Lilacs4Angels

"The Wall That Travels"

2012-02-17T16:23:00.000-08:00

January pattern for the Ryan Eeijits "Touring Ireland through a Year of Socks" sock club, "The Ring of Kerry" ~ finished!

Casted on February's pattern ~ "The Beaches of Donegal"

For both patterns I'm using Periwinkle Sheep Yarn...love this yarn, it is so nice to work with, and so soft.

Today hubby and I went downtown to the Library. Set up in the library's parking lot is "The Wall That Travels". We saw it two years ago when it came to town. It's just as moving to see this Wall as it is to see the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D. C.

Happy Birthday to my darling husband

2012-01-19T10:40:00.000-08:00

Sweetheart

I Love You More Today than Yesterday

But Not As Much As Tomorrow

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DARLING

I LOVE YOU WITH ALL MY HEART

Happy Birthday!

2012-01-18T08:17:00.001-08:00

Today is our eldest daughters birthday....

Happy Birthday Sweetheart

We Love You!

A not-so-local "Local Yarn Shop"

2012-01-12T12:40:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I accompanied a girlfriend down to the big city.

On our way we made a detour and stopped at Creative U Studios in Santa Clarita.

I found this little shop to be well stocked with a good selection of yarn, needles, notions.

Additionally, the shop sells fabric and items for quilting.

The staff is very knowledgeable and helpful.

Stop by the shop in person or check out their website where you can order items to be shipped to your destination.

This is a "local yarn shop" that I will definitely visit when I am in the area.

Roasted Pumpkin

2012-01-09T17:47:00.000-08:00

I am the proud recipient of some gorgeous yarn!

I bought chances in a very worthwhile raffle a group in Ravelry was holding.

So many wonderful prizes were donated for the raffle.

I won what I call a Roasted Pumpkin Trifle (love my trifle dish and thought it a perfect display piece).

Three Skeins! ! ! ! Beautiful yarn from Periwinkle Sheep

The yarn is for knitting a beautiful shawl

Wonderful!

2012-01-06T09:24:00.000-08:00

Today feels like the first day of the rest of my life!

I had a heavenly experience last night that I will savor forever.

Wonderful!

It's great to feel wonderful!

I have a full day ahead of me and for once I'm looking forward to seeing my accomplishments.

Since last post....

We have welcomed a new granddaughter into our family.

Emma ~ she is so precious ~ I had to good fortune to spend a month plus with her and her brother (they live in another state). She is so tiny and at 3 1/2 months she is still tiny. She's such a happy little girl.

Well, I have a door to paint...ta ta for now

Lovely Day

2011-09-02T13:25:00.000-07:00

Today is a lovely day for me!

I woke for the first time in months with little pain. That in itself makes for a lovely day in my world.

I know so many of my 'friends' don't understand what I go through on a daily basis. And that is okay. It's not for them to understand. It's for me to live with.

On a lighter note...I am knitting when I am able.

I have a shawl on the needles, almost finished, that is beautiful. I love the design and the yarn. It's a special pattern designed by a special friend.

Also on the needles are two pairs of socks. One is a test knit so I won't discuss that project.

The other socks are coming along just great. The cuff and leg portion are taken from a pattern in a knitting magazine. The heels are Cat Bordhi's Sweet Tomato Heel. I love this heel and will use it again. If you want more information on this heel you'll have to look her up. She has a wonderful e-book out.

My energy level is dwindling so I'm off to recharge...

May God Bless You and Yours

Great Way To Start The Week...

2011-08-01T15:43:00.000-07:00

...meet with friends and knit!

I am very thankful that even though I had just a couple hours of sleep I was able to get up and meet with friends at the local Barnes & Noble for some wonderful knitting time.

The sweater is really coming along nicely...perhaps I'll have a photo to post later this week.

So Much To Do

2011-07-30T13:07:00.000-07:00

FAMILY REUNION

Now I know that I'm crazy

I am now in charge of organizing a family reunion for next summer

This would be great if it was just a small family

But I am the 13th of 16 children with 11 of us living

Take into account our cousins, our children, our grandchildren, our 2nd cousins, etc...plus a few aunts and uncles...

Just a preliminary count (if everyone attends) is over 60 people!

What needs to be planned...

A venue; a date; lodging; activities; food (I'm sure I have missed a few important items)

KNITTING

I'm making progress on my first adult sweater. I'd say that I'm probably at least 80% finished. I am now doing the last few inches on the neck. Then comes the button bands and then the finishing...kitchenering the sleeves to the body; weaving in all the yarn ends; soaking and blocking.

I am satisfied with how it is coming along.

Now I must get back to getting the shredder unclogged...

A moment to reflect...

2011-07-28T14:36:00.000-07:00

...we all should take a moment to reflect on what is really going on around them.

Today is not a good day for much of anything...

I'll go sit and knit on my cardigan in a bit...

But right now at this moment...

I feel as though my whole world has fallen apart...

And I do not know what to do about it...

Lately I've been very aware of the way others react to certain things...

The other night I mentioned that I might enter a couple items in the local county fair...

I was met with words of surprise...

There was no support, just surprise...

I haven't felt the camaraderie in the group that was once there...

I'm not sure what will happen tomorrow...

I'll go sit and knit a bit...

Will that make my world come together again?

Proud

2011-07-18T15:16:00.000-07:00

...there's nothing else to say

About a year ago our grandson saw a news item on the Devil Pups. Since then he did a bit of researching online and came across their website. He checked everything out. Then he decided he wanted to participate. He had to wait until he turned 14 as that is the minimum age.

As grandparents we had our thoughts about it... 'will he be able to?' ; 'is he strong enough physically'; 'what happens if he got hurt'...the more we thought the more determined he was.

So the ball was put into motion and he applied and was accepted to try out.

First he had to pass a Physical Fitness Test (PFT).

In his group of 77 only the best 45 went through and he went through. (We were beaming!)

He then about a week and a half to get his 'gear' ready.

And then the big thing ~ he had to report at 6 a.m. (this meant getting up at least by 4:30-5:00 which is a feat in itself for the little night owl).

Then the hard part started...

...during the next 10 days he ~

* hiked over 28 miles;

* ran over 18 miles;

* fell into a pool (three times) from a level of 15 feet; 25 feet and 35 feet;

* ran an obstacle course ~ twice;

* slept outside twice;

* hiked up the biggest mountain on the military base (those who made it to the top earned a special coin)

* ate in a chow hall

* toured a military ship and museum

* ran in the sand and ocean

* did a bit of recon training (mud pit they squirmed and crawled in)

* attended motivational meetings (one speaker was Sugar Ray Leonard and another is a famous baseball player for the California Angels; there were also military officers speaking)

There are clips from previous years on www.youtube.com

We were honored, as were the paternal grandparents, to attend the graduation ceremony this past Saturday.

This is the 59th year for Devil Pups.

It is a hard, grueling experience but it is one that those who go through will never forget.

Participants must be between 14 and 17 and it is our understanding that they can participate just once. They must reside in California, Nevada or Arizona and must contact the liaison representative for their area. Please go to the Devil Pups website for information.

Our grandson wants to go next year. In order to do this he must apply and if chosen would go back as an "eagle". An "eagle" helps the instructors with whatever they may need.

The following is from the Devil Pups website.

What is Devil Pups?

Devil Pups is an non-profit organization designed to help boys and girls from all backgrounds gain self-confidence and learn to take responsibility for their actions. Devil Pups is not a Marine Corps sponsored program. The program is not a “mini boot camp” para-military or recruiting organization for the Marine Corps. Encampment Commanders are employees of Devil Pups, Inc.

At a camp comprising 10 days of challenge, teamwork, discipline and education, boys and girls between the ages of 14 and 17 learn cooperation and respect for the dignity of others, regardless of race, creed, color or national origin.

Activities during the 10 day program include conditioning exercises, first aid instruction, leadership classes, organized recreation, a bivouac (camping out) and swimming. About 85 percent of non-swimmers learn to swim. Also, the Pups attend educational lectures on the importance of self-confidence, teamwork, drug and alcohol abuse and the importance of goals in life.

A Devil Pup gains insight into the principles on which the United States was founded, thus enhancing pride in his or her country and its flag. A Devil Pup learns how to be a better citizen and at the same time gains a greater measure of his or her own self-worth.

The Devil Pups Program is a demanding physical and academic good citizenship program for young teenagers. It is important to mention that the program is more mental than physical; reflecting the “whole person” concept. The program foundations are intellectual, spiritual, social and physical.

An interested boy or girl and/or their parents living in California, Arizona, or Nevada should contact their nearst Devil Pup Liaison Representative to determine eligibility. Each area is given a specific quota of participants to admit.

Our grandson has the proudest parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Hmmmm...

2011-07-14T13:32:00.000-07:00

I'm just not sure what to think anymore

There was a time, and I know it is still practiced in some areas, when a person did not associate with those out of their 'Class', 'Station', 'Social Level' ~ whatever you wish to call it.

I'd only been confronted by this 'attitude' once when my ex was in the military. He was enlisted and my best friends husband was an officer. We were not supposed to fraternize but we did anyway.

It seems that I have once again been confronted with this attitude.

When I realized what was happening I was a bit ticked off and ready to throw my hands up and quit.

But then I decided that this is her problem, not mine.

Isn't it amazing what a bit of green in the bank will do to a person.

Just don't throw it in my face because I really don't care how much money, status or anything else a person has. I don't care who can afford or not afford what.

So if you want to continue to ignore those whom you consider 'beneath' you ~ so be it. In the end, I have a feeling, you'll be the one sitting on the sidelines with a small number to call "friend".

And Life Must Go On

2011-07-11T12:32:00.001-07:00

It's been very busy around here...

I finished my Vortex Shawl and love it! The yarn is Smooshy by Dream in Color in fingering weight ~ 100% merino. The shawl took two complete skeins plus a bit of a third one for the picot bindoff. I may enter this in our local county fair this fall.

Remember the test knit I was doing? Well I finished the pair and must say that I am very happy with them. This is another project I may enter in our local county fair.
June 11th saw our local knitting group gathered out at the MarketPlace to celebrate World Wide Knit In Public Day. Below is a collage of some of the photos that were taken. We had drawings and everyone went home with something new. At the top you can see a photo we took with everyone wearing hand knit socks...isn't that something!

This morning started on a great note! I've been depressed as two of our very good friends have passed on. A good friend in Ireland has a wonderful blog ~ as I read I feel as though I am right there with her. She just celebrated her 5th Blog-a-versary. She ran a bit of a 'contest' and I am one of three winners. What a way to start the day! Thanks Jo...you know I love you.

The day couldn't have gotten any better. A big tree on the neighboring property has finally seen time with a chainsaw. The limbs would sway so much that when we'd have some big winds I was always afraid one would land in our livingroom. The tree looks so much better and we'll be getting more sunshine in our patio (we have an umbrella to put up). I love to sit on the patio and knit when the weather allows.

Test Knitting

2011-06-20T12:33:00.000-07:00

Back in April I agreed to test knit a pattern. The pattern is Red Mosaic Sock and as you can tell mine is not RED. I'm using a hand dyed yarn from Anzula with a bare sock yarn from Knit Picks. The pattern will be available in the August/September issue of Cast On magazine.

Normally I would start my toe about two inches from the end of my toe. But in this case I wasn't sure I liked the white toe. So I decided to continue the mosaic pattern all the way to the end. This took a bit of figuring out where the stitches went but I am quite happy with the results.

Now if I could just get the second sock finished.

Beautiful Spring Day and Sock Madness

2011-04-16T19:44:00.000-07:00

Went for a walk this evening...

Baby ducks following along by their mommy

Sock Madness started and is now in the 3rd round

First Round ~ over 200 knitters participated from around the world

Pattern Supporters
http://www.flickr.com/photos/20428757@N03/5506802459/

Second Round ~ we're now divided up into four teams, I'm in Team Minnow

Pattern ~ Nornir
http://www.flickr.com/photos/20428757@N03/5556397547/

Third Round ~ 37 from each team participated in this round

Pattern ~ Dangerous Turns

Hmmm

2011-02-13T11:51:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I received a knitting magazine...now I need yarn!

So today we doing some research on some items that hubby and I have collected over the years...he has an impressive collection of pen knives that he is willing to part with.

Looks like today will be fun

Hopefully I'll get some knitting squeezed in between the laundry and research

In the knitting magazine there is an Aran hat inspired by the 'pill box' type. It has bobbles, traveling stitches and cables...I've knitted cables before but never bobbles and traveling stitches so I'm anxious to start on this.

There is a Mosaic Yoke Cardigan...I watched as this pattern emerged from an idea to a finished product...this would be my first sweater so I'm excited.

Back to research...

A beautiful day1

2011-02-10T14:14:00.000-08:00

Yesterday hubby and I took a walk around the park, it measures a mile and I always feel so much better when we get home.

As we were on the way I snapped this photo...I love taking scenery photos...the sky was so beautiful

Another Super Bowl

2011-02-08T09:02:00.000-08:00

The Steelers made it to the Super Bowl but just couldn't get it together. That's okay...at least they made it.

I knitted a few rows on the Vortex Shawl...it coming out beautifully and I love the color (will post photo when completed which should be soon)

Yesterday we spent a few hours pruning the Scarlet Oak tree in our back yard. During the night the wind was blowing something fierce that I could hear it blowing the limbs around the yard. We'll be spending the rest of this week cutting them up in small pieces to dispose of.

But while we were busy so was little Shivers. He was just beside himself. One neighbor has a new chihuahua and the kids were out with him. On the other side are new neighbors and they have two dogs. Shivers ran the length of three fences ~ back and forth ~ countless times....he just wanted to play. He was so tuckered out that when we came in he promptly fell asleep.

Today is a 'day off'...oh, I'll do up the breakfast dishes and finish the linens in the laundry but other than that NO WORK!

Just a few...

2011-01-28T16:50:00.000-08:00

This is a neckwarmer...Pittsburgh STEELERS neckwarmer...I knitted this for hubby to wear on our Thanksgiving trip to Washington.

Shivers wasn't too happy...we were spending Thanksgiving with our daughter in Mill Creek, Washington...it snowed and the temperature was 17 degrees...as soon as this photo was taken hubby picked him up and took him in the house...he was happy as long as he was curled up under a blanket in the house

Here's a Niddy Noddy my husband made be from PVC pipe. It makes a one yard hank of yarn. The beautiful grey yarn wrapped right now is Lambswool/Nylon ~ recycled from a sweater purchased at a church thrift shop while in Mill Creek, Washington over Thanksgiving.

Paraphernalia ~ my "Personal Project of the Month"

Some members of our local Ravelry group decided to do a Personal Project of the Month. I enjoy knitting socks so I picked 12 sock patterns and the yarns that I wished to use (all but one skein/hank came from my stash). The patterns and yarns were matched up and then put in 12 separate zip lock type baggies. On the first day of each month I'll pull one baggie and knit that pattern.

Can you see Shivers in the following photo? His nose is poking out under the blanket...he's so funny.

Another Delightful Day

2010-09-18T16:22:00.000-07:00

We've added two more to the group...Katelyn and Amanda

Katelyn is 11...she learned to knit in school last year. Jen has taken her 'under wing'...refreshed her memory and now she is knitting a colorful scarf. And wouldn't you know it...in the drawings today she won a beautiful skein of homespun yarn in her school colors. Her face lit up when she saw it...I for one, look forward to seeing what she knits with it.

Amanda has been knitting for quite awhile...check out her page on www.ravelry.com ...

Jennifer made great progress on a shawl...love the color...although I believe it's bluer than what is in the photo...

Suzanne worked on her mosaic sweater...looking good

Pat made progress on a beautiful shawl...

Christy...showing off her hat...

Jen brought a couple skeins of 'halloween' yarn to share...

Jen also modeled a cowl that Paige was working on...

Marlene arrived wearing a gorgeous shell she knitted...

MaryAnn worked on mosaic socks for the Scarfest Sock group on Ravelry....(sorry, didn't get a photo)...

Paige was also working on a shawl...as was Amanda...

I worked on my shawl...just a simple little one...pattern from Ravelry ~ Carol's Clever Little Shawl...I just love how it is progressing...

Drawings were held...we had enough donations that everyone went home with something...

A Big THANK YOU to everyone who donated...it is very much appreciated

This post is posted by Ruth (Grandy)

Nice?

2010-09-01T13:48:00.000-07:00

First off, we've had wonderful weather here the past few days...but, like all good things it didn't last as long as we'd like and it's supposed to be in the 90's today.

Last week I made one of our favorite dishes..it necessitated using the oven. Well, I thought I'd make a pie today so I turned the oven on...turned my back less than a minute and wow... the kitchen and dining room were filled with smoke! I turned the oven off and the vent on boost! The smoke is gone but the smell. Evidently when I used the oven last week I didn't notice that a bit, well a big bit, ended up on the bottom of the oven.

Hot

2010-08-25T13:15:00.000-07:00

It's hot here!

And I mean the temperature is supposed to be around 108 today...just in the last thirty minutes it's gone up 3 degrees...and this isn't the hottest part of our day

The sun is shining, beautifully I might add...it's a shame that we cannot go out and enjoy it

I've rearranged a couple bookshelves and hubby hung a few more pictures...when I get the house where I want it...it'll be the time to move

I must get back to test knitting this sock pattern for a dear friend of mine...can't tell any secrets...just have to wait

I hate this fibromyalgia with a passion...didn't get to sleep until 4 this morning...but at least today I got a shower and dressed...yesterday was a jammies day...

back to knitting

Just trying to make it...

2010-08-17T12:58:00.000-07:00

I'm in a state of chaos at the moment...

I raised three children and work full time...

Right now, I couldn't tell you how I did it...

Why? If you've ever felt like you've been hit by a Mack truck...maybe, just maybe you'll understand how I feel...I feel this way most of the time...never saw that truck coming

Don't ever expect me to jump out of bed...for me it's a roll out of bed slowly...when I need to set the alarm to get up by a certain time it gets set for an hour earlier...that way I can be up when I need to

Energy...I remember the days I did jump out of bed and didn't stop moving until very late...not now...there is not energy...

There have been times when I've been asked to go somewhere or participate in something...I've missed so many things due to lack of energy and pain.

I worked as a waitress for a short time...lately it was suggested that perhaps I could find another job waiting tables...I asked if they had stock in Aleve...when I waitressed it was usually a four hour shift...I'd take two to four aleve before the shift and another two to four a couple hours later and two or three at the end of the shift so I could drive home...I'd be in so much pain that that was the only way I could make it...

I still take aleve...I couldn't make it through a day without it

So please listen...if you want me to go somewhere with you or go visiting or shopping...please try to understand when I have to decline...it's not that I don't want to...it's just that I don't want to burden you with the way I have to make it through a day

When we go shopping I'm fortunate if I can make it to more than one store...fortunately my hubby does the grocery shopping...and if I'm having a good day I may go with him

I was very lucky that for three nights I was able to sleep...but then last night...I was so tired I couldn't keep my eyes open...but I couldn't get to sleep until 6 a.m. ~ so you see if you happen to come to my house and I'm still in my jammies...I probably hadn't been up very long or perhaps I haven't been to sleep yet

I have to plan things out...I go knitting on Tuesday evenings so Monday from noon on and Tuesday day...I have to rest...if I don't there won't be enough energy to make it through the two hours on Tuesday evening...the same is true for Monday and Thursday mornings when I go knit with friends

My husband likes to walk in the evening...he'll ask if I want to join and I do most of the time...I only wish I could join him all the time

I appreciate my family and friends who understand this horrible 'thing' that has taken over my body and my life...you are the best anyone could ask for

Now some of you may ask why the doctor doesn't give me prescriptions for the pain ... hmmm...good question

NO INSURANCE means no doctor visits unless I have the cash to pay for the doctor visit, any tests that he may feel the need to run, and the prescription(s)...so if you have an extra couple thousand dollars sitting around...I'll go to the doctor...if you have health insurance appreciate it as it would cost me over $600.00 a month for coverage and that if I could find a company to cover me

If you're talking to me and it seems that I've 'wandered off'...I'm sorry...just means that the fog has hit my brain...

Today I haven't the energy to even pick up my knitting to knit a stitch let alone a row...and I have to figure how I'm going to make it from the craft room to the shower

I'm wishing each and everyone of you a pain free healthy day

Invaded....

2010-08-15T19:42:00.000-07:00

The other day we decided to enter the black hole...

Most of you have a black hole in your kitchen...

You know, it's the corner cabinet on the bottom...

It goes forever...and things get hidden on those black shelves...

Well, we decided to clean one out...mostly because I kept getting aggravated when I went to get a plastic container for leftovers to be put in the freezer...found a bottom but no top or a top with no bottom...

my aggravation paid off...every bottom and top were matched up...had just three bottoms with no tops left and two tops with no bottoms left...

Next, the black hole on the other side of the counter...the one that holds all the pans...not sure what I'm going to find in there..

In my knitting world...

I'm making hubby a hat...not just any hat...a Pittsburgh Steelers hat...when it's finished I'll post a photo.

Also, stopped off at the thrift shop (Discovery Shop)...not looking for anything in particular...but found a beautiful sweater...handknit in Estonia...if you're a knitter you know what I'm talking about...I'll post more about it later....

back to the Pittsburgh Steelers hat for hubby...

Happy Birthday

2010-08-12T08:16:00.001-07:00

Today is our sons birthday...

and no I am not telling his age!

We are proud of you son...

We wish you happiness and love

We love you very much...

Enjoy the day...

Me, I'm going to go knit...perhaps on socks, or maybe a hat...whatever it is doesn't really matter at this moment...what matters most is that I'll be with friends...good friends...now I must get my knitting bag and be on my way...

Have a wonderful day!

Yard Sales

2010-08-11T12:33:00.000-07:00

Hubby has decided that he is cleaning out the garage once and for all...

He wants to park our shiny red car in the garage...

So...hubby has decided he'll have a yard sale...

Now, I enjoy going to yard sales but having one is another story...

Years and years ago hubby was having a yard sale, the children were little and things were great...I stayed inside doing normal Saturday stuff...

then hubby comes in and says "I need to run down and get change...please watch the yard sale"...

hurriedly he goes over the prices of the stuff he had out...no problem

When he comes back he looks in the cash box and promptly says "Where's my $75.00?" well I say that I put the money in his box for whatever sold while he was gone and I surely do not owe you $75.00.

Seems that the one item that sold while he was gone...a brand new set of 4 tires....he was asking $25.00 for EACH and I sold all 4 for $25.00.

Since then whenever he gets the itch to have a yard sale I'll go through stuff for him BUT I do not go out and help whatsoever...except

The children have all moved away and there's no one to get up at the crack of dawn to help him set his tables up and put stuff out...but me

and if you know me...I do not like getting up at the crack of dawn to set up a yard sale!

I'm going through the kitchen cupboards with the attitude that if it doesn't fit in a motorhome it doesn't stay! Hopefully I'll be able to get rid of half the cupboards...yeah right!

A Birthday

2010-08-10T12:20:00.000-07:00

S H I V E R S

We celebrated another birthday in our household...

...our little chi, Shivers, turned 2 on the eighth...

...he has brought so much joy to our lives

Football Season Is Upon Us...

2010-08-07T17:52:00.001-07:00

I've been sitting here knitting little booties/socks for a charity...

While watching the Football Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony...

I remember watching the construction of the Hall of Fame...

I grew up in Canton, Ohio...

I remember sitting on a hill one day with some friends...

The hill overlooked the construction site...

I remember returning years later with my husband and touring the Hall...

Is it ironic that the Pittsburgh Steelers were in attendance today and...

My husband is from a small town south of Pittsburgh...

We've been fans of the Pittsburgh Steelers since...ever...

I printed out the directions just this morning...a Pittsburgh Steelers knitted hat...I have the yarn in my stash and will start it as soon as I am finished with the charity booties/socks

And all is well in our world today...oh...

Hubby decided to eat his dinner in the livingroom tonight so he wouldn't miss any of the Induction Ceremony...our little chi jumped up on his lap immediately as I set his plate down...sternly I told our little one "Down" ... he promptly jumped back to the floor... I told him to "Stay" ... our efforts and persistence paid off...he stayed down until he was told he could climb up on his daddys lap...our little one is so good!

Busy

2010-08-05T10:27:00.000-07:00

I've been busy and this morning as I drank my tea I wondered if I was too busy to keep this blog going...we'll see

Since the last post a lot has happened...I won't bore you with the details...

...only son got married

...Shivers spent two nights at the Animal Inn in Las Vegas (clung to me like a cat...but he came out fine)

...visited youngest daughter and family in Missouri

...watched grandson's baseball team participate in the Missouri "Show Me Games" in Columbia, MO

This trip we were gone a month...took lots of photos...had a great time...enjoyed the ride through New Mexico, Arizona and California. It's always nice to come home.

A few days after arriving home we were notified that a dear friend had passed away. She put up a valiant fight for a bit over two years...lung cancer.

We packed our unpacked suitcase again and made the drive...there was a wonderful memorial service with family and friends.

This time we hesitated about returning home...afterall...we were back in the little village where we raised our children and lived for 30 years...we did stay an extra day and the 3 1/2 hour drive home was drawn out with a couple visits to friends we hadn't seen in quite a while.

This past Tuesday was a fun day...went to LA with a dear friend, lunched, visited two yarn shops and enhanced my stash...

Now, I think a bit of redecorating my home is in order...perhaps that will help...

Yummy

2010-04-24T18:53:00.000-07:00

Just as we were sitting down to have our dinner the doorbell rang...our neighbor brought us this:Four cups of the first of the season cherries...yummy.

Today Ron and Shivers decided to take a nap...within 10 minutes the following occured:Neither could decide on how they wanted to lay to take their nap

SOCK MADNESS 4

As I mentioned before we are in round 4 of Sock Madness 4. Because I know that I'll be knitting quite a bit and have absolutely no time for anything else during this round (if I want to make it to round 5)...I made enough chili for 3 dinners and enough meatballs in mushroom sauce for 3 nights (we had meatballs for dinner with rice and broccoli).

This way Ron can put dinner together while I knit...

Too Much...

2010-04-24T12:25:00.000-07:00

Too much has been happening around here...

We took a surprise trip to Washington state to visit kids and grandkids for Easter...wonderful trip and I really enjoyed riding in my new car it was so peaceful.

The Vietnam Memorial Wall made a stop here and hubby and I were honored to visit it.

On the knitting front...Sock Madness 4

We had to sign up by a certain date...then we get a 'shopping list' of the yarn and needle sizes the designers and testers used...then round 1 comes...we knit according to the instructions and post...then came round 2...and round 3...

My personal goal was to make it to round 2...I'm in round 4 now...I'll receive the pattern between 2 a.m and 5 a.m. tomorrow morning....

I'll post photos when I have more time...now I must go to the kitchen and make some dinners to freeze so hubby can just heat them up while I'm knitting...

Ta-Da!

2010-02-19T20:50:00.000-08:00

Early January the city scheduled our neighborhood streets to be repaved...actually to have the paving taken out completely and new paving laid.

Well the timing wasn't the greatest...

the paving came up

the rain came down

and the mud was not wonderful

neighbors grumbled

kids driving pickups slid

mud was slung everywhere

The city came in with dozers and took the mud away

then the crew came in and laid new blacktop

Six weeks....not fun

Happy Birthday again

2010-01-19T13:58:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to my best friend, my soulmate, my HUSBAND...

Woke up to the wind howling like mad this morning...then the rain came down...and kept coming...

It's now about 2:00 in the afternoon and I see the sun peeking out...

About 30 minutes ago this is what the sky looked like West of us...the clouds were moving our way

and this is what the sky looked like to the South of us

the next two photos show what our street looks like...

Happy Birthday

2010-01-18T10:34:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Meredith

Today my eldest turns 36...where did the time go?

Remember the photo in the last post of our street...it still looks that way!

Today is very windy...things are blowing all over the place...

I'm staying in where it's nice and warm...although not sure how long we'll have power

and we're slated to have rain for 10 days...

At least I have knitting projects to do...

I stayed up last night to finish the knitting on an afghan/throw...now just to get those pesky ends weaved in and it is completed...except for blocking

I have a dozen or so other projects already on the needles so I'll be fine staying put for a few days

Our Street

2010-01-07T10:55:00.000-08:00

This is the street in front of our house...good thing hubby went out at 6:30 this morning and moved our car to the side street...the street is being ground up and new paving put down...supposed to take a week and with no inconvenience for the residents on the street...glad hubby moved the car because I sure wouldn't want to drive on this....

LA Trip

2010-01-07T10:15:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I accompanied my friend, Mary Ann, to Los Angeles. This what we encountered on the wayThe cloud didn't last long...we were out of it soon...traffic wasn't too bad either so we made really good time.

After 'business' was taken care of we decided to do some previewing of a 'local yarn shop'...we stopped in at Wild Fiber in Santa Monica. They are located on 14th Street about a block south of Santa Monica Blvd. We found a parking space and ventured over...the outside was being painted...we entered to a warm greeting by the salespeople...they were very helpful...and of course the first thing we inquired about was sock yarn...this is what we found...They also had a nice selection of needles, yarns and roving for spinning in addition to books.

We then inched our way down Santa Monica Blvd towards the pier. Mary Ann had never been to this pier so it was a treat for her and I'm sure she had a wonderful time. We found an eating place and replenished ourselves on cod, clams, and fries. Then we walked all over (wonder how many pounds we left there)...

The pier was quite crowded but we found out that a part was fenced off as they were getting ready for a Texas alumni get together...Texas and Alabama college football teams are playing in Pasadena.

We decided we'd best head back home by this time. Traffic was heavy and we were going down the road the car took a turn a parked...what?...oh okay...a yarn shop...so we ventured in to check it out....

This one is on Wilshire Blvd...Compatto Yarn Salon...again we had a nice warm welcome and the sales staff was very helpful.
Do you see that ball winder under the right side of the sign...it's electric and boy does it go fast...
Again, we saw a nice selection of yarns, needles and books.

All in all I would have to say that our trip was successful in all aspects.

Would I make the trip to these yarn shops again?...yes

Foggy...

2009-12-28T08:54:00.000-08:00

Looking out my kitchen window I can barely see the neighboring houses through the fog. Listening to the news I am thankful that we are where we are...devastation in so many places of the world

Weather forecast is for a bit of showers today...well bring it on...but just showers and not a down pour....thank you.

I was asked some months ago (months! holy crap!) if I would knit a throw/afghan for my best friends sister. Of course I said yes. She bought the pattern and yarn and sent it to me. Now I'm not a yarn snob (don't listen to some who know me and have seen some of my yarn stash) but when I opened the box and saw the yarn all I could think of was horrible thoughts. I've used the yarn before and it was never nice.

After much knitting and frogging and knitting and tinking I finally settled on the needle size for the yarn and am now close to the half way mark...

I'm also working on another scarf for our oldest daughter...so far I love the yarn...a bit of cashmere...(oops, what did the snob say?)

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2009-12-24T15:57:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas

from

our

home

to

yours

We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a safe New Year's

Wonderful Surprise...

2009-12-21T20:14:00.001-08:00

Today we were blessed with a couple packages...thanks to our daughters

One package will be opened on Christmas Day, hopefully in front of the webcam so our grandson can see us...

The other package was opened when we received it...

Hubby loves to go to The Elephant Bar for dinner...and we'd just been discussing that we'd have to wait until next month because we need to pay for our car tags this month...

...in the package, to our surprise, a gift card to The Elephant Bar...so we decided to go to dinner tonight...and it was wonderful.

Busy Busy

2009-12-16T13:33:00.001-08:00

I've been busy...

...all Christmas presents have been packed, shipped and received so that is one thing out of the way and I'm glad...usually I'm late getting packages mailed so I'm very happy that everything is done and out of the way early this year...

...I've started too many projects...will try to spend some time going through all the 'works in progress' and sort them out...prioritize them and get them done...

...Started a new project today...yes, another one...found some nice red wool (my favorite color) in my stash and have started the French Press Felted Slippers ... on size 15 needles...using 3 strands at a time...I think I'll like these

...It's time for making fudge and cookies...so off I go...

Rest In Peace

2009-11-28T21:38:00.001-08:00

Yesterday my stepmother went home to be with The Lord

She led a very full life....lived to be 90 years old

She will be missed by her family and extended family

Rest in Peace Mildred

just a bit of an update on my life

2009-11-01T12:50:00.000-08:00

Hubby loves to dress for Halloween...some years more than others. This year he found a mask. He put it on and Shivers went crazy...hubby had to get down on the floor and let Shivers take his time getting to know who it was...

This year was very light with trick-or-treaters so we do have candy left over (a bad thing if one is interested in losing a few pounds)...so friends don't be surprised if you find a candy bar in your knitting bag after a meetup...afterall aren't we supposed to share the wealth.

Yesterday I took an interesting trip with some friends of our local Ravelry group. Of course I always have a good time when I'm around any of the group. Anyway, we went to Exeter, CA which is about an hour and a half north of us. It's a really small town with building built around the 1889's. The purpose of the trip was to attend the Handweaver's Guild Show and Sale. I wish I would have taken more photographs. On display were weaving looms (yes, I'm hoping to be able to afford to get a table loom), yarns, finished projects (for show and sale) and did I mention yarn!

We ran into some friends, Carole of Dulitz Christmas Tree Farm, Brenda and Ann. Carole had a booth and was selling some of her yarns (beautiful and yes a couple skeins came home with me and I stayed within my budget). Brenda was helping Carole and Ann was demonstrating spinning. Ann had just received a new wheel the previous week and was having a great time showing it off. It is so tiny a spinner could spin in the car (of course not while they're driving, what are you thinking?)...

After leaving the show we wandered over to a local cafe and had lunch. Then while on the way out of town took time to notice the beautiful murals painted on the sides of a lot of the buildings. Go to www.google.com (or any search engine of your choice) and search Exeter California. On google if you do the map and then do a street view you'll be able to see some of the murals.

Today is a quiet day ~ football is on, of course ~ hubby ran to the store for a few things ~ I'm messing around, well really, not messing around but trying to update this thing (which I neglect too much) then I'll write out the bills (yes I still write checks and send them in the mail to pay my monthly bills) and then I will knit on the current pair of socks.

I have to get these socks done because I have two other pairs in the wings waiting for these needles...plus two scarves need to be done for Christmas...

A word of caution

2009-10-29T09:53:00.000-07:00

...we all know not to open the door to strangers

...we hear all the time to ask for identification when someone comes knocking

...we hear all the time how people push their way into someone's home causing havoc (to put it mildly ~ it's still early here and I'm just now having my coffee)

...This morning shortly before 9 a.m. the doorbell rang

...It's the fellow from the Mosquito Abatement Department of the County (he has to go around and check swimming pools and any other types of standing water to make sure there are no baby 'squitos or adult ones that will breed)

..."Go to the gate and let yourself in and I'll meet you"

...NOW:

1. I didn't ask for identification at the door
2. I allowed him to let himself in the gate (which is normally locked)
3. I met him at the gate (by myself still in jammies and hair looking like the mice had a field day)
4. I walked around the back yard to the pool and back to the gate with him talking all the while
5. I left the door to the house unlocked and probably cracked open

AND:

For not one nano second of time did I think anything about anything except that this guy was checking my pool (which is empty by the way so no problem)

He did not know if I was by my self or not (I wasn't)

I didn't know if he was by himself

I never once thought how easy it would have been for someone to come to my door ~ gain entrance (even through the gate to the backyard) ~ have accomplices waiting for entrance.

I preach and preach to my daughters the importance of keeping your doors locked and not letting anyone in without identification (even if you are expecting them). ~ And now here I "done and did it".

It was at least a half hour before I even realized what I had done and to me that is scary.

Monderful Monday!

2009-10-12T14:42:00.001-07:00

Today is a monderful day...

Shivers got up in time to outside for a bit before going back in his crate...didn't make me late...met Patty, Suzanne, Jane and Virginia at Borders for our Monday get together.

Knitted quite a bit on the mittens...these will be for youngest daughter...I'm knitting them out of Manos del Uruguay ~ color: Hibiscus ~ Handcrafted Kettle Dyed Pure Wool

I love knitted with this yarn ~ it is a bit thick and thin but I think it will felt spectacularly! Plus it will give our darling nice warm hands when the snow really hits Missouri

While at Borders I meandered over to the knitting books and of course one followed me home ~ it is the reprint of Alice Starmore's Book of Fair Isle

Perhaps this book is just telling me that I'll be focusing on Fair Isle in the coming year

Virginia was wearing a sweater she knitted years ago and it looked as if she'd just finished it...beautifully knitted and the color is gorgeous ~ I'm hoping to get the pattern although I still haven't finished my "February Lady Sweater" but ....

I enjoy meeting up with our group ~ it seems that every time we get together I learn something new...and that is so true about today ~ thanks Suzanne ~ I have to remember 80 and not 64 ~ and a swatch (yuck but I will do it)

Now I'm off to work on the mittens

Yarn Dyeing Day

2009-10-11T14:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was among a wonderful group. We "flew" (by car) to Dulitz Christmas Tree Farm in Springville California. During October through the end of January or so the owner has a gift shop in a log cabin. During the rest of the year she uses it as a yarn shop.

This was the second time I was able to go. The group yesterday went to dye yarn. Some of us bought yarn from Carol and some brought their own.

We were joined by three spinners who showed us their amazing talent. A very talented indie dyer joined us ~ I love her dyeing and of course a beautiful skein jumped in my bag.

A potluck was enjoyed by everyone ~ the food was great!

I purchased a hugmongous 900 yard skein of beautiful gold dk weight wool yarn and over dyed it...I had a blast!

The yarn is hanging over the tub in our front bathroom drying...I want it good and dry before winding it ~ this yarn is going to be knitted into nice warm socks...

Look at all the beautiful dyeing jobs ~ mine are the two dark brownish ones on the left of the rack.

Everyone did a great job. I am looking forward to doing this again.

Blue Ribbon

2009-10-11T14:30:00.001-07:00

I entered two pairs of socks at our local county fair and was so surprised to learn that I had won a First Place Blue Ribbon (did it help that in the category there were just two items entered)

There were so many beautiful knitted items entered I was proud to be among the group. Our local Ravelry group came home with 19 ribbons between the 7 of us.

I've already started a mental list of items to knit for next year.

I was told that my older sister entered a crocheted item in her local county fair and came home with a First Place Blue Ribbon...congratulations. Also one of my sisters-in-law brought blue ribbons home also.

Must be in the genes....

Congratulations to everyone who entered items in their fairs ~ everyone deserves a ribbon!

2009-10-03T10:26:00.000-07:00

It's Saturday

I'm up

Yesterday I fell over the doggie gate in the hallway,
doggie gate is now down and doors closed
came away with a few bruises and sore muscles

Last night I started to deconstruct a CASHMERE sweater I picked up at the Goodwill some time ago (for $2.00 ~ cleaners was $3.00)...

I'm hoping for enough salvagable yarn to make a shawl...we'll see

Shivers didn't want to get out of bed this morning...poor little guy shivers like crazy...I'll knit him a little coat and we'll see if he'll wear it this year.

Off to deconstruct...

Duplication

2009-09-16T15:16:00.000-07:00

I must apoligize to anyone who reads this blog.

I have just noticed that I duplicate myself...I'm sorry....

...heck I thought I was doing pretty good that I was even posting to a blog

...I'll try to be better in the future...

Wonderful Day!

2009-09-14T17:37:00.000-07:00

Today was a wonderful day. I got some sleep last night after having many nights with very fitful sleep...

Woke up to a gray, overcast, sprinkled day...perfect day to sit on the patio and knit...but that's not what I did.

Okay, update on knitting:

Finished socks for sil (no I'm mentioning a name here, not sure if she reads this or not and I do want her to be surprised).

Two completed pairs of socks; Celtic Pennies (a YarnYenta pattern for a KAL on www.ravelry.com) and Whirlpool Socks (from the book Knitting Socks with Handpainted Yarn) ~ these socks have been washed and blocked and are now looking pretty good. They'll be taken to the fairgrounds on Friday.

A slew of dishcloths have been knitted up for a certain person who asked for them and perhaps a couple of other 'certain people' (I haven't decided yet). Dishcloths/Washcloths are so simple to knit and crochet...I started one this morning just before leaving to meet with some ladies at B&N ~ had it finished and another one started before I left for home a couple hours later ~ and I put it down quite a few times during our chatting.

Another pair of socks has been started: pattern is off www.knitty.com ~ the fall 09 issue that just came out...Hat-heel sock by Kathleen Sperling ~ it is an interesting pattern and I'm enjoying 'the challenge'.

Okay, one day I'll learn how to do links...yeah right...like I have time to figure this stuff out...I have to figure out what to feed hubby for dinner while he watches Monday Night Football but first guess I'd best go put the clothes in the dryer so hubby will have clean socks to wear tomorrow.

Which reminds ~ this past Thursday the Pittsburgh Steelers played the Tennessee Titans and won! Hubby wore his Steelers socks that I knitted him this summer...so you all know what that means...I'd best have them ready for him to wear for each game this year...

September Already!

2009-09-10T18:59:00.000-07:00

It is September! Already! Well if my kidlets were here and still in school I wouldn't be ready. Nope. Not at all.

But the kidlets all have kidlets who are in school...bet they weren't ready!

Hard to believe our eldest grandchild is in the 7th grade..where did the time go!

And no I'm not old enough to have a grandchild in the 7th grade...don't ask!

I'm very involved in my knitting. I've completed socks...Hubby is wearing his Pittsburgh STEELERS socks while watching the first game of the season...Steelers vs. Titans

I've entered two pairs of socks into the local County Fair...I'll let you know what happens. I really just entered for fun...but then again...ribbons are always nice...no matter what, I'm wearing my socks.

One pair is on the needles and I'm working on the leg of those so they'll be completed soon.

Started another pair this morning...using DK weight yarn with size 4 addi needles...these should go pretty fast.

In a few weeks I'll be going to Dulitz Tree Farm. We're having a dyeing/knitting/spinning day with the owner. I plan on dyeing sock yarn and enough laceweight or perhaps sock yarn to knit a stole...not sure of the pattern yet so I'll have to really think about the yardage so I have enough no matter what.

2009-08-23T00:03:00.000-07:00

Well, I've been a bit busy lately...

...of course I'm still knitting socks but I've also cast on a blanket, something I never thought I'd do again...

I was thinking today how nice it would be to have a "Crafters Refuge"

Now what I mean by this is...

~ a home to go to when you want or need to just pick up and get away for a bit

~ a home where you could go to bake some cookies; a cake or a pie

~ a home where you could go to knit or ~

~ crochet ~ cross stitch ~ embroidery ~ quilt ~ sew ~ weave ~ dye ~ whatever

~ a home where you could go to curl up with a good book and ready that last chapter

~ a home where you could go to watch that movie you've been putting off forever

~ a home where you could meet others who enjoy doing the craft you enjoy

~ a home where you could learn other crafts if the itch needed scratched

Well, of course this is just a dream ~ a dream that would be worth pursuing perhaps if there weren't so many ifs

I look forward to getting together with the friends that I have made through Ravelry

And I thank God everyday for giving me a wonderful family and great friends who keep me in a positive state of mind, I love it

God Bless

Contentment...

2009-08-06T08:53:00.000-07:00

I'm happy for a couple of my fellow knitters...they went to Sock Summit 2009 in Portland, Oregon...

...when I first heard of the Sock Summit I started checking airlines and hotels...you know ... the cost ... times ... etc.,

...then eldest daughter says she's getting married...

...then we had the trip to Washington ... had to meet new grandson who was already 8 months old ...

So...no Sock Summit ...

Okay...family comes first and yes it was extremely important to meet my grandson and play with him...loved every minute I was able to spend with my children and grandchildren...wouldn't trade it with anything...even the Sock Summit

...but still

...there is a small part of my that still longs to be in Portland today

...I'll be content with looking at the photos and reading the posts

...and knitting on my newest project...may even start another today...who knows what the future holds...

...and there are two sewing projects that I want to do...hmmm

First, though, there is a meetup with some ladies this morning...we'll sit and chat...and knit...and chat some more...and knit some more...

...and we'll be content that we have this time together to do something we like and want...

Oh My Gosh!

2009-07-29T19:00:00.000-07:00

Hubby brought the following home this afternoon...all for just $5.87....

we've got seedless watermelon; two cantaloups; six peaches; seven pears and seven granny smith apples...not to mention about six nice size potatoes...

On the Knitting Front...

Yarn: Flat Feet (Conjoined) purchased at Great Yarns in Everett Washington

Item: Socks (what else)

Pattern: Whirlpool

Book: Knitting Socks from Handpainted Yarn

I like this pattern...love using beads...these are 8/0 and I used dental floss and a beading needle to put them on the yarn before I did anything else

I did make modifications to the pattern...what's new...

Finished

2009-07-15T16:51:00.000-07:00

I feel as though I have accomplished something this past week.

First, I finished the Celtic Pennies socks KAL. This was my first Fair Isle project and can't wait for another one. It was so easy to do. I am very pleased with the final project.

Secondly, I finished Ron's Pittsburgh Steelers socks. This yarn was very nice to work with...I ordered it from Yarntini online. Perfect...

Every time I've taken a photo of the socks in progress our little Shivers had to have his nose in it. This time right after I clicked the following photo he moved so fast, grabbed a sock and took off running around the living room and dining room...moved so fast I couldn't get a photo of him. I take it that he is satisfied with the results.

Our local knitting group, The KTK Yarn Mavens, will be having their monthly meeting on July 25th. We'll be meeting at a local park with a playground for the little ones.

I have put together some items for a drawing...a surprise bag of goodies...and I'm pleased with what I've put in there although I'm not finished...may have to make it two bags...of course the winner must be present at the time of the drawing.

I do hope we have a good turn out for this meeting. It is always nice to get together and share our finished objects along with whatever project(s) we are working on at the time. Perhaps a few will bring their spinning wheels and share their knowledge.

Because we will be meeting at a park we have decided to do a potluck, who doesn't love a potluck, with all those goodies...brownies, that's what I'm taking...

I will be bringing cool ties...I've been sewing them up and will sell them for $5.00 each. I don't keep the money...it is donated to Relay for Life...

Going back to the sewing machine...which reminds me...my sewing machine quit on me...but never fear...a couple weeks later we found one on the local craigslist...bought it and I love it...it is an embroidery/sewing machine and does quilting also...guess where I'll be for hours on end...

Have a wonderful day and May God Bless Everyone...

quick update...

2009-07-06T15:05:00.000-07:00

Celebrated our Fourth with good friends and good food...thank you

Shivers is such a great puppy...very protective and cuddly...I'm glad we have him (or does he have us?)...

Spent a few hours this morning with some great ladies down at Borders doing what we do...KNIT! It's nice to spend time with others doing the same thing you enjoy...thanks ladies, you know who you are.

I am working on the foot of my Celtic Pennies...coming along very nicely I think...I'll post photos later when I have a bit more finished.

I started a kitchen towel on the 3rd and worked on it...almost done there...you know it is one of those that buttons around the handle of the oven...again...photos will be posted later.

And still...hubbys Steelers socks, they are coming along...working on the foot...

I've organized, somewhat, my yarn stash...went through a few bins yesterday and got two grocery bags together to be taken to the Dominican Republic...I just went through some more and have at least two more bags...

Sewing machine made a grinding noise when I last used it so it will be going to the shop :( really puts a damper on my sewing...

Now, I'm off to KNIT KNIT KNIT!

Hope all has a wonderful day and a great week...I'll be staying in the house as much as possible until this "heat wave" is over...

Celtic Pennies

2009-06-23T14:16:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited! I am doing a KAL (knitalong) with a wonderful group of ladies/gents on www.ravelry.com

The yarn is superwash wool/nylon from PennyRose Yarns in a beautiful Emerald (1 skein) and Gold (1/2 skein) Check out her etsy shop at http://fritzl.etsy.com Ruth is wonderful and does some great dyeing.

Ron's socks are put on hold while I go get these on the needles!

Father's Day

2009-06-21T11:39:00.001-07:00

Happy Father's Day Darling...and how are you spending it? You went down to the local donut stop, as you do most mornings, and sat with other men who do the same thing. I'm glad you have that little group. I enjoy you telling me about each of them...

When you came home you got started moving some things in our garage, and why, so that I'd have someplace to put an old Bakers Rack. We picked the Bakers Rack up at an estate sale years ago and have used it in different rooms before moving here. Once here it ended up on our back patio for a time. Then, bright idea here, let's move it into my craft room. Without saying anything you moved it. Now that I've decided to reorganize my yarn and fabric and beads you are moving it once again. This time out to the crowded garage. I'm ready to let go of it. I will sell it but only to someone I know will love it as much as I have...of course these photos just do not do it justice...I love all the curli cues...and the beautiful wrought iron...yes it will be sad but it must be done...

So what am I planning on putting along that wall? Hmmm, well, I do have a six foot table that is going to go there...it has my sewing machine on it...and I use the rest of it when I'm cutting fabric or doing beading...it serves its purpose very well.

Now, on the knitting front, I am working on a pair of "Pittsburgh Steelers" socks for my darling husband. He deserves them and I should have
had them done...but his feet are long so it takes me longer to knit them. When I had him try them on for size Shivers had to get into the act and give his approval.

I'll work on them more today.

I am also going to be doing my first ever Fair Isle Project...a pair of socks...the yarn is just delicious...a beautiful emerald green and gold..

The yarn is from "Penny Rose Yarns" she has an etsy shop http://fritzl.etsy she dyes the yarn and it is so yummy.

Since it is Father's Day darling can do whatever he pleases, as if he doesn't anyway, we'll be going to dinner at his favorite restaurant, The Elephant Bar, he loves it there.

Guess I'll go get a shower and get dressed and then knit on those socks...love to knit...always look forward to getting together with the KTK Yarn Mavens on Tuesday evenings, Monday/Thursday mornings and Saturday too....

Home

2009-06-10T12:49:00.000-07:00

We arrived home early this past Sunday morning.

We decided to rent a car and drive the 13 hours as airline tickets were just outrageous. We figured that we saved over $250.00.

While in Washington we visited "Great Yarns" in Everett...a wonderful store with personable ladies...I had a great time and came away with more yarn goodies than planned.

We also took a tour of the Boeing Company...very informative and interesting...I'm letting no secrets out...if you're in the area I suggest taking the tour.

Hubby was very patient with me as we drove through Portland, Oregon on the search for "Twisted", a fantastic yarn shop that I'll visit every time I'm in the area. "Twisted" is located in the NE section and somehow we ended up in the SW section. A couple guys pointed us in the right direction and we found the shop. The ladies there are absolutely wonderful. I went in with a list of what I was looking for and they helped me...love the wall of sock yarn...wish more would have jumped into the car and came home with me.

Now it is time to get down to brass tacks....the laundry is getting done and so is the other housework...all in time, my time!

On the drive home I knitted a sock for our youngest grandson (9 months old)...turned out great...started the second sock and I am now tinking it back to the same spot for the third time...can't figure what I am doing wrong but come on, this is a baby sock...

Saturday is WWKIP (World Wide Knit In Public) DAY...I'll be sitting with a great group of ladies down at the Marketplace knitting away and enjoying the time we have together.

Now, off to exercise (quit smirking...all of you...yes I do exercise although it may not look like it)! ! ! ! ! !

Lovely

2009-05-27T12:30:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday we were honored to attend the wedding of our eldest daughter. The wedding took place in Mill Creek, Washington. Hubby and I are staying on to sit with our almost 12 year old grandson and loving every minute. The newlyweds are honeymooning in Italy...a small village north of Rome...haven't heard from them but really don't expect to either...

The wedding was preceded by a traditional Vietnamese Tea Ceremony. I am anxiously waiting to see the photos that were taken at the ceremony. I was in awe and so tense during the ceremony...thinking I would mess something up...but it was a beautiful ceremony and everyone enjoyed the lunch afterwards.

You will have to wait for photos of the wedding until we get back home and I can download them.

I've been knitting on a pair of socks from "Wendy Knits" new book...also have knitted a small scarf (started it on the plane ride)...our 3 year old granddaughter has snagged the scarf...knitted with homespun wool and beads...lovely yarn to work with....I had purchased the yarn from "LaurensWool...Danni" some time ago...

Off to the bookstore with the grandson...

Don't Throw Balls In The House

2009-05-09T22:32:00.000-07:00

How many times while the children were growing up did we say "Don't throw balls in the house."

Hubby likes to play with Shivers. One of their favorite things to do is 'fetch'. Hubby throws the ball and Shivers will fetch it.

I've told him many many times not to throw it from the livingroom sofa into the dining room.

Well it finally happened. We have a fan with lights in the dining room. I'm sitting at the laptop on the dining table and all of a sudden...I sincerely thought the fan/lights were crashing down on me.

Hubby threw the ball...it hit the flag chain pull which flew up into the blades...the flag pull broke from the chain and fell on the laptop...the chain wrapped itself around the fixture so tight it took both of us to free it...

...and all the while...I'm saying "How many times have I told you not to throw the ball in the house..."...and what is hubby doing...laughing.

They never grow up.

Last night I finished a pair of socks...used worsted weight super wash wool...feels nice...I may try these again.

wow

2009-05-04T17:35:00.000-07:00

Wow...can't believe it's been a month since I've updated...

...on knitting... I finished a pair for me...a pair for one grandson with size 11 feet... have started a pair for hubby and another pair for me...

...other news... had a heck of a time finding an outfit for oldest daughter's wedding later this month... now trying to fit everything in one suitcase...

2009-04-06T09:20:00.000-07:00

I must remember not to knit when I am tired.

I started a pair of socks last week. Last evening I finished the second sock and when I put the to together to compare I noticed that the first one looked 'weird'...yes weird...this morning I took a second look and sure enough I screwed up the toe on the first one.

This pair of socks is being knitted using Patons Kroy sock yarn that I purchased at our local Micheal's...just wanted to try it and see if I liked it.

The pattern is just a generic cuff down. The toe problem ~ looks like a pyramid ~ which means that I decreased every row instead of every other row.

This means that I must tink the entire toe and do it over. This in itself is not a problem as I have not closed the toes yet...must have been a reason why...

I am hoping to complete this pair TODAY! I have yarn and pattern ready for my next pair and can't wait.

Oh, by the way, I ordered and received Cookie A.'s newest book, Sock Innovation. I haven't had the time yet to really sit and look over the patterns but as I skimmed through I noted that I will probably knit most all. I am looking forward to this.

Well, off to put the figures together to send to our tax lady...yes I know there are not many more days left...yes I know I put it off until almost the last minute...yes I have been reminded by more people than I care to count...and yes it will get done on time...but first I must tink tink tink...

A Wonderful Exhausting Day

2009-03-16T09:54:00.000-07:00

As daughter and grandson are leaving California to live in the Mid-West they wanted to see some things first. Funny, we've lived in California for over 30 years always within 2 hours of Los Angeles area and we'd never taken in the sights. Daughter asked us about it. Well, while our children were growing up hubby and I were usually working weekends. At one time hubby worked three jobs to keep us afloat. At one time I left home for work around 6 a.m. and didn't return until 10 p.m. Evidently that is why we never took in the sights.

When our oldest daughter moved to LA area I would visit and we'd do something...she took me to Malibu, Santa Monica Pier, Zuma Beach just to name a few.

When a brother visited us from the Mid-West I got brave and took him to Hollywood. It was my first time there also. We parked right smack dab in front of the Pantages Theatre. Walked all over the Stars Walk of Fame taking photos. Drove up a winding road to get the best view of the Hollywood Sign. It was a great day for me.

When a sister visited from the East coast I once again braved the traffic and took her and our oldest grandson to The Getty. What a day that was. So much to take in at one time but all of us enjoyed it so much. During her visit hubby had surgery. A few days before we took her to Hollywood to see the sign...poor hubby we walked him all over. It was his first time there and he enjoyed it.

This past Saturday we took daughter and grandson to Hollywood. We walked Rodeo Drive, took pictures, entered the Jimmy Choo store (her dream is to own one pair of Jimmy Choo shoes). Hubby took a short drive through a few neighborhoods just aweing over the size of the homes. Then we took Santa Monica Blvd to the Santa Monica Pier where we spent five hours. We had a great time. The three of them rode the roller coaster, we inhaled a funnel cake, saw colorful people, and the ocean was breathtaking.

It was overcast when we arrived but that didn't deter anyone from enjoying the day. The water was cold, we suspect, but there were dozens in the water.

We watched a couple fishermen untangle a large crab that had gotten caught in there net.

On the beach a group, Veterans for Peace, had set up an "Arlington West" Iraq War Memorial. It was very somber reading names and seeing photos of all who have lost their lives for our freedom. I'll not go on about this as everyone has their own opinions on the subject and right now I'll keep mine to myself. Hubby was in the Vietnam War as was one of my brothers and my ex-husband...I'm thankful every day they came home.

Now let's see if I can get a few photos from our Saturday posted.

Mitered Scarf

2009-03-12T07:15:00.000-07:00

This is my mitered scarf in progress. On www.ravelry.com (check it out if you haven't already) I am doing a KAL (knit a long) with a wonderful group.

The yarn is Cherry Tree Hill fingering weight 80% Merino wool and 20% nylon ~ color is Cherry Blossom

I'm pleased with the results so far...long way to go to finish...this will be put aside for Christmas (yes, I'm thinking about that already).

Honor...

2009-03-07T18:09:00.001-08:00

Honor

Today we had the honor of seeing our grandson graduate from Recruit to Private First Class in the Young Marines

After graduation he went with his mother to a troop encampment at a local lake. I was just informed that he had the honor of participating in the troops flag burning ceremony.

I can't but remember our daughter telling us that those attending the encampment last evening was so cold most of them slept in the vehicles...daughter and grandson went with extra blankets and long underwear

While they are camping in the cold I am in my warm home with hubby and puppy....time to knit...or maybe sew a bit...

Knit Knit Knit

2009-02-26T22:19:00.000-08:00

Knitting is wonderful!

Well at least I think it is...

We have little Shivers...needs to go outside numerous times throughout the day

We have a courtyard out our front door with a little patio so when I take Shivers out I usually take a project out to knit on while he does his business

Now that the weather is getting a bit warmer Shivers loves to lay in the sun so I take him out and sit and knit

I had a request from our daughter in law...says that our son would love to have an apron...so a special project for special people...I've sewn one in some Snoopy fabric I acquired

While sewing Snoopy apron thought I'd do one for granddaughter "H" and her brother and sister.

Remembered that when son was in kindergarten we purchased a 'painting apron' for him and our daughters. His is the only one that has survived and for some reason I had it in the plastic bin with my patterns.

I took his 'painting apron' and made a brown wrapping paper pattern. I'm tweaking the original pattern a bit (wouldn't be me if I didn't) and have one cut out.

Tomorrow I'll sew this one up and give it to our little neighbor next door...all little ones need an apron to wear when they bake cookies...

Off to knit, knit, knit....

Holey Moley

2009-02-22T22:42:00.000-08:00

Holey Moley I have lost time...didn't realize it has been over a month since I graced this page with my appearance.

I knitted two little pairs of socks for darling grandson Rhys

I did the finishing touches (like weaving in the ends) of a few finished items and then off they went.

I've also sewn a few things and am in the process of sewing up some little surprises for the grandkids....

The virus that has been going around has visited our home and we're all down with it now in varying stages.

Voila!

2009-01-15T11:23:00.000-08:00

Hubby asked me to knit him a hat...not just any hat...but a beanie type that would keep his ears and bald head warm. No problem. Lots of patterns on Ravelry.

I came across a great pattern...got the yarn...a nice superwash merino wool...knit it up in record time for me...wonderful...no...he didn't like it and said it itched...it hit the frog pond with a big splash.

Okay, no problem...thought maybe I'd try some Bernat Alpaca blend...great...it fit fine...but...he didn't like it and said it itched...it also hit the frog pond with a bigger splash.

To say that I was frustrated would be a minor statement.

So I figured I'd use Red Heart acrylic, it wouldn't itch, washable...so off I go again...great...he liked it and I thought it turned out perfect...but...it was just a bit too small...the frog pond got company again...

I was so perplexed that I couldn't think straight...

I went down to a lys for something else and in talking to one of the girls there she showed me a pattern that was...foolproof...so I figured I didn't have anything to lose. I picked up the pattern and a skein of Fantasy Dark Horse Yarns ~ 50% nylon 50% acrylic ~ it feels squishy soft...although I found it to be a bit splitty at times

Finally! Hubby is very pleased with this last hat ~ the fourth one I might add ~ and I am so pleased that he is pleased. I'll be making more hats with that pattern (actually I tweaked it to my satisfaction and like it)...but I will use a variety of yarns.

I've also finished another hat for a friend...this one is out of Cascade Yarns ~ Cash Vero ~ 50% Merino Extra Fine Wool 33% Microfiber Acrylic and 12% Cashmere ~ I love working with this yarn...it is so soft! I've just started another pattern hat with this yarn for her also.

On the needles I have socks, socks, socks....I'm hoping to be able to work on at least one pair soon...

Happy Birthday Dear Jesus

2008-12-25T10:34:00.000-08:00

We celebrated the birth of Jesus today.

We take this time to wish everyone a SAFE Holiday.

We Salute Our Military!

2008-11-11T14:45:00.003-08:00

Veteran's Day!

We Salute Our Military!

Thank you to all you Veteran's out there...we support you and appreciate you!

Today we took our grandson downtown to observe the local Veteran's Day Parade.

The parade, like all parades throughout this great land of ours, included lots of school bands, horses, old cars and firetrucks. But most importantly it included lots and lots of our military men and women...there were those from JROTC...Active Duty...Disabled...Retired...Reserve...did I miss anyone?...I hope not...there was also a group of Young Marines.

I was a bit surprised at the number of spectators who came out for the parade. Surprised and overwhelmed, thankful and glad.

Each time a group of our military would come by people stood and clapped. That was everlasting music.

When a group of Vietnam Veterans passed our way the clapping was louder than ever...made me think that they were getting the homecoming they so richly deserved and never had.

I've posted photos of our parade on http://www.flickr.com/photos/20428757@N03/

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

On a yarny note...since we were just a couple blocks from ABC's of Creative Pursuits I had to pop in, besides they are having a sale...

I had read about a new knitting book and wouldn't you know it...one followed me home...

The book is Luxury Yarn One-Skein Wonders (101 Small Indulgences) edited by Judith Durant

There are so many projects in this book that I'll be busy for a long time!

Shivers

2008-10-29T13:06:00.000-07:00

Shivers

We consider ourselves blessed. We were just two days ago blessed with the care and upbringing of a beautiful little chihuahua, Shivers. Now those of you who really know me know that I am extremely afraid of dogs. But this little darling...he couldn't harm a fly...he is so very loving and quiet.

In the second photo he really looks big...but he is no bigger than a minute. He loves to be held. We are in the process of housebreaking him so I am really glad that my dear sweet husband knows how to do this as I am completely clueless, except to take him outside constantly.

We debated on changing his name but decided against it...so Shivers it is...fits him too as he is always shivering....

Scary

2008-10-21T23:18:00.000-07:00

Today we had a bit of a scare

Our eldest grandson in Seattle was admitted to the hospital. First he saw his doctor who sent him to the hospital for a CT Scan ~ and to be admitted.

Late this afternoon he had an appendectomy...thankfully it had not burst!

He is now resting comfortably with his mother by his side. Oh and eating a popsicle!

If all goes well he will be allowed to go home to recuperate tomorrow

I know this happens all the time but when our daugter called and said she was on her way to hospital this morning and explained what was going on it was a bit scary...especially our being so far away and not being able to meet them at the hospital...depending on phone calls alone...that is scary...the waiting and not knowing. I thank the Lord that all went well.

On a brighter note

I finished knitting my Waterfall Bead Scarf this evening and did a three needle bind off. I'm not happy with the bind off so I'll take it a Ravelry meeting next week and see if one of the ladies can help me...that is if I don't frog the bind off and redo it between now and then. I'll post photos when I am satisfied.

How I Spent My Saturday

2008-10-11T19:56:00.000-07:00

At 3:30 a.m. the alarm went off.

We left our daughter's at 5:30 a.m. and arrived at the property adjacent to the Lerdo Correctional Facility in Lerdo.

VOLKSLAUF! (go to http://www.volkslauf.com/ for more information)

The Volkslauf event kicks off the 2008 Toys for Tots program in Kern County.

There was a 5K and a 10K and then a Jr Volkslauf

We were there to support our grandson who is in the Young Marine program. Some of the Young Marines participated in the runs. This is a photo of a few of the Young Marines in formation waiting for instructions. During the races and after the Jr Volkslauf the Young Marines were policing the area. Recyclables are collected with the monies going to the Young Marine program.

The day of races started with Old Glory being raised by the Kern County Fire Department. Our National Anthem was sung and then was "Let the Games Begin!"

The races started with a bang...Civil War reenactment group started each race with a Civil War era cannon...

Here are some of the children participating in their course...yes it is real mud!

Another mud pit!

This is the back of Dakota...doesn't look like much but those jeans are soaked with mud ...muddy!

After the runs participates could get rinsed off by the Kern County Fire Department

Here he is...all cleaned up and ready to police the area...again!

Quite a few of the runners were using duct tape to tape their shoes to their feet. Afterwards they just ripped the tape off and left it were it landed. Thank goodness for our Young Marines! Cleaning up after grown men and women!

Oh and we must not forget Dakota's father, our son-in-law, Scott, a former United States Marine! He dressed for the occasion. Scott volunteered to help...he was put out on the course and looked what happened to him...

We finally left the area around 2:30 p.m., stopped for a bite to eat and then headed home for a well deserved nap for everyone.

Latest Project

2008-10-09T09:57:00.001-07:00

This is my latest project.

Waterfall Scarf to Knit with Beads

pattern by Jane Davis

When I started this scarf I wasn't sure if I would be able to do it without help. I've made a beaded bracelet on a knitting loom before and that was my first beaded project.

I love this scarf. It was amazingly easy. The pattern was easy once I got the cast on taken care of.

See all the beads? There are close to 500 beads on each end. I'm knitting both ends at the same time and then will do a three needle bind off to join both ends.

I may have to try this scarf in a chocolate, yummy!

Photos

2008-10-04T19:11:00.001-07:00

I have photos to share

This is our grandson, Rhys Sterling. Just the cutest little baby in the world (granny says so!)

I can see he has his daddy's temper as it doesn't look like he was very happy here!

I am very proud of our grandson, Dakota. He is a member of the Young Marines...going through boot camp right now. Today he participated in a "Buddy Walk". We were told that he did a great job of taking care of his 'buddy' for the day. GRANNY IS VERY PROUD OF YOU DAKOTA!

The Big Day

2008-09-29T22:51:00.000-07:00

Saturday was a sad day. Eldest daughter, fiancee and our eldest grandson left California for Seattle. "E", age 11, loves fast cars...one of his dreams came to life when a friends father brought home a Ferrari. He came over and took "E" for a ride. It was priceless just to see the look on his face.

That is a ride that he'll remember for a very long time.

Today I finished knitting a 'Market Bag'. I've come across a lot of patterns, especially on Ravelry, but one pattern never jumped out at me. So, I used a few patterns and just tweaked them to make it my own. I'm happy with the way it turned out.

Hubby is getting ready to have a yard sale this weekend. I'm pulling things out also. Not sure what we'll have for others to give a new home to but it should be interesting. Daughter "V" will probably bring things over and two neighbors are supposed to be putting things out also.

I'm hoping to get back knitting on my February Lady Sweater this week also...I've got so many other projects to work on but this sweater is at the top of the priority list now.

Baby Socks

2008-09-25T19:01:00.001-07:00

I finished Rhys' baby socks today. Now I consider myself a 'slooow' knitter. But that is okay. Things will get finished in their own time. I don't like to be rushed doing anything so I'm fine with 'slow knitter' status.

This is a photo of the completed pair of socks in my hand. They are so tiny and so adorable. I may be persuaded to do another pair a bit bigger...some day!

Now I am off to grab a project to work on while watching "Grey's Anatomy". I don't watch much television any more but I do enjoy "Grey's Anatomy"; Two and a Half Men; How I Met Your Mother. Other than those shows if I'm watching anything it may be an old black and white movie or the Food Network (depending who is cooking) or HGTV or Jon Kate and 8 on TLC.

Oh bless it...I haven't gotten dgs's pillow sewn up yet...it'll have to wait until Sunday now.

We're off tomorrow to spend the day with eldest dgs...he'll be leaving Saturday for Washington state and won't be back this way until Spring break to visit his father. That's a long time to go without seeing him and spending time together but we'll get through it. All things happen for a reason.

I once told my children that I didn't want to be a long distance grandmother. I wanted to have the little ones over and underfoot...learning to cook, bake, sew, knit, play ball, run ~ whatever was happening at the time. Now we will have one dgs within staying overnight distance.

Okay time to get a project or two to work on....almost time....why do I punish myself like this! ! ! !

Am I a slow Knitter?

2008-09-24T23:08:00.000-07:00

Rhys's blanket made especially for him by his Granny.

I thought I'd knit a pair of socks for Rhys. I purchased a copy of "Knitsimple" fall 2008 issue and saw this cute little pair with easy directions. It says that a pair can be worked up in an evening. Well I must be a slow knitter because it took me almost 24 hours to knit one sock, of course this included sleeping for a bit, doing laundry, cooking dinner, washing dishes, etc.

It doesn't matter how long it took me. Although I will start the second sock and hopefully have it completed in time to add to the box with the blanket which will be delivered to daughter "M" on Friday who will personally deliver it to the proud parents on Sunday.

Done

2008-09-23T14:19:00.000-07:00

Well, finally the baby blanket is finished and packed, ready for Rhys to snuggle in. Daughter 'M' will be delivering it personally this weekend. I'll post a photo later. I am quite happy with it but it seemed to take forever to knit.

Now I must make the decision as to what 'big' project I'll work on next. I have socks on the needles (too many).

Not sure if I want to start 'Luscious Throw' or 'Beaded Scarf'...or both! We'll see which one grabs my hand.

Today though I must make a pillow. DGS forgot his pillow in a hotel while on vacation and asked if I would make him another. We found some material, Nascar of course, so I need to sew it up today.

I've been working on reorganizing my craft room. It is a total mess and I can't stand it anymore.

Senior Day

2008-09-19T23:19:00.000-07:00

Today was Senior Day at the Kern County Fair

I wanted to see the Fine Arts Exhibit...that's all folks...and I must say that I was a bit disappointed.

Growing up going to the fair was a highlight! I loved every minute of it. There were plenty of animals, food, games, rides and a wonderful display of articles that the women, men and children of the county entered. All hoping for the blue ribbon!

I remember spending most of my time looking over all the entries...looking forward to the day that I would walk away with a blue ribbon of my own.

The haphazard way that the items were displayed was a major disappointment. I found myself going from one display to another and noticing that the rhyme or reason for the placement was confusing.

There were more quilts than anything and I noticed that very few were "handmade"...the majority being machine made...now, don't get me wrong...I sewed my first quilt with a machine...only the piecing...the 'quilting' and finishing were done by hand.

I'm not sure if it was me or not but I also noticed that entries receiving 'First Place' or any other place were not of the caliber of work that one would expect. Not all but just some...I'm not an expert on anything...just my thoughts.

I think I'll need to mull over the decision if I wish to enter anything next year. I would like to know

a. Who does the judging

b. What is the criteria the judge looks at

c. What is the judge(s) expertise in the area of the item being judged

Not much to ask for...

Rhys Sterling is here!

2008-09-15T18:55:00.000-07:00

Announcement

Rhys Sterling Segraves

arrival time: 4:40 pst

weight: 6 lbs 12 ounces

Proud parents: Billy and Jaime

Excited siblings: Hailey ~ Christa ~ Denny

Paternal Grandparents: Rudy and Ron ~ Debbie

Colorado

2008-09-15T12:20:00.000-07:00

Today is a busy day...we are awaiting news...the birth of our newest grandson...at last report he should be arriving sometime today

We arrived home mid day Saturday...I'm still not rested up from the journey

Hubby and I visited with one of my brothers and his wife in Colorado, just north of Denver for a week. While there we visited the Celestial Seasonings company. We opted not to do a tour...visited the gift shop and left with a few boxes of delicious tea bags...should see me through the coming winter.

My sister in law was very gracious and saw to it that we visited Yarn Shops in the area. The first one, The Knitters Nest, in Frederick, CO. I came away with four skeins of Cotton Fleece in a beautiful Wisteria shade. Should make a beautiful sweater or shawl...haven't made up my mind yet.

I also snatched a skein of sock yarn...never have too much sock yarn.

We found another yarn shop in Boulder, CO Shuttles, Spindles & Skeins, Inc., Sock yarn again found it's way into my bag along with addi needles (which I love) and another book on socks... We noticed a beautiful scarf on display and sil fell in love with it. It was decided that she would learn to knit before investing in the yarn needed for that project and then she could make it for herself.

We were warmly greeted at both yarn shops and whenever I am in the area I will return.

My sister in law had mentioned in conversation that there was a Hobby Lobby in the area...of course we headed there as I had never been in one before. She purchased yarn and needles to use later that day...I taught her to knit which wasn't all that difficult...she has crocheted and it was so easy for her to pick up...thankfully. I picked up a couple skeins of Yarn Bee in a delicous Pink shade which will make a perfect Pink Ribbon Scarf.

During our visit we were fortunate to visit friends we hadn't seen in years. She was my "hair and nails girl" for years in addition to being a good friend. They had moved to Colorado some years ago. It was great to see her and her husband again. We do miss them very much.

Brother and wife took us to Blackhawk and Central City, two mining ghost towns brought back by casinos. We enjoyed the day so much that we returned later in the week, on both trips we came out losers...

On our trip home we did a pit stop...our grandson was delighted...it was snowing. With bare hands he was making snow balls to throw at us.

I used my time in the car knitting dishcloths and working on a baby blanket for new grandson.

Oh, on the way home our youngest daughter took the needles and tried her hand at knitting...if she sticks with it she'll be a natural...

Time Away

2008-09-02T17:24:00.000-07:00

The time has come for us to take a little trip. Excited? Yes we are excited. We are going to Colorado to visit with one of my many brothers and his darling wife.

Packing is not exciting...the van has limited space and for five people it is very limiting. So we decide what we absolutely must take...for me...knitting is first and my bag is ready to go out the door!

I started a sock last night...did the ribbing and was almost to the end of the first pattern repeat...then it happened...noticed a very bad mistake...thought I could fix it just by ripping a bit but no...that sucker was ripped completely...

I have ribbing completed now and will start the pattern. I'm excited about these socks...love the pattern.

I'm still working on the baby blanket for our grandson who will be gracing the world with his presence soon.

I am taking Peaches and Cream cotton yarn to work on dishcloths...I use my knitted and crocheted dishcloths every day and just love them although I know some women who leave theirs in the drawer and will not use them...

I'm also taking my new sock in progress with me...hopefully I'll have a completed pair by the time I return home.

I've been having a hard time knitting a special hat but I will take it and see what happens...perhaps where I am going is the best place to work on this project.

After two doctor visits, a z-pack and now heavy duty allergy medicine I am finally feeling better...I am very thankful.

Better; Better; Best!

2008-08-24T15:07:00.000-07:00

First off, I am feeling better just have a bit of a cough...

Yesterday the KTK Yarn Mavens took a road trip to Springville, CA (just a bit north of Bakersfield) to Dulitz Tree Farm. During the winter Carole and her husband operate a Christmas Tree Farm and Gift Shop. But during the summer Carole has a wonderful yarn shop.

I was trying to be very good with the finances but when one is surrounded by so many great fibers it really is hard. I came away with a red bag overfilled with goodies.

There were 14 ladies who gathered from Bakersfield, Hanford, Porterville and I think Lemoore including Carole. Carole was a wonderful hostess providing refreshments. We went through the shop, made purchases and then sat under the trees. Those who brought finished items shared and let me tell you there were plenty of great items...puts mine to shame...I came away with some ideas though....thanks ladies. We knit and chatted and knit some more.

My purchaes:

Some wonderful hand dyed sock yarn...enough for two pairs of socks although today my daughter saw it and "I'd love a scarf" so we'll see...maybe a scarf and socks...

A kit of Brown Sheep Cotton Fleece and beads to make a beautiful scarf...

Another kit of various red fibers that I just couldn't resist...this will make a Luscious Throw...

I also picked up some Unger cotton which will make a great Market Bag and enough Schaffhauser wool/alpaca that hasn't talked to me yet...so we'll see what that ends up as...

Last night my daughter called to say that she was making a trip to Trona...would I like to tag along...well if you know me well enough you know I'm always up for a road trip...so at 3:00 a.m. I'm up getting ready to meet her at 4:30...

We saw the sun come up

As I understand it the movies "Planet of the Apes"; and "Star Trek V: The Final Frontier" were shot in the area of the Trona Pinnacles.

Upon entering the town we saw piles of lime dust...; evidently the town was set up as a self contained company town...if you want to know check out the Wikipedia page on Trona, CA...I found it to be a bit interesting although during our drive this morning we thought we were out in the middle of the desert...guess we were...

Not Well!

2008-08-13T20:36:00.000-07:00

Last night we were at our daughter's and all of a sudden my throat hurt so bad I had a hard time swallowing...snuck up on me so fast I never saw it coming

A short time later my head hurt so bad

Then sport that I am, daughter asked me to walk with her...sure...well let me say...that 2.5 mile walked kicked me but good!

While walking throat and head didn't hurt so bad...but as soon as we got back to her home they were worse...we just chalked it up to allergies as she had three labs...

By the time we arrived home I was so nauseated and freezing...put on a sweater...then said the heck with this...took a couple Aleve and hit my bed

This morning I was woke up (we are sitting three little ones plus grandson came home with us)...did I want to move...no..not an inch...

Hubby is such a great guy...he took over caring for the four kidlets (10, 10, 5 and 3)...it was 103 degrees outside today so staying inside was a must...

I slept most of the day...hubby will make me a hot toddy and off to bed I'll be...he won't be too far behind...

Hubby will stay up and watch the Olympics for a bit though...we usually always watch the Olympics and this year we've been able to catch a bit here and there...so he'll watch some and fill me in tomorrow...

Summer flu is not good but we will live through this as always...

I wish everyone the best day possible...Take care

Elderly....

2008-08-10T15:51:00.000-07:00

Last evening hubby and I embarked on our usual daily evening walk around the neighborhood park and school. About a quarter of the way around we noticed a sprinkler that was definitely broken in the front yard of a home...looked a bit like a small fire hydrant that shot straight up

Being the nice people that we are hubby went to the front door...opened by a girl about 17...she didn't ask who was there...just opened the door!

She was alone and had no idea where the sprinkler controls in the garage were but opened the garage for hubby to go find the control box. He found it and turned it off...during which time she called her mom..."Mom, one of the sprinklers is broken and an ELDERLY couple stopped..."

ELDERLY!!!!! I am but 55 years old...and I might add that I don't look like whatever 55 is supposed to look like! But now, out of the blue, I am elderly.

Guess I'll take my elderly keister over to the recliner and knit...

2008-08-03T22:02:00.000-07:00

Boy, this weekend went by fast! BUT...FOOTBALL is here! Today was the Hall of Fame game in my hometown of Canton, Ohio...watched a bit of it while getting laundry taken care of amoung other household chores.

This week is the start of something "new". We'll be sitting for a neighbors little ones as she has gone to work out of the home. Okay this means no more afternoon nap (or does it!)...little ones need to rest too...so what do we do...take walks, feed the ducks at the local park, color, watch movies (Land Before Time is a particular favorite for the two littlest)...

It's hard trying to figure how to keep them busy...guess we'll learn as we go.

10,000 California State Employees have been laid off...I think this is outrageous. The governor evidently feels that laying off employees and paying the rest the minimum wage (a little over 6 dollars) is going to help the budget. Hello, take a good look at that budget...how much are the big guns getting paid...cut their wages! and their bonuses! and their "expense accounts"...I could really get riled up about this...CEO's of private companies get paid millions of dollars in bonuses and wages and the little guys get their wages cut or get laid off...and this is supposed to be the land of opportunity...I think not!

On the knitting front...I worked a bit on the February Lady Sweater last night and today...making progress slow but sure...

I do miss my knitting meetups with the KTK Yarn Mavens. Some meet tomorrow morning; Wednesday evenings and Thursday mornings...and of course one Saturday a month. I'm looking forward to the next meetup that I will be able to attend, until then I'll keep the needles moving as much as possible.

Hope everyone has a great week...supposed to be hot, hot, hot here....Take Care

Pink Ribbon

2008-07-30T20:23:00.000-07:00

Today I received my sock kit for Pink Ribbon Socks

I'm not sure when I'll be able to cast on as I have other projects on the needles right now and would like to get them finished first

This week started in a state of complete exhaustion...slowly I am getting the rest I need plus getting my housework done. In the oven right now is a simple peach cobbler (of course I cheated as one must do sometimes)...

I can hardly wait for the Saturday the 23rd. I am going to go to Springville with the KTK Yarn Mavens (a wonderful group of people I have met through www.ravelry which is an outstanding knitting/crochet site. A group of us are going on a road trip to Dulitz Tree Farm. I'm looking forward to this trip...hoping to come home with some beautiful yarn.

Almost Rested

2008-07-29T18:32:00.000-07:00

Well I'm back from helping eldest daughter pack and move...that was extremely exhausting due to the fact that my fibromyalgia flared up big time...

During rest time I did knit on another sock...I love the yarn...will take and post photos later...

This past Sunday I did something new...helped make a DIAPER CAKE ! ! ! ! !

Our youngest daughter asked me to go shopping for school clothes for her son...it turned into a fun day...we did the shopping and ended back at my home...and made a Diaper Cake. She had told me about making them before but I never actually seen one. We did a bit of research online and saw how others were made...so between how daughter had made before and what we saw we made one...it was fun...I learned how to make bunnies out of baby washcloths...that was interesting...the baby shower is this weekend so we'll see how the mommy to be likes what we did.

Well it is time to get dinner and then I'll sit and get the bills written and ready for the mail on the first...then it'll be time to knit, knit, knit...

Scream...

2008-07-23T20:49:00.000-07:00

If you happen to hear a blood curdling scream...it just could be me!

I'd Like To Breathe

2008-07-11T20:36:00.000-07:00

This past week has seen me in the house...all the time!

Why? If you've seen the news at some point you would know all about the fires here in California. The temperature has been over 100 - which doesn't bother me - but the air quality has been unbearable, at least for me.

During this time I missed three knitting meetups; and grandsons two baseball games...grrr....not happy!

On another note I'll be leaving to go spend time with oldest daughter...she's moving to another apartment and I'm going to go help with the packing.

Tonight I did go out but just long enough to meet with grandsons baseball team for their end of the year pizza party and trophies...then it was straight back home...not going out again for a while...

I do like to breathe...fresh air...while I'm at oldest daughters I'm hoping to enjoy the weather there...cool evenings...maybe I'll even get a quick trip to the beach...one sunset maybe...as long as there isn't ash and soot I'll be fine...

Okay, I'm exhausted. I've been knitting on my February Lady Sweater this week...slowly as I've started it five times...so far I'm doing good.

I've also got some beautiful socks on the needles, which I haven't even touched this past week. Oh I did venture to the library the other day, ran in and picked up books and ran back out and back to the house. Throat hurt like crazy by the time I got home...

Going to go sit with an iced tea and the sweater...oh and the books....have a great weekend....

Evil?

2008-07-04T21:59:00.000-07:00

Hmmm, guess I'm not as evil as I thought...according to the following...

You Are 16% Evil

You are good. So good, that you make evil people squirm.

Just remember, you may need to turn to the dark side to get what you want!

How Evil Are You?

Lights Out!

2008-06-30T14:42:00.000-07:00

This morning I met some ladies at a coffeeshop to knit...I had a wonderful time, learned I was doing a stitch wrong (what else is new)...said goodbye to one of Ravelry members who is moving to another city...

In conversation the library was mentioned. I hadn't been to the local library for quite a few months so when hubby picked me up I mentioned it to him. We decided to take a gander and check out our local branch.

I found the knitting section...very small section but came away with five books...and hubby found a chair...

all of a sudden the lights went out...then they flickered...then we were told that all electricity was off and there was no idea as to when it would be back on...we were welcome to stay...

I took my books and checked out...but while there I noticed the number of people who came to use the computers...there were just a couple empty (until the electricity went off)...

By the time we left we decided to treat ourselves to lunch at the Elephant Bar....we've eaten there quite a few times and have enjoyed our meals every time...today lunch came to around $20.00 without a tip...within our budget...we'll go back (hubby likes fast food places whereas I do not eat fast food)

About two months ago I quit eating red meat...twice since then I've had red meat...not thinking when ordering...and both times had bad reactions....I feel better now and will continue...no red meat

Haven't decided the next food item that will be eliminated from my diet...I do find myself having more fruits and vegetables...

I'll now go curl up with my knitting books and see what lovely items they contain...already found one pattern that I will definitely do although I won't post any more information on it as it will be a Christmas gift (and they read this blog)...

Tomorrow we will go visit our friends...we were notified that she was in the hospital for a couple days and came home yesterday...figured we'd give her a couple days with her kids and grandkids before going over....

Hope everyone is having a great day...

Oh, almost forgot...the air is horrible here...the fires in California are not contained and the smoke hangs in our valley making it extremely unsafe to breathe...I've been staying in as much as possible...

Thank you for reading my blog....

2008-06-24T23:03:00.000-07:00

Important Papers…

…have you ever been asked for “important” information that somewhere you should have a piece of paper with all the information you need?

I used to think I was pretty well organized…

…not any more

My daughter asked me for some information…something I should have known right off and didn’t…so I said I’d dig up the paperwork containing the information…

I’ve done genealogy so I figured the paper should be in those boxes…wrong

Okay, maybe the “important papers” box…wrong

In the file box with other “important papers”…wrong

Hmmm…I’m really up a creek without a paddle right now

Fortunately for me the information she asked for can be fudged by a certain degree but…

This process has left me with the knowledge that I am not organized…I want to be organized

So now I will have to go through the hundred or so boxes in the house, garage and storage unit…looking at every piece of paper and deciding…is it an “important paper” – will I ever be asked for the information on this paper…hmmm…which box marked “Important Papers” should it be put in….

This is not a job that I am looking forward to…but then again…I don’t want to leave it for my children to do…

…photos are waiting patiently to be marked…who, where, when, why?...info my children wouldn’t know…

So weeks of work lay ahead…but I think it will have to wait…why?

KNITTING!

I have a sock on the needles as we speak…hanks of beautiful Cascade 220 yarn waiting to be put into “cakes” and then knitted into the most beautiful sweater…five ziplock bags each with a pattern and yarn waiting to be knitted into socks…

Guess we can see what’s “Important”…

I will take the time to peek in a few more places that the elusive “important paper” my daughter called about may be waiting…we’ll see and I’ll look

2008-06-23T09:47:00.000-07:00

Last night I finished my socks...the yarn is called "Tiger Pools" but I like to say that they are my "Steelers" socks.

The pattern I used is "Bubble Wrap Socks" - patterns by Sockbug - http://sockbug.blog-city.com/

The yarn is Monkey Toes "Tiger Pools" 100% Superwash Merino Wool from http://www.crazymonkeycreations.com/

I am very satisfied with the pattern and the yarn. I figure it took me about 10 days to knit this pair of socks. Hey, even though I took them with me to work on while watching grandson play ball, ride in the car from here to there, watching (listening) to television - life sometimes got in the way.

Now my problem is which pair to make next...I have a couple already picked out with the yarn ready to go...hmmm

On another note...I wish I could sleep one night completely through...and that is going to sleep around 11 and waking up around 7...just once...without medication...

I was up quite a bit last night and feel like a steam roller went over me all night. I was looking forward to meeting some ladies this morning at a local coffee shop to knit and chit chat...mind was ready to go but the body just could not move....this is not going to be a good day...laundry needs to get finished, vacuum is waiting to be used and of course the dusting needs to be done.

What gets done will get done...the rest will wait....

Fibromyalgia is not fun...every day is different...some days the pain isn't so much and some days it is really hard to move...oh well we do what we can...and keep on going...don't sit and think so much...keep pushing....keep going....

Happy Birthday Ethan

2008-06-21T20:56:00.000-07:00

Eleven years!

Hold your little ones close for as long as you can...they grow up so fast

It seems like yesterday that we were at the hospital awaiting Ethan's arrival and now he is on his way to being a young man

This photo was taken in April when he participated in a Kids 1 mile fun run...his first but I'm sure not his last

Hope you had a blast on your birthday, Ethan...we'll see you soon....

Baseball and Heat

2008-06-21T20:50:00.001-07:00

Thursday evening we spent helping out with our grandson's baseball game. Dakota is the catcher and does a great job.

Thursday's temperature was in the 100's and these little guys were in the sun playing their hearts out...from experience we know to always have a cooler with water...

Friday's temperature was also in the 100's and again there was a baseball game...fortunately the game was at 7:00 p.m. and it seemed to have cooled a degree or two...again, lots of water....

We have a couple more weeks of baseball games for this season and then it is on to another sport...Whatever the sport may be...we'll be there...

Bill May You Rest In Peace

2008-06-18T22:06:00.000-07:00

Sadly the father of my two eldest passed away this morning after suffering through a long illness.

It's not easy for anyone when a loved one leaves the world that we know. Even when the passing is expected...it's unexpected when it comes...there are no guarantees in this life that the Lord has blessed us with...

I know my children will go on with their lives...their father meant a lot to them and their children...I am sad that they weren't able to spend more time with him but I know that the time they had they will always remember...their memories are mixed I'm sure...happy ones and sad ones...good ones and bad ones...but all in all...they are their memories

I remember the time I had with him...good ones and bad ones...happy ones and sad ones...my memories...I am extremely fortunate...he left me with a daughter, grandson, son and granddaughter...I wouldn't trade them for anything...

...With all my heart I say...go in peace Bill...you will be missed by your family and friends...you were loved very deeply by your family and friends...

Using my grandson's name for his grandfather...Hammerhead...May you rest in Peace...God Willing

Socks!

2008-06-16T18:21:00.000-07:00

If you ever worn a hand knitted sock you know what I mean...I don't think I'll ever wear a store bought sock again!

There is just something about a nice soft hand knitted pair of socks

They feel great...

These are my blue socks...the yarn is Fortissima Colori Disco Socka Color ... the color is an icy bluish and has a bit of polyester metallic...makes them disco..ie...I love them...they feel so wonderful

These are going to be my Pittsburgh Steelers socks. This is the first one. The yarn is handdyed 100% Superwash Merino Wool from a company in Colorado...Crazy Monkey Creations...only thing is...the color they gave it is Tiger Pool

This yarn is so soft I can't believe it...may need to get more

Ending....if you ever have the opportunity to wear hand knitted socks...do it...you'll never turn back....

WWKIP Day June 14, 2008

2008-06-14T19:44:00.000-07:00

Today was World Wide Knit in Public Day.

Approximately 20 ladies and girls showed up at the Market Place. We knitted and chatted from around 9:30 to 3:30 (coming and going during that time). We were interviewed by a local television station...all right...our message got out. Knit In Public!

Four of us worked on a "Group Blanket" - four knitters knitting on the same project at the same time. It is an interesting project. We are hoping to have it completed in time to enter in the local county fair. Then it will be raffled off with proceeds going to Relay for Life.

Speaking of Relay for Life...our knitting group is getting a group together for the next Relay for Life in our town.

Today was also FLAG DAY...celebrated all over...beautiful!