Knutty Needles

Blue Doors and a Fireplace

2010-03-28T12:16:00.000-07:00

I have finished painting my blue Door and window for my Greek box. I mix my own color. It turned out pretty good. I think I got the color right. I still have to put a couple coats of a satin varnish on it. I painted the places in the back of the box where they will be placed blue so that it won't show between the frame and such.
I started working on the fireplace for the Christmas box. I will be putting the bricks in the firebox next. I plan on using paperclay for this. I think it is coming along nice. I really like how the floors look after the 2 coats of Satin varnish.
While I have the paperclay out I may try to make a piece of Greek pottery out of it. If it turns out good I will probably use it, if not, then I will probably use polyclay. All in all, my projects are coming along very nicely.

Lobsters Flowers and Dishes

2010-03-15T18:06:00.001-07:00

I was given some wonderful flowers and serving bowls for my miniatures by a friend I work with. She made the flowers herself and they are wonderful. I am amazed at the incredible detail that is in them. The bowls she had sitting around and so she brought them to me when she discovered I was playing with some miniatures. She also gave me 2 teasets, One a floral china and one that is like red cabbabe. Both are very nice. They might be a little big for 1/12 scale, but I may stick them in a cabinet somewhere anyway.
I found some cocktail picks with cute little lobsters on the end that were just perfect. I trimmed them off and now have my MIL's favorite dinner. She doesn't have a mini appetite when these are around though. Will have to serve them up soon.

2010-03-15T17:58:00.000-07:00

Greece Scene

2010-03-15T17:46:00.000-07:00

I have started working on my Greece scene. It will also be in a cheesebox like my Christmas scene. It will be the front of a house in Greece. Basically an old door and window, like on the Islands. Was so pretty there. So I have been crafting a door and window which will be painted blue and the walls will be white stucco plaster. I plan on some Grecian pottery and whatnot and maybe a cat or two. They sure were running around everywhere. So I've included a few pictures of the window and door that I have started.

Cheesebox Rooms

2010-03-15T17:27:00.000-07:00

I've been working on my rooms some more. Slowly I know, but I do have more pictures to share. On my Christmas scene I have the flooring done. I used Folkart Oak stain and then Old English Dark on top of that. I really like the color. I Have it glued in now. Glue is drying. Once it is dry, I will probably use a semi-gloss sealer on it. I have started on fireplace. Am making my fireplace out of a picture frame I picked up at Goodwill and paperclay.

Miniatures and Dollhouses

2010-02-21T17:04:00.000-08:00

Been playing with a new project or actually an old one. I got a couple of cheese boxes a couple years ago. Big round ones, with the idea of putting a couple of miniature scenes in them. Mainly a Christmas scene, but I didn't know about the second one. Anyway, I got them out of the attic and have started working on them.
The Christmas one will have a fireplace, tree, rocking chair with Santa sitting in it. I am making everything myself and will try and post a few in progress pictures as I go. I have glued in the sub-floor and am working on hardwood floors for it. Have been doing a lot of research and reading. Really enjoying it, always was interested in doll house stuff.

Snowing

2010-02-12T15:59:00.000-08:00

It is snowing
we have about 3 inches outside. I think it has finally quit. It is too dark out to get a picture so will have to wait till morning. I'll make sure to get one then. I always like the beauty of the snow and don't mind the cold. Just as long as the power doesn't go out. We are fine here and just keeping warm. It is supposed to snow again on Sunday night. Will have to wait and see.
Pics to come tomorrow.

2009-12-22T17:06:00.000-08:00

I'm way behind on a gazillion things. But let me point pout quickly that my middle child, my son, Christopher has gotten married!!! May those bells ring. Lisa is a wonderful girl. Chris couldn't of made a better choice.
Jean made it home for the wedding. We were delighted to see her and have her here for two weeks. Am going to miss her while she is back in the Ukraine teaching for the next year.
Enjoy this picture of my son and his new bride.

Knitting Again

2009-09-29T17:28:00.000-07:00

A great picture of Jean from Greece. She looks great and is doing well. I can't wait to see her again at Thanksgiving time.
New classes have started for fall quarter. Spanish for allied health workers, and Computer concepts. Hoping all goes well. Looks like my Spanish class class may be cancelled. Not enough students to make the two classes, one in morning and one in afternoon. So one will be cancelled, but which? I will know by Thursday.
I have started knitting a sweater for Jean. The pattern is Winding Road Henley from Sept 2009 issue of Creative Knitting magazine. I am using Oxford Grey Wool-Ease. Jean and I picked out the yarn before she left and we looked at several patterns. She showed me several she liked, but nothing ever really seemed right, but I do love this one.
Jean will be home in 6 1/2 weeks for her brothers wedding and I want to have it done for her to take back with her to the Ukraine. I know she will get good use out of it this winter there.

2009-09-08T16:42:00.000-07:00

I don't know what has happened to my last several posts. They were here and then suddenly this week they are gone. I know I hadn't put in a new one this month but what happened to the others is anybodies guess.
Since the others are gone, I will say that Bill and I had a wonderful trip to Greece. I will post pictures later when I am on other computer.
Knitting wise I am starting a sweater for Jean. Hoping to get it finished before Chris's wedding so she can take it back with her to the Ukraine. We are so glad she is going to be able to make it home for the wedding.
I am also wanting to do a shawl for Lisa, but rather doubt that will happen. Classes are starting again in 2 weeks and between classes and work, I just can't do everything I want to.
Well, will keep at it. Will post again later this week. Hope I can find my other posts.
may be a lost cause.

Always more to do

2009-05-05T18:02:00.000-07:00

Get passport, done.
Classes to be finished, must do well, don't forget homework: working on it.
And now I feel it is time to sew new wardrobes for everyone. My niece wants skirts for school. My Daughter wants clothes for work ( I am supposed to bring to Greece) and I think I want to make myself a new skirt or two.
Sewing is fun, I enjoy it, but it does make a big pile around until I get it all done.
I am really looking forward to going to Greece. It will be great seeing Jean.
Bill has to travel again this weekend and again next week. Hopefully I will be done sewing then. Am also making my nephew a chefs hat and aprons. Will give it to him at his birthday party on Sunday.

Snowy Days

2009-03-27T14:18:00.000-07:00

I never showed you my snowy days pictures. We got 6 1/2 inches. For us that is alot. We have been here almost 20 years (just a few months more) and this is the most we have seen in any winter total. Sure was pretty while it lasted. And lucky us, our power stayed ON!!! Just in case you think that is funny, here in the south, with snow, that is almost a miracle. With that much snow it was heavens blessings. We got the beauty and got to enjoy it. Yes most of the northern part of the state shut down, I mean shut down!!!. No work, no school, no anything.
Everyone else in the family lost power. They got power back next day except for Chris. Lisa and Chris brought animals over and stayed the night the 2nd night until power was on next day. We were glad to have them. Not a problem and glad to help out.
Every time I sat at my laptop I was going to post about the storm and then would say "the pictures are on the other computer" so would wait. So here are a couple of pictures from here.

Jean update

2009-03-01T09:39:00.000-08:00

Talked to Jean again today. It is always a joy to talk to her each week. She is really looking forward to the fact that winter is starting to wind down. She is getting into the muddy times before spring arrives. She is out running on a regular basis and enjoying it. Always has been one to keep up her exercise and stay healthy.
Her biggest issue is lack of a can opener. She hasn't found one that works and doesn't know how to use the one on her swiss knife. she printed out instructions on internet and still haven[t figured it out.
I told her to ask her neighbors or check around in town. I am sure someone will help. She bought one in Kyiv, but it isn't working. I am sure she can find something local. If not, I will get her something and bring it when we meet her this summer in Greece.
The weather has warmed up quite a bit here. We were without sweaters and in short sleeves yesterday. Tonight though we are looking at snow. Alabama is already taking in a good bit.
Haven't gotten any time back at my spinning wheel. I want to ply those two bobbins I spun. I haven't plied on the wheel before, so should be different. I will dye it later. I know I could of dyed the roving, but dying the yarn is fine for now. Will maybe do some more dyeing techniques down the road.
I take it back about the weather. It is snowing hard NOW!!!

Ashford Traditional

2009-02-21T16:41:00.000-08:00

Forgot to say my spinning wheel was an Ashford traditional. It is a nice wheel and came with many extras. Many name their wheels. I wonder if I will name mine. Will have to wait and see.
My first day with my Ashford was wonderful. I spent the whole day spinning. I actually bruised my hand from holding it in the same position. Wasn't cramped but was bruised. Silly I know. Anyway, I spun two bobbins of white corriedale. I haven't taken a pictures yet, so will have to soon and get one on here. I really need to do some spinning more often. In the meantime there is my chemistry class.
I've been talking to Jean every week pretty much. It is nice to talk to her. I so enjoy it. Hearing about her time there is so fun. I am looking forward to seeing her this summer. I have to get my passport. I sent for my birth certificate and it arrived today. Will pick up an application this week and get my pictures taken and then mail it off. Will be one step closer.
A test this week in Chemistry. Am doing well so far. Hope I do well with this one.

WooHoot Lookie my new toy

2009-02-08T11:34:00.000-08:00

My new spinning wheel
I bought it used, but with several extras, and well taken care of, not a mark on it. It works well. I've had it home a couple hours and am really enjoying it. I only spun on a wheel once before -- 3yrs ago. I've already done a bobbin full and am really enjoying it. Its going well and I can't wait to see what all I can do.
In meantime I'll probably not get a lot of spinning time in while going to classes. Homework takes priority. It will all work out and I am sure I will enjoy my time between classes with my new wheel and whenever I get a bit of 'extra' time.

and political

2009-02-06T11:27:00.000-08:00

I don't believe in complaining about our last president. The majority voted him in after all. And then again look who he was running against, rest my case. But the government is so much more than one man. It isn't just a man up there in a suit telling everyone else what to do. He is only a small part of it. Our democracy is so much more and we need to learn that and pay attention to it in all its aspects.
I don't share political. but I couldn't resist. So now on to my recent little tidbit of finding to share -- as found
I came across this on John Naughton's blog; I wish someone was working on an upgrade of the UK software too.

Dear World:

We, the United States of America, a top quality supplier of the ideals of liberty and democracy, would like to apologize for our 2001-2008 interruption in service. The technical fault that led to this eight-year service outage has been located, and a decision was taken in early November to completely replace the software responsible. The new software became fully functional on January 20, 2009. Early tests of the newly installed program indicate that we are again operating correctly. We apologize for any inconvenience caused by the outage. We look forward to resuming full service and hope to continue improvements in the years to come. We thank you for your patience and understanding.

Sincerely,

THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Spinning Wheel Savings

2009-01-25T12:16:00.000-08:00

The budget! We all have one. and with the economy it gets tighter. My husband and I have each allotted a certain amount of money for ourselves each pay period (two weeks) for lunch, books, spending , whatever. It goes quick. I am often picking up an extra loaf of bread or when I have class that will include me getting my dinner out as well. I try to include more in my grocery shopping, but you can only carry so many meals with you. And coffee is a must when you are out running 12 to 14 hours a day. Anyway, for several years I have wanted a spinning wheel, and for several years it was not going to be in the budget and I knew it. So for the last several years I spin on my hand spindles when between classes and hope for a wheel, but a year and a half ago I figured if I don't find a way to save for one I would never get one. So enter -- the box -- the spinning wheel box. Every payday I take whatever I have left from previous personal of $40. and put it in the box. It may be 50 cents or $5 but it is mine. Now I have almost $300. I am starting to get excited. At times I think, I don't need that and don't but some things, I don't need another book to read, not till I finish the last 4 I bought anyway. And I don't need a candy bar. I will buy healthier snacks and all. Some weeks I don't put in anything, but occasionally I have put in $20. that was a real boon.Anyway, at this rate I will keep saving and maybe this year sometime I will get a spinning wheel, if not it will be next. We have a LYS that sells wheels. I never get in there. With school and work I don't get much time except every once in a while. I am so looking forward to getting my wheel, but wheel keep saving a bit longer. Spinning wheel I am getting there.

Sick Days

2009-01-21T06:22:00.000-08:00

The flu is no mans funny business. I started with just sinuses on Saturday. By Monday I was getting miserable. Monday night if Bill hadn't been out of town I would of had him take me to ER. AS it was I couldn't drive that far so waited and went to dr around corner on Tuesday. Monday being a holiday was earliest I could go. So flu and sinus infection. Rest, fluids, I am starting to finally keep some sprite down and some crackers.
Plan on starting some baby knitting. Guess I will swatch for that. See if I can keep my mind going on that. And since dr has me out of work till next week I will have time to work on it.

Have I forgettten

2009-01-18T05:04:00.000-08:00

Seems like I have been too busy to remember to post here in forever. I've opened a few times and looked but not posted. I've thought about the things I wanted to say (which are now escaping me) and not posted. I've celebrated birthdays and holidays with my family and not posted. I've taken pictures and not posted. Whats worse is I've knitted and not posted. Now camera is dead and on charger and I have to wait to take any pictures before I can post.

On the completed list is 2 baby sweaters. and one hat. I know, not much, but then my knitting time is so limited. I hate not having any time to do any knitting or spinning. I mostly only knit during weekend movie time and spin between quarters at school.

I'm back to working on hats in waiting rooms at Dr's offices. The kids are always asking for them and I know they can use them. I also want to do a few extra up to take to Jean next year when we go. I figure she can take them bake with her to Ukraine and either wear them or share them. I am thinking she will like them. I may make her a couple scarfs too. She has the ones I made before she went to Japan, but not very many warm ones.

Classes last quarter went great. I got a B in Med Microbiology, and a C in General Chemistry 1. My first C. Bummer. But at 47 going back to school and almost completed my AA degree thats not too bad. I am only taking Chemistry 2 this quarter so my schedule should be a lot better. I hoe so anyway, last quarter was way too much on me. 5am to 10 pm every night plus studying and homework. probably had alto to do with me not blogging also.

I will try to get pictures later of at least hat. Baby sweater 1 is gone, but 2 is still here and then I can post. As soon as I can get camera off the charger. It will probably be under flash as the weather is very dark and cloudy and crappy today. But pictures anyway. And now that laptop is working and I am using it so much, maybe I can get on here more regular.

Oh, and anyone who is interested, Jean is a full-fledged teacher in the Ukraine now. She teaches the 3-11th grade. She teaches English. Bill and I get the luxury of talking to her regular and she seems to be doing well. Each week she has a story to tell. I should (if she doesn't) write these up as little short stories to be shared in a book or something when she comes home. They are fun, unique and would be such a great way to look back on her experiences. There is the story of the how the chicken chases the pony, butchering a pig or eating a pigs ear, this is America-right here, we don't sell no milk, and Spaghetti with hot sauce. She said something once about buying a coat, wonder about that story, also, don't tell me about cold. I expected that, growing up here in Georgia and then moving to the Ukraine was definitely going to be a big change in climate. I knew she would feel the cold. Next year year she will be prepared. Every new climate takes a year to get used to.

Jean is leaving

2008-10-05T12:38:00.000-07:00

On a jet plane. Or should I say she has. she had that song going around here for a couple weeks before she left. Now she has left and is in the Ukraine for the next 2 years. WOW! Ain't kids wonderful. They sure can do some fantastic things.
We have been real busy helping get things finished up for her. Plus wanting to spend some time together before she left. Buying the things she had to have, also selling the last of her belongings that she didn't want to keep. We still have the car to sell, but that will take a little more time. We won't be able to send her any pkgs for 3 mths so will miss her birthday, so we hope to get her one there before Christmas.
My oldest child has his birthday tomorrow so we are cooking today. Will be eating porkchops and having cheesecake for dessert.
Oh and to keep my schedule busy, school started last week. Killer schedule. Classes 4 days a week. that, work full-time, PT, and homework, I am going to have fun keeping up.

Finished objects

2008-09-17T17:13:00.000-07:00

Finally a couple quick finished objects to show. Did a couple quick little cup jackets for my daughter to take with her to the Ukraine.
Pattern: Mug and French Press Jacket http://mkcarroll.typepad.com/mk_carroll/2007/07/mug-and-french-.html
I used Red Heart Soft in Forest Green fopr the first and Wool Ease in Green Heather for the second. She really likes them so I guess a job well done.

Jean is home

2008-07-29T13:38:00.000-07:00

For those who don't know. Jean is my daughter, but I think I have mentioned her enough you all should know her. Anyway she graduated with her undergrad degree in English this past spring and has found life to be continually exciting. Exciting as in she will be traveling soon. Traveling far, far away. My daughter has joined the Peace Corps.
She will be leaving the end of September for the Ukraine. In the meantime she is selling most of her excess worldly goods and moving home now that her apartment lease is up. She has pretty much planned joining for some time and is really excited about it. She will be a school teacher teaching English. She is starting to learn Ukrainian (?). She will be gone 2 years. I am very happy and excited for her. I know it is what she wants. It is great the way she has been able to travel and learn as well as help others. She is young and has so much energy. After her 2 years is up she has planned to come back and go to law school. Two years is a long time, but will pass quickly.

2008-07-16T10:35:00.001-07:00

Chris and Lisa

Forgetful Me

2008-07-15T16:15:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I forgot the most import thing that has happened in the last couple months -- and the most exciting! MY SON IS ENGAGED!!! To a real gem of a girl. Bill and I have been hoping he would ask Lisa for some time and are glad he did and even gladder she said yes. She has been a really positive influence on him and I can see how much he has grown and matured in the last 2 years. Well done Chris. Love you son.
Oh and now that I have found the battery charger I will shortly have pictures again.

ouchy and no batteries

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

ouch ouch ouch. I am so sore. I pulled a muscle in my leg -- the lateral quad muscle in my laft thigh actually. I did so working on the roof this weekend. No fun, but my DH is a big fan of two feet on the ground, so I went up on roof to paint the trim. Anyway, is some better this afternoon after Physical therapy. The therapist did some of his stuff and it helped out.
I have misplaced the battery charger for camera batteries so I am still unable to download vacation pictures. Stinks! I want to see my pictures of pretty beach sunset. And I need to take pictures of sock progress. I think it is time to clean and organize.
I also had bloodwork done this week at dr. Checking thyroid. Should get results soon. Hope it is my thyroid and not my heart. Will find out soon.

Forever and forever

2008-06-28T06:35:00.000-07:00

It has been so long since I posted you must think I have disappeared. I think I have disappeared and it isn't because of my weight. I could only hope. It has been so long since I posted I actually started a list of what I needed to keep in my little record of events and then lost my list. Suffice it to say, I have learned, If I want to say it, I had better get on hear and do it --- DUH!!!!
I have received A's on my classes. I have taken new classes (Leadership and )and received A's. Glad they are done. am taking summer quarter off.
Our house was broken into. They took a flat screen computer monitor, MP3 player, camera and a couple pieces of inexpensive jewelry. None of my good jewelry was taken and they didn't ransack the place or take any of the obvious stuff. We got off lucky and while we haven't replaced anything else, Bill did buy me a new camera. I love my new camera -- Kodak Z812. It is easy to use and gets much better quality pictures than the old one. Is really just the newer version of the old camera, but is so much better. We have redone locks and such adding a few extra safety features that should of been here years ago. So things are better and we should be fine.
Yes I have been knitting. Hats mostly, Mema, Billy, Chris, Lesa. Also still working on socks and now a pair of mittens. I am a slow knitter when going to school. No time between work and classes and homework. I also have been wanting to do some spinning which I never have time for so that leaves me stuck with admiring everyone else and just biding my time till I have time.
We buried my brother in Ohio first week of June. Put him next to mama in same grave as brother Randy. Best place for him really. Glad it is done.
Went to beach last week. Had a good time. I know Bill felt really bad being sick and all. but it was nice. Wish we had more time and maybe he wasn't sick. Next trip will be much better for him I am sure. He was so congested with his sinus infection. I think when he went swimming in salt water it might of helped. It is good for clearing the sinus. Even so, I just hope he had a good time. I did and will have to try the sangria again. It was very good and we both enjoyed it.

Ravelry - yahoo

2008-02-13T12:35:00.000-08:00

I got my Ravelry invite. I am excited. I kept saying that I was too busy. I didn't have time. I would wait until they weren't so backed up. Until .... Well, A few weeks ago I put my name in and poof here or there I am. I am knitripley. knuttyneedles was already taken. I haven't had time to do much of anything on there. I will be off work next Monday and should be able to spend my day at play. I think I will really enjoy it. As far as listing my stash, you got to be kidding. If I started breaking it for pics, my husband would see it. That might be trouble. Of course if it was the fabric stash, I'd really be in trouble.
Knitting front, I am working on a pair of socks for Bill. slow going, seems to be at a stall. With my class schedule, it seems I just never pick them up, by the time I get home, do homework I am just too tired. I just wish the books would read themselves. But then I guess I wouldn't learn anything and that is the goal.
Anniversary was this week -- the 7th. Have been married 27 yrs. Didn't think we would make it for awhile. Glad that we have. Had a good time going to Medieval Times. I came home to beautiful roses. Bill also gave me a Woman's Devotional Bible and a beautiful Black Tahitian Pearl necklace. Then he cooked a fantastic dinner as well. Really spoiled me. I felt really special

My Brother

2008-01-16T07:14:00.000-08:00

Just got back home after a long and difficult two weeks. My brother passed away and I have had a difficult time piecing it all together. Just going to leave all the story here so if you don't want to hear it just skip on over it and you don't have to. I did finish a knitted hat for my son while gone.

We got a phone call from a hospital in Miami (FL in case there is more than one) that my brother was there and was very ill and unable to sign his own papers and need us to sign for him to receive treatment. My brother was 37 and has been HIV positive since before he graduated from high school so getting this phone call was not a surprise. Jonny has also refused all contact with any one in the family for years. None of us has had any way to contact him in several years. Anyway, someone saw him fall from a bridge and have a seizure, they called ambulance and took him to the hospital on the 30th of December. It took them nearly a week to get his name out of him due to his confusion. They then searched through old hospital records and found my sisters name as next of kin. The caseworker had to do an internet search to find us. It was a lot of work above and beyond on her part. It appears he has been homeless for last several years. We had papers he had filled out years ago, living will and stuff listing who was to decide what and all. He was unable to and it did not take them long to realize he was terminal. He had many (uncountable - 50 to 100 maybe more) tumors on his brain, many of them fairly large. as well as one on his lung. After we got there and were able to sign release records from another hospital we found out he had been diagnosed with metastatic melanoma in December. We found out the tumors were cancer and they could not be treated. They were so far advance he had an extremely short time. Doctor said at absolute most 2-3 weeks, but didn't see how he could possibly last that long, didn't understand how he was still speaking.
Actually he was speaking some. Answering small questions, but he did not recognize any of us. He was very agitated and even angry at times. He was better in the morning, even able to feed himself, but grew worse as the day progressed.
We arrived down there on a Wednesday. Radiology knew they could not change his prognosis and lengthen his time, but they could maybe reduce his confusion. They would do 5 treatments. They started on Thursday. Friday morning he knew all of us and was much improved, less agitated. They did another treatment that day and were not to do another till Monday. Saturday, the doctors were real pleased to see how improved his mental state was and encouraged us to be with him. He fed himself breakfast as usual, talked with us, and moved covers around. He ate some lunch, but after lunch he began to deteriorate and passed that afternoon a few minutes after 4. He only expressed pain for a short time before he went into a coma. He never suffered that way.
I am glad it was not a long drawn out thing for him and us. He has made many difficult decisions in his life that we could do nothing about and have just had to live with. When they took him into the hospital he had nothing, not even an ID, even an outdated one. (He had one the previous month in other hospital.) The only things he had were his shoes and an anklet and bracelet that the hospital asked me to remove right after he passed. His clothes appear to have been destroyed. If they were in condition of his shoes they needed to be, besides they cut them off anyway.
My sisters will pick up his cremated remains the weekend after the 22nd and then I will go down and pick him up. Our plan is to take him and put him next to mama with Randy. Her boys meant the world to her and that seems to be the best we think.

Dec 31st, What a Year!

2007-12-31T15:11:00.000-08:00

I'm too blessed to be stressed and too anointed to be disappointed! I think that is going to be my new saying. I need to post it on my fridge. One of those things to look and and remind me of all the wonderful things in my life and all the things I don't have to worry about.
I am happy to announce a new knitter. My daughter Jean has joined the ranks. Yesterday she had me start her out with a scarf and she is picking up fast. I showed her the long tail cast on, three stitches and she cast on and knit perfectly. Wish we all had tension so even our first, second or even our 3rd attempts at knitting. She was into her third row and said, "This is fun." She is definitely hooked. Today she called with her first problem. She had pulled her needle out by accident and when she put the stitches back on she could tell it wasn't right. I went over after work and showed her how to tink back until it was right and then she was off again. She says it is addictive and was enjoying watching TV and knitting her scarf last night. I am glad to see her enjoying it so much. It is a good relaxing hobby and something whe will always enjoy.

2007-12-29T14:02:00.000-08:00

WooHoo! WooHoo! My GPA is up to 3.85. My daughter said she was going to hang up on me when I told her. I am glad. Have had a good Christmas for most part. Not going to brag about the wonderful loving gifts I git, but they were very special. Work has been hectic and could be less so. Kids are doing good .
Things could be better. Few weeks before Christmas Bill was informed company he works for is going out of business, so now he is out of work and we will no longer have insurance after the 31st. I have filled out paperwork and faxed it in where I work so we will have insurance there. They have told me it will start on the 1st of January. I will have to go through the hassle of checking all our drs again and making sure they are on insurance. I so hate going through all of that. Plus our co-pay is doubling. Yuck. Big thing is prescriptions. I have such a big expense with those that I will be glad to have that coverage.
Am doing some spinning with my drop spindle. Am really enjoying it. Will be able to do more knitting and stuff this next quarter. With my online class I should be able to manage my time more effectively and be better prepared. Will have to see how that goes.
Chris is enjoying his promotion at work as kitchen manager at Loco's. He is supposed to be going to Calif. to open a store sometime in next month or so. I think he is looking forward to that.

2007-12-05T12:27:00.000-08:00

So a new month. Just when I think I have things caught up another whole month zooms by and I am wondering where did it go.
Thanksgiving was a good holiday here at The Ripley Castle, humble though it definitely is. We have many things to be thankful for; health, each other, lots of good things.
School is going well. I am enjoying it more. This quarter has been real pleasant. I recently did a presentation in my Humanities class and was real pleased to be able to do it on spinning. I shared a small bit on the history on spinning and then showed how to spin with a drop spindle. It was fun for and real nice to be able to bring my hobby into the classroom. I got an A on the presentation so that is good too.
Kids are busy. Jean and I have been ill, but on the mend. Boys are up to usual. Billy's car is broke down, so he is using mine for a week or so. I will be driving Bill's truck and he is driving a borrowed vehicle from a friend.
Not getting as much knitting done, but with school, I am not surprised, really cuts into any time.
Only other news is hubby's work. Company will probably be out of business before New Years. They have had meeting with employees already. Praying about and will see what happens. Can't do more than that. He is putting his resume out there and we will see what happens. In the meantime. Finals next week. So time to get ready. ...

Busy With School

2007-11-08T02:27:00.000-08:00

Been busy with school. Nonstop it seems. Been doing well though. Speech class goes pretty good. My speeches themselves have been great and I have gotten A's on those. I just wish I had done so well on the test. No one did well on the test though, so I don't feel so bad.
My Humanities class is fun and I really enjoy it. It is basically history after all. More culture related than dates. I have always enjoyed my history.
Been doing a bit of knitting, but not much to show. Just started another hat, gray with deep red stripes. Out of Woolease, worsted weight. Making it for Chris. I really like these colors together. I think he will enjoy them.
I wanted to make a sweater for Simon for Christmas, but I know I won't have time, so may just start on later in a size for next year. That way I can continue to work on Bill's socks and not worry about it.
Oh, and looking forward to a fun project for school. I have to do a ten minute presentation on something, anything to do with something in my humanities class. Topic has to be approved. To be done right after Thanksgiving. Anyway, I am going to do a bit on spinning and a little on it's history. Mainly the drop spindle, since it is the oldest. Am going to take one in and spin on it so they can see. Will pass one around so they can see. Also some fiber unspun and prepared for spinning. I want to get a bit of linen, since that is the first fiber known to have been spun. Will see. Not necessary but would be good none the less.

Where did the time go

2007-10-13T14:02:00.000-07:00

I know there are song(s) with that name, but it is so true. I am going along thinking everything is great. Planning on keeping up. Going to post regular and WHAM! I have missed the entire month of September. Not literally. I was here. I was busy. Very busy. I had finals, vacation, new schedule, and have started new classes.
I did good on my last quarter. I got A's. My GPA is 3.76. Kind of funny really; my son and my daughter have the exact GPA as I do.
Anyway, I am taking Humanities 191 and Speech 191. I am really enjoying the Humanities class and I think the Speech class will be ok.
I finished knitting a hat last weekend and it disappeared before I could get a picture. My MIL took it and headed off. She really seamed to like it and I think she looked great in it.
Well off.

Hot and the Door Was Open

2007-08-10T12:58:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love hot summer days. I remember when I was young and lived in Greeley, CO. We could get in the Y pool for 50 c a day. It would be blistering hot and we would save up 50 c or collect pop bottles (yes -the days when we still had glass pop bottles) and put on our swimsuits and walk the mile or so to the Y to spend the day at the pool. Or as long as our mom would let us. I know as many neighborhood kids as could would get together and go as often as possible. Those summer days when there was no other way to cool off.
Well those days have nothing on us. This blistering heat would dry up that pool. We had one thermometer in town that actually read 112. I am not so sure how accurate that is, but I am sure the heat index was that high. It is currently 104 and sweltering. I don't want to do just about anything. I have to work, go to classes, clean house, but in this heat I don't even want to cook or eat. To top it all off the other day, the day of 112. I came home from work to fine my front door wide open. Let me repeat. My front door was WIDE OPEN ALL DAY. My dear and LOVING DAUGHTER left and instead of SHUTTING said DOOR, SLAMMED IT as kids are often want to do. So rather than shutting correctly, it bounced off the jamb and was open all day. Now at 21 she is old enough to know better. And when she gets back from her CRUISE TO MEXICO she WILL hear about it. But that is not all. When I got home, I found more than a wide open door, I had visitors. About fifty wasps had taken up residence in my living room. Needless to say we had an interesting party getting rid of those.
Now on to funner things. Have started a new pair of socks. Will try and get a pick this weekend. Also ordered some yarn to do some for Bill. He actually asked for some socks for him. I was surprised as he always said he didn't want any. It has arrived, so I may have another pair on the needles quick enough. Knitting time is much curtailed when classes are in. Will do what I can. Am off, Algebra is screaming.

Busy Week.

2007-07-29T16:59:00.000-07:00

I feel like I am finally getting some knitting done. I had some minor foot surgery done on Friday. A large cyst taken off the top of my foot. I haven't been allowed to do anything but sit with it elevated, so what better excuse to knit and knit and knit. I have four finished projects. Granted, all of them need minor amounts of work to finish up, but I am glad to have them finished. four pair of socks finished. Two pair shown at left are two older pair that need to be darned. I finally tackled that. I had never done it before and while I knew how in theory, I kept putting it off.

I have another two pair completed. One in Wildefoote, color Rhapsody in the Petticoat Socks pattern. That pair is for me. The other pair is a small toddlers size sock and owner is as yet to be determined. I have cast on another new pair for me today in a Regia jacquard. Will be a plain knit which should go pretty fast. Bill even asked for socks tonight. I was surprised as he always said he wouldn't wear them before. Will have to see when I make them.

2007-07-08T19:51:00.000-07:00

I really don't think anyone reads my blog. Not that it matters. I only write periodically for myself because I wish to. I like keeping up with things and a few friends. I read several friends blogs and while I seldom leave comments I have been reading their blogs for several years and they generally know it. There are also other blogs I read, but if all the readers left comments on some blogs, such as the Harlots for example or Mason-Dixon. then they would spend way too much time reading the comments and not have anytime for knitting.
I would like to think someone found my blog and enjoyed my knitting or something to say so. I would write more often and probably make a better attempt at it as well. I can write better, but the dry mundane mess of words as they reach the the white background will only require so much effort when I find there is no one to which there would be any appeal.
Bill has been gone to Pennsylvania for over a week. He will be home Tuesday. My sister was here with her kids all this past week. I really enjoyed their visit. I was able to take off work on Thursday and Friday to be with them. Not much new. Will finish sock this week, all that is left is to kitchener last toe.
Classes start tomorrow for new quarter. I will be busy.

Meme: My KnitList

2007-06-06T05:49:00.000-07:00

I wasn't specifically tagged for this, but found it on Wise Hilda's Blog and thought I would give it a go.

Bold for stuff you’ve done, italics for stuff you plan to do one day, and normal for stuff you’re not planning on doing.

Afghan/Blanket (baby)
I-cord
Garter stitch
Knitting with metal wire
Shawl
Stockinette stitch
Socks: top-down
Socks: toe-up
Knitting with camel yarn
Mittens: Cuff-up
Mittens: Tip-down
Hat
Knitting with silk
Moebius band knitting
Participating in a KAL
Sweater
Drop stitch patterns
Knitting with recycled/secondhand yarn
Slip stitch patterns
Knitting with banana fiber yarn
Domino knitting (modular knitting)
Twisted stitch patterns
Knitting with bamboo yarn
Two end knitting
Charity knitting
Knitting with soy yarn
Cardigan
Toy/doll clothing
Knitting with circular needles
Knitting with your own handspun yarn
Slippers
Graffiti knitting (knitting items on, or to be left on the street)
Continental knitting
Designing knitted garments
Cable stitch patterns (incl. Aran)
Lace patterns
Publishing a knitting book
Scarf
American/English knitting (as opposed to continental)
Knitting to make money
Button holes
Knitting with alpaca
Fair Isle knitting
Norwegian knitting
Dying with plant colors
Knitting items for a wedding
Household items (dishcloths, washcloths, tea cozies…)
Knitting socks (or other small tubular items) on two circulars
Olympic knitting
Knitting with someone else’s handspun yarn
Knitting with DPNs
Holiday related knitting
Teaching a male how to knit
Bobbles
Knitting for a living
Knitting with cotton
Knitting smocking
Dying yarn
Steeks
Knitting art
Fulling/felting
Knitting with wool
Textured knitting
Kitchener BO
Purses/bags
Knitting with beads
Swatching
Long Tail CO
Entrelac
Knitting and purling backwards
Machine knitting
Knitting with self-patterning/self-striping/variegating yarn
Stuffed toys
Baby items
Knitting with cashmere
Darning
Jewelry
Knitting with synthetic yarn
Writing a pattern
Gloves
Intarsia
Knitting with linen
Knitting for preemies
Tubular CO
Freeform knitting
Short rows
Cuffs/fingerless mitts/arm warmers
Pillows
Knitting a pattern from an online knitting magazine
Rug
Knitting on a loom
Thrummed knitting
Knitting a gift
Knitting for pets
Shrug/bolero/poncho
Knitting with dog/cat hair
Hair accessories
Knitting in public

Have I Forgotten?

2007-06-03T11:52:00.000-07:00

I have been totally remiss in blogging. I should be ~~shot~~ ~~hung~~ ~~beaten~~ taking a course in memory assistance or something to that effect. I think about it when I am in the middle of doing homework or driving to work or class. However that doesn’t get an entry written and sure leaves everyone in the dark.

School has been going pretty good, if you are interested. Computers class is great and I am breezing through with straight 100’s on everything. Is amazing how much I have learned and how much I didn’t know, but am picking it up quickly and enjoying it. English Composition and Rhetoric is a bit harder and I am not doing as well. Getting a high B. If I can pull a solid A off this next Essay and high A off final I might get an A out of class, but expect I will be getting a B. Is much more formal writing that I am used to and I don’t find that as easy as story telling and journal writing – who does – besides my daughter?

Have been doing a bit of knitting. Am most of the way down foot of 2^nd sock on my Petticoat socks. Will post photo this afternoon. Am enjoying them. I am so slow a knitter with socks. Wanting to get out my spinning but really need to get some other things done first.

Bill got to go to Sarasota for work and then week later Cape Cod. Sure wish I could of gone. He did get a couple nice pictures. If I hadn’t had school, I might have gone. Would of loved to anyway. Lovely picture of sunset frim Lido Key Key in Florida that I will post as soon as I get off camera.

where have I been

2007-04-19T11:13:00.000-07:00

I have been so busy, you probably think I have disappeared. Nope, I am right here. Well into my classes at school. Things are going along pretty good. I feel I have a pretty good grasp of things. At least I hope so.
I am taking two classes. Intro to Microcomputers and English Composition and Rhetoric. Computers class is pretty easy and going real well. Test today and should be easy. So far we have been covering word and while I have learned some new things it has been things I am familiar with. English class is something else. I haven't done any writing since I was 23 or 24. Seems like I just got away from it. Don't know why really. Had a few interesting things printed while in High school. Just got away from it. Now I have just gotten away from all the basic grammar and punctuation rules that used to come so easy. My first Essay is due on Monday. I guess I will get a better idea then how well I am really doing.
On the knitting front I have only knitted about 2 hours in last 6 weeks. Kind of sorry really. The beaded bookmarks I made went over real well. I have given away over 30 or maybe 40 of them. I am glad they are well received. I sure enjoyed making them.
Bill and I changed from Netflix to Blockbuster. Seems like a better deal and we are sure enjoying our movies. I don't get to watch as much with school. He has been able to get some things that are only of interest to him though so that works. Well, time to make dinner, then off to class.

Busy busy busy

2007-03-18T12:29:00.000-07:00

Seems like I have less and less time. I haven't done any knitting in last several weeks. I am definitely behind in my project plans there. I finished the hat that my son B adopted (am so glad he likes it) and cast on another hat and that is about as much knitting as I have done.
I have however started playing in the beads again. I have been making beaded bookmarks. Most of them have crosses, but many don't. Just playing and having something to do. I have enjoyed giving them away as gifts. It does make me happy to share the things I make. I really enjoyed the way Bill liked them and even asked for one for a co-workers wife (she is always sending in food and stuff to everyone).
Been using the Y again. Enjoying that. Bill and I go together on Wednesdays usually. I am trying to go on Monday and Friday also. We have also both gone on diets. We were eating way too much junk food and really needed to quit and eat a lot healthier and better.
Will be registering for classes this week. Classes officially start first week of April. I am wondering how I will do at keeping my schedule together and how much or if I will have to cut back now at work or not. I am only going to take two classes for right now. May do that for 2 quarters, but no more than that. I really need to focus on it or I will not get finished. I can't wait forever. I want to do this. With no extra time now, wonder what extra time I will have then.

Did I forget Valentines Day

2007-02-19T13:48:00.000-08:00

I never did mention Valentines Day. It was a wonderful day here. In the past we have let it go by with hardly a look. This year was wonderful. I decided to cook an extra nice meal. Did Shrimp and Scallop Scampi, baked potatoes and Asparagus. Came out very nice. Bill brought me home 2 Dozen Pink Roses and the most delicious desserts from Starbucks. We had a wonderful evening. The Roses are beautiful and the whole house smells of roses. I'm sure enjoying them.
On a knitting note. I finished a hat last week. My oldest came by yesterday for dinner and he ended up with it. Am already working on another one. Seems like I am really on a hat kick. Doing another green one.
Went to Michael's today with 50% off coupon and got Adorable Knits for Tots and also Weekend Knitting. I think I will enjoy both.

Been too Long ....

2007-02-15T15:10:00.000-08:00

Lots of things a going on. Life is busy and no time to waste. Lets see if I can catch myself up. I have applied at Athens Tech. I took my entrance exams. I aced said exams. I ordered my transcripts -- which took forever to locate. (From a school that no longer exists in a town that no longer exists.) Still waiting on transcripts to arrive, but everything else is all set for me to start spring quarter. I enroll in my actual classes on March 22. Classes start in April.
Our anniversary was on the 7th. We had Outback takeout here and then spent a long weekend in Boston. Boston was cold. We had a wonderful time though. Aquarium is really nice, definitely would like to do that again. We went to Fenuil Hall, Quincy Market, and Paul Revere's house on Friday. On Saturday we went to Museum of Natural History and walked all over Harvard and Cambridge, then did some shopping. We ate at a bunch of different places, including Cheers. On Sunday we visited Bill's brother John and Lyla before heading back to airport and home.
Took lots of pictures. Will post one or two later. Going to go eat.

2007-01-02T06:51:00.000-08:00

Family at Christmas. Starting with top row: Jean, Chris Billy, Mema, Me, Bill.

2007-01-02T06:49:00.000-08:00

Ribby Hat. Bit big for Mr Bear. Fits Bill well though and he seems to like it.

2007-01-02T06:47:00.000-08:00

Nephew S's hat. Yarn did a really interesting spiral. I got kind of worried at first but turned out neat after all.

Taking yourself to serious & Catch up

2007-01-02T05:26:00.000-08:00

Associated Press Quote: I just love it.
Prelutsky's humility is encouraged by reviews like one from his maternal grandmother, to whom he was reading from one of his books when in the middle of a poem, she got up and walked away to use the bathroom.
Puzzled and a little hurt, Prelutsky reminded her this was his book he was reading.
"For the kids it's fine art," she said, "but I don't care much for it."

I just love that quote. Grandma's or at least mine often spoke the truth far more often than and a whole lot easier than anyone else in my family. She just plain told it like it was. I could of really used her this last year. I think a big lesson she tried to teach me was to not take myself or anyone else too seriously. No one is the 'big cheese' in this world. I got other things to look towards and as long as I keep my mind and heart looking towards God for my answers then I really don't have to worry. Trust in him and it will work out, one way or another. He doesn't let us down.
My Aunt has been there for me more than she knows and I wish I could begin to express how much. I wish I had been able to take much of her advice much sooner in life. I have learned a lot this past year. She has been right about a lot of things. I just wasn't strong enough to follow through. Now that I can stand as a firm me, I feel better, am happier and know I can do it. I won't get trod upon.
Hope everyone had a good holiday. We had a wonderful time here. Kids came, relaxed, visited, ate. Everyone was happy with their presents and nothing was wrong size or anything. I got some wonderful gifts. I got my husband a book he asked for, some movies, a big knife, a vienam tomahawk, and a DVD burner for computer. My kids got me some really great kitchen knives and block for them to stay in (I couldn't use most of my old ones, they were horrible). My Hubby got me a wonderful a handwritten book 'Gospels and Acts' all handwritten and illustrated, a beautiful skirt and cashmere sweater and a beautiful set of pearl necklace, bracelet and earrings.
Knitting lately has been better. I have finished a couple hats. Pictures to go up as soon as I finish this post. One is for my husbands nephew and godson and one for hubby.
Nephews is a plain stockinette stitch from Patons Astra - Denim Mix colorway. Is a DK weight. I had less than a full skein left from his sweater I made last year. 80 sts on size 8 needle, done in the round.
Hubbo's hat is a 2x2 rib all the way. used Patons Shetland Chunky Tweeds - Earthy Brown colorway. 88 sts on size needle, also done in the round. I did his extra long as he likes to have his folded over two or three inches at brim. It came out a good fit I think. Hope he likes.
Doing good healing after surgery. Going back to work in a week. Am looking forward to it. I hae been getting a little cooped up. I get out as much as I want now, but there is only so much I can do. I should be able to get back to my swimming real soon. We re-activated our Y membership. Will be good to get my muscles back in shape. As soon as it gets warm enough I will start walking outside again too, something I really enjoy.

Home again.

2006-12-15T11:10:00.000-08:00

Have been home for week now. Haven't been up to sitting at computer or much of anything. Surgery went well. Am sore and bruised but just need to take my time and let it all heal. Looks like I don't have a belly button any more which seems strange. Guess I don't really need it at my age. Tree is up. I am decorating a bit at a time. Hopefully it will be done by end of day today. Tomorrow at latest. Will take pictures when done.
Bits and pieces of things little at a time. Got out of house a bit of time yesterday for a little Christmas shopping. Not much but sure was beat by time I got home. Bill has done most of the shopping this year. With my surgery I haven't exactly been able to do much anyway. I have done a bit of looking. This year he was really hard to buy for. I have had a hard time thinking of something.

Surgery Date

2006-11-18T07:22:00.000-08:00

Went to Doctor this week and got my surgery date. I will be having my colostomy reversal on the 28th. I have to be in hospital for 5 to 7 days. They offered to do it next Tuesday but then I would be in Hospital through Thanksgiving and I chose not to. I am kind of looking forward to getting this done and over with. It hasnt been that bad, but it being gone will be even better. I will be home till right at the new year which means I will miss the Christmas rush at work. Not complaining about that too much. I will also spend plenty of time knitting and studying for SAT test.
Have a lot of House work to get done today. Want to get most of it done today before Thanksgiving. I am off on Wednesday. I will do my grocery shopping then and rest of housework, then cooking on Thursday. Going Monday night to Atlanta to spend night and have a night out. Will be a nice break. Have to come back for dr appt at 11 next day, but that gives me plenty of time for a leisurely morning. Well, back to housework. It won't do itself, unfortunately. but I can wish.

Back to school

2006-11-11T16:11:00.000-08:00

Went this week and picked up my applicatiopn for going back to school. Planning on going back to college. Plan has been in the works so to speak for a bit now. Am hoping to start Summer session or if not then next fall. Depends on what happens with moving and all. Am currently studying for SAT and ACT testing. After 27 years since I last took them I do need to brush up on a few things. The format has changed and I have spent a long time reading and paying attention to children not looking at books the way I did when a student. Some good review of some Math and then some studying of vocabulry and such and I will do ok I believe. I did well when I first took it years ago. My daughter says if I do better than her she is leaving home. I laughed, but maybe I shouldn't tell her if I do.
Spent this past weekend at my Aunt's. Had a good time as always. We enjoyed a good movie out. "One Night With A King", the story of Wsther from the Bible. Was very good. The scenery and costumes were very well done. The script was well written. I really enjoyed it. Nice to see a good movie that didn't have to resort to violence, sex, and bad language.
Knitting on a pair of baby booties as sample for yarn store. Also working on hat for me. I need to get another size 4 circular. Will pick up on Monday or make do with the one from my Boye interchangeable set. I don't particularly like the joins but it will work. I also need to work on Bill an hat. Longer than the last one I made. It was too short. He wants one that will fold over in a cuff.
Dr appt on Monday. I am supposed to find out when they will reverse the colostomy. Very soon I hope. Week after Thanksgiving would be ideal for me anyway. I hope so. Will have to wait and see.

2006-10-21T07:43:00.000-07:00

Second sock of Petticoat socks Pattern

2006-10-21T07:42:00.000-07:00

Start of cabled hat band

2006-10-21T07:41:00.000-07:00

New Spinning Books

Long weeks and Knitting again

2006-10-21T07:05:00.000-07:00

I've been back to work two weeks now. Still having some problems with shoulder and lung. These things just take time. Healing is a process.
Been knitting some again, finally. Seems the anesthesia has finally cleared enough and my clumsy hands have finally got a bit of their 'mojo' back. It does feel good to do something again. I was messing up plain garter stitch before, 13 stitches becam 16, then 18, then 20 in only about 6 rows and I couldn't figure out why. Time to put knitting down. I still have to go back and fix that scarf. Posting pictures in a minute of current knitting. Am working happily on second sock in Petticoat sock pattern and also have started brim of hat. Hat has a cable brim and then you pick up stitches for the top. Is a nice look. I bought a lovely burgudy cashmere/wool blend for me. There is a matching scarf also. I am planning on doing this for DD for Christmas I think. I have some nice woolease she will like. She will just throw in washer so don't want to use hand wash stuff. Woolease is nice enuff for hats and scarfs and machine washable.
Also got 3 new spinning books that I ordered this week. Have scanned through but am looking forward to a good read. That and my Interweave Knits came in mail. Bill and I are planning on going to Highland games this weekend and also are working at the pumpkin patch sale at church tonight so I do have a busy weekend.
Weeks are long. Bill has very long days with commuting two hours each way to work. We have a lot to do towards fixing up house before putting on market. I really need to start getting some stuff sorted and packed. Bill wants to go ahead and put some stuff in storage so it will be easier and out of way. Plus we need to get rid of excess kids stuff that is here and they don't come and get or want. It has to go.

Back To Work

2006-10-09T17:00:00.000-07:00

Started back to work today. Am sore tonight. I expected as much. Not quite as bad as I thought, but sore all the same. Ribs and lung are going to take a long time to heal from the surgery they did to it. Working 6 hr days this week, doing different stuff as they don't have enough work in price changes for me. Next week I don't know where I will be. After that I'll see.
Bill started his new job today also. Long day for him. He left this morning at and got home at 7. Very tired. Just going to relax tonight. Not much else going on.
We celebrated sons Birthday. 25 yrs old. Gave him my old car as he really needed it to get around for school. He has been driving it for 2 mths. We got me a used Toyota Avalon. Should be a nice little car.

2006-10-02T06:35:00.001-07:00

Family Picture

2006-10-02T06:35:00.000-07:00

Hubby's Birthday Cake

I've Lost It

2006-10-02T05:37:00.000-07:00

And I mean IT. You know that stuff that makes knitting go smoothly. Spinning go smoothly. picture taking not turn out like something you want to flush down the toilet. (Well not quite all the pictures.) Doctors who don't listen. Cars that don't work. Clothes that don't fit. It wouldn't be time for a break, would it. Just what I prescribe.
I am finally getting myself back together from my surgery and all. Trying to get the rest of it in one piece. DH starts new job next week. I go back to work next week (GRRRRR). Hopefully that means my arm and shoulder and stomache muscles will cooperate and I will be able to hack it. In the meantime we are going to spend the next few days taking a break and heading into the mountains for a few days. Just a bit of relaxing and rest. We both need a break, the stress has been rough and it doesn't look to be letting up soon. I am taking a bit of knitting and a book and plan on putting my feet up. Still changing bandages so have to take it easy anyhow. Maybe when I come back I will of found it or it will have found me. Can't be anytime too soon.

Back to life again

2006-09-10T13:02:00.000-07:00

Well I am back. Moving around a bit and getting a few things done. I was in hospital for a month, less than half of which I remember. Those who need to know do, the rest well.... we will see. I am not sure I really feel like talking about it. I have a lot more healing to do and go back in about 2 months for more surgery. So healing is name of game. Healing and gaining strength. I was in bed so long I had to pretty much learn to walk again. I still get tired out and have to use a cane at times or I would stumble. No driving and won't be for some time. Trying to get appetite back is the hardest. I didn't eat for a long time so hard to eat much at all, but it improves.
I am trying to do a bit of knitting and crocheting, but having to stick to simpler stuff. It seems like I mess up anything else. Going to try and organize some of the stacks of patterns and stuff. At least that will be an accomplishment and help the clutter around here. Tata for now.

2006-07-16T13:05:00.000-07:00

Saturday sky

2006-07-16T13:04:00.000-07:00

Quiet walking place

2006-07-09T13:56:00.000-07:00

Neighbors on 4th of July

Can I skip this week

2006-07-09T13:42:00.000-07:00

some weeks things just keep happening. Chris broke his arm and tore a tendon completely through. No insurance and he may have to have surgery. This was Wednesday night. Since then he reinjured same arm and may have broke two more bones, one in wrist and hand. Also should of had stiches and has splint on index finger. Left hand and he is right handed but may be out of work for awhile at least as he will not be able to work as a cook like this. He is going to go try and see what he can do -- against dr's orders of course. But when you live paycheck to paycheck you have to do something.
Was my last week at work for a while. Am taking a leave of absence for mental health reasons. Started seeing a new primary care dr and the changes he has made in my basic medications have been good and I am already seeing an improvement. It is nice not feeling I should never have been born or wishing I was dead all the time, ---- I knew it was side affects of other med, but until I could get a dr to help me get everything straightened out I was sort of at the mercy of the system. It was one of those meds you can't just stop taking or it makes you even more messed up. Hopefully the new one will help, if not he plans on monitoring better and working it out. That is a good plan. I am also glad to see him work so closely with my other dr's on everything to see what is going on and find what is the best treatent for me. And least this week hasn't been a total bust.
Bought myself a nice new camera so hopefully will have some wonderful new pictures to share soon. Will post one of my neighbors horse and pasture. I like the picture. Little country and homey. Look for the flag. Fits the fourth of July week this past week well.

Petticoat Socks

2006-07-01T08:54:00.001-07:00

Currect Progress photo of my Petticoat Socks. Am using Wildfoot yarn in Rhapsody colorway #SY-200. Pattern is at http://www.tostetoes.com/petticoatsocks.htm. I have seen many people do this in pastel colorways and thought I would do this in something much different. I am really liking the results. I finally found needles I really like for the purl 3 together. EZY-KNIT they were made a long time ago and I got some from my aunt who got them from my grandmothers knitting needles. the ponts are perfect for this and the needles are steel so not bendy and as I am a tight knitter this is a must. flexible plastic needles while some have great points drive me nuts. Pattern is originally written for two circs. I use dpns, but easy to make adjustments. Since so many have gotten used to making the adjustment to patterns other way it s only fair for some of us to make our turn. Besides after having done it bothe ways, it isn't hard to adapt. You just go round and round after all.

2006-07-01T08:54:00.000-07:00

Petticoat Socks Progress

On the knitting front

2006-06-29T07:22:00.000-07:00

Bet you all think I forgot how to knit. I haven't. I have just been slow about it. Put some pictures up. Sock is mine, where I was at before my trip to Aunt's last weekend. Am now past the gussets and on the foot. -- homestretch as they say. Will put up another picture as soon as the camera batteries recharge. Hard to take pictures with dead batteries. There are two pictures of sweaters that Auntie made for her great grandaughter and was fixing to mail off. Both are adorable and Genesis will love them. She sure does enjoy her pkgs and wearing them.
Last night Bill brought me flowers and I couldn't resist sharing. I sure did love them. It means a lot when he does. He never was a person to do that and now when he does I know he has really made an extra effort to do so. These are beautiful and the colors are especially pretty. If you read this then Thank you double fold sweeti-pie!!!!

2006-06-29T07:20:00.000-07:00

Roses from Hubby

2006-06-29T07:19:00.000-07:00

Wonderful Wallaby by Nancy

2006-06-29T07:18:00.000-07:00

Sweater set for Genesis Knit by Nancy

2006-06-29T07:17:00.000-07:00

Sock in progress June 23

Bill and I on Isle of Palms

2006-06-10T05:39:00.000-07:00

Bill and I on lse of Palms

2006-06-10T05:38:00.000-07:00

Bill and I together

2006-06-10T05:37:00.000-07:00

Bill in Kayak

Kayaking Trip

2006-06-10T05:20:00.000-07:00

Bill and I had a wonderful Sea Kayaking trip in Charleston. 3 Days and I really enjoyed it. I really enjoyed it immensely and am looking forward to doing it alot more in the future. Bill and I will still need to shop around for a kayak that I like and works for me. Hopefully we will get to start looking around before to long. We might find one used or some that works good as is what I like. But main thing is to find one that definitely has ballast.
Also lots of other places we can go kayaking and with the temporary use of my BIL's kayak, maybe we can go some more around within day drives and do some. I hope so as summer goes on.

Strawberry Fields and Kayaking

2006-05-25T06:50:00.000-07:00

Over last couple weeks things have been busy. Went picking strawberries with Grandma M and J and made preserves all day --- YUM YUM!!!. we had a good time. Only got one picture of grandma sitting with all the berries but we were a busy picking and it is hard for her to bend over in the field so she was master strawberry watcher. We had a really good day. This was two weeks ago and I am really slow about writing and catching up in here. Things just keeping me busy.
Looks like we have pretty much got DD's bank card mess straightened out. Hope so anyway. Am glad she is taken care of. Don't want her stuff so far away. She says she also got my package of books and is real happy with them.
Bill and I are going on a 3-day kayaking weekend this weekend in Charleston. Am really looking forward to it. YIPPEE!!!! Only worry is weather -- isolated thunderstorms... they wouldn't dare. and blisters. I will persevere and I will be fine. I am going to have a blast I am sure. I am so looking forward to this. I have bought clothes and hat and all kinds of things to be prepared. plenty of sunscreen and I shall be ready. Will be sore from all the paddling when we come back but I am sure it will be great and I think it will be wonderful. Going to get a water camera so I can try and get some pictures. Would be a shame to come back with none. Will see what I get.

2006-05-24T12:42:00.000-07:00

Stubby Cat

2006-05-24T12:40:00.000-07:00

Grandma at Strawberry Farm

Knitting Again

2006-05-12T13:54:00.000-07:00

My wrist is finally feeling better along with a few other parts. I took wrist brace off today and a bit yesterday. Knitted a little bit this afternoon. Just a few rows on some socks, but enough to feel good. Plan is to spend a bit of time with some of my knitting this weekend and just veg out. I rather need some quiet time and some time where I can just relax and unwind and spend it being able to sort me out abit after a long hectic week. Ah such is life.
Happy mothers day out there to all you mothers. And for all you fathers and children don't forget to remember your mothers and wives. Have a good one. Take care.

GRRRRRRRRRRRR

2006-05-07T14:34:00.000-07:00

One thing or another! Always Something! I have to wear this surgical boot on foot another two weeks minimum, probably a month.
Big mess with bank as they decided to switch over all their debit card system, only they didn't let any one know in advance. Our daughter is living overseas as an exchange student and this is how we provide her living expenses. New cards arrived 5 days prior to all old cards being completely shutdown. In addition, they have to be activated here, and old cards will no longer work as of Monday and new pin #'s still haven't arrived, so our daughter is going to be really stuck. We are furious. When new cards arrived, we didn't think too much about it, but we called back after seing one for daughter to ask and is how we found out about all cards being no longer valid after Monday. When we called all our relatives who also bank their -- both personal banking and business, they had also recieved stuff but did not get any info so were shocked to find out also. All told there is about 30 accounts with quite a bit of money from our family alone that we are now very angry about. Our pin #'s haven't arrived yet and we still don't know what to do about daughter. They are having a holiday there so she can't put money into her account now. If we had known in advance we could of been prepared for this and had her taken care of for the delay in getting her new card too her. Now at extra cost we are having to fed-ex her card to her and she is unable to pay her bills till it gets there, we still don't have her pin # and are trying to get the bank to activate it manually. Big mess!
Then, just for a little extra this weekend, I decided to trip and I sprained my wrist. Not real bad, but, not going to be doing much extra in the spinning or knitting department I guess for a bit.
I am half afraid they are going to send me home from work tomorrow. First I started wearing a back brace that I have to wear all the time. Now my foot is in a surgical shoe indefinitely. Tomorrow I get to go in with a wrist brace. I either need to laugh or cry. But look, I can still go in and I can still do my job so they should let me. Besides, it isn't like they give you sick time. Even management doesn't get sick time. Kind of awful really for a big company like that to not allow sick time. Not even allowed when I had scarlet fever or nervous breakdown. I can be off but it counts against me and I don't get paid at all unless I have vacation time I can use. Really is a bad way to treat employees.

Knitting socks

2006-04-29T06:35:00.000-07:00

Have cast on and started a new pair of socks. Wildfoot colorway SY-200 Rhapsody -- Wonderful shades of Purple, magenta, green and blue. Using the pattern My Petticoat socks. I am thinkin gof these for my DD, but she doesn't like wool (she has the same overly hot feet my sons have, so I may get to keep them) I bought a similiar colorway in acrylic/cotton blend to use for her so if she likes may make them for her. Will take a picture as soon as I get just a little bit further along than the top edge. I had to frog twice as I kept getting count messed up. let it be know, I can't text message and count at same time.
I also joined the SIX SOX KAL group at yahoo. I am looking forward to this and think I migh tuse the cotton blend for the current pattern for hers. They should work up quick and be a nice pressie for when she comes home in August (Sure wish it was sooner).
Also bought some Lorna's Laces a few weeks back for me as a special treat. Is a very nice yarn and I have really wanted to try it. Got a rather muted brown tones colorway called Jungle, but works. Will see what pattern they want to be.
We are tearing out walls and redoing her room. Bill, Billy, and and BIL tore out everything that had to come out last night. We have new sheetrock to go up and then will get some one to do the finishing work and paint. It will be nice to have it finished and I will be able to get her all situated before she comes home. I want to put new furniture in there and will put the old in other room off garage. Not great beds, but extra for when we need them.
They did more surgery on foot, so am still wearing surgical boot --- for probably next month anyway. Will see how that goes.

On my feet

2006-04-10T16:13:00.000-07:00

Well, looks like I am finally back on my feet. I knew how sick I was but when you start feeling better you really begin to realize it. I had Scarlet fever and have been sick for last 2 weeks. Nice large doses of antibiotics and plenty of fluids and rest and am starting to feel much better.
Jean's allergic reaction to unknown from Hiroshima is finally clearing up.
Bought some new yarn to knit with -- Lornas Laces Fingering weight -- color Safari. Going to cast on socks with them as next project.
Been bike riding today on new bicycle. Close to 4 miles. Really enjoyed it. I need to remember to take water bottle next time. I didn't think we were going to be on as long a ride so didn't worry about it.
Bill and I also went walking this weekend. Over a mile, was a good walk. Keeping up my workouts and I will have my back built back up in no time.

Jean Not going to South Korea

2006-04-08T04:07:00.000-07:00

Jean has decided to not go to South Korea for nest year as a student. Guess it was wiehging the pros and cons that finally made the decision. She knew it, she just had to talk them out. She isn't getting released from Japan till ater August 1st. She would have to be in Korea before the 15th. Means no time to come home and she would have to pack and ferry all her stuff n=to new university vs selling and rebuying after two weeks. Also because of the short time froma and inability to come home she would not be able to walk through her paper work for her honors scholorship for this upcoming year and would lose it. Big lose and she really needs it. Would her her now and badly later to have lost it as she is appyling to law school. Also by attending in South Korea it would put her a year behind in her studies and that would make it difficult for her. If that were the only thing she wants it bad enough to do it and would. I think I agree. I t would look good later to do so be able to have the two years of studying abroad and it doesn't come to everyone.
I finally picked up the stitches on collar of sweater on Thursday night so may take pic and show work in progress. I really need to. Haven't any Knitting content in so long it seems like I have forgotten how. Sweater goal -- finish this weekend and then I plan on starting these socks. Am planng on for me. Will see. Is brown tones which would be good for a man pair, but I don't think Bill would ever wear a pair of handknit socks, if he only knew how many men have said that and then promptly forgot that as they discovered the extreme comfort and pleasure you can get from handknit socks. They are far more comfy that any others I have ever wore. I also want to do some sock footies for this summer for me.
Pic of sweater in progress later today. And maybe a new one of Jean that she sent.
Oh and if you haven't checked out "The Penopticon" It is a great knitting blog with the best cartoons and you will love it!!!!!

Knitting GTG's & Jean in Japan

2006-04-02T06:38:00.000-07:00

I really wish I could of joined some of my friends in their gtg north of the border. Sure sounds like they had a good time. I really do miss having seen them and really treasure their friendship. Thinking of you guys the whole time and hope you all had a wonderful time!!!!!!
I also hate missing the one in Montana. Just not going to be possible for me. I know Auntie wishes she could go too. I am planning on going and spending that weekend at least with Auntie and at least we can have some fun and knit together and talk to everyone at same time. Sort of a back-up to them.
Jean seems to be having a good time in Japan lately. We have heard from her a lot. She first had a bicycle accident and injured her foot. This has been about 4 weeks ago and still hurting. She couldn't walk on it for about a week and refused to get it x-rayed. Oh well, I am too far away to make her.
She has been on a 3 week long spring break and doing some traveling. First to Okinawa, Then Hiroshima, then to South Korea. Okinawa was nice and she went snorkeling there. She was going to go scuba diving but discovered she had a fear of strapping on a 50 lb tank and sinking to bottom of ocean so snorkeled instead. She said it was very cool and really enjoyed it. In Hiroshima she got a bad allergic rash to something on her hands and they don't know to what. The dr's are treating it and it is finaly just starting to clear up after about 2 weeks. South Korea was awesome she says. She went into the DMZ to see what it was like. Kind of strange. Also ate lots of spicy foods. I am glad she had a good time. Guess she will be hitting the books again soon enough.
The University here has called her and offered her another year overseas as an exchange student. This time in South Korea. I think she really wants to go. I was talking to her other day and there will be a big financial layout and it will put her a year behind in her studies. That is two things that are important to consider. She has worked hard. I know with Japan it will have helped her alot as Japanese Languages and Literature is one of her majors, but with the double major it makes it harder. She really wants that double major in English.
I also am taking a look at going back to school. It may mean I have to go part time at work, but with them cutting my hours half the year anyway, I don't see what a big deal it will be. I really need to lay out all my choices and options and really decide what I want to go after. And also where will depend on where we end up at end of this year with Bill and I. Moving or whatever. We know we aren't staying in this house so it rather depends on where we go, where I go to school or what.

2006-03-03T05:33:00.000-08:00

You are a protector.
Yes, you don't like to kill people. That goes

against everything you belive in. It's not

that you are a coward, but your ideals and

morals wouldn't allow it. You are the typical

hero, do the righteous things, get the bad

guys and do it all legally. But just because

you don't kill doesn't mean you can't kick

ass. And that is what you do. You use your

brain and your strenght to do honourable

deeds and protect people you know and love.

If an evil guy is going to take over the

world soon, it's you who will get involved.

You hate watching innocents suffer, and love

seeing bad people getting what they deserve.

You are probably also happy and optimistic

and work pretty good in groups. And the

friends you usually make are true ones.

Main weapon: Anything at all
Quote: "You only live once, but if

you do it right, once is enough" -Joe

Lewis
Facial expression: Smile

What Type of Killer Are You? [cool pictures]
brought to you by Quizilla

Home and well

2006-03-03T03:08:00.000-08:00

Well Back Procedure Went fairly well. They ended up working on 6 nerves rather than 2. Mostly because when they got in thee they discovered a big mess. Under the new x-ray equipment that they have they discovered that I have a series of old spinal fractures -- 7 actually in lower part of spine. At least that's how many she is sure of. Part is so fused together we will never know.
I have often wondered about the back manipulation my mother did to me as a toddler a small child -- 40+ yrs ago --- her and my grandmother argued and fought about it. Back when back manipulation was first becoming a thing and finding that it helped and strengthened the back of adults in this country. She truly believed she was strengthening mine for the future. Only a kid still in diapers back is not developed or strong enough to bear the weight of an adults knee pushing on there spine like that. It looks like this may be the result. It is another gift of hers in my life.
Anyway, the procedure has helped alot. The pain levels are down. I am a bit tender muscularly. I think just wore out. They also gave me a back brace to wear for additional support and it really does feel good.
On the knitting front. Almost done with the last sleeve of this baby sweater. Hope to get it done this weekend. Picture soon. I want to finish it as I want to start something for me. Be nice.

Some of My Handspun all balled up and ready to use.

2006-03-01T05:03:00.000-08:00

Some of My Handspun all baled up and ready to use.

My Play Day

2006-03-01T04:48:00.000-08:00

Had a wonderful and relaxing day yesterday. And what a day for it. Weather was very cooperative --- nice sunny 71 degrees. They had given me an extra day off work before my surgery (short on hours). I did a few errands in morning. Just little things and things around here. Then afternoon I went to Urban Santuary Spa and had a wonderful relaxing hour just for me. Facial, face, scalp, neck, shoulder and foot massage. very relaxing. Never went to a spa and this was very nice. Thank you Bill was wonderful gift. Had my therapy appt. then off to knitting group. Wonderful visit and knitting. Joan brought in some of her handspun and showed it to us. Sure wish I could afford to get me a spinning wheel. It will come with time. Am working on last sleeve of baby sweater and will be getting it done very quickly, hopefully today. Will see, but if not I won't e doing too much for next couple days so will be enjoying my knitting and relaxing.
Bought a book and am waiting to start on. I have never read any of the Chronicles of Narnia before --deprived childhood I know. I bought a copy of the adult version which has all the books together in one volume. So I can read and knit and work on nothing. Nap or whatever.
Surgery today is nothing major. In and out. Shouldn't even be there more than an hour. Will see how that goes. I expect all will be well but am a little nervous. I did promise Jean I would e-mail her when I got home on her phone.
This morning I am going to run vaccuum and clean off dining room table so that it looks decent around here. Already have an easy dinner planned that Bill can cook or he can get take out. He is a good cook in his own right so really didn't need me to plan anything so really wantever he decides is up to him.

Catch up

2006-02-22T13:52:00.000-08:00

I have been slack in writing. So much has been going on and it is hard to keep up.
It has been asked and I have agreed and Bill is moved back home. We are going to a new marriage counselor -- for various reasons. We liked the old one, but there are other reasons for going to the new one. We still will have a lot of things to work on and will for some time.
I went to my old knitting group at Panera Bread last night. Enjoyed seeing everybody and talking.
Also went last week to knit at Main Street Yarns downtown. Nice and relaxing. Was good for me to get out. I am starting to be able to get out and do a few things for me more and that is good. It has been hard to get out and enjoy things as I like and want to. But I digress.
Been working with my MIL Joyce and helping her to learn to quilt. She is having a good time. I have mostly just been encouraging, she is doing great. I think she is mostly just worried, but it will be fine. She knows the basics of sewing and measuring and has had many experiences with different crafting things so I am sure this will be just fine.
I have also been knitting and been picking up my spinning again. I am enjoying that. Was a long time before I picked that up. Only this past mth, so 8 mths. It will be a long road to haul before over. Will work it out. Have to learn to enjoy life. Had enough of the rest and nothing but good stuff from now on.

Simon and weekend

2006-01-16T15:45:00.001-08:00

I got a picture of little Simon in baby sweater I made him for Christmas so I thought I would post. We had a good time with Jean. Finally catching up on housework. Hope to get the boxes gone through in bedroom this weekend and the other baby sweater finished.
Went to R-ranch this weekend. Was very cold first day and half of night. Winds were terrible. Ripped off roof of cabin next us and took down several trees. Also took down about 150 feet of fencing. Wind finally died down about 4 am on Sunday morning. Was pretty nice day after that. Went horseback riding. I was worried some it would be too much, but had a good ride and except for a little saddle sore not too bad. With my back and hip, it has been a long time since I have done any so it is going to be awhile before I get the muscles used to it again. I used to do quite a bit, it will just take a bit of time. Anyway, as long as it doesn't make things worse, I don't see why I can't do things I want.

2006-01-16T15:45:00.000-08:00

Michelle and Baby Simon

New Year

2006-01-11T16:30:00.000-08:00

It is a New Year and a lot has been happening in my life. First I went and spent my birthday at my Aunt Nancy and Uncle Dave's. They were wonderful. I think it was probably the best birthday I have ever had. I really had a wonderful day and an entire wonderful weekend.
Bill decided he wanted to work on our marriage and that he was serious about it. He ended his affair. I am sure of this. I do at times have issues and my own insecurities to deal with and we will have to work through this. But we it seems we are doing this together. We have done a lot of talking a really worked through a lot of things already it seems like. I am really glad to have him finally willing to work on the issues between us after all these years. I have wanted him to for so long. Enough said.
Jean came home on 26th of December from Japan. So we all waited and celebrated the holidays together with her. Am so glad. We really enjoyed having her home. Was really good of her me-maw to buy a ticket for her to come home for the holidays. She had to go back on the 7th. I miss her much. But know she is where she want to be and is doing well and getting on with her life. I am glad for her.

2005-12-12T15:27:00.000-08:00

Jean's Birthday Flowers

Jean's Earthquake

2005-12-12T15:17:00.000-08:00

On Thursday of last week my dear daughter e-mailed me from Japan that she had had an earthquake, but that she had slept throught it. I e-mailed back. How bad was it. she says, no big deal. I didn't think anything more of it, thinking if she slept through it, can't have been that bad and after all they are used to getting shakes there and if it was big she wouldn't of slept through it and she would of told me. Wrong. This weekend I checked on it. 7.0 according to the reports. I was shocked. I asked her about it, she said, yeah, well everybody else woke up, it was only her that slept through it. Well, glad she is alright, but she better let me know the truth next time. Besides, after it's over and she is letting me know, at least I know she is ok. Thing is, you know how you always say so and so could sleep through a train coming through or a tornado or an earthquake -- well, now we have proof.
Anyway. her birthday was week of Thanksgiving and I just got this picture of her with the flowers her father sent so am posting. She really looks like she enjoyed them.

2005-12-07T13:09:00.001-08:00

Close-up of car buttons

2005-12-07T13:09:00.000-08:00

Baby Sweater

2005-12-07T13:06:00.000-08:00

Finished sweater for nephew. has cute little car buttons on it. I will be giving to them when they arrive for christmas. They are moving back here after living last several years in Kansas.

Another Week

2005-12-04T04:42:00.000-08:00

Another week gone by. I get through. I have made plans to go spend my birthday with my aunt. It falls on weekend and I will come home Sunday before dinner so I don't have to deal with traffic and in case of weather.
Jean will be coming home from Japan on 26th of December and leaving on 7th of Jan. I thought she wasn't going to get to stay as long, but am really glad she is going to be here. Am so looking forward to seeing her. I think we are going to save all our Christmas till she gets here. It will be better and more fun to do it all together with her. I think probably Tuesday or Wednesday evening. We will leave it up to whatever night both boys can get off together. Then I will cook and we can have an evening holiday.

25 yr old lemons

2005-11-26T06:41:00.000-08:00

you can't make lemonade from 25 year old lemons. If my children read this -- I don't think they do. but if so then I'm sorry but you will be finding out soon enough I guess.
My husband has informed me that our marriage is over. He has another relationship and has had for some time. he insists the two are not related. Poppycock. ##### can get run over by a truck for all I care. Everything has been his choice and his decision and I do not and have not had any choice in the matter. Locks are being changed today and I am looking for a good lawyer. Nothing else I can do. I have to at least know my rights and protect myself. 25 years is a long time to throw away. Even now if he was honest and serious I would work on our marriage. Something he has never been willing to do, despite my many attempts and tries to get him to go to counseling and do so.

Happy Thanksgiving

2005-11-24T07:02:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving from Georgia. We are having a small holiday here today. Just my 2 DS's, mil, and DH coming over. Will be cooking a small turkey and some of the traditional sides but not too many since there won't be too many of us and I will be the one eating all those leftovers. Eating about 4 here and since it is just a small turkey I really don't have much to do till later so morning is pretty much mine. Knitting and all will commence. Yippee.
I work tomorrow and then right after work will be headed out to my SIL house for big family gtg. They always do the big family one there on Friday, timing is such that I should just make it.
Hope everyone has a good holiday and if your don't celebrate it then hope you just have a wonderful day.

Something about me

2005-11-20T07:00:00.000-08:00

Wonder how right any of your think this is?

Your Birthdate: December 17

You tend to find yourself lucky - both in business and in life.
And while being wealthy is nice, you enjoy sharing your abundance with others.
You put your luck to good use: you are very ambitious and goal oriented.
Often times, you get over excited and take on more than you can manage.

Your strength: Your ability to make your own luck

Your weakness: Thinking you can do it all

Your power color: Bronze

Your power symbol: Half Moon

Your power month: August

What Does Your Birth Date Mean?

This Week

2005-11-19T08:10:00.000-08:00

Spinal Procedure this week seems to have went well. Epidural thing or what ever it is called. Bit of pressure on the nerves but is supposed to relieve pressure on the discs in back. Am really hoping for some relief and healing. Will see. Only time will truly tell. Is definitely better than it ever was when I first started going there.
Should finish up at least one baby sweater this weekend and probably another if not this weekend then this week. Will be good as my Christmas stuff is in need of quick completion and I need to get a move on.
My foot pedal has finally come in for my sewing machine and I am excited to be going to pick it up today. I really want to get some things sewn up as Christmas gifts and have a few things for kids to finish up. I hope they aren't disappointed from me. I am counting my paychecks before Christmas so I can see what I can do.
I don't want to give away any secrets so am going to be quiet. I am not sure if at least Jean is checking out my blog.
Well, another week and going to take it easy this weekend. Don't want to overdo on my back and undo all the work being done for it. Am going to see a movie with son today. Will be nice. I do need to get out. I kind of want to go to pool, but am leary of overdoing it. Maybe I should wait till next week. I did go for a bit Friday, but only paddled a bit as I was already hurting a lot and didn't want to overdo then either. Feeling better this morning though so that is a good sign.