 100 chipmunk lbs, joins Earl and dares him to pick a fight. Earl slinks off to bully the more easily frightened doves as another squirrel attempts to approach the ground feeder.

No luck.

Mondo, mega squirrel, the titanic, the gargantuan, looked at the interloper.

That is all.

So long.

So much noise.

So much activity.

I think I am tired now.

Another Bit of Whine

2009-05-07T21:43:00.002-04:00

Today I met my new health care partner. She is very pleasant and easy to be with. A very important thing for me. My new Doc is easy to talk to, very attentive to what you say and even what you don't and isn't judgemental or patronizing. Again, very important to me.

We had a great chat. I brought my list of "testing the water" complaints and the water was fine. But there was one really sharp stone just beneath the surface that couldn't be budge. My weight.

Ever since my surgery - an oopherectomy (some call it a total hysterectomy) my metabolism has been slowly shutting down. My weight zoomed from 139 to 178 in 5 years. Not because I eat too much or badly, but because my system had gone from "hunt" to "tend the fire". And, the bad news is, that, as my new Doc tried to explain, once your metabolism is allowed to shut down, as in surgically taking away the hormones it needs and not replacing them quickly, it is nearly impossible to get it back. It has been 5 years. A bit of a stretch.

I forgot my food diary, with the whole truth and nothing but the truth. But after our discussion of dietary habits was told I eat a reasonably healthy diet rich in vegetables, legumes and nuts; low in red meat and fruit. I have become extremely sensitive to carbohydrates and fall asleep in my oatmeal - insulin resistance she says. So breads and pastas are now a treat to be had only on occasion. More meats and fresh veggies. More brans and seeds along with my almonds and walnuts. Fruit later in the day will cause me to sleep better at night if I time it right.

All in all, it wasn't a bad visit. But I am very disturbed over the weight thing. I have been exercising and have a varied and fun routine. I have been trying to eat right. One would think that doing those things that are time tested ways to get rid of unwanted pounds would work. I my case, and I am sure many other cases out there, that just isn't so. I hate being overweight! I have never been overweight! This is the largest I have ever been and I don't like it. Not one bit! And to learn that it will be a struggle to get rid of even 5 lbs isn't something I wanted to hear. The fact that I have stopped gaining "is to be commended". Small joy.

Funny Story (Rated R for explicit anatomical wording)

2009-05-05T12:27:00.008-04:00

As you know, I have an older dog, Roz (fuzzy creature on right). Roz is the sweetest dog ever. Roz is not a normal dog. Roz has "issues".

First, Roz has seizures. They are now controlled with heavy drugs. She is drugged morning and night and rather enjoys her state of drugged bliss. No more seizures. Improved living through pharmaceuticals. Living in happy land.

Second, Roz is a hermaphrodite. Yes. You read that correctly. H. E. R. M. APHRODITE. Why does it not rhyme with Aphrodite? That would be funny. But, I digress as usual...

Roz had a cyst on her side that was growing and getting really bad. Made an appointment with the vet to have it surgically removed. Brought her in, dropped her off, went home, awaited the call to pick her up.

At about 11 I got a call from the vet. The vet was concerned because Roz had what she thought was a cystic growth in her vagina. We talked a bit. The vet said it was so close to the vulva that it would soon protrude and block the urethra.

Protrude? Protrude, I thought. HA!!! This was my vet saying that my hermaphrodite dog had a cyst! I interrupted the woman's cautionary cancer tale with "You do remember that Roz is a he/she? A hermaphrodite. Before you go removing this "cyst", make sure you are not palpating a penis."

Vet, very condescending, "Hermaphrodites don't present as female."

"Mine does. Please just make sure it is not a penis."

Vet, still condescending, "Alright, but..."

"My dog has a penis, it protrudes on occasion. She is not a she. She is not a he. She is the poster dog for Transgender beings everywhere. Scientific proof that it does happen!"

Vet saw no humor in this. Said she would call me back after a visual inspection of my poor Rozie's privates.

A few minutes later, humbled vet, "You were right, it is a penis. I have never seen such a thing."

Poor Rozie, the humiliation of it all. I need to take her to therapy now because she didn't know she was built wrong...

Moral? Is there one? Are you a veterinarian? If so, sometimes the owner is right!

Knitting With Violet(s), The African Kind

2009-05-05T10:31:00.015-04:00

I have been knitting.

Really.

I have.

But I have also been playing with my green thumb.

In the garden.

In the house.

At friend's homes.

Anywhere and everywhere.

Invited or not.

It is like a social disease.

"Oh, look! Here comes that crazy plant lady again!"

"Run! Run! Quick!"

"Hide the Daffodils!"

Just don't understand it.

Anyway, the knitting first.

The knitting has been a shawl.

The Madli.

If you are on Ravelry, I have a picture of some cobweb weight lace yarn that had been languishing in my stash for some years now.

It has come into the light and onto the needles.

Making a very nice, squint your eyes when you knit, shawl.

What do you think?

And, when I am not knitting, the garden and my little plants begin to talk to me.

Lately I have been reviving my African Violet collection.

When we moved I gave my friend all of my violets. Didn't want to stress them out with a long move.

Now,

I am back to collecting and thought I would share them in my little room.

Have you ever seen a semi-mini African Violet?

What about a micro-mini?

They are just about the cutest little plants around.

Perfect little doll house sized plants.

In the pictures I have put my cell phone for perspective.

They are really that small!

First,

is a little one called "Lil Periscope".The flowers rise above the plant as if peering around, searching for something.

Then we have A little number called "Teeny Bopper".

This little plant has the smallest leaves imaginable in an African Violet. It is also a trailing AV. Rather than grow into the common circular plant, it sends out little runners. If you put a small pot next to it and pin a little plantlet to the soil, you will get another little Teeny Bopper.

This one is called "PeeWee Purple".

PeeWee isn't in bloom right now. But, when he is, he has the cutest little purple (of course) flowers. So tiny...

This little cutie is "Rob's Twinkle Pink".

Rob has a nursery in Naples, NY, where he developes new micro and semi-micro plants. I want to take a trip up there and grab a few more of his little hybrids. He has developed one that looks like a small opal plant! But for now, Twinkle graces my collection beautifully.

Here is "Lil Ballerina".

She likes to dance so much that her flowers went away. But they will be back. And when they do, they are tiny white, with a hint of lavender flowers sporting bright yellow centers.

And here

Is "Pip Squeak". Need I say more?

And "Irish Flirt" with her green flowers.

The next one is a semi-mini trailing type violet. It is much larger than the micro minis, but still small compared to the standard sized violets. It is called "Ramblin' Lace". She is ramblin' so much that you can barely see my cell phone beneath her trailers!

And lastly, my one and only standard. The cell phone is there somewhere beneath all those leaves. I have no idea what this one is called, but I call it Happy. Happy is a very happy violet and keeps sending out blossoms. She can't help herself when surrounded by little cuties.

Thanks for taking the time to look through my little obsession.

And, plantlets are going to be available soon! Don't make me turn into the "Crazy Cat Lady" with my violets. Don't be shy. If you want one, let me know!

We Break From Our Original Programming For a Minute of Whining

2009-04-27T13:24:00.004-04:00

I have a hard time picking up after myself.
This being said,
Why do the others in this house leave messes for me to pick up?
Is it because I don't "work"?
Is it because it is "my job"?
Is it because they feel they don't have to take care of things because they work outside the home?
What if I wanted to get a job?
Would I have that job and this "non-job"?
If the past is any sign, then yes!

Case in point;
Last night I went through the house and picked up all the little piles of recycling that get stashed in corners.
Beer bottles (I don't drink beer)
Pepsi cans, both diet and non diet (I don't drink soft drinks as a rule)
Junk Mail...we all receive it.
Tonic bottles (yes, those are mine)
Cans and whatnot from meals prepared (shouldn't this be a shared thing?)
All the recycling got carried out, the trash taken to the can and all was kind of good.
Fast forward to today...
I am cleaning the master bedroom.
Master is looking on.
He helps spread the top sheet.
He leaves the room.
I move the furniture.
I vacuum the room.
I clean up the accumulated stuff.
I get irritated.
Toss the winter bedding to the landing.
The Master moves it to the bottom of the stairs into the middle of the parlor.
I want to scream.
Boxes are again piled in the kitchen.
Cans next to the sink.
I carry them to the recycling.

I want a new job! Or at least better pay! I can't keep up with it all. Like I said, I can barely pick up after myself!

Really want to scream now.

We now return to our regularly scheduled programming.

Edited for another semi-rant:

Went to the basement and What!? Master is cutting boxes to bundle for pick-up.
Should I feel like a shiite heel?
Naaaaahhh.
Still valid rant.

Where Are My Daffodils?

2009-04-22T20:34:00.003-04:00

As I was driving up the hill today to make my weekly "farm fresh" run I saw homes. Many homes. Many old and quaint little colonial, early American homes. They were all so cute and had such character. Some of them had porches canted to one side - not conducive to playing marbles. Some had roofs that were growing moss. Some had doors that no longer fit straight in their jams. They were all cute. They all spoke of ages past. And they all had masses of DAFFODILS!

Why? Why? I ask you. My neighbor has blooming daffies, every house in a 50 mile radius from mine has daffies! I have daffie leaves. Not a bud. Not a bloom. Just leaves. Why? Again I ask. Why?

Should I sneak next door in the dead of night and cut some for my table? Or should I politely knock on the door and beg shamelessly for a few to grace my home? Or, rather than attack one house, and one so close to home mind you, I could drive the back roads and cut one or two from every cute frickin' little house I pass on my way!

All I have to say about this little rant is "Where Are My Daffodils?"

An Almost Finished Room!

2009-04-21T12:43:00.013-04:00

Last weekend, amidst the gardening, outdoor play and general weekend frivolity, the dining room was painted and the furniture moved in.

It is done, or close enough that I can show it to you.

Just to refresh your memory, the above pics are the "before" shots of the room. Pretty bad, right?

We spent months tearing out the old wall paper. It go to be a regular part of the entertainment we provided to guests. They loved it! (sure they did) It did become a game though. If someone saw a corner of the paper lifting up, they would walk by and pull it. At first I would express my disapproval and try to discourage said behaviour. But, after a while, there were so many strips of wall paper missing and so many loosened corners that I gave up. Made my life so much easier when I just joined in the game.

Over the holidays, my kids paid a visit from out west and they joined in the game as well. After Thanksgiving there was so much wall paper scattered about the floor that Jack had his own practice hunting grounds. He would hide beneath the paper and await the next unsuspecting dog or human with bare feet to wade through. Occasionally his patience would pay off with a yelp from Jezz or a screech from me.

I digress. This is supposed to be about the finished room.

And, I present....drum roll please...
This picture is looking toward the pocket doors and into the front parlor
The top "before" picture shows the corner of the front room with the pocket doors. (just for perspective, k?) The desk in the front is my little secretarial that my son is using for his computer because we kicked him out of the next blitz attack room. Won't be staying. But, all that aside, it is sitting in the location of the corner unit that the Boyfriend won't allow me to bring back into the room. Sadness on my part.

The above pic is the same view as the second picture above, minus the 1960s re-muddle "tried to make a built in cupboard" monstrosity.

This is what greets you as you walk from the kitchen into the dining room.

What is left do finish?

Look above the table. Yes, that hidieous light fixture is so outta there! It will be replaced with this beauty!

And, the rug, yes the one with the dog on it, needs to be much, much larger. Looking around for an Art Deco style 12'x16'. That would leave about 1.5' of hardwood showing on the sides and about 2' of hardwood at each end.

What did I learn from this room?

The first thing would have to be Use Benjamin Moore Paint! It took only 1 and 1/2 gallons to do these walls! The bedroom upstairs took 3 gallons of Valspar to cover fewer square feet.

And, when decorating, don't ask the Boyfriend what he likes. It ends up in a disagreement, no matter what.

There you have it! Another one down in the American Foursqaure!!!

My Little Garden Update

2009-04-19T15:11:00.004-04:00

Today the garden box got filled to capacity.
Here is a rundown;
Back 4 sections contain sugar snap peas, 8 in each square.
The next row contains, from left to right: 4 heads romaine lettuce, 2 kale, 2 kale, 2 kohlrabi.
The next contains, again from left to right: 2 kohlrabi, 4 swiss chard, 4 swiss chard, 4 swiss chard.
Then the front row contains, yes, from left to right again: 9 beets, 9 beets, 16 carrots, 16 carrots.

Next month I will be building 2 or 3 more boxes to fill. Need. My. Colors!

My Little Garden

2009-04-18T15:30:00.017-04:00

As I posted last, gardening was something I had been missing. That feeling of getting down on ones knees on the earth. The sense of groundedness (no pun intended) that you have when working in the soil. The connection that you have, albeit unknowingly for some, with the greater spirit of the past and our ancestors.

Before I get too far off the deep end I will go into my first garden in New York state.

Wyoming was one of the most difficult areas I had ever lived for gardening. There was no soil! the wind parched the ground and blew the top layer off into Colorado somewhere. The lucky people of that state got to partake of the Wyoming nutrients. For Free! Then, one day as I was shelving books at the local Barnes and Noble, I picked up a book to put on the shelf and it was the first edition of "Square Foot Gardening" by Mel Bartholomew. It was love at first read. I put together a couple of boxes and went to town. We had vegies coming out of our ears and the neighbors beating down our door to find out how we did it.

Now, in New York, I am doing the same gardening technique. Not because of the lack of soil or water, but because of the ease of planting and care of the garden - for I am a lazy sort and have more to do than tend a garden. Mel now has a web site that I have been reading with interest as I longed for my plot at the community garden

I couldn't wait for the plot to be ready.

I took over my contained mulch area that had been a dog run and was actually large enough for a rather nice garden area! This is what I started with this morning. The leaf pile was contained within a 12x16 foot pen, fully enclosed, in the sunniest part of the yard. I had been sitting for months wondering where I could put a garden amongst all the shade and pavement and trees, when it was right there! Right there waiting for me to recognize the potential. It wasn't until this morning that I did. It was like one of the "Ah HA" moments. A slap upside the head. Now it is mine and I can give my community plot to someone who needs it.

This is the front corner of the compost pen. It was relatively clear of leaves and other composting mater. So I got the old rake out and began clearing a section large enough for my first Square Foot box. It needed to be a bit larger than 4x4 feet, which didn't take long!

Before I could finish my little corner of the area, the Boyfriend was moving right on in! Not that I minded of course. His pots, very large pots, made ready for his hops, found their way to one side of the plot. That is cool. You always need your organic hops to make your organic beer. Right?

It was starting to look more like a garden. Two large pots, large enough for a good sized oak tree right next to my little spot for my little square foot box.

The spot was ready, so first came the box, placed carefully over a double layer of weed guard, landscaping cloth. I know it doesn't look like much yet. But I painted it a happy Bumblebee yellow so the little seeds would begin to think spring and be ready to come out of hiding. Sure, I know, too many gardening fairy tales as a child. But back to the box. It is a simple box built from a 2"x6"x16' board purchased at Lowe's. The nice man in the lumber department even cut it into 4" sections for me. Cost of lumber? $7.98 plus tax. The yellow paint I already had at home so that was a previously absorbed cost. The landscape cloth I purchased at Wally World - 3'x330' for $12.00. (lots of little square foot gardens there!) Now, I usually staple the fabric to the box, but the staple gun was still hiding from our move.

With the box in place, the next thing was to fill it with gardening medium. No, not dirt, not
soil...medium! Very important use of words here. I went from store to store and purchase different brands of compost and a large bag of vermiculite. The vermiculite was the most expensive part of the entire process. If it wouldn't insult Mel, I would find a less expensive "medium" to use in my planters. Maybe ordinary potting soil...hmmm.

Anyway, I mixed all of this stuff together in the box. Using a rake it is easy...just make sure the tines are facing up so you don't puncture your landscape fabric. Silly but true. As I was mixing my compost, I noticed that the local bag had some free worms in it. Yay! the little worms will enjoy thier new home, I am sure.
Now that the box had the planing mix in it, it was time to make it a "Square Foot" garden.

The section pieces were still needing to be installed. I always do this last because I mix my "medium" in the box rather than on a tarp and then dump. Once the soil...er medium is in the box it is a simple matter of nailing the wood to the top of the box. I used strips of wood that was in the garage when we bought the house. Although a bit thicker than I would have liked - lath works great - it was free. Free is a good thing!

Now my first little garden box was ready. Time to gather the tools of the "Square Foot Gardening" trade. One of the reasons I love this method of gardening is its "sandbox" quality. All you need is a pail, a shovel (trowel), a bucket, a pencil and a cup. I keep all of them right there in the garden. The pail is left to catch rain water or to fill with water to keep at ambient temperature, the trowel for digging, the cup for watering each square. But a pencil? No, I don't graffiti the cross strips. It is for planting. You use it to poke holes in the soil to place your seeds in. So, not only is this method of gardening easy and practically labor free, it is tool free as well. I bought the trowel and bucket at the local dollar store, stole the cup from my son, cuz he wasn't home for the weekend and the pencil was in his room too. How economical is that?

What good is a garden unless you plant something in it? Not much! I had been using the stolen cup to soak some sugar snap pea in and was now ready to plant them. This is a pic of one square foot of the back row, which is along the fence line. In each square foot I planted 8 little peas. Yes, 8. The medium is so nutrient loaded and moisture retaining that it can handle this amount. So along the back of the box are 32 potential sugar snap plants. If all goes as planned, there should be about 5 pounds of these sweet little morsels of vegetarian candy headed to my table!

There is the beginning of my little garden. Soon there will be more boxes. I shall have one for just salad goodies, one for larger crops like cabbage and broccoli and even one for my cut flowers. I love this method of gardening! If you want to know more about it, go to your local library and check out his book. He has come out with another one that takes this method to the next level and does so much more with 4 square feet. Over the summer I will be spending more time in my little garden and less time in my little room. Hey, it is spring, time to start thinking outside the box!

A Perfect Hunter Gatherer Day

2009-04-11T08:18:00.002-04:00

Since our move I have missed certain things. Most of them not things one would think of as being important.

I have missed farm fresh eggs, raw milk, enough room for a garden, getting out in the fresh air to work in the dirt.

Yesterday a friend of mine, who I cherish more each day, went a long way to filling all of those missing desires.

First, she took me to her friend's house. This friend has a son who has a hen yard filled with the most beautiful and well tended hens I have seen since mine! He gave me a tour, proudly showing off his prize hens. He handed me feathered creatures to hold and pet and coo over. He was proud of his flock and ecstatic that someone found as much pleasure in these creatures as he did. I walked away with 2 dozen freshly laid eggs and the assurance of "as man as I want or need!"

Then, this same friend of my friend, walked us a mile down the road to her brother's DAIRY! Again, the same pride, the same care taken, the same joy that someone else understood and even loved what they were seeing. Her brother explained that he was getting so little for his milk that it was crazy! The price we see in the market is more than quadruple what he is paid. He went on to tell me that he doesn't sell much milk out the back door, but what he does sell that way gives him more money than selling through the governmentally mandated channels that commercial dairies have to follow. To make a long story short, if I bring my gallon jug to his barn between 7 and 9 any evening, I can fill it up with fresh, raw, untouched by human hands milk for the paltry sum of $1.50! And he makes more from back door customers?!

After the visit to her brother's dairy, my friends and I walked back toward home. On the walk a community garden was mentioned. A new community garden. Anyone that wanted a plot just had to stop by a little church on the outskirts of town and put their name on the list, first come, first served. My eyes lite up! The church is just around the field from my home!

On the drive back to my home, we passed this little church and saw a small group of people standing in the field behind it. My friend and I stopped. We inquired. We each got a plot. My friend knows nothing of gardening. She gave me her plot. All she wants are some tomatoes!

What a perfect hunter, gatherer day! Now I just need to get a freezer.

Dining Room

2009-04-09T10:17:00.005-04:00

This weekend is paint the dining room weekend. I hate deciding on paint colors because the Boyfriend and I can never agree. We always stand at the paint chip displays and argue until I am in tears and he is in a rage. Why is this? It should be easy...but nooooo.

Anyway, this weekend is the painting of the dining room. I want a simple, 1920s/30s look leaning toward French Country. Nothing formal. Nothing over done. He wants something leaning toward the Victorian era. Ornate. Formal. Frilly. How can this be?

The dining room furniture that we currently own is definitely French Country. I love it. I will win out on this one...money talks! Who wants to go purchase a new table when the one we have is just fine.

Listen to me! I can start an argument without him. How silly.

At this point the dining room is bare walls. The old wallpaper has been stripped away. The cracks have been plastered. The floor is covered in red contractor paper to protect the newly finished hardwood. The pocket doors are pulled back into their pockets to protect them from paint spatter. It is a bare canvas, awaiting the artist's brush. I think I will let him decide on the paint colors. Then I can decide on the new lighting and artwork for the walls. Maybe I can get away with that.

I shall leave you with the above before pictures. After the work is complete, an after picture will adorn these pages.

Fast or What!?!

2009-04-08T15:54:00.003-04:00

On the 5th of April I placed an order with Nordic Mart for several balls of yarn.
Today, the 8th of April, it arrived!
I have never ordered from an online yarn store and had delivery in such a short period of time. To say I am amazed is an understatement.
Will I order from the again?
You Betcha!!!

Now, what did I order?
Little baby Topanga Canyon Sunrise, aka Daemon, needs a new suit for the winter.
You saw the Jelly Bean suit in the prior post, right?
That is what is on the needles now.
It isn't in baby colors though. It is in manly browns, rust, gold and green. He is going to be a boy's boy. Maybe.
The suit is going together in Muskat, an Egyptian cotton yarn that has a wonderful sheen and great handle.
The colors?
Light Brown
which is a richer color than shows in the picture.
Rust
more red than in the picture
Olive Green
more golden olive, very nice, than in the picture
Yellow
again, richer than in the picture.
And,
Beige
which, surprisingly, is very close to the picture.

Although these color choices do seem odd for a baby garment, they are coming together nicely. Very boyish. Not frilly or girlie or "ahh, look, it must be a baby!" colors. Just right. One that will say, "I'm a boy, dad gum it! Watch me grow!!!"

Yes, Nordic Mart is fast, the prices are reasonable, the yarn is nice, I will return. Next time for the CottonViscose.

A Finished Project!

2009-04-07T13:02:00.004-04:00

Finally! A finished project. This is the Curlicue Coverlet, by Oat Couture. It was fun to knit, but easy to get lost in. Lots of counting. Lots. Four rows here, eight rows there...cast off 4 here, increase a stitch there. Short rows all over the place, adding new yarn! It was fun and not that bad. Wasn't truly happy with the yarn choice, but the mom to be demanded "No Wool!" So there ya have it. Bernat's Baby Softee. Next item is at least going to be in cotton.

Oh, and what is the next item? It is going to be in little boy colors! Yay! And another Oat Couture pattern. One that I fell in love with several years ago...

Meet the Jelly Bean Suit!

Coming to a set of needles near you! In Garn Studio Muskat yarns! Yarn is on the way. Needles are ready. Pattern in awaiting use. This is going to be a fun knit...

Missing Muse

2009-04-04T17:15:00.003-04:00

Where has my muse gone? It has been so long since I have designed anything that I am beginning to think it was only a dream. Ideas are there. But, those ideas don't transfer from my brain to the needles.

I started a shawl. It was looking very nice. But, I got to a point that it became boring. Mundane. Just like every other shawl out there.

I started a pair of socks. Same thing. Just like all the rest.

A sweater? Fergit aboudit!

I have come to the conclusion that there are so many fine patterns and so many wonderful artists out their that I can spend the rest of my knitting life working their things. Is this a cop-out? Could be. But, if it is, then at least I can bury my escapist head in a pile of yarn and keep busy with someone else's labors.

After all, there is a grandchild on the way... Said grandchild won't wait to grow while Granny Me visualizes a cute, adorable little sweater set, contemplates the best yarn for the project and figures out how to get the cables just right. Granny Me can just hit up Drops or Knitty or Ravelry or even..cough...purchase a pattern. So much time saved. So many more little things that can be knit before the child outgrows them.

Sweaters for the fam? So much yarn and so little time. Don't have any to waste with the same, aforementioned little designing problems.

In the end. I am taking the pressure off and not even going to delve into that area until such time as my muse returns; if ever.

FO And A Touch of Spring

2009-03-20T13:17:00.004-04:00

Finally! A finished project! And, the first Christmas gift of the year. It is the Triinu Scarf from Knitted Lace of Estonia. It is currently on the wires and pinned out. Loverly lace. And just heavy enough to make an excellent winter scarf for the recipient. Hope she like it. It was fun to knit and I thought of her the entire time it was in my hands.
Although the picture shows the back side of the scarf, the lace is still catching. The yarn, Brown Sheep's Wildfoote Sock Yarn was perfect for the project. Being machine washable makes it an easy care accessory. And, the colorway, Ragtime, is in her favorite color family. How many hints does it take to inform the giftee that it will be coming to her?

Over the past couple of weeks the snow has disappeared. Once the weather decided to turn warmer the poor snow didn't have a chance. It was gone within days. Shortly after the snow said goodbye, I began walking the yard, looking for signs of spring. First there was nothing. Then, slowly, and with steady progress, things began to come alive. Today on my morning walk about, I had my camera with. As I passed the old lilac bush in my back yard I spied a bud. Yes! A bud! A sign of life renewed. It is lovely in its promise of the new season. It tore me away from my morose in the loss of the snow. This little bud. A harbinger of things to come.

What's With the Dragons?

2009-03-09T07:15:00.001-04:00

Yes, the dragons and eggs in the sidebar. That would be them.

There really isn't much to them, but you can help feed them and keep them warm by clicking on them.

Why? Because that helps them grow. Each click puts them closer to being adult dragons. So when you see a baby or an egg, please give it a click - but only one per visit. Then just sit back and watch them grow.

Again, why dragons you ask. Well, it is a game and once you have some adult dragons, you can play an few online RP games. Never did that before, so I decided to give it a try. Can't hurt.

Madli Mondays, Waterfalls, and Projects on the Needles

2009-03-02T16:10:00.010-05:00

Sunday's View

Before you read this, I, the Captain, must let you know that we, the family, deny any encouragement of said behavior. I hide myself in shame. She is not to be trusted in a yarn store. She cannot be trusted to be at home alone with that plastic card and working internet service. Please, send help!

Call me crazy...go ahead...do it...say it now. I agree with you. Why? Because I am so easily distracted by pretty, sparkly things. It is like being young and in love with every boy in the 7th grade. It is like seeing a dress and coveting it so bad that it is purchased and in the bag before you realize it is the 5th such dress you have found that day. It is like seeing a smorgasbord of all of your favorite foods and having a free for all food fest. It is all of that and more.

What is? I can hear you asking yourself this question. I can! Really!

Well, knitting. A new yarn with which to knit. Something never used before. A new book with a pattern perfect for said yarn. Yes. That and a couple of friends to knit along with. My Irish twin of Knitting in the Shadows and the Knitting Knut are going to keep me focused on this little bit of gorgeousness.

This bit of gorgeousness would be Madli's Shawl from the new book by Nancy Bush. And, the yarn, gifted to me by my Irish twin is Cherry Tree Hill, Orenburg lace in the Wild Cherry colorway.
I will be casting on this evening after all is said and done for the day. Am really looking forward to it. In over 45 years of knitting this is my 2nd or 3rd lace project. Can't wait! And, when finished, this will grace my shoulders of a cool spring evening and remind me that there are sisters out there. Sisters of the soul. Sisters of the heart.
Updates on Madli will be posted weekly. You got it! On Mondays. Hope the IT will take time from her busy designing schedule and join the Knut and I in this endeavor. I mean, after all, it is her fault!
Okay, before I fall into the quagmire of maudlin I must show you the progress on CurlyCue. This pattern has been so much fun to work on. It is simple enough to be a great "sit with friends and chat" knit. It is also demanding of just enough attention to keep it from being placed in the "maybe I will get to that another day" ufo pile.

2009-03-02T09:33:00.004-05:00

This is something I stole...er borrowed from my friend Becca of Rebecca Unpublished . Although long, it was kind of fun, so I am passing it along.

Bev-ology
***********FOODOLOGY***************

1. What is your salad dressing of choice?

Anything freshly made that includes yogurt and maybe peach salsa.

2. What is your favorite sit-down restaurant?

Secret Garden (Japanese/Korean teahouse in Syracuse).

3.What food could you eat every day for two weeks and not get sick of?

Anything Mexican!

4. What are your pizza toppings of choice?

Cheese, cheese and more cheese!

5. What do you like to put on your toast?

Coconut butter/oil with Agave nectar.

***********TECHNOLOGY***************

1. How many televisions are in your house?

1 that for movies, 1 for DH2's Playstation.

2.What color cell phone do you have?

Red

***************BIOLOGY******************

1. Are you right-handed or left-handed?

Either depending on the chore.

2. Have you ever had anything removed from your body?

A couple of times.

3. What is the last heavy item you lifted?

Same as Becca! My ass off the couch!

4. Have you ever been knocked unconscious?

Yup, once in a riding accident and once by my brother.

************BULLCRAPOLOGY**************

1. If it were possible, would you want to know the day you were going to die?

Yes, cuz then I could do all the crazy shite I wanted and know that it wasn't my time to go!

2. If you could change your name, what would you change it to?

I hate my first name, it reminds me of a red headed waitress with big hair that chews like a cow. I would rather be Beth, or Elizabeth or Bess - anything but BEV!

Would you like fries with that? More coffee Dear?

3. Would you drink an entire bottle of hot sauce for $1000?

Hell no! Would you?

************DUMBOLOGY******************

1. How many pairs of flip flops do you own?

None. I do own several pairs of Crocs though. Great for boating and walking around in water. Ya got sumthing to say about that?

2. Last time you had a run-in with the cops?

When I was 16 and trying to get into my house cuz I had forgotten my key. The shithead neighbor called them!

3. Last person you talked to?

My friend Essie as I handed her a mocha when she picked up my son.

4.Last person you hugged?

My Boyfriend, Husband, Best Friend for the moment.

**************FAVORITOLOGY****************

1. Season?

That would have to be winter. A winter with lots of snow that stops traffic and falls so heavily you can hear is hit the ground.

2. Day of the week?

Please don't send the men in the white coats cuz it would have to be Monday.

Why Monday? Well, Moonday. The day that is all mine. The day the boy and the Boyfriend, Husband, best friend for the moment head back to school and work. The day that I can stay in my jammies til noon if I want. The day that my Sylvia is turned on for the entire morning. The day that is all mine to plan the rest of the week in peace.

3. Month?

That is a hard one.

I do know that I don't generally like a couple of weeks during the sumer due to the heat.

Not a hot weather person.

***********CURRENTOLOGY*****************

1. Missing someone?

My best friends from Wyoming - Cindy and Krishna.

2. Mood?

Content, it is Monday.

3. What are you listening to?

The silence of my house.

The occasional creak,

The air blowing from the heat vents,

My cat purring on my lap and

Jezzie snoring.

4. Watching?

Not a thing right at the moment, but I was watching Law and Order re-runs earlier.

5. Worrying about?

Getting out of the debt incurred from our move.

Nothing major.

***************RANDOMOLOGY*****************

1. First place you went this morning?

To the bathroom. Then to take the dogs outside.

2. What's the last movie you saw?

Feast of Love with Morgan Freeman . So touching, sad, silly, sad and wonderful.

3. Do you smile often?

Not as often as I would like.

4. Sleeping Alone Tonight?

Nope. Got the Boyfriend, husband and best friend of the moment and Captain Jack Sparrow. Rather crowded, don't you think?

***************OTHER-OLOGY*****************

1. Do you always answer your phone?

No. If the name on the caller id isn't someone I know, it generally doesn't get answered.

2. Its four in the morning and you get a text message, who is it?

Most likely Hija Segunda. She likes to share.

3. If you could change your eye color what would it be?

I have brown eyes and would only wish to make them as dark as my mother's eyes were. So dark that you couldn't see to the bottom. 100% dark chocolate brown.

4. What flavor do you add to your drink at Sonic?

Sonic?

Gave it up for lent.

5. Do you own a digital camera?

Sure do. And I am saving for a Digital SLR.

6. Have you ever had a pet fish?

Don't consider fish pets. They are cold and wet and don't like to cuddle much.

7. Favorite Christmas song.

Christmas songs annoy me - for personal reasons. But, there is one that Ifind entertaining and will actually sing along with because it is silly - Santa Baby.

8. What's on your wish list for your birthday?

Another Rhinebeck jaunt, but a full weekend spent with my Ravelry and blogging friends!

9. Can you do push ups?

Um...well...I used to.

10. Can you do a chin up?

Um...well...I used to.

11. Does the future make you more nervous or excited?

I'm with Becca on this one...Yes!

12. Do you have any saved texts?

Nope. Should I?

13. Ever been in a car wreck?

Yes.

14. Do you have an accent?

When I want to. Which one should I use today?

15. What is the last song to make you cry?

I don't remember. If you asked about a book or a movie I could tell you, but song?

16. Plans tonight?

Preparing and awesome dinner and curling up with a new project - the Madli shawl.

17. Have you ever felt like you hit rock bottom?

Too many times to count. But the climb back up is always good for a laugh or two.

18. Name 3 things you bought yesterday.

Tofu from Han's Asian Market.

A victorian, rustic looking cat thingy for my stairway from the Regional Market in Syracuse.

A really cool bag/purse for Hija Segunda's box.

19) Have you ever been given roses?

Of course, but I would rather get the rose bush to plant in my yard.

20) Current worry?

Did you read the one above. I think that is enough to worry about right now, don't you? Heck, worrying never got anyone anywhere but stressed. Life is a box of chocolates. Don't worry about the filling. Just enjoy it!

21. Current hate right now?

I am going to change that to dislike.

Don't really "Hate" anything or anyone.

Really.

But, dislike?

That is a different story.

Currently I dislike getting older.

Aging sucks.

And gravity.

Gravity is not my friend.

Used to think so.

But now I know that it never was.

It was just something that hung around waiting to be noticed.

Like Now!

22. Met someone who changed your life?

A few that come to mind, both good and not so good.

Becca would be one of them (good).

I want to be her in my next life.

My 10th grad history teacher (good).

My children - when I met each one of them on their first day of life they changed my life profoundly for the good!

I won't mention the ones that didn't provide any postitive change.

They know who they are.

23. How will you bring in the New Year?

Laughter, food and wine.

Preparing cioppino.

Sharing said cioppino with friends.

24. What song represents you?

Life Is An Open Road by Cheryl Crow.

25. Name three people who might complete this?

Brigitte, at least I hope she will,

maybe Helen, please, please,

and, hopefully Michele cuz she is so funny.

26. What is something your friends make fun of you for?

I don't have any friends.

Oh, right, not true.

They don't make fun of me because I am so perfect.

But my boyfriend, husband, best friend at the moment makes fun of me because I like to make everthingj. Yes, everything, mayo, mustard, bread, pasta, clothing, everything.

He says I need to get a life.

I say it is fun and saves money so I can get a life!

If you want to play along too, just cut and paste to your blog, but please link back to mine. Please.

Creative or Just Bored?

2009-02-25T12:07:00.003-05:00

Today has been a day of song and dance. Am I creative or just bored?
Let me explain.
As soon as I woke up this morning, my mind was full of song. It had to come out!
I sang good morning to Jack who looked at me as if I had lost my mind.
I sang good morning to Hijo Segundo who responded, much to my delight, in kind.
The dogs? With tails wagging and hearts bubbling.
Every word that has come out of my mouth today has been song.
Seriously!

Then, when I turned on Pandora for my morning chore-time entertainment, Cheryl Crow was there. That is all it took. The dancing began!
Today has been dubbed the annual, or maybe more often, Dance To Cheryl Crow day. Every song by this artist has resulted in dance.
Dancing up and down the stairs.
Dancing with a cat in my arms. (he wasn't thrilled)
Dancing with a dog at my feet.
Dancing while preparing today's loaf of bread.
Dancing, dancing, dancing.

So, you tell me. Am I creative or just bored?

Stealth Knitting (Oblique)

2009-02-13T15:39:00.004-05:00

A close up of some knitting that has occurred around here. I am now working on one of the sleeves, having finished both fronts and the back. Soon a sweater? Maybe?

In addition to that little piece of work that is driving me nuts, is the beginning of a baby blanket for the future grandchild - hereinafter dubbed Valley of the Moon Unit Habecker - yes G, Valley of the Moon Unit.

These 2 items have been getting my undivided attention for a couple of reasons. 1) Oblique was supposed to be a Christmas present and is just a tad late. and 2) Valley of the Moon Unit is due in July and I want to make sure there is something to keep VMU warm or rather off the floor.

Yes, I do knit. It is just secret!

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-12T15:51:00.000-05:00

My Bad...My So Very Bad

2009-02-12T09:56:00.002-05:00

Yesterday the Boyfriend took the day off.
We went for a drive.
I didn't bring my camera.
We saw this!
Waterfall!!!
I didn't brint my camera!
My Bad...
My So Very Bad!!!

A New Book!

2009-02-10T12:05:00.004-05:00

I have been looking for this book. Searching high and searching low.
Mysteriously, it seems to zero out between the time I see the book in stock and grab my plastic to purchase it.
But this time I was smarter that the average shopper. I grabbed my plastic before I went to look for it!
Yesss!!!
Success!!
Amazon had it in stock and one of the copies is mine!
All mine!
Now I have another great mail day to look forward too.

On a Scale of 1 to 10...9.5

2009-02-09T13:05:00.002-05:00

Today was a really good mail day. Last Friday, I think it was anyway, I ordered a few patterns from The Yarn Grove They got here so fast! Unbelievably fast!

What did I order, you ask. I have been itching to knit some baby items for Hija Primera's first child, due in July. A few years ago, when I first saw this pattern, I wanted to make it so badly that I haven't been able to get it out of my mind. So cute! And, while looking at the pattern offerings at The Grove, I came across this little baby blanket. Now they are both in my possession and the yarn must be ordered! Stat!

I have decided on the Longmeadow yarn from Webs for the JellyBean suit. For the Blanket, I am going to use Knit Picks Crayon yarn for the blankie because it is so soft and cuddly, like a teddy bear.

Now, not to be the sort of person that thinks only of the little ones, I purchased another fun pattern for the big girls. This one by Bev Galeskas for a pair of Alpine Boot Slippers. These may turn out to be Christmas gift for the coming season. Just love the tacky fun fur. Should make everyone happy.

Yes, today was a great mail day. On a scale of 1 to 10, I would have to give it a 9.5. Why not a 10? Cuz the mailman didn't see fit to gift me the yarn with which to make any of the patterns!

What Have I Done?

2009-02-05T16:45:00.003-05:00

Swiped, nicked, stole, borrowed, took this list from my friend At The Pace of a Snail
She says to highlight the things you have done in bold type and italicize the ones you hope to do in the future, leaving the rest alone. So here goes...
Afghan (great winter knitting)
I-cord
Garter stitch
Shawl
Stockinette stitch
Socks: top-down
Socks: toe-up
Mittens: Cuff down
Mittens: Tip-up
Knitting with camel yarn
Hats: Top-down
Hats: Cuff-up
Knitting with silk
Moebius band knitting
Knitting with wire
Participate in a KAL
Sweater
Drop Stitch Pattern
Knitting with recycled/secondhand yarn (haven't found any that I would consider recycling)
Slip stitch patterns
Knitting with banana fiber yarn
Twisted stitch patterns
Two end knitting
Domino Knitting
Knitting with bamboo yarn
Charity Knitting
Knitting with soy yarn
Cardigan
Toy/doll clothing
Knitting with circular needles
Baby items
Knit with my own hand-spun yarn
Slippers
Graffiti knitting
Continental knitting
Combination Knitting
Designing knitted garments
Cable stitch patterns
Lace patterns
Publishing a knitting book (too much effort! LOL)
Participate in an exchange
Scarf
Teach a child to knit (every knitter should)
American/English knitting
Knitting to make money
Fair Isle
Buttonholes
Knitting with alpaca
Norwegian Knitting
Dyeing spinning fiber
Dyeing with plant colors
Knitting items for a wedding
Household items (a couple of dish towels out of sheer boredom!)
Knit with someone else's hand-spun yarn (Why?)
Knitting socks (or other small tubular items) on one or two circulars (yuck!)
Knitting with dpns
Holiday related knitting (do gifts count?)
Teaching a guy to knit (why not?)
Bobbles
Tassels
Knitting for a living
Knit smocking
Steeks
Knitting art
Knitting with cotton
Dying yarn
Fulling/felting
Knitting with wool
Textured knitting
Kitchener stitch
Knitted flowers
Purses/bags
Knitting with beads
Swatching
Long Tail CO
Entrelac
Knitting and purling backwards
Machine knitting
Stuffed Toys
Knitting with self patterning/self striping/variegated yarn
Knitting with cashmere
Darning
Jewelry
Write a pattern
Knitting with synthetic yarn
Gloves
Intarsia (didn't enjoy it much)
Knit with linen
Knitting for preemies
Pillows
Tubular CO
Free-form knitting
Short rows
Cuffs/fingerless mits/arm-warmers
Knitting a pattern from an on-line knitting magazine
Rug
Knitting on a loom
Thrummed knitting
Knitting a gift
Knitting for pets
Knitting with dog/cat hair
Shrug/bolero/poncho (and never want to!)
Hair accessories
Knitting in public

When I first started this, I thought it might reveal something. What? I don't know, maybe some deep, hidden secret that I didn't even know about myself. It turned out to be not as interesting as I thought. Well, at least now I can see that I have knit most of the things I have wanted to.

2009-02-05T08:21:00.002-05:00

Today, my friend over at My Middle Name told everyone about Save the Words.

I adopted a poor word that seems to suit so many - Uglyography.
This poor word seems to have fallen out of use. Wonder why. Anyway, I adopted it and will use it in conversation whenever possible.

Because of computers, my uglyography is a deep dark secret that I don't often share.

Please go to Save the Words, give it time to load, and adopt a word for yourself.

My Day Has Begun

2009-02-05T07:33:00.003-05:00

This morning started like every other morning. Alarm went off, I hit snooze - lather, rinse, repeat. Finally, after playing the snooze button dance for about 20 minutes, I rolled out of bed.

Slippers on my feet, eyes open just enough to see, I staggered down the stairs.

The dogs greeted me excitedly; not so much in delight, but with the urgent need to get out the back door to take care of doggie business. Out the door we went, into the frigid cold (-9 degrees Fahrenheit!) that has been sitting over us for the past couple of days. Thank goodness they were quick!

The cold was the shock it took to truly awaken my system - sense of humor first. All of the sudden, everything was funny! My coffee grinder didn't want to grind my coffee. I laughed and called it names. I sang to my darling "Miss Sylvia" as she dispensed my morning espresso. The banter between my son and I was in my favor, so quick was my wit this morning. The dogs each got a song, freshly composed, about their life abilities and prowess at nothing.

And then, the birds at the feeding station began to sing. All winter long they have silently partaken of the bounty provided. This silence broken only with the occasional scolding from a little chickadee. But this morning, the cardinals were chatty, the chickadee couldn't silence their conversation. The male goldfinch, just coming into color, was obviously practicing for some opera and the scolding chickadee couldn't silence his aria. And my favorite, the diminutive little titmouse (visions of tiny mouse breasts run through my head) with his large voice, calling out to the sun as it rises and spreads its little bit of winter warmth across the yard. They must be feeling spring in this cold that blankets us. Their joy must be a sign of spring just around the corner.

It is now silent. Hijo Segundo is gone for his day of learning and friends, the Boyfriend is working to provide me with money to spend, and I am sitting here at my computer surrounded by dogs and one lone little cat, sharing my thoughts, as silly as they are, with the cyber world. My day has begun.

Remember Me?

2009-01-29T13:59:00.005-05:00

My daughter just sent me this and I had to share this little bit from the late Charles M. Schultz. I had to share not only because he was a great cartoonist. I had to share not only because he was a wonderful person who could explore the inner workings of the human condition in a non-threatening way. I had to share because we could all use a little Charlie Brown in our lives.
The following is only one of the philosophies of Charles M. Schultz. We all know him as the creator of the timeless "Peanuts" comic strip.
You don't have to actually answer the questions. Just read them straight through and you will get the point.

Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.
Name the last five winners of the Miss America pageant.
Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer prize.
Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.
Name the last decade's worth of World Series winners.

How did you do?

The point is, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday. These are no second-rate achievers. They are the best in their fields.
Applause dies.
Awards tarnish.
Achievements are forgotten.
Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

Now, here is another quiz...See how you do on this one:

List 2 teacher who aided your journey through school.
Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.
Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.
Think of four people who have made you feel appreciated and special.
Name 5 people you enjoy spending time with.

Easier?

The lesson:
The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They are the ones that care.

Pass this on to those people who have made a difference in your life.

And
"Don't worry about the world coming to an end today. It is already tomorrow in Austalia!"
Charles M. Schultz
26 November 1922 - 12 February 2000
We miss you.

Adventure Interrupted

2009-01-29T11:27:00.004-05:00

Well, my little ski adventure for the day was short-lived.

It began just fine. The snow was fresh, the air crisp, the sun bright. Boots placed securely in bindings, I struck out across the green to the church yard and the trails beyond.
Got to the other side of the church and prepared for my first run down the hill.
I began to execute my first telemark, when, much to my surprise, I caught my tip in some deep powder and took a spill.
That part wasn't so bad, it was kind of a swan dive type of maneuver. Arms outspread, amazed expression on my face, forward momentum carrying me face first into the snow.
Very graceful.
Very avant garde!
Very deja' vu of the stairway luge incident.
I would have given myself about a 9.5 for technique and a 10 for execution.
But, somewhere between take off and landing, my binding broke!
Had to walk home.
That part sucked!
Here I am, covered in snow from head to toe, poles in one hand, skis in the other, walking down the side of the road because the snow is too deep to skulk and sneak around the back of the church, away from passers by!
How can one maintain an air of artistic athleticism when the evidence of a dive is covering their person? A snow covered Dale sweater isn't good for the image!
Oh well. Even the professionals take a spill now and again. And, maybe it was the broken binding that caused the spill and not the other way around! Sure...
Gotta go get the bindings fixed and that can't be done til tonight.
Until then, I will contemplate my technique and visualize perfection.

2009-01-29T09:37:00.003-05:00

Today I am going to do a bit of work on my technique. There is a great hill, just before the meadow that will provide practice with Telemark turns. Watching those types of turns executed well always makes me giggle. Watch this:

Today I practice this and take pics of the canal path. Wish there was a friend with a video camera to catch my poor technique on film.

Chenango Canal: part I

2009-01-28T14:49:00.003-05:00

I just got back from a beautiful ski along the old Chenango Canal tow path. This canal ran from the Erie Canal in Utica, south to Binghamton, NY. There is only a small portion (3 miles or so) cleared in the Clinton area. My discovery of the tow path today was wonderful. Tomorrow I will take my camera and get some pictures of this little known but beautiful area.

Not Like Riding a Bike

2009-01-20T11:48:00.004-05:00

Picked up the skis yesterday. As soon as we got home, I went out the back door, put them on and realized - skiing isn't like riding a bike. You do forget the body position and the finer points of staying upright.
This is driving me nuts! I mean, I can still ride a bike after years of not being on one. Cryminee! I can still ride a unicycle for Pete's sake. Yes, really, a unicycle.
But ski? Huh! I am still creeping around the back yard trying to regain the confidence to move! Snow shoes would get me from point A to point B faster.
Right now, I am working in the back yard trying to recapture the knowledge of the skating technique that propels the skier across flat open spaces and groomed flat trails. The new skis and boots intended to make the movement easier on the skier is driving me nuts. The last time I owned skis, your boots were more or less riveted to the ski. These bindings allow for a more natural walking movement. It will take some getting used to. So for now, I am sticking close to home, away from traffic and remembering that yes, one day long ago, I did take my first step.

Knitting Success, Knitting...Oh Fer Pete's Sake!

2009-01-16T13:15:00.009-05:00

I have been knitting.
Really.
Just not so fast that you could tell.
Today I was going to post all my knitting successes and brag a bit. But the reality is that I just can't. I will show you the current progress and one tiny FO, the first of 2009.
First, the stalled Amhra'n Gra'.

I had high hopes for this sweater as a Yule gift for Hijo Segundo. And then, one day, he comes in to find me perusing sweater patterns and states:
"I'm not really into sweaters Mom. You don't have to make one for me. I would rather have socks or a scarf."
"HUH?!" I said to myself.
And the sweater began to languish. It is still going to be finished though.
The photo is where I was the day that bit of information came my way.

My small success came in the form of these newly designed little cuties. They are a new Emma's Daughter Design and will be in a series called Twinkle Toes, booties and socks for preemies and newborns. This is the first set and is currently under test and rewrite. They are so tiny that it takes only an hour or so to knit one! Fun stuff and small successes count. Right? With help from a marvelous group of women from Ravelry this pattern is getting finished so fast that my head is spinning. That group consists of the wonderful Krafty Anne, the amazing Doodler, the kind Nanarector, and last, but not least, the blogless yet amazing Nathalie, Sunniann and Miolulu.
The next little project that was so exciting for me to finish was for my dear friend Becca, who is still Unpublished by the way. I was getting ready to place them in an envelope and mail them to her when I thought to try them on for a picture. Oops...unless she has 2 right hands, this is just not going to work! Last time I saw her, she seemed to have both thumbs in the proper locations. I laughed, cussed, tried them on again to see if I was somehow mistaken with the positioning of the offending manual appendages only to discover that I was right. They were wrong. Now I have to make another one for the proper hand and probably another one for the proper hand again so I can have a pair too! Sorry Becca, they are going to take a while longer.
Knowing of my dismay and disappointment, the kindly Clinton mailman brought me a consolation prize though!
A while ago I ordered this gorgeous yarn in a kit. A Colinette Afghan kit.
A few years ago I made one for Hija Primera. Not the same pattern or colorway, but a Colinette kit. It was such fun to work and kept me warm while knitting. It was a Yule gift to her.
Since that time I have wanted one of my very own.
One day, while surfing around, looking for Wendy Peter Pan yarn, I stumbled into Wool Needlework. The Colinette brand, floating in the sidebar, caught my eye and I was a gonner. The kit is called Perugino and the colorway is Ginger Nut. It is perfect for my newly painted and decorated parlor! Can't wait to start it.

But you all know what I must do first. That is right, fix the mitten!