Too Bad

The Drive View........
The Post Office

More tomorrow - I forgot The Desk View - you'll all hate me!

First Day - 71 miles later

A long drive - but as I've said it is beautiful. Great time for NPR listening and just for myself time!
Job will be great - interesting, challenging and the real opportunity to make a difference! I am in for the long haul!
Thanks to all your supportive comments today - I really appreciate them - especially since I came home to an empty household because everyone else is now at work!!!
Also met a new knitter today - a part-time employee - so will have lots to share with her. Promised to teach her how to do socks - since I had my latest on I had to show them off!!
I think I decided on my next project - the Celtic sweater with Wool of the Andes - this way I can afford it now - I'm bored with socks for the moment - even though I cast on another pair last night...will show when it's worth the picture.
Hope everyone has a great week!!

Happy Socks

Happy Easter all!!
Finished these today - just in time to wear to new job tomorrow!!! Color isn't true at all - they are much darker!!! I'll update more after the first day jitters are over!!

One year ago today, my Mother, Ann, passed away from Breast Cancer. She was first diagnosed about 5 years earlier – but with surgery and chemo she survived well for three years until the cancer was found in her liver. Then she started a intensive chemo treatment that left her uncomfortable and limited in her activities. Ironically she was scheduled to have a cutting edge treatment where they inject her liver with radioactive beads that goes right to the cancer. But she was not healthy enough at the time and was unable to have the treatment. She died peacefully in a wonderful hospice facility that took care of all of us. It was a long journey for all of us.

She was an especially well loved woman – with an incredibly large group of friends – a few that she’d had since kindergarten! They were the ‘naughty nine’! When she married my dad and moved to Portland her circle widened to include my dad’s childhood friends. They were married for over fifty years! (This picture is from the 50th Anniversary Party) This huge group of friends is an amazing thing to me – a huge group of people. I do not see this phenomenon today – we are all so mobile we don’t seem to make these long lasting relationships.

I also believe that it was my mother’s personality that fostered these relationships – she really was a good friend to all. A great listener, a supporter of many causes – especially those involving less fortunate children. She was a nurse who spent years volunteering at the hospital – including making weekly batches of cookies for the cute young interns! Many of whom she adopted for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.

She created beautiful needlepoint and made every new baby that she knew beautiful cross stitch quilts – I bet over 100 of them over the years. I have an unfinished one that someday I will complete for my daughters to pass on. She taught me how to knit when I was a teenager and I use her needles everyday – they are my favorite double points.

I’d like to share this poem that was read at her family service.

Let Evening Come

Jane Kenyon

Let the light of late afternoon
Shine through chinks in the barn, moving
Up the bales as the sun moves down.

Let the cricket take up chafing
As the woman takes up her needles
And her yarn. Let evening come.

Let the dew collect on the hoe abandoned
In long grass. Let the starts appear
And the moon disclose her silver horn.

Let the fox go back to its sandy den.
Let the wind die down. Let the shed
Go black inside.Let evening come.

To the bottle in the ditch, to the scoop
In the oats, to air in the lung
Let evening come.

Let it come, as it will, and don’t
Be afraid. God does not leave us
Comfortless, so let evening come.

I miss her and am honored to have been part of her life!!

Mittens and New Job!

Caryn's Mittens as promised - I know she'll like them!!

OK – new job starts week after this – yippee! I’m going to be the Assistant to two guys who have been in business separately for years – both very successful. They are business consultants – you know budgeting, staff management, business plans, acquisitions, mergers, marketing, capital…..one guy has been in the local market and the other has big international clients so has been overseas a lot the last few years. They are joining forces and hope to concentrate more on our local area – but also more regionally. They are great friends, have wonderful families (mostly grown up), they are a lot of fun and very professional. I’ve worked for them together (one recommended the other to consult at a previous job I held) and I’ve worked for one separately on a part-time project. So I know them both relatively well and am very comfortable with them – although this may be a little intimidating at first until I get settled in. Central Oregon is pretty casual business wise and I’ll be calling clients by Mrs….or Mr….. – this will be a change for me, but one which I grew up with. I still call my parents friends Mr. and Mrs. – and get scolded for it every time!

The one downside of this job is the drive – 45 minutes one way. A long way for me – but through the best part of Central Oregon. I won’t be able to run out and pickup Marianne from school and stuff like that – but we are car shopping now. How did I luck out – I now will be working two jobs located in the most beautiful places in Oregon – Camp Sherman on the Metolius and Smith Rocks on the Crooked River – it makes me dizzy!

The other downside is health insurance – I’ve got to pick it up myself (I’m the only employee) – which I have to investigate next week. I’m really healthy (I’m going for a mammogram Monday) – but as I get older Health Insurance becomes more important. I bet I haven’t been to the Doctor twice in the last five years! I could do the COBRA deal with my current insurance – but it’s too expensive – would eat up a big portion of the extra I’m going to be earning – so am shopping for high deductible, low premium!

All in all it is a wonderful opportunity. Two great bosses who I really enjoy, interesting and challenging work for which I will be compensated for by those who will appreciate my efforts. Lots of humor. The opportunity to earn more for clients I personally do work for….. And I still will have my other job that I love! OMG!!!

The other downside is less knitting time because I’ll be driving…so I’ve got to get an Ipod or check out books on tape at the library!

I actually have to keep pinching myself – I’ve waited a long time for the perfect job and this is probably it and my last chance!!

The rain is back so no gardening this weekend - quality knitting time instead. Maybe I can decide on which sweater - yea right!!

Happy weekend to all!

Book Club

Well I tried to post a picture of my finished fingerless mitts - but you know blogger!
Had my Book Club last night - lots of fun. Carol our hostess had been to China this summer so cooked Chinese - was really yummy!
Book for this month is Gonzalez and Daughter Trucking Co. by Maria Amparo Escandon. I zipped by Barnes and Noble to pick it up on my way home and also got Classic Knits for Real Women - oh I like both books! Which sweater do I do?
I seem to have a problem picking out my next project - I just need to go to a great LYS and check everything out!!!
6 more days of the yukky job - hurray!
Spring arrived today - Saw the Osprey with fish!!
Will try to post pictures again tomorrow!!

The winner is Organized!

I drew a name for the “Let’s get organized” project – and the winner turned out to be Rhonda – good thing because I would have sent her something just for effort. She has been organizing like mad – it’s looking good girl. You are now ready to dazzle us with knitting achievement!!! Rhonda - Send me your snail mail address and I’ll send you a custom row counter!!!

Jenn – I need a picture of the ‘wine bottle’ case – No wonder you’ve lost your sanity!!

This was fun to see how everyone keeps organized – like minds I guess – we’ve all got notebooks, all have containers ranging from lined wicker baskets to Rubbermaids. Ziplock bags are a big essential.

Blogs, Journals Excel and Delicious (is it that good?) keep all our records straight – the key here I’ve found is you have to keep it up to date!

This has been fun – we are an organized group!!

Grey's Anatomy Rocks!! Izzy is a speed demon!

Knitting Everywhere

I got up this morning - ready for a few moments of coffee, the news and knitting. Instead I found knitting everywhere!!
This little cherub had decided to have some fun with my basket.

Now it is all cleaned up and pretty for your viewing pleasure. This basket sits under the table next to my chair and currently contains four stash busting projects. Navy & Copper Nordic Mittens, Iris Fingerless mittens, Red, black etc Entrelac scarf, and Trekking socks. This picture actually shows the colors pretty well....
I am having fun with all of these - have never done Entrelac before - I like it. Maybe someday that beautiful scarf in Scarf Style?

On the organization front - You've got to read Rhonda's notes - she is totally into getting organized - of course it looks to me like she has a lot to organize. Good Job!!!

Now Julia on the other hand - had to bring things home - so she has another challenge - where do I put all this stuff!!! She keeps an Excel spreadsheet about yarn purchases - way too organized for me! I just don't have the time!

It looks to me like we all equip our knitting chairs with all the necessary tools - including wine and chocolate!! Our storage methods are varied - plastic boxes, baskets, drawers, shelves etc. Everyone seems to have a notebook or notebooks with info we collect. Rhonda (see above) keeps her book info in del.icio.us - great idea. Maybe we could use it to keep track of yarn purchases?

Julia makes book marks from yarn ball bands - I put them into my journal of knitting.

We all seem to be able to find the things we need - but Jenn has lost her sanity....
"Patterns are in a binder and are sorted by type - baby knits, sweaters, socks, scarves/shawls, and misc.
Mags and books are on top of two bookcases in the living room - divided into patterns and reference. I can't find my sanity yet.
I have a few ziploc bags full of left overs - I have a secret plan for them though." Yea right!!

Overall I'd say we are an organized group! Busy lives and lots of knitting!!

Speaking of - my life is going to be really busy with this new job - I'll have almost a 45 min communte each way - I know it isn't that far - but compared to 2 minutes it's far! Camp Sherman is on the Metolius River - one of the most beautiful spots in the State of Oregon - how did I get so lucky. I'll drive through the little town of Sisters every day - no LYS - can you believe it! But home of a huge quilt show.
The two guys that I'm going to work for are old friends - it will be fun, challenging and interesting - I am so honored to be a part of thier team. They are business consultants - with a growing local market and some international clients - so it will be interesting for sure. I've got a lot to learn but am up for the challenge. The best part is now I can get my sweater yarn!!! Not quite yet - but sooner than I had anticipated!!

This is a gardening weekend - have to get the free pickup stuff out to the street - rain or shine!!
Have a great weekend!! I'm going to!!

Do the Happy Dance

I got the job!!!!! I now work two perfect jobs - lots of travel time involved (means being away from Home longer during the day - too bad I can't knit and drive - but will have to get an IPod for books!!) but everything else is so perfect it is sinful!!
Will write more and update my knitting....I'm doing something new!
ttfn - and KNIT ON!!!

Look what else I found

So these were my favorites - Cherry Tree Hill - I've fixed the heel where they wore out - twice already - so this sock yarn will not go into socks again - it just doesn't hold up!!

Have taken the day off from work today - to go to a JOB INTERVIEW! Will keep you posted!!
ttfn - Knit on!

Look What I Found!!!

Help

Edited - I found it here!!

Some time ago I saw a 'trick' for the kitchner stitch - where it doesn't leave those little ears.....can't remember where now - If anyone has any ideas where it was - let me know. I'm almost finished with new mitten number one.
Would show a picture but blogger isn't letting me upload.....
ttfn

Foiled again

Is that how you spell foiled - as in my plans are shot?
I had planned on working outside today - week after next is free yard debris pick-up - so was going to get started.....but this is what I woke up to - Hate it when that happens! It's pretty wet and won't last long - but still won't be a gardening day.
So in the spirit of 'Let's get organized' I'm cleaning house - boring boring boring.

Luckily my knitting storage is organized - the dresser holds needles in one drawer - just in there, not organized - all single points and circulars. The circulars are in a plastiz zip lock - but I still have to get them out and measure them each time I want one! Most of them are from my mom's supply - old but very usuable.
The other drawers have ball ends of all my past projects - organized by type mostly. Sock yarn in one, worsted in a few etc. The baskets on top are not yet used stash - about enough for maybe 5 socks and some stuff I thought I'd use for scarves - odds and ends. I think the big basket has almost a skein of Manos left from my sisters vest - need to find a project for that - the colors are so great. Maybe I could use it for a felted bag with something else?
The selves have knitting books, patterns, junk, etc. I need to get some of those shelf magazine holders - it would be much more convenient.
I found a great basket the other day at Target - but unfortunately didn't buy it and when I went back of course it was gone - it was big, smooth sided and Red. I wanted it to put behind my chair with my sock stash - I thought it would be colorful.
Someday when I find the perfect bookcase for next to my chair - I want one shelf for the knitting books and one shelf for baskets of yarn and stuff. But that's not high on my spending list at the moment
I made a few beaded row counters last night - didn't do a lot of knitting. But looks like today there will be progress!!

This just jumped in my stash

OK - I'm supposed to be saving for a sweater...but had to go to town to drop things off at the Engineers and a LYS is next door - so went in just to peek and look what I found. Lorna's Laces in Iris - the two small balls are my leftovers from another project - will combine them and hope I have enough for fingerless mittens.

I'm not forgetting my standed color mittens - just think these are better for my Wyoming friend because she is also a bird watcher - so while she is walking and watching she can just pull the mitten tops off and adjust her binoculars as necessary!!

Since Blogger seems to be posting pictures again - here is my wonderful knitting bag...

I've only got three responses for Let's Get Organized!!! Come on lets get commenting!!

Lets Get Organized!!!

In my last post I talked about my organization attempts and what I use – notebooks, baskets, new bookshelf etc. I’ve gotten a few comments from others about what they do…

Plus there has been lots of info going back and forth about ‘Stash Busting” ….

So Let’s Get Organized!

Pass on your comments to me and the first week of April I’ll put them all together in a post – I’ll try to only put unique ideas – no repeats in other words. We should have quite a collection of great ideas!!

Where do you keep your stash?
What do you keep by your knitting spot?
How do you keep all your needles and notions organized so you can find them?
What about all your patterns and printed materials?
Magazines? Books? Sanity?
What do you do with all the end of project balls of yarn?
Do you keep a written journal of Finished Objects – other than your blog?
You get the idea.

Tell you what – many of you have seen my beaded row counters for circular or DPN projects – I’ll draw a name out of the respondents and make a row counter just for you!

Deadline will be April 1st (No April Foolin!)
Knit on!

Weekend Update 2

It was a productive weekend…..knitting wise anyway. Didn’t do much else but knit and watch movies – Harry Potter-The Goblet of Fire and Pride and Prejudice. I enjoyed both, Pride and Prejudice was slow, but beautiful to see the English countryside.

I did restart my Nordic mittens – I like them much better. I was doing them with a size 1 needle – but they were too small and the fabric was too tight – it they weren’t stranded color it probably would have been OK – so switched to a 3 – and they work great. I am much happier with the results.

I also found a quick knit pattern for my Trekking socks – totally easy to remember so this is my ‘carry with me’ project. I’m really loving the colorway – wish it showed up better on this picture. Any ideas about taking photos? Flash or not – inside or out? Natural light is probably better. But there isn’t much of that late at night when I finally remember to take pictures!!

Julia commented recently about my “Knitting Notebooks”
– I have two three-ring binders that I keep all my info that I’ve printed off the Internet, single patterns, tips& tricks etc. I have one for socks and one for everything else. They have the clear plastic sleeves on the covers so I can put pictures or notes or anything in them. When I’m working on a sweater that I’ve figured out the sizing on – I put in the page I did the calculations on. (I’ll have to write about that someday – I have an Excel spreadsheet that does all the work for me based on gauge – based on the percentage system – works great). Now I’ve got a full 8x11 picture of my wish list Dale sweater in it – motivation to save the money!!

I really need to stay organized. I have a magazine rack next to my knitting chair that holds these binders and a few other things. Trouble is I am always pulling out other books or supplies – so my space gets overwhelmed at times. I need to find a small bookshelf to put there instead of the rack – then I could have most of my books and a basket of yarn. I actually have a basket under the end table that houses all my paraphernalia.

One of my favorite and best knitting organizers is my pencil box – I got it in the school supply section and it is double sided. It holds all my DPNS, markers, cable needles, crochet hooks, the works. It has divided compartments on one side and a full size compartment on the other. It’s small enough that if I’m traveling I can put the whole thing in my knitting bag.

Oh my knitting bag! – it is my favorite! Daughter M2 brought it back for me from Jackson Hole last summer. I’d been lusting after it for a long time. It is a Pendleton bag – made here in Oregon. (I've tried to upload a picture - but you know Blogger - sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't - so you'll have to wait. ) Pendelton Blankets are real collectors items - so this is really special since I can't collect blankets - more on that subject at another time - I do have a wonderful Trade Blanket that belonged to my Great Grandmother.......another time for that!

Centered

So how did all my posts get centered Text? All of a sudden they just appeared this way?
More to come tonight or tomorrow I promise to get busy writting - but I actually have work work to do!!
ttfn

What kind of Needle Am I?

What kind of knitting needles are you?

You are interchangeable.Fun, free, and into everything, you've got every eventuality covered and every opportunity just has to be taken. Every fiber is wonderful, and every day is a new beginning. You are good at so many things, it's amazing, but you can easily lose your place and forget to show up. They have row counters for people like you!
Take this quiz!








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Join

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Yep that's me - a Gemini - Interchangeable!!!

The Plague

You know how some knitting projects just plague you – well my mittens are turning out that way, as well as my Trekking socks. I decided that the mittens were not big enough around – of course I was doing the decreases for the hand by this time …so frogged the entire mitten. (This is practice?) Started them again with bigger DPN’s and now think I don’t like the result either – but another evening will tell. What do you do?

I started a pattern with the trekking yarn and don’t like it either – the color is too dark to see the pattern and it’s not worth the effort if you can’t see it….so back to the drawing board for them. At this rate I’m wearing out the yarn before I produce anything!!

I printed a 8x11 photo of the Dale Sweater that’s on my wish list – motivation! I’m thinking of going into my LYS and getting just one ball of the Tuir yarn to make sure it’s what I want before I get the entire kit. Can’t afford to not like it.

I’ve got so much yarn in my stash that I don’t know what to do with (Not as much as some I’ve noticed!) Not enough for anything but stripped scarves or short socks. Bought a skein of Lorna’s Laces to match leftovers from something else and then used those leftovers for yet another thing – so am still left with one skein of LL – now I have to buy something else to coordinate with it – a solid or something….will I ever learn – probably not. My stash if full of these things – a few colors here and a different one there….if I’d buy stash for sweaters that would be one thing – but I never have that kind of extra cash – so its sock yarn for me to stash.

Hopefully I can get to the LYS this weekend - I'd like to try to go to the SnB too - I've missed for months - Saturdays have just been too busy.
Knit on!!

P3tog?

I can't believe I've never done anything with a P3Tog - I now know why - I've been working on a new sock with my Trekking XXL that's been in my stash and the pattern has a P3Tog - I hate it!! I've ripped it out and am searching for something else. I've tried different needles - a better point and I still can't do it comfortably - what a pain!!!
Also worked on my mittens - they are coming along nicely - but I know that the second mitten will look much better than this first one - I will have got the stranding down much better....so these might be for me instead of my friend in Wyoming - I've got plenty of stash to do another pair - Julia - this is real practice!!
Quiet weekend here on the homefront. Girls have been out and about. Today is homework and hopefully a walk - but the snow keeps spitting occassionaly, so we'll see. Washing and knitting is in the cards for me.
ttfn

Felting Help

Or your could remove the "P" from the title and it would explain everything.
So I tried to get my new washer to fill with Hot water so I could felt my slippers - but that doesn't work - don't know why - all the hoses are hooked up correctly and I do have plenty of hot water......

Anyway so the slippers are sitting in a pot of hot water on the stove - how long is this going to take? It's just not working. They've been there (Stirred often) for over an hour and there is hardly any change - this is Brown Sheep yarn even - should felt easy. What happens if I pull them now and try again when I have a few more hours - it's almost 10:00 pm now and I can't stay up all night........
Help please!!!

Wednesday Update?

Obviously – since It’s the middle of the morning and I’m posting – must be bored at work – yup bored. Boss is gone, work is all caught up and then some. So here I am blogging away…….lots of discussion out there about stash projects – I spent some time on Sunday looking at all my stash and figuring out what I could do with it. I had bought some Brown Sheep to do a vest for M2 daughter – but she decided she’d never wear it – so it’s been hanging around for awhile – then on Sunday it turned into this and by tomorrow It’ll be much smaller I hope. My first felting project!
I also came across two balls of Trekking sock yarn – so will do these socks with one, which will probably get started tonight also.
Don’t worry I’m still working on the mittens – but they are slower going – a long term project since it’s not going to be mitten weather for long. These are for a friend who lives in Wyoming who does lots of weekly walking – so she won’t really need them for awhile.
These mittens will be an unexpected gift for a very appreciated friend. A way to say Thank you for going beyond! As I said, she lives in Wyoming and we visited this summer when we were in Jackson with M2 daughter. Then M2 went to visit them and she had a wonderful time. Lots of heart to heart talks were involved and it was very helpful to M2. She called the other night just to see how M2 was doing – so I really appreciate her friendship. They will be moving back to Oregon in a little over a year and I’m looking forward to having them closer.
It looks like winter is back again – we’ve got a dusting of snow here on the High Desert and they say there could be a foot or more in the mountains by tomorrow – so no gardening for me this weekend. I have so much debris to pick up. We have a Free garden debris pick up with the garbage service – it’s in April so have to get stacking!!
I’ve planned a secret “me only” trip early this summer to the Black Sheep Gathering – thought this would be great for stash enhancement and maybe a class or two just for fun. I’ll go at least for part of a day and then head to Portland to see my family. Have to plan ahead!
I worked last night at my other job – which I love – when I left and walked outside I heard the local great horned owl hooting – it was a perfect evening – stars bright and the owl. It sounds really neat bouncing off the canyon walls - I almost cried it was so perfect!
Hope all is well with you and yours.
Warning – you may see more changes on my blog design today – just fooling around!
Knit on!

Womens History Month-Purple Hats

The following was sent to me by a friend - In honor of Women's History Month and Purple Hats. I'm sure many of you got one too - but rather than e-mail it on - I thought I'd just post it....

"IF I HAD MY LIFE TO LIVE OVER - by Erma Bombeck
(written after she found out she was dying from cancer).

I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead of pretending the earth would go into a holding pattern if I weren't there for the day.
I would have burned the pink candle sculpted like a rose before it melted in storage.
I would have talked less and listened more.
I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was stained, or the sofa faded.
I would have eaten the popcorn in the 'good' living room and worried much less about the dirt when someone wanted to light a fire in the fireplace.
I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble about his youth.
I would have shared more of the responsibility carried by my husband.
I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled up on a summer day because my hair had just been teased and sprayed.
I would have sat on the lawn with my grass stains.
I would have cried and laughed less while watching television and more while watching life.
I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn't show soil, or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.
Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished every moment and realized that the wonderment growing inside me was the only chance in life to assist God in a miracle.
When my kids kissed me impetuously, I would never have said, "Later. Now go get washed up for dinner." There would have been more "I love you's" More "I'm sorry's."
But mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every minute...look at it and really see it... live it and never give it back. STOP SWEATING THE SMALL STUFF!!! Don't worry about who doesn't like you, who has more, or who's doing what Instead, let's cherish the relationships we have with those who do love us. Let's think about what God HAS blessed us with, and what we are doing each day to promote ourselves mentally, physically, emotionally."

Enjoy and Knit on!

It's Still Me

So I'm bored at work today - decided to learn how to change my blogs appearance - now if I can just get rid of that box at the top and move my banner so it fills the page - or move the profile section up...I'm set.

I figured it out - by chance - don't ask me to show you - what I did was change the banner graphic - it uploaded it differently this time and it worked! Yea

Dale of Norway

How about this sweater - wish I could see it better....
I found it here. I think I would alter the dropped shoulders a little - tends to look big on me if I don't. But it's my colors and looks fun.
Still working on my mittens - I'm considering ripping them out again and using bigger needles - it seems pretty tight to me. That's the deal with stranded colors - we tend to knit tighter I guess. I have been experimenting with dominate color - doesn't seem to matter which color I carry in which hand - maybe on a bigger piece it would be more noticeable.
I've really got to get out of this small project mode - I just love the instant gratification aspect....but I need a big project to work on.....keep searching.
Remember the washer - came late etc - well now it doesn't work....repair people are coming tomorrow...what's the deal here. Everything I bought new - washer and lamp - has broken in the first few days. What did I do to deserve this?
Knit on!

How cool is that – a Gold Medal!!

The knitting front seems a little boring these days now that it’s over! Unfortunately I don’t have a big project in the works – just finishing the EX socks and moving forward with the Nordic Mittens……which has taught me I don’t want to do an entire multi color-pattern sweater with this gauge of yarn any time soon.

But I do want to choose a big project – a sweater. I really like this
from Oat Couture – have had the pattern for a long time. Now to find the perfect yarn. I looked at Black Abbey – but it’s pretty expensive for me. I want something a little softer and with better drape than Brown Sheep. I don’t want a really dark color – you lose so much of the stitch definition in a dark color – but I don’t want pastel either. Maybe grey or a medium periwinkle or a heather something. Gosh I don’t know…..someone just give me some yarn to try!!
I did check out all the Sweaters from Camp – I like lots of them.
I know how about a Mountain Colors cardigan – the yarn is great and the colors are great…OK I’ll explore that.

I do think I will be going back to more reading – I haven’t really been a good book club person the last few months (Holiday knitting etc) so now is a good time to get back into it. Am enjoying The Birth of Venus.

Didn’t knit much last night – got into a four hour marathon of CSI re-runs – buried alive!!! Not much on tonight so will knit and maybe go to bed early and read – we’ll see!
Ttfn – Knit On!

Weekend Update

I started this:















Which should look like this:

But doesn't yet because it's so difficult - especially since the pattern isn't very specific about where to put the thumb gusset and how to adjust the stitch pattern to accomodate it....I spent a lot of time inputing the pattern to excel so I could place the gusset better in the pattern - but I just ended up winging it - I may rip and start over again but I have to rethink that - it was a lot of work to get this far. I'm also trying to figure out what is easier - one color in each hand or two in both - either way it's not very fast!! - so I'm taking a breather and continuing with the second sock of this....(Remember for the EX)









My washer finally came and obviously I did losts of wash - really does work better. Spins a lot better so shorter drying time!
I did abuse the old one before it left - I re-dyed a pair of faded black jeans - they are black and beautiful again!!

A quiet weekend - home made clam chowder on the burner and the last Olympic events tonight. Knit on and enjoy! Hope all out teams go for the Gold!!
(Isn't Apolo cute!!)

Turkish Skater

I don't get this at all - Tugba Tarakemir is the womens skater from Turkey. There are only two skating rinks in Turkey, so her family gives up thier comfortable life and moves to Canada so she can train and pursue her skating. The family has a difficult time with getting jobs primarily because of the language - but they stick it out. Father moves back to Turkey so he can work and support his family.
Tugba goes to the Olympics - what an accomplishment. Mom is still in Canada working - can't afford to go to Olympics to watch her daughter.
That's probably a senario for many families of Olympic contenders - but the part I don't get it is - "She had to work and couldn't watch her event on TV".....what? - what is the matter with her employeer. You'd think the community would rally and support this poor woman. I'm appalled and saddned by the sacrificies that families must make to support thier talented kids. I'm sorry that she has to work for someone who has no sense of family. What a way to treat people.
Go Turkey!!

Book Club

I can't believe it - I didn't knit a stitch yesterday - had to rest after the hard race!! Got out to a few different venues though!!

Had Chocolate and Wine at book club - Oh yea and a great dinner!!
We are going to read The Birth of Venus - it looks interesting - and I PROMISE to read this time. Now that the Holiday Knitting and the Olympic training and sprint are over I can read.

A note to my Book Club Ladies - I just want you all to know how much I appreciate your friendships - I look forward to visiting, sharing stories of our college daughters and all the adventures in our lives. Thanks for being there to listen to my occasional rantings - I really do appreciate it!!

Daughter M2 is going to visit friends for a few days so am looking forward to a less stressful weekend. My washer is coming on Saturday...wish the light were - it really blew out last night - you can't turn it off at all. I was afraid it would catch fire so I took it outside - wish it had rained!!

Tonight will be watching Sasha skate and finishing a pair of socks I started earlier.

Hope all are getting closer to the gold - I wish you well!!

Yea - Finished!

My Olympic experience is complete :( - and I finished my sockapoolza socks! Two birds with one stone so to speak!!

I am sad to leave the village - but I need to finish other projects so I can start some new ones - I'm so fickle. This Olympic experience has been incredible - I still can't imagine that there are over 4000 of us knitting for our personal best ....these are the fastest socks I've ever finished - 8 evenings - remember I switched events and started these last Monday - not bad for me.

I wish the camera did a better job with the colors - they really are pretty - very springy - more Easter I think than Yellowstone - but just right any way.

I have had a terrible day at work - it just amazes me how incompetance is encouraged and tolerated. Bad management, inaccurancy and big companies who think they rule how thier little suppliers do business.......I could go on and on but this isn't the place!

Hopefully my new washer will come this weekend, my light will be replaced in sooner than the three weeks (come on - what happened to overnight shipping?), I'll find a new job soon - etc, etc....all this so I can concentrate on what's really important - what am I going to knit next.


Something for Pumpkin???.... The Man of our house!

Knit on Olympians - the finish line is in sight and we've all given it our hearts!!

One sock down - one lap to go

High Desert Sunset on a very cold (10 degrees) evening. Beautiful but cold. More opportunity to Knit. I've got one sock finished and one to go - but won't be grabbing my board - just concentrate on the finish!!

Hope everyone is having a better weekend then me - it started it out with everything going wrong to disrupt my plans. The new washer is on backorder and won't be here til next weekend. The new light I got for my 'village' room? The switch started spitting smoke last night and the store is closed on Saturday! And to top it all off I made a bad mistake in my check book - my bank enjoyed notifiying me of that I'm sure. Of course if they hadn't taken the charge for the washer out until it was delivered this wouldn't have happened...so all my savings for buying at a 'big box' store have gone to overdraft charges - I hate it when that happens! I usually balance my check book every other day or so - I live to close to the edge to not do it that way - and it seems I transposed a number....what a drag - but it will all work out I suppose - it's just frustrating on top of everything else!

Plan on staying in my PJ's as long as possible tomorrow and knitting and doing as little as possible. Don't have Monday off so have to make the most of my time!!

Happy knitting everyone! Go Team USA

Weather update

Remember I worked in my garden last weekend - now it's 7 degrees and snowing.....winter....got to love it! Knitting opportunity!

Here I am

Not very far I'm afraid - but will sprint this weekend. This is what I get for changing events!!
Just wish the colors were better for the pictures. It really needs more Orange to be "Yellowstone"

I wish I could figure out how to move my pictures on the page - in the place and order that I want them.......

See that little beaded string on my needles - this is the best tool - I made it - it is a stitch counter for circular needles and it works great every time!! You just keep it on the needles somewhere you want to start counting and then move it up a spot for each row you do. I put it at the end of the last needle - that way I know what to start next - works great and I couldn't knit without it!!

Change of Event

OK - so I blew it – I failed at my first Olympic event – I didn’t even complete the course – due to equipment failure! This is what happens if you don’t practice enough before the event. I did swatch before the opening ceremonies, but I just didn’t do enough repeats of the pattern. I cast on on Friday and realized that my yarn just wasn’t going to cut it – after doing 6 repeats (loops around the course) the result is too stiff. The yarn just has no drape – so out I go….

But – before the games I ordered some new sock yarn from this wonderful place – Angelika's - she carries tons of Lorna’s Laces. The color is Yellowstone (My favorite place) and it is perfect for my sockapalooza pal – just the colors she asked for. Plus when my order promptly came the next day, enclosed was the pattern for the “Breast Cancer” socks – with the bows on the side. So in honor of my Mom who passed away last April from Breast Cancer, I’m going to do these for my Olympic Event and my sockapalooza project. I hope the Olympic Committee will allow a substitute entry – I may not be Michele Kwan but they did set a precedence there….and Brode Miller switched equipment just before the downhill – but unfortunately it didn’t help him win!

So I am officially requesting a change – of course now I am more than qualified for Team DPN – since my socks will not be on circulars…..and there is a challenge here – I have less time and I’ll still have to carefully read the pattern to get the ‘bows’ correct. I will get to use my new magnetic lap board that I purchased on Saturday to hold my scarf pattern in place so I could read the rows. I bought a strip of magnetic tape and cut to the size of the board – then covered with cute paper (It came pre sticky) – and it works just great. Hold my pattern in place and I can mark the row I’m on with the magnetic strip.

It was a glorious weekend here – warm enough to work in the garden for a little while and take a short hike. Had a “girl friend” Saturday with a nice dinner out. Even went to the LYS (She knew NOTHING about the Knitting Olympics - can you believe it!) - I purchased "Sweaters from Camp" Hope to do one as my big project for the year - but want to turn one of the patterns into a cardigan - will have to do some figuring. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Relaxed and watched the Olympics and Knitted – what more could I ask for? Now I’ll have to sprint to catch up!

Knit on and go for the Gold!

The Village

The Village - with the new dual light - one for me and one for my roomie! It works great - I can see!

I was right about my pattern not being TV friendly - I only got about 1 1/2 repeats done out of 22 - but I'll be fine.

Am going to take some time out today to buy a new washing machine - boring - but necessary - have to keep these Olympic duds looking spify - how did you like the Italians coats last night - a little much!

So Knitters - enjoy and knit on - GO Team DPN

I'm Honored

I just read Stephanie's most recent notes about The Olympics - I am so honored to be a part of this. Imagine 4000 of us working together. Really amazing - but woudn't it be fun to be in Tacoma this weekend at the Madrona Fiber Arts Retreat - how cool would that be?

I did work on my swatch again last night - I have my doubts - this is not a very good watch TV and knit project - it takes far too much concentration. We watched Just Like Heaven - cute movie.

Well knitters I have to get back to work so I can start knitting as soon as I get home - it will be way ofter 2:00 PM my time so I'm already handicapped. Have to rip and start over (I only got about 20 rows of the swatch done anyway)!
Knit on and Enjoy!

My Sky

View to the west - Sunset over North and Middle Sister

View to the East - Smith Rocks and the Crooked River

Awesome!

New finds....

It’s 9:30 AM and already work is hectic for moments and then totally boring – I hate this job!!! I’m so fortunate to have a steady full time job (even though I hate it) and a really fun part-time job that I just love!! Why can’t it be the other way around? I expect that someday the part time position will work into full time – but that may be years away….there just isn’t the need yet. Check out Ranch at the Canyons web site and you will see why I love it so much – the scenery is only half of the good stuff!! Or you can go directly to the Living Gallery - much better. Sorry the site is so lame as far as how it operates - it is being redone after my complaining for years that it doesn't have to be this way...



I worked on my swatch for the Olympics last night – I’m not sure I can do this. I’ve done charts for simple stuff like short patterns on socks – but this is much more difficult and has no real repeats – well they are over like 30 rows or something. Not exactly something that I can memorize or write out easily. Plus I keep getting mixed up about right side and wrong side – it isn’t obvious when you start out of course……I’m sure it will be as I get more rows.

But of course for the Olympics I’m going to start over – after all this is just training and it doesn’t count for the actual event….I promise I’ll start over – not to difficult since I only have about 6 rows of 20 stitches done…pathetic for someone who has been knitting for years.

Color charts are so much easier – there is a pattern across the row – I can get those no problem, but this is way more difficult. I’m also concerned that I’ll have to really concentrate – I can’t watch skating and concentrate at the same time….so knitting my have to come while there is nothing on TV! There just isn’t time for all this – just get in there and knit!!

I still haven’t figured out what sweater to do next – the only thing in the queue for the future is my Sockapoloooza socks – that won’t take very long. I really want to knit a fair isle something. I do have problems picking patterns because 1) I love to knit in the round and don’t mind steeks – so am willing to modify patterns for that and 2) I’m not a size that most patterns accommodate – just a little over XL in most patterns (Yea I know – get out there and lose some weight – but I am what I am). So between the larger size and adapting to circular knitting I have to make changes to sweater patterns for me – so I have to choose carefully. I actually like this one a lot and I wouldn’t have to make any adjustments – We’ll just have to see.

I should be getting a tax refund soon – and after I purchase a new clothes washer (Yuck) some of it will go to Yarn Therapy – so maybe the above will be added to the queue. I’ve done a Philosophers wool fair isle that I loved – but really want something a little finer gauged…more work I know – but more fun!

Oh my gosh – while looking up the Philosophers wool URL I found this – Mari’s Sweaters - right in my back yard – over the mountains anyway. These are great looking patterns. I’ll have to check them out. I’d forgotten about Bryson Knits – I’ve used their yarn in the past and did a great sweater with it…..hum – more to ponder. There’s actually a lot of neat stuff on the Bryson Home Page – links to all kinds of patterns from various designers – but alas no Fair Isles!

OK enough for today – I really do have work to do!!
Knit on!!

What a Beautiful Day

Sorry this picture isn't better - especially the power lines - This is the Three Sisters and what I look at everyday. Central Oregon's signature.

I was cruising knitting blogs last night - (nothing good on TV to knit with) and was struck by how productive everyone seems to be.....they must have way more time on their hands. I stay up late as it is just to knit a few more rows.

I was also stuck by all the 20 something knitters - this is so neat to see! Knit on ladies. Wish I could get my daughters to knit more - although M2 has knitted a little - see previous posts - it is such good therapy!

I'll be back - have to reboot....

Tagged

OK - I'm not sure how this tag thing works - but Pat says that she has tagged everyone who hasn't been tagged - so here goes...

Four Jobs You Have Had:Vet assistant, Technology Specialist for a non profit, Mom, Naturalist

Four Movies You Could Watch Over and Over: Steel Magnolias, Legends of the Fall, Dances with Wolves, Sweet Home Alabama

Four Places You've Lived: Portland, Boston, Corvallis, Bend

Four TV Shows You Love To Watch: Grey's Anatomy, ER, CSI, Olympics

Four Places You've Been on Vacation: Hawaii, Yellowstone, Jackson Hole, The Bahamas

Four Websites You Visit Daily: The Weather Channel, Blogs I read, MSN

Four Favorite Foods: Ice Cream, Ice Cream, Curry, Leg of Lamb dinner

Four Places You'd Rather Be Right now: Hawaii, Yellowstone, anywhere in Montana, anywhere warm!

I see that most everyone else has been tagged so I won't tag again - how does this work anyway? Fun to do.

Got outside and walked along the Deschutes this morning - cold, clear and beautiful. Should do it more often - but where is the time.

Spent a little time (way to late at night) practicing for the Olympics - I really don't know how to read charts very well - but think I got it figured out so I will be ready to start next friday - can't wait. I'm going to do the leaves scarf from Scarf Style - it will be a challenge for me to follow the chart - am so afraid I will get lost.....will take book to work tomorrow to make multiple copies of chart so I can keep track of where I am - even enlarge it so I don't go blind!
Good luck to everyone! I'm looking forward to checking how everyone is doing! I did print the TV schedule so I can not miss a moment! Yea right - a full time job and kids make that impossible - but I can try!
Hope everyone has a great week!!!

Visiting Day

Today is blog visit day - but since I went to work this morning and we were busy with pictures - I thought I'd post one.....this is where I work...this is the Tuscan Stables with Smith Rocks in the background.

My plan is to visit all my blog links and say hi to everyone - especially those doing the Olympics - to cheer us on....

So Happy Knitting!

M2's First Hat

Yea again - M2's first Hat - we are now all into Yarn Therapy!

Finished and ready to send away! Hurray!

I'm so excited about sockapoolza - the map is really cool. Now to figure out what to do.......be creative and have fun!

Since Olympics are only a week away I don't want to get really into anything - so have begun promised custom sized socks for Ex - can't believe I'm doing this. So while I've been waiting in offices and fretting the last week, I've got most of one sock finished.

I got all my yarn cards from Knit Picks that I ordered, plus the pattern for the sampler vest - I'll have to make some size additions - wish I were a 43"....but alas that's not the case. Haven't picked out the yarn yet either.

I am already for the Olympics - Scarf Style project in a pale pink - a little girly for me - but I need something a little dressier. I can't wait to start ---- it's just another excuse to sit in front of the TV!! I Love the Olympics anyway - wish they were more often than every 4 years.

Knitting has only been in Doctors offices the last week. As I've said before - M2 Daughter is bipolar and this has been the bottom of the curve - she has spent the last two nights in the hospital - asked to be taken there because she was afraid she would hurt herself. Home now with a solid plan for coping and adjustments in her meds and her schedule. I'm afraid school is going to be the loser this term - but that's OK as long as she is the winner! I don't mean to sound as though we're not taking this serious - we are - this is the third episode like this in the last three years - always January-February. It is very very scary and I think each time we've just escaped. As usual we are all full of promise now for healthy results. Since M2 is over 21 she has to be more responsible for her own health - there is only so much I can do. I think sometimes that my encouragement comes out like nagging and that can be a trigger for her. I am so fortunate that she is a really good person and that I do believe she has always been very honest with my and her health resources. The real key this time will be conscientious follow through.

So here's to more relaxed knitting!

Socks and Molly

Mountain Colors socks finished! Hurray! I love this yarn - it is great to knit with and comfortable to wear - I've got them on!

Yesterday was not a good day. My beautiful daughter Molly is bipolar and this is a very difficult time of the year. She has had two suicide attempts - last January and the previous Feburary. Just like clock work she has been in anxiety mode the last few weeks and yesterday was the most difficult. Luckily she called both me and her therapist and we spent the afternoon together coming up with a strategy to get her through the next few days until she gets her meds adjusted.

This is such a journey - she is such a beautiful young woman - so full of promise and so full of constant battles. She feels particularly isolated right now because her friends are all away at college and she is here at home. School and work although overwhelming to her at times, does keep her busy and occupied and distracted. But when she does get in this place she can't concentrate or stick to any task for very long - hence she has trouble keeping up with what she needs to do - it's a viscious cycle.

Every year I think it is getting better - but the risks also get bigger because she is more adept at fooling us into believing she is feeling fine. Crisis mode often takes us by surprise. Fortunately she does have a good therapist and hopefully will committ to getting long term help - instead of just when she is in this mode. We've been down this road enough now that I think she understands that therapy isn't just for when its bad - but also when she is feeling fine so she can learn to control the bad times.

While we were waiting for our appointment yesterday I went for a little therapy at the LYS - and got washable wool to replace the Happy Trails and got Molly some yarn to start a hat - that's our plan for the evening - she has knitted a scarf before - so a hat will be a good next project. Also instant gratification because it's bulky yarn - I'll post a picture when she's finished.

Thank you all for listening - it feels good just to write it down sometimes.

Happy Trails

One of my favorite sayings...... but as you can see - Not Machine Washable - what to do? I need a machine washable sock yarn that isn't sock weight - more sport weight - want heavier socks and my EX will always put them in the machine to wash - so this probably won't work.

Has anyone machine washed Wooly West Happy Trails? What were the results?
Does anyone have any other suggestions for a heavier weight sock yarn that is machine washable?

I need help!! Luckily I have other projects to keep me busy (as if I'm not busy enough) - finish the scarf for the Birthday in February, finish MY Mountain Colors socks - tonight I think and prepare for the Olympics......plus all the normal stuff - work full time, clean the house, do the laundry, support the kids etc., etc., etc., etc.
Night all!!
Knit on

Morgans Birthday

Aren't they GREAT! M1 Son's Birthday dinner - They grow up sooo fast - it seems just yesterday - I know we all say that, but isn't it amazing. Had a nice evening with lively dinner discussions - especially about the reports about Fox News - interesting to hear what the kids had to say about the media.

On the knitting front - I made it to Sockapalooza - I'm going to have to edit this later with the correct links - my computer isn't doing the right thing...so later...
OK - it's later and I got the link to work correctly - I'm so new at this, I'm not sure if it is really going to the Sockapalooza site or just the BlueBlog - I'll adjust later if necessary.

I was reading Yarn Harlots blog yesterday - what a joy - I find this knitting community to be so amazing. Thousands of knitters all over the world read her blog, read others, have thier own and are part of this. The Olympics, the Knitters without Borders, all the various KAL's the get us to know each other and share our lives - more than just our passion for knitting and creating. I really believe we are a force of wonder! Are there other blog communities that have such a huge participation? I am honored to be part of this group.

It is a beautiful day here - finally we have sunshine. Usually we have way more sun than clouds - but the last few months have been cloudy, rainy or snowy - don't mind the snow - but hate the rain. Today is glorious - the mountains in thier full splendor - I'll have to get a good picture some morning - Central Oregon is really beautiful - they are right out my work window! Lucky me!!

Knit Picks Yarn

Would you recommend Knit Picks Yarn? It seems soooo inexpensive. I'd appreciate some feedback - thanks all

KAL's

Kal's I've Joined....

On the Needles Update

Pink Scarf with matching fingerless gloves.......I promised Pictures so here they are.....

Gloves are my pattern inspired by the stitch pattern in the Scarf.....hence I ripped out a few times to get it right.

Am going to spend some time tonight figuring out how to post other bloggers buttons on my site....Where do I store the graphic????

Knit on!

Blog Questions etc

As a relatively new blogger – I need to know how to join a KAL….seems such a good way to meet other knitters and it sounds fun. I am especially interested in a socks KAL. Next question is when I join – how do I put the button on my blog?

Comments – when I get comments how do I reply to a particular comment – in my own blog or do I go to that bloggers page and leave a comment – need to know the protocol.

I will post some pictures soon of the stuff I’m working on – more of the pink scarf and I have completed one fingerless glove to match it – worked out great.

I just got my order from Wooley West – Happy Trails sock yarn. Looking forward to starting those – just need to figure out some pattern to do – have one ball each of three different colors. Wanted a little heavier weight socks so thought I’d try this out. Great colors.

Still haven’t figured out yarn for my Celtic sweater – waiting for a color card from Black Abby. Then of course there is the Fair Isle – haven’t even looked at any patterns yet – just don’t know where to start….suggestions would be great.

We have snow again this morning – beautiful as always.

Shopping

Well I went to my LYS yesterday with the intention of purchasing yarn for three projects - two scarves and a sweater - found the yarn for both scarves. This one is for a Feburary Birthday and the other I got is for me. Both from Scarf Style.
I also picked out a pattern that I've always wanted to do - the Celtic sweater from Oat Couture. But could I find the right yarn - no.....this LYS never seems to have enough - they have tons of different yarns, but never enough of one kind. It's a beautiful store with hundreds of yarns, just not enough of one kind for an large or extra large sweater. Of course I feel uncomfortable going around writing down what I like so I can order it on-line, but what else do I do?
We do have another LYS - but I ran out of time to run by there.
So my plan to splurge my bonus on stash was not totally successful - but it was fun.
I did pick up the Denise needles - so far so good. I do wish the points were a little longer - k2tog is challenging - maybe it's just this mohair yarn - we'll see.

Woke up this morning to snow again - yea - except for daughter M2 is driving home over the pass today and there is lots of snow there. Does she have chains? Can't remember - oh well another day to spend worrying.

ttfn

Bonus

Oh my gosh - I DID get a bonus from work - don't hate the job quite as much today, especially since I can spend a little of it on yarn - so much for the only stash project I've been reading about!! What to buy....
1) Denise Interchangeable needles - yes
2) Sock yarn - need suggestions for some heavier weight yarn for extra warm sturdy socks.
3) Something to do from the Scarf Style book
4) Faire Isle sweater - which one? Suggestions needed please. I did a Philosphers Wool one a few years ago and loved it.

Too many choices and not enough time to decide - I need instant gratification!!

I'll be watching for suggestions!!
ttfn

Oh Cool – I just finished the redo of this vest for my sister and learned something new at the same time. I learned how to do the attached I-Cord edging – it looks sooo much better! It was so easy!!

The picture doesn’t do the colors of this Manos yarn justice. Plus it looks a little funny because it’s on my blocking wires – but you get the idea. I'm Knitting as fast as I can was talking about getting these wires for Christmas – they are great and make blocking much easier. Wish I knew better finishing techniques – my front pieces never seem to exactly match up and I have to struggle with blocking to make them work correctly! Unfortunately my sweaters always have that home made look.



I’d be better off sticking to socks – which always turn out great!

I got a great scarf book for Christmas ....If only my stash had something suitable – too many sock yarns – but I’ll figure something out I’m sure. There are a lot of great things in here that I can’t wait to start.

I was reading I'm Knitting as fast as I can - she has counted her FO for last year – oh my gosh – 70 something. So I went to my little journal book where I keep track of my knitting and I only came up with 13. How do you do it! There just aren’t enough hours in the day! And I’ve completely put my reading aside – The Book Club girls are getting frustrated with me for sure!

We did all get together this weekend and saw ‘Memoirs of a Geisha” – it was great – what a life and such a lost culture of such beauty. It was such an integral part of Japanese culture.

Hope everyone is having a great week. I did put my resume out there again and have had calls of support….hopefully a new job will be in the not to distant future!

My thoughts go out to The Miners Families...

10 Things for my better 2006

<- The M's - Christmas Morning 2005














10 Things for my better 2006 –

Get a new job!
Cultivate friendships
Stop bumming cigarettes
Encourage joy
Get back into reading
Ride my bike to the new job
Spend more time in the outdoors
Try something more challenging for a knitting project
Help my girls be more independent
Eat healthier


If I can accomplish the first two items – the rest will be easy – they are just frosting and will come naturally.

I have to get a new job – I have two now – one I love and have had for 4-5 years but it’s only part-time-on call. It is fun, challenging, interesting, appreciated, intellectual, satisfying, makes me think, and the setting is incredible. The second is boring, tedious, unsatisfying, unappreciated, the setting is terrible (Chemical smells), but it is stable and has good benefits. But I dread getting up every morning and going to work. I’m not appreciated and I hate the politics. I can either stick it out for another year and half till M3 graduates from High School and then move and reinvent myself or find something better now – which today is what I’d like to do!!

I do need to stop bumming cigarettes – it’s not part of my healthy plan and I can’t go on long bike rides if this keeps up – so I’ll work on it. Last year I spent my tax return on a good road bike – rode it around the neighborhood – but never a real tour. My buddy from Montana has moved back into the area so maybe now I’ll have a partner to ride with – but she will have to be patient with my slow old body for a while!

I do have to cultivate friendships – I seem to have lost many friends in the last few years – changed jobs, people moved etc…..I can’t continue to spend so much time by myself just knitting away – although that is nice too. The M’s will be away to college before I know it and then what do I do!

I used to be an avid reader – but my I needed a new prescription for my glasses and I still am not satisfied with them (thank heavens I can still knit). I belong to a great book club but haven’t read the book for about three months now – really strange for me (too much knitting I think). I am working on compiling the book list and will post it one day soon.

I’ve got to reinvent myself and be prepared for when they are really gone. I need a plan and something to look forward to. I’ve spent the last 24 years being a Mom and now I’ve got to work on just me for a change. Don’t get me wrong – I don’t regret a moment. I’ve been blessed with wonderful children and very good health – but once the kids are on their own – good health doesn’t mean a great life.

So its time to get working! Wish me luck and any suggestions and discussions would be appreciated.

Happy New Year to all!!!

Book Club List

The following is a list (as best as I can remember) of the books my group has read the last few years....Not necessarily in order!

The No.1 Ladies Detective Agency- Alexandra Mc Call Smith
Seabiscuit -
The Secret Life of Bees – Sue Monk Kid
Rue Tatin – Susan Loomis
Kristin Lavransedatter – Sigrid Undset
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time – Mark Haddon
The Moon Spinners, Mary Stewart
A Kiss from Maddalena – Christopher Castellani
The Big House – George Howe Colt
Cry the Beloved Country
The Power of One – Bryce Courtaney
Middlesex - Jeffrey Eugenides
Empire Falls – Richard Russo
The Other Boleyn Girl-Gregory
The Good Earth – Pearl Buck
The Poisonwood Bible – Barbara Kingsolver
The Prodigal Summer – Barbara Kingsolver
Women of Silk – Gail Tsukiyama Gail
The Samurai’s Garden - Gail Tsukiyama
Reading Lolita in Tehran – Azar Nafisi
The Kite Runner - Khaled Hosseini
Hannah’s Daughters – Marianne Fredrikson
Lying Awake – Mark Salzman
Under the Tuscan Sun – Frances Mayes
Electroboy: A Memoir of Mania – Andy Behrman
Where Rivers Change Direction – Mark Spragg
Life of Pi - by Yann Martel
Birds without Wings, Louis De Bernieres
Hanna’s Daughters, Marianne Fredricksson
Reading Lolita in Tehran, Azar Nafisi
Undaunted Courage, Stephen B. Ambrose
John Adams

Interchangeable needles

It's over -
the house is still a mess of course but tonight I come home to my own space - I will miss them all but it's nice to have a break so I can get serious about knitting again.

Especially since a Christmas vest didn't make the cut - it's too big for my sister and I couldn't see wasting all that beautiful yarn - so on Christmas Day I took it all out and have started over!! Just what I needed another project! But I really want it to be right for her and it won't take me that long!

Christmas with my family all here was wonderful despite a few clitches - my Dad and his lady friend arrived 6 hours late.....which was 5 hours of worry about them driving 3 hours in the dark in lots of traffic. We should have been worried - they had a minor accident - not surprising since Dad is 80 years old, it was pouring rain, it was dark and there was tons of traffic. But they finally arrived late Friday night.

Had a wonderful family dinner on Saturday - Christmas Eve is our big dinner - it was fun and sad as we did special things to remember my mom who passed away this last spring. She had some glass icicles that she carefully hung on the tree each year - so I asked my Dad to bring them over and I handed them out to everyone Christmas eve and asked them to hang them on my tree for Mom. I explained that I would bring them to who ever had the family Christmas next year and we could do the same thing. Also Mom's best friend sent us a letter to be read and little silver angle medallions for each of us - so between the two we all shared some tears.

Christmas morning was chaos of course - the kids may be teens plus - but they get just as excited! I got new knitting books and knitting cash which I intend to spend for knitting - not groceries! Who needs food?

Which brings me to the question of the day - I'd like to buy some interchangeable needles - does anyone have any recommendations? I never seem to have the right circular needle (although I have so many it seems - I knit almost exclusively in the round) and thought this might be a good solution. Any thoughts would be really appreciated.

Hope everyone has a knitty new year!!

Way too Busy!`

OK - I'm so sorry I haven't updated in awhile - tis the season. Still have vest to finish - finish one side, put together, button bands etc. And one sock to finish. Then of course do all the shopping. So I won't be writing much for the next week or so.
But Happy Holidays to all - hope you are all enjoying the time with your families and may your knitting help release that Holiday stress!
ttfn

Stash and Suggest

I'm having a very boring day at the job I hate - so am spending it wisely and reading other blogs!

What I have found interesting is the huge yarn stashes other knitters seem to have. I probably have enough in my stash to knit maybe 10 pairs of socks and one sweater - that's ALL!! How can you let great yarn sit without creating something and where do you get the money to horde yarn!!

What I wish is for a way to display my yarn - I just love to look at it!!

Once I get through the Christmas rush I'll be on the hunt for a sweater for me - yes, me! I want something with an interesting stitch pattern, knit with sport weight or so yarn, solid color - that I could knit in the round and cut open with a steek. OR maybe a faire-isle - I did a Philosophers Wool cardigan awhile back and really loved it - so any ideas would be appreciated.

The snow is rapidly melting - my least favorite part - hope we get some more. The girls went out and practiced driving in the snow this morning (big sisters CAN be great if given the chance!) and cut bags of Juniper branches with great berries for Yule decorating - the house will smell so good! I don't think I'll get the tree yet - maybe next weekend. I've just got too much to knit to worry about decorating yet! I just hate it when that happens.

I've still got to think of a few presents for those I don't have time to knit for or who wouldn't appreciate it. Geeky son is a perfect example. I've got a big present - but need a few little things to throw in from Santa. He is so hard to buy for - he always gets himself the latest gadgets he wants. Guess I have to just go and shop! Too Bad!

It will be a quiet weekend - the girls have full agendas - M2 is working and M3 will be watching the boyfriend play in a basketball tournament. So it will be knit on for me. Think I'll make a big pot of soup - M1 can come for dinner and install my new garbage disposal - what a thing to break just before you have to cook a ton and no extra pennies!

I just found out this week that a really good friend who has been living in Montana is moving back to Central Oregon - yea - she knits! It will be good to have a buddy around to knit with for a change. Actually I think I may go to the Knitting group tomorrow. I don't usually have a free moment on Sat mornings - but looks like I might tomorrow - so haul out the socks and go!

Hope you all have a good, creative and productive weekend. I know we are all in that rush mode!!
ttfn