FO

Hey look! The hat is finished. Not washed yet but that will happen soon and then I have no idea where it will end up. For awhile, probably in the top drawer. I don't have a wig stand, and the bear's ears made it stick out funny so this pic of the top was taken while being worn by a plastic butter container..minus the butter. It was really fun to make. I think there may have been a glitch or two in the crown shaping, but there ya go. What's next?

Well maybe the barely started fingerless mitts from the Rowan yarn, and probably I'll start some socks in the yarn Devorah sent me. I need some bright! It will have to be one sock at a time because I only have one set of #1 dpns.

The vehicle? Well, it's still in the flower bed. Just one wheel..but it's really liking being there. It's supposed to get up to 34 today so maybe some of the ice will thaw and I can get out. I'm surely hoping that that's the case because I'm just about out of milk. If not, my friend Jackie has promised me a trip to the store after work. Good thing I have the Yak Trax; can't you just see me trying to ferry groceries up the hill on my hands and knees????

The nursing coordinator, who has a 4WD vehicle took me for a spin yesterday afternoon so I could get to the vet's and get Zoey's meds refilled. He's a bit out of town, but since he's actually along US Hwy 66 aka The Mother Road, it wasn't too bad. The state has done a fairly good job of clearing the US Hwys that run through here. The city? Ummm. There are two long streets that cross the park that I drive through in order to get to my office. In years passed, the city plowed or sanded or salted one of them since the ambulances need to get in and out as well as others needing help. Not this year. Well that is, until late yesterday afternoon. They did have the graders out and cleared off a bunch. Only problem was that it must have been quitting time and they left. And the Y where both of these streets branch out from the hospital parking lot had piles of snow clear across the intersection. Duh. Lots of confusion at the stop sign as people tried to decide which one they tried to drive over LOL.

And guess what??? Snow is predicted for the weekend. It's winter, y'all!

Slip, Sliding

Hey, in case you were wondering, I did get out of the flower bed (although I got right back in it last night) Oddly enough getting out of it the next morning was easy peasy, but I wasn't able to get any traction to turn the wheel and get straightened out. It was a bit scary sliding rapidly down the hill sideways. I was so glad that a bump in the ice in the street stopped me! After that, and once the windshield was cleared, off I went. Main streets are pretty much ok, but OMG the side streets are just terrible. Much more so than on Monday. Then, they still had their crunchy sleet topping but that's been worn and polished a bit.

But I have a new weapon. Check these out! LOL it looks as if this might be a part of a BDSM post. But no...they are to help me to stay upright and are called YakTrax. (The pic on their site makes a whole lot more sense than the one I took with them on a houseshoe!)Work provided them and they are great on the ice. I climbed my ice covered steps as easy as if they were dry. There is a glitch however (isn't there always?) You can't wear them on cleared/sanded/salted pavement and you sure can't wear them inside unless you really want to end up on your butt. So, in order to go to the hospital for the mail, I would have to walk carefully on the sidewalk where there is a bit of black ice, but mostly clear. And then where I have to cross the parking lot, stand on one foot and put the thing on one foot and then repeat. And then when I get to the door, take them off again. That's do-able. But going to the doctors' isn't so easy. I get to do this repeatedly...like 10 times. And for someone whose middle name isn't grace, and doesn't do well at imitating a stork, it can be quite comical. They are called Yak Paks and, if we get the snow they are warning us about for the weekend, I'll be able to retrieve the paper without worrying about YouTube. LOL

Knitting, of course! The hat continues to grow. The cables are done and it's time for crown shaping. I need a neon light in my living room that comes on about 9:30 and says "Caution! You are sleepy and can't count worth a damn. Put the knitting away!" So there is some tinking in my future..but only one row. It's really fun to do. Dang...it didn't look that dark when I saw it in Picasa. Oh well. You can use your imagination. It's really whiter with flecks of colors, not this drab looking cream.

ON MY WAY TO WORK

How old am I?

I stole this from Ann, who stole it from Paul...so it must be right, eh?

You Are 23 Years Old

Under 12: You are a kid at heart. You still have an optimistic life view - and you look at the world with awe. 13-19: You are a teenager at heart. You question authority and are still trying to find your place in this world. 20-29: You are a twentysomething at heart. You feel excited about what's to come... love, work, and new experiences. 30-39: You are a thirtysomething at heart. You've had a taste of success and true love, but you want more! 40+: You are a mature adult. You've been through most of the ups and downs of life already. Now you get to sit back and relax.

What Age Do You Act?

Sunday Sleet

and freezing rain. Fortunately, I think the freezing rain has turned to sleet now. but I know it was freezing rain to begin with because I was out in it. The Sunday paper in it's bright orange wrapper was lying out there enticing me so I got dressed, put on my shoes and my coat and my earmuffs and my gloves and tucked the cell phone in my pocket because that's what us older folks are s'posed to do in case we "fall and can't get up". At the bottom of the driveway, there's a little but rather steep hill that you have to go up to get to my house. And of course that's where the paper was...at the bottom. Feeling quite clever and coordinated I made it down the hill safely; retrieved the paper; and then discovered I couldn't get back up the hill. I'd take a few steps up, and then slide right back down. I thought that I would just sit down, and scoot up on my butt, but that didn't work because my shoes couldn't get enough traction to move me. So, I made my way over to the grass part and came up on my hands and knees, using my knees to sort of pound into the frozen stuff. It's not really very far, but it surely seemed like it took forever. Might have been faster if I hadn't kept looking around to see if anyone was watching this hilarious sight. *G*. At last flat ground was reached and I made my way back inside. My bottom step is just an icy slant, so I am really grateful there is a handrail I can use to pull myself back up.

What was really funny though was that when I got back in, I was taking off earmuffs etc and reached in to get my cell out of my pocket and discovered that I'd also tucked in a tiny ball of yarn (one of those dyed yesterday). I guess maybe if I'd really not been able to get back up, I could have sat there and tried to remember how to make a cat's cradle.

Off now to knit.

Cool Yarn!

So, I dyed 3 baby skeins of yarn (Cascade 220 vanilla colored) with Wilton's using the chip and dip/microwave method. Of course the yarn then needed to be cooled. So, I thought the fastest way would be to take a couple of them outside. Waited a bit and brought one in, then decided I was hungry so made pancakes for lunch. OMG, I forgot the green yarn so when I got to the porch swing this is what I saw.

I let it slowly unthaw in the house and then washed it and now it's drying on the cookie rack over the furnace vent.

Thunder Ice

So I'm in the kitchen playing with Wilton colors and I hear a funny noise. I thought it was a big loud vehicle and I went to see. And discovered that we were having a thunderstorm of freezing rain! I grabbed the camera and went out on the front porch. My neighbor yelled at me to get back in the house..maybe because I had on sweat pants but was barefooted and wearing a tank top LOL

I don't know how well this will show up, but what looks like hair or scratches was the freezing rain stuff. The thunder has quit and it's slowed down but still falling. My back, however, doesn't think this is the next big major wave of stuff.

OK, back to the Wiltons

Saturday Sky 011307

The sky is just gray and for this moment there is nothing falling from it. The ground doesn't look really interesting either (thankfully). Sleet on grass doesn't appear to be much until you step on it. And ice on a white car doesn't really show up. A bit of freezing rain so far this morning but the eastern part of the state is really getting it now and have 1" of ice already. Allegedly today it will be freezing rain/drizzle (although I'm still voting for sleet. It's rougher and easier to stand up on and it doesn't stick to the lines) and then tomorrow more sleet and snow tomorrow.

Yesterday and the day before it was all about folks at the grocery and home stores. Today the stories are about folks at the liquor and movie places. Dang...I didn't even think about those. I don't really drink a lot but some wine would have been quite nice. I have some cheapo movies that I haven't watched yet, and the other day discovered a vcr tape that a patient made for me of Mrs. Miniver. I hope it's still functional. And I really wish I had some Thin Man movies. I'll put them on my wishlist.

I was hoping to have cables to show you this morning but I learned a lesson. One should not tink when one really wants to sleep. And, if one does, it would be better to just put it away and go to bed instead of frogging the whole damn hat.

I am feeling the need to dye something. Now to find something to dye, and to figure out what color it needs to be.

Hope you're having a great Saturday morning! Laters..

Home again, home again

Not to market to buy a fat pig though. They sent us home early. The nurses saw all the patients that had to be seen today, and once they were all off the roads, the rest of us left. By 9 AM when I left to make my Dr. offices run, my car was coated with ice and there was freezing rain to accompany the sounds of NPR. But fortunately, it changed to sleet which is somewhat crunchy and a bit easier to get around in. Nobody fell down or had car crunches although that might have something to do with the fact that there weren't a lot of people out on the roads.

I came home and made some potato soup and some noodles (not in the same pan). I couldn't quite decide what sounded best so I had some of each..and they were both yummy.

My plan then was to complete a bit of the cable part of the hat; take a picture and show off. Unfortunately, I discovered that I had made a mistake on the very first row after the ribbing and it threw the whole thing off a bit. So, back to the frog pound and maybe you will see it later this evening.

And, of course, the car started everytime I turned the key. I'm still bummed that I didn't get to go see the quilts and all the fabric. On a happier note, my CP dpns arrived from the Yarn Barn today so maybe while I try to count to 3 correctly, the slick #8 metal needles won't be sliding out. Yay!!

laters...

Friday Morning and all is still well

Just checking in. Car started this morning and I ran to the store and got some instant coffee. Sorta forgot my new pot wouldn't work without power, and I wouldn't work without caffeine. The cold is here so my back should start feeling better soon. And hopefully the freezing rain will hold off until I make my way to the doctors' offices to pick up and deliver paperwork.

I'll post this evening if I can and as long as I have power, probably several times over the weekend. Suddenly it seems I have a lot to say, none of it particularly important, but still.

So, if you don't see me here, you can image me up in my warmest jammies with that light on my head experimenting with making cables without a cable needle. I have one, I just want to try this other way.

Laters! Hope your day is all you want it to be and more!

Old Friend, New Friend

Meet My Buddy aka Mr. Heater. He puts out good using one of those little propane bottles like you use on a portable grill. He's even made to use inside. I have another bigger one that's really for a patio but it puts out more heat. So it's good to get the chill off, and then I just stay close to My Buddy.

And check this out. Well ok, it's my left hand and some knitting. But what's cool is that it was taken in the dark without a flash, thanks to my new headlite. Victoria (I think) mentioned having one but I was pictureing some big thing like you'd use to explore a cave. I found this sweetie in the flashlight section of W-Mart. It's very comfortable...light. Runs off 3 little AAA batteries and has 4 light levels. Even one that's all red for night sight. And the light part will tilt so it can either be pointed forward to see where you're going or tipped down so you can see your knitting *G* I just am feeling so very techy! And I am also very hopeful that all of the preparations will mean that absolutely nothing happens except cold weather. I was amazed that there was hardly anyone at the store today, but The Girl called me tonight to let me know there is no bread anywhere. I guess everyone hit the stores after work. I'm glad I missed out on that. Time now for bed. See ya!

Quilts? What Quilts?

I didn't see no freakin' quilts! It's been another keyboard/head sort of day but for now, all is well. The day started early as I had much around here that needed to be done. Including bringing in some canisters from the garage; lugging up some stuff from the basement and the ever present laundry, but at last all was done and I was ready to head out. A quick trip to Walmart for some water and a light. Then off to the City.

I'd decided that I would run by the yarn store first since I figured after seeing all of the vendors and exhibits I would be way tired. So to the yarn store I go. I quickly grabbed the JelliBeenz and a skein of regular Cascade for an experiment. And was ready to head out when the back door opened and Brown came in bearing boxes. Ohhhh how fun. I got to help open up boxes of yarn and a huge box of books. The yarn I loved most was some sock yarn called Mountain something-or-other (sorry, I'm brain dead)..very soft and yummy colors. And the books, oh the books. I wanted them all. I would love to read Artic Lace. A lot of info there as well as some patterns. I did find a book I wanted but decided I would wait until later..and now I have forgotten it's name. I'm telling you...the brain is gone. Too much to think about.

So, anyway, I pay for my purchases and off I go to the car. Which won't start! Arggggggh. Acts the same as it did before. Now I know that usually if I wait awhile it will start. So, being ever so prepared with a book and my hat-in-progress, I sit and enjoy this lovely spring-like day and knit. And learned that in a pinch you can use the insides of a ball point pen to pick up a stitch that fell off the needle. Time passes...30 min. Still won't start. And now I'm hungry. I think I remember that there is a McDonald's down the street so I head out. Yep it was down the street a little over a mile I think. But I made it with the help of 30 mph winds at my back. I have my Happy Meal; use the facilities and head back. With the 30 mph winds in my face. By the time I got back to the vehicle I had decided that if it didn't start I was going to have to have a nap. But hooray, with just a little wiggling and begging it started!

I started off down the road to the quilt show which is being held in downtown Oklahoma City (I was on the far north side). But the farther I drove, the more I thought I should really head home. If it doesn't start down there, I'm gonna be in some serious trouble. So, being a chicken I came home. It's probably for the best as my back was really complaining. I just wanted some happy fat quarters soooo bad! OK so part of the reason for going was to see if my friend's quilt was there...but the vendors were pretty important too.

Came home without any trouble and later it started again so I went to get gas. And trust me, I was sweating bullets. I really didn't want it to not start right in the way of the gas pumps. But...it did and now I'm home again.

And there's more to do than knit. Here's what I'm getting ready for now.. I'm not sure if you can read the red writing but they are forecasting 1-2 inches of ICE between Friday evening and Sunday morning. Back a few years ago we had a similar storm and I was without power for days. I'm a bit better prepared now though, although I can't quite remember how to get the little stove and the heaters going so that's the next project. And wait till you see my new light! Be back later!

Nary a stitch

Not even one. There were 'plans' that included hat ribbing and football. But..the phone rang shortly after I'd finished the evening oatmeal. It was my cybertwin Tam! We seem to have these marathon phone convos about once a season these days. So there was much catching up to do and much laughter! What a lovely way to spend a couple of hours! We finally said goodbye, I think probably because our ears were numb and our cheeks hurt from smiling so much. And then I paid a couple of bills and watched football until my eyes were closing without my help.

But a couple of things I've forgotten to mention. Weekend before last for some reason I decided I needed to use the #5 needles in my Knitpicks set. (Funny...I have no idea what it was I was going to do with them) and discovered that one of them wouldn't screw on. It was if it had no threads inside it. I called on Monday and reported it and asked how I should go about sending it back in for a trade. The person on the phone said they would just send a replacement and I should get it in 5-14 days. OK that works since I'd forgotten what I was going to do with it. Imagine my surprise when 2 days later a set of 2 were in my mailbox. Now, that's fast!!

Yesterday I ordered a set of Crystal Palace bamboo dpns from Yarn Barn in Kansas. My first time ordering with them. Had my car started on Sunday, I would have purchased them from my LYS. Surprisingly, since my vehicle gets horrid gas mileage, and since the trip to the yarn store would probably be about 60 miles, I came out ahead even with postage. And, that's all I got. I can rarely go to the LYS without coming out with more than I'd planned *G*.

That's not to say I will forego trips there. I have Thursday off as a vacation day. There's a big quilt show in the City and a friend of mine will hopefully have one of her quilts displayed. She lives rather far from me and I've only seen pics of it. I sure hope it's there! The show goes through Saturday and I'd planned on going then but the weather people are forecasting freezing rain for that day so I think I'd rather stay home *G*. And my boss was agreeable to a vacation day. Now, if the car starts and all goes well...gosh, if I'm in the City I really should go by the LYS don't you think? Maybe they'll have some more of that raspberry or whatever Jelli Beenz and I can get some more and make a really bright scarf. just sayin'

What a Day

My usual Sunday morning routine of knitting while watching news shows was brought to a quick halt by a call from The Girl. Having recently been cyber-reunited with her dad (long, complicated story but a happy one and he's in Afghanistan) she says "You HAVE to come down here now. I'm talking to Dad with the web cam!" So I put some sweats on over my pjs, jump in the car and head down the street. Her call was a bit of an exaggeration. What was really happening was that they were both trying to get their webcams to work together or something (she's just more techy than me). But we sat and chatted and I got to enjoy her ever-so-happy self. Alas, both of them had to go do other things like sleep (in Afghanistan) and head off to a bowling tournament (in Oklahoma). So, I go outside, get in the car, and the damn thing won't start! It's been doing this for a couple of weeks. It will start and run just fine for several days and then suddenly there's nothing when I turn on the key. Well, that's not true. The radio works and the windows work and the antenna goes up but there is no trying to start. But if you wait maybe an hour, it starts just fine and it seems to have nothing to do with the weather. In disgust, I just got out...shut the door and went walking up the street. I'm sure I presented a good sight with pjs hanging out from under the sweats. And rocks in the street do not go well with houseshoes.

So I got home, watched the end of my news shoes...suddenlyGeorge Stephanopoulus' list of those killed in this war has new scary meaning here. And sat down to knit and watch football. The perfectly respectable maroon Cascade scarf seemed like a good thing to choose. No counting or anything since my hands automatically do knit2, purl2. But ummm...it's so respectable. No flash. I'm not a fan of those feathery novelty yarns, but I guess I'm somewhat of a crow...attracted by bright colors LOL. Ahhhh, there's part of a ball of Jelli Beenz in the stash so out it comes and it becomes this. Do you like this artistic shot with a background of pj bottoms??? Too bad I only have most of this one ball and part of a ball of purple and a couple yards of green or it might have turned into a super bright scarf.

Oh and the car? Later in the day it received a new starter switch. Did that solve the problem? Who knows? It started then and later in the day so for now all is good. I'm just planning on it starting well for ever and ever. The power of positive thinking and a starter switch! *G*

head keyboard head keyboard ad infinitum

I have had the WORST time trying to get logged in here today. It said I didn't exist (in my new Google persona) and as I surfed through various Google pages, suddenly I was here. I hope this isn't a frequent occurence.

OK...so now what was I going to say? I'll have a cup of coffee, relax a bit and maybe it will come back to me.

Back. Over at Laura's on Friday (which I didn't read until Saturday) she had a link to this place.
Now here I thought those clever convertible mittens were new things. (click on 1940s patterns) Obviously I should have been a bit farther behind the times! I haven't finished exploring there yet. Lots to read and absorb.

And then on Saturday, she posted a link to a test. I flunked the Kitchener question, but now I know who to curse when it doesn't go well. And I also didn't know that you could felt part-wool yarn. Always learning. And I was surprised at how much I did know. Thanks Laura!

My Saturday was a good one. I got enough done here to wear my Susie Homemaker badge and then went out and about. A trip to the library secured a new-to-me book on tape to listen to for the next couple of weeks. And then, courage in hand, I went to meet up with some knitters/spinners/crocheters. Courage? What's that about?

Well for some really weird reason that I can't explain I was very nervous about this. They weren't strangers. I met many at the Fiber Retreat here last fall. I read their posts on a list. But I was just, all of a sudden, really hesitant to go. It was a low key thing too. No demands that I be a master spinner (good thing since I appear to have forgotten everything I know). It was just me being weird. The meet up lasted most of the day and I just joined in for the last hour and a half. And, once there, I had a great time! I could just kick myself for not going earlier. But, since I'm a bit clumsy, kicking myself might cause serious injury so I'll refrain.

And then in the evening I spent some time with a special person who had some extraordinarily good news! Joy is such a contagious thing. My cheeks hurt from smiling and my eyes were certainly well lubircated. Toooo fun! And that, plus a bit of knitting on the hat ribbing ended my day. A good day here on the prairie! Yay! Hope yours was that good...no wait, I hope yours was even better!

Saturday Sky..sort of

It's Saturday and it's sky, but from yesterday.

I left for work feeling like Sherlock Holmes. Well, that is, if Sherlock liked animal crackers and carried a felted bag.

The fog was thick, you could feel it on your skin. In order to get to work, I drive through a park, and the west side of our building overlooks a golf course. So nature surrounds us. Too bad we don't have windows :-( And also, the golfers don't realize how their voices carry so we, if we are in the parking lot, can hear some quite colorful language related to missed shots.

It was a mysterious world and it was easy to imagine that other worlds were hiding just out of view. But reality intruded, and there was my work place.

Now, on Saturday, it's time for the routine household chores. I actually like this part of the week. For me, it's fun to spend a bit of time polishing up my humble abode and admiring the stack of clean laundry. And there even may be some sorting. There's still part of last year left in my desk. Woohoo! Is this exciting or what?

Actually it is. Although there's a lot I would like to have/do, I'm really incredibly lucky compared with so many others in the world. And I remind myself of that when I'm whining "I want an iPod" LOL

Hope your day is all you want it to be, and even more.

TGIF

yay...made it to the end of the work week! For a short week it's been odd. The workdays have gone very quickly as I've been quite busy. Yet, when I look back to Monday, it seems eons ago. Must be an oldmature brain thing.

A bit of knitting last night while watching CSI. I really hate it that "Gil" is leaving. To me, the male members of the cast are cool, but I just can't get into the women. "Sarah" whines too much and ..oh never mind. I need to get out more *L* It could be worse. My life would be bleak without Gary Sinese on the NY CSI. I'd really like to hear the Lt.Dan Band.

But now it's almost time for one more day in the office. ~~~my bags are packed, I'm ready to go...~~~ package to mail, hot chocolate mix and animal crackers for snacks, and there's knitting in my bag. Oh yeah...I'm supposed to be going to work. Well...there are break times.

A Link

I feel kinda bad that when I mentioned the Irish Hiking Hat, I didn't include a link to the designer's blog. There was a reason. I can't get there from here. Some blogs just won't load on my computer..the browser freezes. Oftimes it seems that this browser (Firefox) on MY computer doesn't like Flikr pics. Other times there seems to be no reason. It's probably related to dialup. But I did manage to stay up long enoughthis morning to get the address of her blog. So go there and tell her I love the hat!

Speaking of which, I probably have 4 rows of ribbing done on it. I'd planned to be much farther along but the old cat Mary was in need of extra snuggling. And since she'll be 18 in June and is frail, she usually gets what she wants. She also drools when you pet her so Mary petting and yarn isn't a good idea *L*

It's amazing how fast the work week goes if you chop off one of the days. Thursday already! Yay! I don't want to hurry my life along any faster than necessary but it is nice to get to the weekend.

A question for Blogger bloggers

ok...in order to make a new blog or to switch to the new blogger, it says I need to sign in with my google account. Does that mean I need to use a gmail name? I ask because what automatically came up was my gmail name that I used in the dyeing swap. It didn't work *G*

Endings and Beginnings

This was once the beginning of a hat. And, hopefully it will be again soon. However, I think that either the pattern was too complex for me at this time...or maybe I wasn't settled enough to concentrate. I didn't want New Year's Day to end with me throwing it across the room, so I frogged it. I can't explain why I slept with it. And I can't explain how startled I was when I discovered it under the covers when I was making my bed! This morning, thanks to the Subway Knitter, I discovered a Irish Hiking Hat so that's my next idea. Cookie, look at her double knit hat!

And here are 2 beginnings photographed imaginitively on a cat pad *L*. Another broken rib scarf, in Cascade 220 Superwash and the very beginnings of a fingerless mitt. This Rowan is my consolation prize for when I won the dayglo nylon cord in the Mason Dixon stash clearing. It's almost been fondled to death and it lived in my china cabinet thingy so I could see it every day through the glass. It feels even better running through my fingers.

I don't know if I can handle 3 projects at once...and then there is this gorgeous orangey Cherry Tree Hill sock yarn calling my name. I just have to figure out how to make my standard sock using Size 1 needles. Or maybe rummage though my sock notebook and actually do something different. What a concept!

What a Start to 2007!! or It Pays Being Vintage

OK so in the new Knitty, there was an article about vintage knitting. Being rather vintage myself, I enjoyed it so I clicked through to the author's blog. Cracked me up to discover that the name of it is The Kitchener Bitch! And, once there, discovered she was having a contest. Of course I had to enter. I'd read it during lunch at work Friday but didn't have time to comment then, and lost the slip of paper where I'd written her addy. But Google rescued me before the time ran out. What a fun and different contest! And the prizes are shown there in that link too.

So, after my New Years lunch I thought it would be a good idea to see if anyone had commented here...yay y'all had been by. And off to Yahoo I went so I could answer you. And lo and behold there was a letter headed Kitchener Bitch Contest - you won!! And y'all, I won a kit to make the Handmaiden Fleece Artist Bias Shawl!!!!!! Can you believe it?!?!?!? I don't know how closely I guessed the others, but my win (or maybe my luck in the draw) was for the third pic...the little kid in 'soakers'. My mom must have crocheted a thousand layette sets and they always included soakers.

I'm so excited...not only because I won but yeah that is incredible! I've never even touched that yarn before! But I shall just take it as an omen that this year is going to be a really really good one.

New Year's Resolutions

I saw this over at Cookie's

In the year 2007 I resolve to: Make my own porn video, Get your resolution here.

Well, now that's downright scary! If anyone happened to see it they'd drop dead quickly. Another license to kill. Let me try this again!

In the year 2007 I resolve to: Stop refreshing this page until I get the answer I want. Get your resolution here.

Drat! I got caught! No fair. It's just that I really didn't want a sex change operation or sexy black lingerie.

I don't really have any profound resolutions. At least if I do, it's too early to remember them.

I do have some things I would like to do..like:

1. Be a bit more realistic about my life. Umm, maybe I'll actually look at the balance on the credit card instead of looking to see what my payment is. I really have done well at not using them...now it's more about payback. Quit procastinating about things that need doing. That way I won't have to make hurried trips to get copies of paperwork etc.

2. Continue to save up for things that cost a lot, like iPods and swifts and Dyson's. (there's $7.50 in that fund so far but I have ideas about how to increase my contributions) ~~waving to Dave.

3. I WANT TO LEARN MORE. I got this odd magazine the other day when I got groceries. I didn't even know what was inside it ... it just piqued my interest. And much of it I don't understand at all. But I want to know. And I really want to learn more about photo composition. I'm not sure what that even means. It's just that I want to be able to take a pic of socks and have it turn out to be a truly wonderful photo instead of being only a sock(not that a sock isn't a thing of incredible beauty). I adore Dave's photos, and Alicia's and Kirsten's and Victoria's and Jane's. And my friend Linna (blogless), who does extraordinary work. And along with that...

4. Be braver and give myself permission to screw up. No that doesn't mean I'm going to try skydiving or anything. It does mean that I'm going to cut into that pretty fabric Pat sent me way back when instead of just looking at it. It means I might actually try intarsia, toe up socks, or maybe knit a sweater for one of the teddy bears. I want to see how they work, and I'm not yet brave enough to commit to buying enough yarn to make one for me. (Baby steps, ya know.)
Normally, in learning new things there are going to be mistakes...and total failures. I tend to beat myself up about that and then give up because I'm not perfect. Guess what...I'm not ever going to be perfect and time is a wastin'.

5. Continue to be very grateful when I wake up...and move around with all of me relatively functional. And be grateful for all of you. I had NO idea this time last year that I would be blogging, or getting to know y'all. My life is sooooo much better than I had any idea it could become and it's bound to just keep getting better.

5. And when things get tough, I shall remember this:

Reality can be beaten with enough imagination. Mark Twain.

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.