Off the needles

Yay my contribution to the Red Scarf Project is done! And washed and ready to go in the mail Wednesday. It's even a bit longer than it needed to be. Oh and did I mention that it's finished? Y'all sometimes it takes me so long to get something knit that I figure there's no point in even talking about it. But this month I've knit 3 scarves and a pair of house socks. I'm so jazzed!
I loved knitting this scarf and hopefully will do more of them without a deadline LOL.

Specs: Bernat Softee Chunky (acrylic cause my town doesn't have wool)
Pattern: Cookie's Mistake Rib. I know there are lots of Mistake Ribs out there, but Cookie helped me understand something so to me, it will always be hers.

This is my attempt at artistic knit photography. Ok, so I don't exactly know how to stage photos or whatever you call it. But you also get to see my Christmas clock, made from scratch (well except for the clockworks) by 2 of my FOC. It chimes and everything. And tomorrow a friend is going to come over and get it hung on my wall. I figure if it comes crashing down, it won't be my fault.

I loved knitting this scarf and hopefully will do more of them without a deadline LOL.

Specs: Bernat Softee Chunky (acrylic cause my town doesn't have wool)
Pattern: Cookie's Mistake Rib. I know there are lots of Mistake Ribs out there, but Cookie helped me understand something so to me, it will always be hers.

I went to down the street to my friend Mac's for snacks but came home early. It was a very low key gathering. In fact, part of my time was spent looking up the addy to mail the scarf because Norma's site has a tendency to lock up my browser. And I really wanted to get home to my needles. That's just sick *L* Is it bedtime yet??

Not only bills

arrived in my mail yesterday. Oh there were plenty of them. It's the utility time of the month here on the prairie. I did wonder though why the mail guy knocked on the door briefly after putting it all in the box. Maybe because he was running way late? At any rate, I was busy eating pizza so I collected it and just put it on the dining room table. Last night, as I was going to bed, I thought I'd better put them it all in the bill drawer and I would sort out the credit card apps etc today. However, as I moved it I realized there was something lumpy in there. Hmmm...a small, very fat envelope from Pat Winter. Look what it was! In real life, when the light shines through the goldy bead in the middle and the beach glass, the colors appear lighter but this was the best I could do with the scanner and Picasa so that you could read the words on the little card. And it matches the colors in my goodie packet that I received from her earlier..teal and terra cotta. At the very top just before the clasp, there is a little silver oval disc. I could tell there was writing but it took some serious concentration and a big magnifier to find that it said "Made With Love" This will soon find it's home on my embroidery scissors. And, maybe when I reach in my stitching box, I'll actually find them *G*

Thanks Pat!!! You're truly a wonder. You create such beauty and are so very kind. And you've really added a lot to my year.

Dreary Sky

So this is my sky for today. It looks quite forboding but once thunderstorms passed through last night, it's just been gray and not really very cool. Feels more like very early spring. Which is just wrong!

At any rate, it's still a good day for sorting. Needles were on the sorting list as there were several that were just put in the odd box once projects were done. Someday I will learn why two different needle gauges have different sized holes. Or why a #2 from one manufacturer is really a bit different that a #2 from another. That aside, it's always good to have help with such a project and you can only be ever so happy that the needle that found itself in a taste test was made of metal! And no comments about my sophisticated needle bags. I'm not sure how I survived before someone invented Ziploc bags. And geez, when they came out with the really big ones I knew I was living right *G*

And to counteract the gray skies, I'll add this bit of brightness.
And look at all the buds!

Merry Christmas!

Finally! All the preparations are over, at least here since no way am I cooking! The kitties and doggie have had their Christmas breakfasts (with just a few little snarls as everyone wanted to eat everyone else's food. No clue why, it was all the same) The Girl wore her hat all evening but it really is too big. It fits her brother much better. And he cornered me in the hall to let me know that he didn't realize I could do THAT, and ummm did I ever make hats for guys? In maybe a brown with stripes (since I vetoed black immediately) *G*

The Red Scarf project is growing quickly thanks to Cookie and the Broken Rib pattern, and that's a good thing since I think it'd due January 1st. Right? Of course, I have no idea what I am supposed to do with it once it's complete. Help?

I have a new coffeepot and IT DOESN'T LEAK ALL OVER THE COUNTER! How cool is that? And soon I will have a soaky bath with new soap. Yay me!

I sometimes have to sort of force Christmas Spirit. I tend to get overly sentimental and wish for people no longer in my life but this year has been a truly good one because of all of you. You brighten my days...make me laugh...make me think...make me worry sometimes. So to all of you...some I've actually met. Some I've seen you in a pic. Some I have no idea what you look like but I've learned to know your heart. And it's all good. So here ya go.

Need a Break?

I was going to have knitting content, but The Girl came down last evening and we spent a lot of time being silly and giggling. Then, I took her home and more giggling occured. Not productive but ever so much fun.

And, I got to meet The Boy's girlfriend. She's cute and nice and I think he needs to stay with her forever (you'll see why in a minute) but since he is 16 that's doubtful. He got and gave her an iPod for Christmas. A pink one. They were loading it and when I walked in to see them he held it up. I was being silly and said "Oh...thank you! I've wanted one for so long" and when he said it was hers I tried a guilt thing saying "But I've loved you longer than she's even known you and I really, really want one" We laughed and kidded a bit and I left the room. And I was told she said something like "You really should have got it for her. I could have waited." Yep...a keeper for sure!

OK...so probably you're all really busy..or not. Want to waste some time?

These were borrowed from Laura..

You Are 54% American

Most times you are proud to be an American. Though sometimes the good ole US of A makes you cringe Still, you know there's no place better suited to be your home. You love your freedom and no one's going to take it away from you!

How American Are You?

You Belong in Australia

Ace! Sunny, upbeat, and cute You make the perfect surf bum Now stop hogging the vegemite!

What English Speaking Country Are You?

And this one came from Paul

My Peculiar Aristocratic Title is: Her Grace Lady Susan the Idle of London by the Bow Get your Peculiar Aristocratic Title

Can I be idle in Australia??? And now for a little gift..

My Fortune Cookie told me: Is that a mongoose in your beak, or are you just talking? Get a cookie from Miss Fortune

That wasn't even nice! *G*

Who Am I????

Dismaltroll Crankyfoot.

I found it here

Sugarplums?

ok...gumdrops. But hooray, my camera apparently fell out of my bag and was in my drawer at work. So..here is one of the 2 gumdrop wreaths. Next year I shall start looking for big gumdrops earlier in the year. I'm wondering how they will decay. Or will they? Will it be like the Twinkie that never dies? My boss and my coworker in cubbie land and I decided to not give each other gifts this year since we were all sorta overextended. Which, in a way, was a shame. Since I talk with them each and every day, I know them much better than some in my FOC. It was doomed though because we just couldn't help it. But the gifts were small ones...new pencils (which I love!), little candles, etc. So these wreaths worked well for that. They were small and fun and, well, there ya go.

And, just in case you didn't think the holidays were tiring, take a look at this. Zoey opened a present last night. Nope, wasn't hers. Didn't smell good. Wasn't edible. Why would this normally reserved/boring dog want to open a ceramic spoon rest???? But it was ever so tiring. Or perhaps she was hoping I would think a cat had done it while she slept. Silly dog..I watched her doing it LOL She really doesn't know how to play and I've not succeeded in teaching her. The only thing that she does like to do besides suck up petting is to toss my houseshoes around and she delights in catnip mice! She tears them to shreds but has such a happy time doing it that you can't really be mad. Petsmart always sends her a certificate for a free birthday toy with a good $ limit and they usually get regifted after she looks at them incredulously. This year I got her a gingerbread cookie stuffie and it's resting in the Petsmart bag along with Cosmic Catnip for the cats. I'm hoping that at least it will smell enough like catnip to occupy her for a few moments Christmas morning. And...give the cats time with their mice before Zoey the Destroyer finds them. And no my whole world isn't beige but the color sucked so I changed it over to this.

And for real news, check this out! The December 22 post (in case she posts again before you get there) Our Mama Squid has been delighting me with tales of the knitting group that she facilitates at her school. After watching the evening news with stories of shootings and vandalism, it's ever so nice to read that her office became overfilled with student knitters and they ended up in the hall and, that now the young knitters are helping to teach the newcomers. And that part of the reason for the group is to knit squares for blankets that will warm others. I heartily believe in paying it forward and I've been blessed by so many so it's fun that I can help with this. And, at the same time, find a good home for those needles that are languishing in the drawer since I've finally discovered which needles work best for me. And my rather unglamorous stash will be tackled also. No Koigu kids, sorry!

If you don't know Mama Squid and don't feel comfortable with mailing things to a stranger, she provides a link to the school so packages can be sent directly. Which also will mean that she doesn't have to wrestle a bunch of packages through the streets of NYC.

I know that the holidays are a really busy time, so keep this at least in your brain for afterwards. And hey, if you are really busy and it takes you a while to read this...the need continues.

Let's help these young knitters! Some day they may be knitting a charity lap robe for YOU when you're old. Or in my case, they need to hurry LOL

And a note to Cookie: I really did try but I couldn't find a permalink thingy there. If you know where it is, tell me and I'll edit.

And another note to Cookie: Yup...that worked! Thanks

Thanks y'all!

Fun Day

Today we had our Christmas party at work. It was way fun and enough food that we'll have lunch tomorrow too. This year, as last year, we bought Christmas oven mitts and everyone took one and filled it with up to $10 worth of junk. Dollar Tree is our friend. It just seems silly to have an exchange that costs more than that. I got a garland, and lotion and a candle and a new pencil and other fun stuff. And...now I have 2 oven mitts so I can actually lift something heavy and not burn my hands. Not that I'm planning on cooking or anything *G*

Then, I left early and drove to the City to get copies of the lost paperwork. Only cost me $2 plus a coin for the parking meter. I parked a ways away and enjoyed walking to the courthouse. I used to work in downtown Oklahoma City and knew where and what everything was, but it's changed a bunch. I shall have to go back when I don't have to hurry. And when it's a wee bit warmer. The wind really blows around the tall buildings.

Stopped at Hobby Lobby on the way home for just 2 things but came out with a sackful of stuff. It seems that they are already taking Christmas down. Where there were Christmas crafty things last week, there are now sand buckets and sun umbrellas. And...everything was 1/2 off.

Oh but wait. Earlier in the day, I had to run home for something I'd forgotten for the party and there was a package from Sara in my mailbox. What a surprise! I took it back to work to open it. My friend Jackie that works right by me is totally fascinated that I get packages in the mail. Even when it's stuff I order. And she really thinks it odd/weird/cool that I get packages from friends I've never seen. She just doesn't quite understand all this blog stuff. So the package delighted both of us.

And..then finally I got home and made some little gumdrop wreaths. I would show you but apparently and hopefully the camera is at work. (I think I am losing my mind too! :-0 )Jackie will get one, and my boss the other one. And probably in a couple of days they'll shrivel up and they can toss them and not have to worry about dusting them. Can't beat a deal like that!

Everyone's Confused!

I'm not the only one. Last Sunday I ordered 2 books and a calendar from Barnes and Noble online. (Couldn't let that big percent off coupon go to waste!) Tuesday I got an email from them saying that one book and the calendar had been shipped and that I had chosen expedited shipping. I don't think I did, but they didn't charge for it so ok. However, they weren't able to ship one of the books just yet. None of this was Christmas stuff so that's ok but it made me laugh. The title of the book is Folk Shawls, and it was ordered because I fell in love with the wool peddlar shawl that Kirsten made for her mom. (I don't know how to link to just one post but it's maybe the 3rd one down from the current post). "Uh huh", I thought. "Everyone is ordering that book because of her!"

So yesterday I get an email from them that Folk Shawls has now been shipped and that today I can click the link to see when it will arrive.

I get home from work and there are two book packages on the porch. How odd? They shipped that little mini calendar in it's own package? Oh well, it's their dime. I open one...it's the other book AND the calendar. I open the other package and it's Folk Shawls! Dang, it's here even before the arrival date has been posted on the UPS site! Now that's fast! I browsed through the book quickly and it looks great! I really can't see me flitting around daintily with a really lacy shawl, although I wish I could present that image. But the Wool Peddler is a bit more substantial and I love it. Now to save up for the yarn!

I didn't head to the City for the paperwork, but I called and they said they would hold it for a week or two so maybe today I can get over there. I had a Dr. appt for a bit of simple in-office surgery. Ha..that sounds a lot more serious than it was. Just some skin stuff. But I'd been told to do it at the end of the day. I'm not sure why. The multiple bandaids were more uncomfortable than the procedure. Yay. Now that's off the list too!

Left there and went to Walmart for gumdrops. I had seen these really cute gum drop wreaths (again scroll down) over at one of my favorite eye candy sites and I wanted to make mini ones for my office buddies. Easy project and only need 2 of them. So what did I do last night?

Slept! I came in still jazzed with the idea. Made a quick supper of oatmeal. Peeled off the bandaids. And suddenly was sooooooooooooooo sleepy and tired that I thought I would just tump over. Curled up on the love seat for a short nap and awakened a little after 9 pm! So much for a crafty evening. Instead, I casted on for Cookie's Mistake Rib, knitted maybe 2 inches in bulky yarn LOL and went to bed. I did try to see how I held the needles and I think I hold my arms out away from me, rather than up close like with the dpns. Maybe that's the clue. And maybe tonight I can make a couple of little wreaths. I can only hope. I'm not sure that a sugar plum wreath (and just what ARE sugar plums) would be appropriate for New Years.

A Night Without a List and a Mystery.

What a strange evening! For the first time in I can't remember how long, there was nothing on the dry erase board that needed to be done. And...apparently without a list, I don't function too well. LOL. It was an evening when I could just do whatever I wanted to do, and I couldn't think of a darn thing. So I just sort of bounced around from one thing to another. Dug out the Red Scarf that needs to be finished and frogged the whole thing. What WAS I thinking? I guess I know what's going to be on my list for the next evenings.

Still haven't found the paperwork. But I did find out I can get a copy of it...in Oklahoma City. So mid-morning yesterday I took off work and zipped over there. Yes, I can get it, but it is stored in some off-site facility so it won't be available until *maybe* after lunch today. But today I have a Dr. appt that can't be rescheduled (trying to get stuff done before a new year starts and the deductible once again has to be met). So, I'll call them and see if I can pick it up tomorrow. :::crossing fingers:::

And now for the mystery. When I was knitting the Christmas scarves, I noticed that quite often, after a while my right wrist would start to ache badly. I thought perhaps it was the larger needles. So last night, while banging around here, I casted on a nothing piece using the leftover worsted sock stuff and circs...but in the same size. And, yes my arm started to ache. It never did that when I was knitting the socks even though the needles were the same size. And with dpns, it doesn't seem to matter whether they are bamboo or metal. So, apparently, I hold the circs differently. And I always knit Continental style. Hey, I just thought of something else. Before I got the Knit Pics circs (with all the wonderful sizes) if I needed straight needles I just put one of those rubber stopper things on the ends of 2 dpns because I didn't ever seem to have the right size straight needle. Hmmm. Ohhh something to put on the list.

1. Knit with circs.
2. Pay attention and figure out what I'm doing wrong.

OK...I feel better already with a list *G*
List or not, I hope your day is everything you want...and more!

Done.

The gifty socks said they would be willing to pose briefly on my feet for a pic. They're going to be washed anyway. I sure hope they fit her. If not, maybe she'll give them back. By the way, I still hate Kitchener.

And then feeling all clever because they were done, I started on a search for a piece of paperwork that I really really need. I'm not sure why I had "owner's manuals" for radios that have been gone for years, insurance policies (from work) that have been replaced by other companies multiple times...but can I find what I need? Nope. I really thought it was in the safe deposit box. In my mind, I can see the envelope it's in, but it seems to have fallen into a black hole. :::sigh:::

Beads for Birthdays

Before knitting took over my brain I used to lurk over at a Delphi forum called All About Beads. The folks there did incredible work and I was in so in awe that I rarely said anything. But I liked to participate in bead swaps and ATC swaps. The last two years I have signed up for a thing called Beads for Birthdays...a secret pal thingy. Well, I haven't been there hardly at all in a long time and had really forgotten that I'd signed up (my pal was in January so my part was over about the time it began for this year LOL). Until a box of goodies arrived yesterday. Look at all the loot. Did I score or what? I have no idea who my pal was since the tricker put MY return address on the box and the postage sticker was smeared. She shall remain a secret I guess.

In other exciting news from the homefront, it appears that my Christmas cactus will be blooming at Christmas! I've had this thing for years, and except for the Christmas I bought it, I believe this is the first time it's bloomed at the right time. AND, I lack the toes on the second Christmas gift housesock. Well, I haven't kitchenered the first one yet. Saving the joy, ya know! *G*

Saturday Sky

Sky seen above one of the buildings downtown. It's just crazy outside. 74 degrees! That's so wrong but it did make it possible to have the storm doors open and get new air in the house. Zoey and I celebrated the fact that I'd finally resurrected the dining room table by going out for a little ride in the car. Poor table has been buried under wrapping paper and odd boxes, and stuff that needed to be wrapped but that's all done now and I'm ever so glad.

5 Things

I've been tagged by Devorah and Cat for the 5 Things You Don't Know About Me meme but you still only get 5.

1. In genetic circles, I'm known as a Fresh Mutant. I even, at one time, had a tshirt that said that. I wasn't aware of this until I was past 30, but it made me cry as it explained a lot and also made me know that for a fresh mutant...I was just right.

2. I've spent time in prison....but only as a visitor. It wasn't fun and I don't recommend it as a trip of choice. But ya learn a lot.

3. If I had a physical wish, it would be that I either could snow ski or tap dance. Being somewhat (?) klutzy, that will probably remain a wish. *G*

4. If you want to see me run, just say "We need to talk" because in my experience that means you are in a shitload of trouble.

5. I'm afraid of heights that don't have a stable thing like a railing, and rats. So, I'm thinking if I was on a roof with a rat I would really be in bad trouble.

Dang near everyone I know has already been tagged, but if you are reading this and want to play be sure and let me know so I can go read yours!

Birthday Goodies

It was a really fun day at work. I got some great gifts! New little coffee plaques for my kitchen. And coffee too! A new pj set that has pants, top and a cami and they even fit. New houseshoes. You might think they know I love my nightclothes LOL. A new pic of The Girl and she's bottle feeding a baby tiger (at the fair). And two boxes of cereal. What, you don't know that folks get cereal for their birthday? *G*. Last year I got laundry soap, but I'm well stocked on that thanks to a sale so it's cereal.

I solicited hugs all day and got them too! And the actual work went well and productively. I did have to spend some time writing Christmas cards to the other dept. And had fun doing that since I tried to think of a little joke or snarky comment for each of them.

And then, once supper was over, dish washed (gotta love microwave cooking) and the pets tended to, well then I did nothing. That's not really true, but I did no chores, paid no bills etc. I got to talk and laugh with Ann on the phone. It was our first time and it's such fun to put a voice with words on a screen. And I knitted on the house socks which is going so well and fast. I think I need to make me some boot socks. It's nice to have them appear so rapidly with the worsted weight yarn. And I watched a new to me tv show called Men In Trees. I thought it was going to be more like Northern Exposure (I have this thing about Alaska). Last night's episode seemed to be mostly about sex LOL.

All in all, I can't complain..it was a very good birthday made even brighter by the wishes from y'all. I'm not sure, but I think my coworker thinks all this online friends thing is a bit insane. She is sooooooooo wrong!

It's my very own day!

Happy Birthday to me, Happy Birthday to me, Happy Birthday dear Susan, Happy Birthday to me.

Well not quite yet, but who cares about the exact hour (other than my mom who I'm sure wish it had happened early that morning)

Unlike some, I really really love my birthday. Sure yeah, I got older. But...I'm still here! And still having fun most of the time. There is a bit of disappointment in that I thought I'd be living a life of leisure by the time I reached this day. I also, when I was much much younger, thought I would be living in NYC, a published mystery author, or a neurosurgeon, or a mother with 2 1/2 children (who would, by now, have produced 5 1/2 kids) and a picket fence, or maybe the stoned sage of a large commune LOL. Just a tiny bit of that happened and no....I don't have any scheduled surgeries today LOL. All the things that did or didn't happen have made me what I am today and I really enjoy living with this self so all is good.

I don't ask off on my birthday because that would mean I wouldn't get to be at work with everyone saying "Happy Birthday! Now, can you do ____ for me. I need it really soon." *G*

Usually my office coworkers and I go out to lunch for whoever's birthday but they are on serious diets so that's out. I hear I get to have a personal pan pizza! That's ok with me, I'm going to have the 'supreme'. And I won't answer the phone while I'm savoring every bite! So there!

I had it all planned out that I was going to share a birthday card that I bought for myself several years ago with a great poem by Maya Angelou. However...........I can't remember where it is. Hahahahaha oh well...it's still good!

ATTENTION

I'm sorry...I left the link at work, but in the new Knitty there is an article about hand dyed yarn and indie dyers and...Dave and Scout are featured along with some folks I didn't know. It's a great article and I was so impressed. I printed it out on my local printer so I could keep the color and it's rather noisy and slow so people tend to come see what I'm doing. And I just had to tell them about my friends being featured in this article. Ok, so I don't really know Scout but she was a Dye Momma and I love reading her blog at workand she is friends with Cookie. Someday I'll take my computer to the doctor and find out why her site and Knitty crash my browser. And hey, maybe even get it to play sounds! But I digress. Go to Knitty and read!

National Cocoa Day

It's true...I read it on the web this morning. So I'll try to remember that until tonight and then can celebrate in a proper way!

Christmas is coming right along. All the mailable stuff is ready to go to the car and hopefully will find it's way to the post office soon. Or not. Somehow just getting it all boxed up made me think I was finished with that. And most of the cards are addressed. Some of them will find their way to the mail today for sure since they can go in the drop box. But some of them "require extra postage" but I have no idea how much. So that will have to be an inside the post office task.

I think all dog bones are baked. There are still packages to be wrapped and bones to be bagged for my local FOC but I have time to do that so I'm feeling much relieved.

I've started the last gift (and it doesn't have to be done on time). I'm making house socks out of Plymouth Jelli Beanz using #5 needles. It's 75% acrylic and 25% wool and is soooo soft and easy to knit. Short tops because I'm not quite sure how much a skein will make. One sock is ready for the foot and the other is ready for the heel to be turned. The one I'm using is a bright green with multi colored other stuff...blues, fushia, yellow in it. Very happy yarn and I think they are going to be quite comfy. No pics yet. I need to get batteries for the camera (adding to list)

Oatmeal time now. Hope your day is just what you want it to be

I think I'm scared LOL

when I arrived here to post the little quiz below, it told me that the new version of Blogger was ready and I needed to sign in to use it. I'll have to be a bit more awake so I can remember my sign-in name, but what if I can't figure out how to use it? Does it come with directions?

My brain has been so scattered the last few days. I'm blaming it on too much to do when all I want to do is sit and knit and watch a movie. I 'think' all Christmas is here ready to be wrapped and in some cases mailed. It's not a huge Christmas this year at least in terms of money...it just couldn't be. And so it's taken more time to figure out just what to give. I'm not sure though exactly where it all is. I still have a couple of sewing projects to knock out (hopefully today..they aren't huge) I still need to bake several pans of BIG dog cookies. They're a lot faster to cut out etc, but it takes longer to make enough since not so many fit on the pan.

Yesterday I accomplished none of that. Instead I spent the day tidying the space, doing laundry and hopefully getting real life in a bit better shape. The best thing was some random thinking time. My head has been so full of "I need to do this. I need to do that. What was it I needed to do?"sorts of things that it has had no time to just wander around like it wanted to do. In the summer, mowing the yard is a good time for that. I've discovered that scrubbing the bathroom and kitchen is equally helpful.

Brain kicked in with a couple of questions that I need help with:
1. Anybody here have size 8 feet? If so, how long are they? Oh yes, I casted on the first of what I hope will be a pair of house socks for my friend Mac. I would like it to be a surprise, I would also like for them to fit.
2. If any of you fabric freaks ever see any fabric with little pink flamingos on it please tell me where you saw it, and if possible what fabric company has it. I tried Google but it wasn't a lot of help yesterday. No hurry...this isn't a Christmas thing.

So here's the test, which I found over at Sara's place..

What Kind of Reader Are You? Your Result: Dedicated Reader You are always trying to find the time to get back to your book. You are convinced that the world would be a much better place if only everyone read more.
Literate Good Citizen
Obsessive-Compulsive Bookworm
Book Snob
Fad Reader
Non-Reader
What Kind of Reader Are You? Create Your Own Quiz

Dave and Cookie...Hide Your Eyes

because look what I stumbled across this morning! A calendar of knitted kitchen and bath items! You can read about it here.

I want those red heart things. What could be better for a soaky bath slut like me?

Short post because I need my phone line. It's going to be a "Grown Up Day at the Mall" with my friend Mac...and she forgot to tell me what time we're leaving. I was ready an hour ago even though 6:52 AM sounds most unlikely. AND we are going to eat lunch at someplace that is NOT fast food. Could life be anymore exciting????

Well...I screwed up and posted this on Sunday Socks. But it took me awhile to figure that out and then it was time to leave.

Obviously now I'm back home. I had so much fun. I just love helping other people spend their money! I got a few things too but the best part was getting to go to the LYS and they had restocked on the 6" bamboo needles. A couple of mine had gone to bamboo heaven but now I'm back in gear.

We went to Gordman's and Target (got 2 new Christmas cds for $1 a piece..I do love those dollar aisles) and a huge Walmart and a mall. My favorite stop at the mall was Williams-Sonoma. I didn't buy anything but I got a free catalog. It's really kind of goofy since about all I cook is oatmeal but I just love that store.

Lunch was at Panera Bread (caesar salad and broccoli cheese soup yum) and I brought home a sticky bun for a bedtime snack. Is it bedtime yet?

On the porch when I got home was my package from Barnes and Noble. Christmas gifts for The Girl and her brother aka The Guy. And since I was good, Santa (yeah right) tucked in Ann Budd's Handy Book of Patterns and the book Dave recommended Knitting Handbook edited by Viv Foster. They both just look super and I'm thinking I'd better wrap them up quick and get them under the tree. I figure Zoey can give me Ms. Budd's book and the kitties can give me the other one. Right? Yes, I thought so.

So what did you do today?

One More Pic, and not much else

I've fully intended to post. Even had something to say, but the time flew by and now I can't remember what I felt so important *G*

Last night was going to be a night of sewing (definitely), maybe some knitting or maybe come card writing. However, when I got home I was just so cold. No real reason for it but it was one of those 'my bones are cold' times. So after I ate, I had a nice hot soak in the tub...read until the water started to cool and then felt much better. Still in my robe, I picked up the tv listings to see if there was anything call ing my name. Oh..on PBS they listed a program called Broadway, The Golden Age. I thought that might be fun and turned it on. Far from being fun, it was wonderful!!! Tons of old tape, and interviews with sooooo many people sharing their reminiscences. I can't imagine a time when everyone could afford to go to the theater, I thought it was always way expensive. If you like Broadway and you see this listing, tune in. It will be well worth your time!

Only problem with PBS is no commercials so I just sat entranced, wrapped up in my robe for the hour and a half it was on, only dashing to the kitchen once for tea. So, by now it's 8:30..still time to get a little something accomplished. Ummm but following the Broadway show was a special about Lucille Ball. I grew up with Lucy and remember quite well when Little Ricky was born. It was a wonderfully funny, and yet sad show and I'm not sorry I just remained curled up in my robe.

Now...one more snow picture. It's not the best photo but you can see how odd wind and snow can be. Fortunately I didn't need to open this gate.

Saturday Snow

Snow can make even little weed tops look interesting, I think. The snow had quite a bit of ice in it instead of being fluffy flakes so it really was sparkly

I really like the way these shadows looked on the snow. And find it sort of odd, since I don't know much about light, that instead of looking gray, they really did look blue. Maybe it was reflecting the sky which was a wonderful clear blue.
And more shadows. It would be lovely if the streets could clear but the ground could stay all pretty and fresh.

Snuggy Day

It sleeted off and on all night and then there was freezing rain and thunder! Finally that's stopped and the snow has arrived. It snowed briefly earlier...big, pretty, fluffy flakes but then it went back to sleet or else really sharp, tiny snowflakes. I was just getting ready to go out and see how slick my steps were when I was called and told the office was closed. Most of the people there are out on the roads all day and I guess they maybe were worried about liability. Works for me! I was hoping that we that stay in the office would be declared non-essential.

So...I've baked another batch of dog cookies and read and finished this hat. It's sorta wonky I think. I've never made a hat before so I'm not sure what it is supposed to look like but I thought it would be flatter at the top. The white yarn is waste that I used to tie up the last stitches. I'll try it on The Girl and then decide what's up.

I think the blue socks that were put in time out are going to turn into a present if I can get them finished. Now I have to remember where their time out is. I think they are in the cedar chest. It's not really lunch time yet, but I'm hungry and I've made some potato soup and I think it's going to be just great after I chunk up some cheese in the bowl before I pour in the soup. At this rate, I'll be ready for supper by 3:30. *G*

Brrrr

Baby, it's cold outside! and the north wind is blowing and the sleet or freezing rain is falling. Sounds like sleet but I can't really see it yet. It just started here, but I understand that it's been going on sometime at Laura's house. Allegedly this will go on all night followed by snow. I'm hoping that the snow gets here sooner because it doesn't take out the power lines. It's rather exciting though (well it is if you don't have a very exciting life) and I'm tired from running from the front door to the back. As if it would be doing something in the back yard and not the front. The weather man said that the cold front that preceded this would arrive after lunch today. I got up at my usual 5ish and it was 64 degrees. When the dog made her 2nd trip outside at 6 it was 42. I'm thinking they were a bit off on their predictions.

The cats have been a bit wonky tonight. Hershey decided that I needed my hair groomed. Mercy decided that it would be really nice to crawl into the plastic bag that held my yarn and wrap her self around the skein and growl at me. And Mary was awake! She's a member of the geriatric cat group and like Cookie's kitty, she likes to sleep. Zoey the wonder dog just passed gas all evening. And I didn't even give her any turkey. It was an interesting if somewhat malodorous evening.

In spite of that, I am way into the decreases on The Girl's hat...and I may just finish it up in the morning and wear it! I've finished my other Irish Hiking fingerless mitt but I'm thinking I'll have to wear them under my gloves.

The snow brush and the de-icer are sitting by the door, and if you are wondering why I am just babbling along..well, it's because I'm waiting for the last load of laundry to get dry. Having been through a power outage that lasted for days, I really want to have all the underwear and jammies clean. Or maybe it's because my back is telling me that the second front is getting closer and I want to go catch snowflakes on my tongue. I could watch tv but it's difficult to see David or Jay when there's an orange map of Oklahoma comvering the top right quarter of the screen. It's not like there is anything on the map...it's just there to let us know that we are in a winter storm warning.

OK enough of this. I shall go browse through Martha Stewart's Holiday Handmade Gifts and see what all is in there that I don't have supplies/time to make. Good night all.

I'm Not an Orchid..

I am a Petunia What Flower Are You?

You are a tried and trusted friend who will be there for your friends when they need you. But you have a tendency to be nervous about doing things that go against the norm.

The text didn't post with the pic so I had to go back and get it and paste. That's why it looks sort of homemade. It is ;-)

What Saturday Sky...I forgot.

A day at the mall. What fun we had! Amazingly, when we got there a little after 10 there were lots of places in the parking lot...the mall or the stores weren't really crowded and although it did pick up, it was never crazy. Guess all the Friday shoppers were sleeping it off. Build a Bear was lots of fun. The little guy was so serious while he did all the 'heart' stuff. Concentrating hard as he rubbed it on his cheeks and tummy and gave it a kiss before it was stuck inside his new..uhh frog (who he named Seth). I didn't build a bear but I did get my old bear some new clothes and shoes. Once a kid, always a kid? Free catalogs were picked up at Pottery Barn (oh how I want one of their leather chairs!) and Eddie Bauer (I want everything in the book). I saw a great Christmas tree at American Eagle (I think) decorated in yarn balls. We were basically through and the little guy was getting tired when I went on one last hunt. All I needed to do was to dash in the Hallmark Store and grab a couple of cards. Unfortunately I got direction turned (and there really should NOT be two Dillard stores at opposite ends) and lots and lots of steps were wasted. Finally with it in sight, I suggested that my friend and the little guy just sit down and relax while I finished up. And they agreed and found themselves a good spot.

Now some of you..like Laura..know I'm a big football fan. And maybe you remember that I dreamed that Boomer Esiason was my best friend. And I sometimes pretend I know this guy that played for the Giants and Tampa Bay...well ok, so I don't...but I 'know' his delightful and creative wife and occasionally I read about something he did/said.. But still... So if you aren't the least bit interested in football, this will be really boring. Forewarned.

So I hustled down, got the cards and headed back. They were sitting on a bench gazing across the space and there were a lot of people in line for something. I glanced over, and sucked air. Because this guy looked so familiar. and then I realized two more of them looked like ... Steve Owens and Billy Sims and Jason White. OMG! Not only were they amazing OU players and Heisman winners but Steve and Billy (of course, we are on a first name basis) went on to play for the Detroit Lions before their knees got the best of them. Poor Jason's knees left before that. NFL, folks! Was this football nirvana?? I almost ran over to get in line for autographs but decided first to figure out just what was happening. And a good thing I did. Because it cost money to get the autographs even if you didn't buy one of the footballs. And I just didn't have the extra cash. So I was content with just watching and snapping pics. (which are not blog worthy due to the lighting but a still fun). The Girl needed to run into Claire's and while she was gone I realized that the line had cleared and they were just standing there talking. So, courage in hand, I went over and asked Steve about his younger brother Tinker, who was a wide receiver for OUand played for New Orleans for awhile. He very calmly and with a straight face said "Oh he just got out of jail". And then laughed..thank god! White was drinking out of a water bottle and almost spewed. Sims laughed uproariously. And then Steve went on to say that Tinker had just become a grandpa and had just turned 50. My god, I'm just older than dirt cause I remember him as such a young kid! They were really nice and friendly even if I didn't have cash in hand and I know I just grinned big like a dummy while they chatted with me.

But alas, laden down with free catalogs, body cream and bear clothes it was time to leave. And a good thing. Because even though I only played football for a brief time, my knees and hips were really really tired.

Came home and crashed on the couch to watch...football LOL. And then Mac called and asked "Are you rested? Want to go to Kohl's?" Well yes! And besides, she'd let me go on and on about talking to the guys. *G* So off to Kohl's and then even to Big Lots.

Total score of the day ...several Christmas gifts...and for me..body cream, bear clothes, a new shirt, a new sweater (Kohl's had some really great prices!).

knitting? Umm a few rounds on the hat once I got it transferred to the smallest circ cable that came with my Knitpicks needles. And that was a relief since the stitches kept falling off the dpns. And then bed.

Today is going to have to be really busy. The house is a mess, I have a turkey breast to cook, no Christmas decorations got put up yesterday, laundry is piled up, and there's a really cold front coming and I need to make the other mitt.

So...laters

Look, look , look!!!

My package arrived from Devorah today. I'm a prize winner for almost guessing exactly how many miles she and her family would log on their bikes this summer. I must admit that thinking about pedaling that many miles makes me weak.

First...there are squids on the package! How cool is that? And inside, was a box with a picture of an aquarium filter. (great box will be recycled with a christmas present inside)

then...for the goodies inside! Do you see all this? I do hope the 'clickie on the piccie' thing works because you must really see all this goodness. First, the yarn for all the fiber junkies. Cherry Tree Hill sock yarn! No color name on the band so I shall have to make one up. Hmmm...Oh you know what? It would go really well with that scarf I made for my friend. So I should keep it? Oh...I guess not *G* I have never seen this yarn in real life before and what a treat. It's very, very soft and I really like the twist (if that's what it's called) of the strand. I have to go find out what size needles to use. There's 420 yards of wonderfulness.

She had mentioned that there might be other little goodies in the package so I asked her if she could send me a NYC souvenier...a magnet or sticker or something. Way back in the day, I got to spend a week in her city and fell in love. So that little box looking thing is my souvenier. If you are old like me, you might remember those Viewmasters with all the little discs of scenes from other places. Well this is like a tiny Viewmaster with pics of NYC inside. There are 12 pics in there! Must be magic. And I love, love, love the card. NYC and snow! Probably a nightmare for the cabbie, but here it's more magic. I have it on my desk and have already imaged up a little story involving me, and the cab, and some new yarn. heh..a mind is fun thing to play with. The chocolate is to die for. I was good and took the picture before I had a nibble. I really want it to last awhile, but it's going to be sooooo hard.

And Hershey would like to say thank you too because he's had a great time playing with the tissue paper.

Thank you a bazillion, Devorah and daughter (who helped her figure out what to get)! And if I had a mirror that would work, I would take a pic of it around my neck. *G* It's certainly worthy and I'm sure I'll enjoy it more than a diamond pendant.

Okie Notes

Back on Sept 3, I posted about visiting the Express Clydesdale Ranch. Yesterday in NYC, the Oklahoma float called "Oklahoma Rising" was pulled by these same Clydesdales. I was inordinately proud. I know them! :::laughing at myself:::::

It's a big year for Oklahoma. Our 100th anniversary of being a state. Isn't that weird. To think that in such a world we are such a young state. There are lots of people here who are older than the state. I saw an interview with one very well groomed and attractive lady who said something to the effect of ...Well, yes I am older by just a bit. There's not a lot of ME left. I have false teeth, new knees and a new hip. But, I'm ready to go and can do most anything I want. ... I loved that!

I don't have the day off, but my brain must think it's Saturday because I haven't even begun the morning routine yet. Time to get off my butt! Byeeeeee.

Empress?

I borrowed this from the Farm Witch. I'm not sure if being an empress is a good thing but I thought sure I'd end up as a Jester. Shows what I know.

You are The Empress

Beauty, happiness, pleasure, success, luxury, dissipation.

The Empress is associated with Venus, the feminine planet, so it represents,
beauty, charm, pleasure, luxury, and delight. You may be good at home
decorating, art or anything to do with making things beautiful.

The Empress is a creator, be it creation of life, of romance, of art or business. While the Magician is the primal spark, the idea made real, and the High Priestess is the one who gives the idea a form, the Empress is the womb where it gestates and grows till it is ready to be born. This is why her symbol is Venus, goddess of beautiful things as well as love. Even so, the Empress is more Demeter, goddess of abundance, then sensual Venus. She is the giver of Earthly gifts, yet at the same time, she can, in anger withhold, as Demeter did when her daughter, Persephone, was kidnapped. In fury and grief, she kept the Earth barren till her child was returned to her.

What Tarot Card are You?
Take the Test to Find Out.

Happy Thanksgiving

and thanks for putting up with my pity party. I must have just needed to write it down because the rest of the evening was nice. Watered my neglected plants and started knitting on The Girl's hat.

and that's another story. Once the black Cascade was put to the side, we decided on camo. Found camo yarn at Walmart...cheap...and I got it. Oh ick! It was sort of like knitting with macrame cord except it split like crazy. I wasn't expecting wonderful, but I did expect it to be a bit nicer.

So Wednesday, I got off work a bit early and we went to Hobby Lobby where she picked out some other camo yarn..Bernat. It's still not what I would call soft, but much better than what I had. I got the ribbing done and as soon as I finish here and have my bath, it's knit till lunch time. Or...at least far enough along so that I can try it on her and see if it fits. Parade knitting!

So far this morning, the kitties had their Thanksgiving (Fancy Feast!) and Zoey had hers (Mighty Dog on top of her crunchies). Zoey doesn't routinely get wet food so she was ecstatic, plus she got to lick up a few bits that the kitties left. Me? I had oatmeal and a Moon Pie! We are soooooooooooo gourmet!

Sent out some cyber cards and the rest of the time has been spent reloading Dave's page. I want to see the yarn! But in the meantime, I've enjoyed all the changing photos on the banner.
The nice thing about not cooking is that I don't have to rush around doing anything. And that's a good thing to be thankful for, especially when it would normally be a work day when, at this time, I should be dressed and ready to head out the door!

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you! And to think that except for Paris, I didn't really *know* any of you at this time last year. I'm really a lucky one!

A bit of color on a not-so-great day

Yay...finally got a picture of the scarf I just finished. It was hard actually having enough sun to take it. Not that it's been cloudy but the sun comes up so late that by the time it gets over the neighbors' trees, I'm on the way to work. And by the time I get home it's too dark. It was almost there this morning so I took this on the way out the door. The wheel in the upper left hand corner is an artistic statement *L*. The person who will receive this lives in a place with a lot of snow so I figure if she gets lost in it, they'll be able to find her by looking for her almost day glo scarf. In a way, I hope she hates it and sends it back because I've become attached to it.

Pattern: None. 9 inch seed stitch followed by 3 inch garter stitch bands.
Yarn: Plymouth Encore Color Spun 75% Acrylic, 25% wool. I've used this on several projects including my first socks...well not these colors. And it's definitely a good workhorse yarn. I like it for things that really need to be wash and wear.

And that's where my good day came to a halt. Updating of software at work just made my work much...not harder...just inconvenient. For no apparent reason. Previously, I could work for a long time and move around in the program using either the enter button or the escape button. But now, for some unknown reason, I have to keep stopping and using the mouse to get from one place to the other. Sucks.

Then, I'd gotten up really early this morning and made 2 big batches of my infamous cranberry salad. One for the dinner tomorrow and one to trade. One of the members of my family of choice makes these scrumptious sweet potatoes. I love them, and usually have seconds for dessert. And she loves the cranberry salad. So a couple of years ago we started trading. I'd make an extra salad and she'd make an extra batch of sweet potatoes for me. It's great fun and good eating for both of us. So anyway, I get home and decided to have a couple of bites of the salad (I always put some in a little sandwich box for me). Ewwww...it was so runny. Nothing jelled. How weird. But maybe the big ones were ok since the proportions in the sandwich box aren't quite right. Nope....like cranberry/vegie slush. SDF! I have NO idea what happened. I even checked the trash to see if I'd used the right amount of jello etc.

I'd blame it on Mel...or Kramer (Did he lose it big time or what?) but I think I'll blame it on Christmas advertising. I really enjoy the holiday season; the lights, the hustle and bustle, the baking and wrapping, and even trying to come up with good gifts on a small budget. But never ever ever, even when I was 'partnered' did anyone ever awaken me by putting a diamond pendant on my throat. Or gave me a Forever anything in a box that had the lid wrapped separate so that you didn't rip the paper and ribbons off. There is a really good reason for this. First of all, nobody close to me ever had enough money to buy diamond pendants. And second, I really don't wear much jewelry and would probably strangle myself. And thirdly, never ever did my wish list have diamonds on it, and I was gifted with a lot of nice things. But after awhile, those commercials kinda get to me. Between them and the 'lovey' Christmas songs, I start feeling all whiny and pitiful and have not-really-serious thoughts about eating worms ;-0.
I'm thinking that perhaps I shall wrap one of the nice envelope boxes from work..with the lid separate of course. And buy myself a skein of Socks That Rock or Lorna's Laces since, like diamonds, I've never had any. And after I open it and ohhh and ahhhh over this gift to myself, I shall untwist the skein and wear it around my neck. Maybe?

Christmas Baking Part 1

Those Susie Homemaker genes...(or is it Mrs. Santa?) genes kicked in this morning so I've started baking for Christmas. Although not for humans, it does count as I love giving these to my canine friends every year. And since the list keeps growing, I really need to get an early start. I love making them, and although I haven't tasted the dough, The Girl always manages to eat quite a bit of it. Once they are baked though, they're a bit hard for her to chew *L*

So tying on my yellow flower-dy apron (I guess I need to get a more festive one) , out came the flour and the molasses and the spices and the big crock bowl and the wooden spoons. The kitchen smells wonderful and the first batch of medium size are in the oven. I like making that size best. The wee little ones seem to take forever, between cutting them out and then flipping each of them over after part of their baking time.

I did knit last night on one of the Christmas scarves and have 2/3 of it done and hope it gets finished today. I'm sorta tired of it although since part of the yarn is multicolored it's not totally boring. And maybe after a birthday dinner for a friend, I can get started on my other mitt.

Weird..

So, I was commenting on Dave's blog when the door bell rang. It was a friend here to check out my old lady car. Of course, first thing I am to do is try to start it. So...it started right up! WTF??? I've tried to start it numerous times since the other day with zilch results. Battery seems to be charging nicely when it is running. Who knows? We cleaned off the battery terminals and since it's a battery that isn't sealed (I didn't even know they made those anymore), some distilled water was added. And let it run for a while and restarted it. And so it goes. I figure if there is more trouble, I'll be in the City haha. Now that I can run errands, I can't. Because I've dumped out the contents of 2 cedar chests and I can imagine the fun the fur babies could have if I left. And it all needs to be sorted. Maybe later.

Saturday Sky, Saturday Street

The sun is shining on a bit of repairs in front of my house. Fortunately my water isn't affected. Apparently there is something wrong with the line that goes to the house across the street. The guy that drives this backhoe is quite the artist. ermmm can you be a back hoe artist? artiste? At any rate, he can surely manipulate this beast. I knew that there were 'feet' that they could extend in order to give them sure footing if they were on unlevel ground. What I didn't know was that they could, with the feet down, lift the back hoe up...turn the wheels and put it back down in a different position without moving around on the street. Well..I found it fascinating. And he must be good since that digger part seemed to be awfully close to the other guys' heads but they never flinched. My driveway is blocked but that's ok too since the car won't start. I'm thinking battery and I'm hoping that's right since that would be pretty easy to deal with.

My friend Mac took me to the grocery last night so there is milk and oatmeal and cat litter and dryer sheets and oh yeah, little smokies too. *L* So all is well, and maybe I'll get a lot done since running around town isn't an option so far. Maybe I can even cut back the frozen flowers. or..maybe not.

How are things in your world???

Just a little story..

No knitting content. I spent the evening chopping up stuff for the cranberry salad. Well not the entire evening. Much time was spent cleaning up my mess. I am a messy 'cook'.

Yesterday Zoey went for her occasional professional haircut. I enjoy doing her, and enjoy the fact that I'm not spending the $$ but she was just looking pretty raggy and needed a real 'do'. So when we walk into the groomer's, a little cat met us. Gray, half-grown kitten actually. Zoey lives with cats who basically ignore her so she just took notice and then went on to be her usual pet slut self. And the groomer really makes over her so she was happy. The groomer told me that this little cat really thinks she is a dog. Doesn't want anything to do with other cats, but loves dogs.

"Well, what happens if a dog comes in that hates cats?"

"She gets the hell out of the way...she's not stupid"

So, we're visiting and she puts Zoey in her huge cage thingy. As I get ready to leave, I notice that the cat is in there too, rubbing up against Zo's legs. Zoey moved and stepped on her tail and just stood there in spite of cat wails. But the cat made no effort to scratch her and Zo moved. How the heck did she get in there? Well, it seems there are small holes in the screening, that are just big enough for the kitten, with little pieces of wood that can be moved so that a small dog couldn't get out.

"She's been a real help", says the groomer. Dogs that have to stay all day get really bored, so she (kitten) goes visiting and helps them pass the time...or take a nap with them. When I went back after work to pick up Zo, she was playing around in the waiting room with the cat. The groomer said that she was the last one there and it's no fun sitting in a cage so she just let her out to play.

They were having quite a good time, although Zo was a bit dismayed when she came home and 'her' cats were less than excited to see her. She asked if she could go every day..it could be her daycare center. LOL

I had the groomer basically give her a buzz cut as her hair grows really fast so right now she looks a bit odd, but I love feeling her hair afterwards. Just as soft as velvet.

And fortunately that's the most exciting thing I have to report. We are having really high winds and rain here today...more wind than rain with sustained winds around 50 mph and already there are people who have lost power due to downed lines. I'm happy to report that nothing like that has happened here obviously. :::crossing fingers::::

One Warm Hand

Tada! Finished! And what a fun knit. I loved doing this and am excited to get the other one going but I've promised the Christmas knitting that I'll spend a block of time on that first.

Made with Cascade 220 superwash, and as always, a joy to work with. I sort of wish I had put a band of ribbing around the wrist too. Maybe next time.

Funny story. Mon. afternoon I had an appt at the chiropractor's. Waiting room was packed with one empty seat. It was right in front of the window so excellent light and I pulled this mitt out of my bag and started knitting the ribbing. All of a sudden I was quite the deal! I showed them how it would end up being more of a wrist warmer, leaving my fingers free. A guy that works in the oil field doing something I didn't understand was quite impressed, stating that he bought regular gloves and cut off the fingers. A couple of people were amazed that I could visit and knit at the same time. I was feeling quite clever until I discovered that somewhere along the line, being so impressed with myself, I had switched from the ribbing pattern to seed stitch. Gah! So I started tinking. OH my, now they were really impressed. I don't think anyone realized what I was actually doing...but how talented I was to be able to put everything back the way it was. I was glad to hear my name being called before everyone realized I was a goof!

Wish I could continue to go. The 3 visits I've had have really, really helped. But at this place, there is a "Plan of Care" in which the whole plan is outlined including how many visits for how many weeks yadda yadda. Like for the first month, you'll go 3 times a week for 4 weeks. But here's the kicker. You have to pay for it all. Well of course you do, but what I mean is that you have to agree to a payment plan to get it all paid off as written. I can't explain this. Except to say that there is no way in hell I can come up with the money. Push to shove it would mean that me and the babies would have to quit eating so I guess that will be my last visit. My insurance will pay $500 and that's the lifetime limit (I'm thinking they don't like chiropractors) and that would only leave me with a little over a thousand dollars or $168 a month and there is not that much left over in my paycheck. Even if I don't order knitting magazines from Great Britain. :-) At least I do know that there is something wrong, I'm not just a back wuss and that, amazingly enough, was a happy new moment of knowledge.

On a brighter note, Wed we are having a potluck at work. It's actually a soup meal. I love this and we do it every year. But there are always lots of other things besides 3 or 4 different soups. And by popular request, I am taking my jello based cranberry salad. I love making it and I love eating it and apparently so do a lot of others. So, I'm off to get a bit of the chopping up done before work so it will go faster this evening.

See ya. Hope your day is everything you want and more.

Anybody for Cookies?

Funeral attended. It was very different. I have never been to a service that was sort of blended in with the regular Sunday fare. Did get to see a former co-worker that I hadn't seen in a long time so that was fun. That concluded, I headed to the City.

Alas, my Borders didn't have the new issue of Simply Knitting. I thought perhaps it would be coming later, since it just went up on that website this week. But, apparently there was nobody in the store who knew anything about what magazines they did or didn't get. So I indulged my need to spend money...can't waste all that gas...on a magazine full of cookie recipes. Which was rather silly since the majority of my coworkers are on diets and I don't really want to eat them..I just want to make them to satisfy my Susie Homemaker genes.

And I got Sting's new cd. Ohhhhh I just love it! So not like anything else I've heard from him. (Ack...I should have driven down the street to Barnes and Noble, I could have gotten it cheaper with my membership there) So, with Elizabethan lute music in the background I knitted more on the Irish Hiking mitts and got this far. I've done one row of ribbing with 7 to go, then it will be sew up time. There are some rather wonky cables there, but ya know, I'm just pleased as punch and can't wait till I can start the other one! I didn't, however, do a bit of knitting on the Christmas stuff. Last night was all about me! *G*

Books and Magazines

I LOVE to read. I LOVE to knit and craft. So combine the two and I am one happy girl..or woman..or old lady, whatever!

So this week has indeed been a special one.

First of all the magazines. You may be one of those who visit Pat Winter's crazy quilt site. If you aren't, you should be LOL. She does the MOST incredible work. My eyes and fingers ache just thinking about all those stitches! And she dyes, and and and. She's also a truly nice person, and the one who sent me all the incredibly wonderful snips of trims and pieces of fabric so that I too could try out crazy quilting. alas, I am still trying to get up the nerve. I don't want to mess any of them up. Of course, I've fondled them so much they are probably all worn out already. But here's the thing. She's an entry in the $100,000 Quilting Challenge. And I just could not find the most recent issue of the mag so I could see her entry in all it's non-blogged picture glory. But finally, at Hobby Lobby, there it was. Was it silly to tell all the people in line that they must go vote for her? I even showed the checker her entry! So, in case you haven't seen it, here's the cover..go look. AND VOTE.

Her entry is on the right hand side and is called Life Within a Garden. If I could, I'd hold your hand and help you vote LOL.

Second, I was intrigued awhile back when Cat posted about a British knitting magazine called Simply Knitting. I love all things British and this was just so cool that this magazine was available at Borders. But um, not at mine. At least I never found it. I looked all over the internet thinking surely some of the big yarn places would carry it, but nada. Recently though I discovered Angel Yarns which is a British yarn company, and shazamm they had it!!!! And thy have wonderful yarns too, with magical names. Doesn't Fairy or Folly sound like magical yarn?So through the wonder of Paypal I ordered it. And it arrived this week. Oh what fun! Wonderful patterns, an additional little magazine from Rowan and a knitting calendar for the new year. And wonderful yarn stores that I haven't seen before. Of course, they are across the sea LOL
Lots of patterns...even a hedgehog in a bathrobe and slippers and carrying a hot water bottle! And it's BIG..big pictures make me happy! So, just now, when I went to get the link (and they have some great yarn too, I discover that there is a new issue. I have to go to a funeral at 10:30 (how strange is that timing on a Sunday morning) and then I shall head off to the City to check my Borders and see if they have the new one. If not...I guess it's back to Paypal! Must have.

And last, but certainly not least, is a new book. Crafter's Companion. This was truly a strange buy. I was at work one day, surfing during my lunch time. It had been a horrid day, and a not very good week and I was feeling quite put upon LOL. So when I saw a notice about this book, I ordered it. Having no real idea of what it was, who did it yadda yadda. I just wanted something for ME. And it arrived this week too! All of the participants are young (to me)bloggers, and some of them were even blogs I have read. It has projects, but the most fun for me was reading about how they each got started, what them, and where they create. Great fun for a craft voyeur. If you get a chance to see this, check it out. You may not be interested in the crafts shown, but it's still fun.

Knitting? What's that? Just kidding. The seed stitch scarf goes on slowly and I think I shall start another Farrow Rib for a Christmas gift. I was doing it in a 4x4 rib but the thing was curling way too much and shhhh it's acrylic. No comments, it just needs to be. So I couldn't block it. It's now unraveled and napping in the Hobby Lobby bag. And since I needed to rest my wrists from the seed stitch madness, I started a Irish Hiking wristwarmer/mitt for me last night. I didn't even know there were mitts to match but thanks to Victoria I learned better LOLHave only gotten through the first repeat, and I must say I need to not chew on my bottom lip so hard when I do the cable LOL. Maybe pics of my progress when I'm a bit farther along.

Saturday Sky

A bit of the Saturday Sky taken in my little downtown. They've made a small park to honor those lost in war. Wouldn't it be grand if there was never again a need to add to it?

Comments and Random Babble

I love, love, love comments and look forward to each of them. But this week got a little weird and I didn't get this last group answered promptly. I do apologize.

So, I'm borrowing this idea from Ragan. I don't have her eMail addy so I have no idea if she knows I talk back to her. Thanks for the idea!

Cookie, Dave and Cat...the awws have it! When Hershey was a kitten he was very blonde and his little foot pads looked like tiny drops of melted milk chocolate. Hence the name. He's the loviest of all my babies and only asks that he be allowed to at least touch me, if lap sitting isn't an option. The paw you can't see is just touching my pj clad leg. And normally the yarn stays in it's plastic bag, but I was changing colors and needed it to be up out of the way. He was only too happy to keep it safe.

Paris, I'm so glad to finally have a digital camera so I can take eleventy seven cat pics and not have to pay to have them developed only to discover they are all out of focus LOL

Laura, my guys have identified the sound that the ziplocks with 'real' zippers make and it must tell them that I'm gonna be sitting down for awhile with yarn because they come running. Zoey, the dog, however identifies that sound with me getting ready to give her her meds which are wrapped in hamburger balls. So for a few moments her head is in my lap looking for something to eat LOL

Dear Oyoyo...err Ann. Do you think that was a hidden message????? And I'll accept any and all help I get cause I truly need it *G*

I went to Hobby Lobby yesterday after work for a knitting aid. I've disovered that prolonged seed stitch knitting makes my wrist hurt. And since the current scarf has much seed stitch that could have become a real problem. So I went to purchase some of those stretchy glove thingies that are supposed to help with that sort of thing. They only had medium size and since medium size rubber gloves fit me I thought I was in. So I came home, ate a quick bowl of oatmeal and put one on. Tight but I guess that's how they area supposed to be. Instead of immediately starting to knit, I had some magazines that needed looking at so I wore it as I read. Hmmm, my fingers are itching. OMG they are red, and swelling a bit. It seems I need a size Large. So instead of being clever and taking it off and putting it in the envelope for return, I snipped it with scissors. Feels a lot better now. And yeah, on the back of their packaging there is a size chart. Did I check that out first? Nope, of course not. I didn't even turn it over to realize there was one. Duh Anyone need one size medium Thergonomic Hand-Aid? Cause my left hand doesn't need one.

Will post later about the magazines! It's pretty exciting but I have a cat that is having an upset tummy so I need to do some clean up. See ya!

Cat Talk

"Are you sure you really want to spend your precious free time paying bills? ", asks Mercy
"Make you a deal. You can blame not paying the bills on me. And all I ask in return is a little bit of REAL tuna. Deal?"
Hershey has a better idea. He thinks knitting is just the best thing going, unless of course, I need to pull on his pillow.

My 'House'

The sorting hat says that I belong in Gryffindor!

Said Gryffindor, "We'll teach all those with brave deeds to their name."

Students of Gryffindor are typically brave, daring, and chivalrous.
Famous members include Harry, Ron, Hermione, Albus Dumbledore (head of Hogwarts), and Minerva McGonagall (head of Gryffindor).

Take the most scientific Harry Potter
Quiz ever created.

Get Sorted Now!