the knitting ref

Importat Things

2008-05-23T21:18:00.000-07:00

New Doorways...

2008-05-01T00:10:00.000-07:00

Yes, I have installed my new front door to my home. It is a gorgeous door with a beautiful leaded glass window.

This post was written on April 30th -- even though the date above shows the 1st of May. Today, I am celebrating my 52nd birthday. WOW! I have been blessed with so very many wonderful things -- and I thank the Lord for each and every one of those blessings. The most important of those blessings is my good health, my friend D and that I have both my mom and dad still alive and well!

This has been a month of important things:

It may be most of us write our own life story
Making it up as we go along
But others seem to have lifes’ shaped and planned
As perfect as a circle

Yes, some lives form a perfect circle
While others take shape in ways we cannot predict or always understand
Loss has been of my journey
but, it has also shown me what is precious
And in that I have found a love for which I can always be grateful….

The last month has been a month of good-byes
Yes, good-bye..... such an incredibly sad and regretful event in one’s experience …..

I have said Good-Bye to my last love – Di
One whom showed me what true love is really all about and what I must have in future relationships now.
One whom I married and cherished
One whom I was to spend all my days with…..but
Yes, alas “all my days” was really only to be 9 ½ years
One who will always have a place in my heart
However, my purpose in reality, was to take her through her last days only, not mine
That was my real purpose ….. that was my life …..
And yes, I did that well and to the absolute best of my ability!

Friends are made of Gold, but
I have had to say Good-Bye to my Friend – S
One who will always have a special place in my heart
For it was she, who put life and things into perspective after Di’s passing at six months
It was her that provided love and friendship at a time when they were so needed
Unfortunately, I have now become cumbersome and something that complicates her life
And thus, I have been let go of - at this point in time
But yes, I am still grateful and thankful for all she has been to me
Friends are made of Gold and Yes, I will hold her as my friend forever…..

Also, I have a good friend -A - who lost her mom this past month.
I did not know her mom, but I feel so very much for her with her loss
I thank the Lord every day that I still have both of my parents alive and in good health.
I can only hope that they know how very much they are appreciated and loved!

New Doorways ----
Yes, the future is bright and blessed! Thank You Lord!!!

Springtime!

2008-03-20T15:20:00.001-07:00

When spring begins

Again to light

Our happy world

With colors bright,

The robins all come

Back to see

How beautiful The earth will be,

With crocus gold,

And daffodils

Lighting meadows,

Fields, and hills;

With leaves of green

And tulips gay,

And birds arriving

Every day.

The Call of Spring by Norman Schlichter

Spring is always a beginning. The bleariness of winter is over and all of the colours of the earth are coming out. The sounds of the birds and sounds of children’s laughter and playing outside are rampant. Such wonderful sights and sounds! Such a celebration of the earth!

I set out on a narrow way many years ago

Hoping I would find true love along the broken road

But I got lost a time or two

Wiped my brow and kept pushing through

I couldn’t see how every sign pointed straight to you

Every long lost dream lead me to where you are

Others who broke my heart they were like northern stars

Pointing me on my way into your loving arms

This much I know is true

That God blessed the broken road

That led me straight to you

I think about the years I spent just passing through

I’d like to have the time I lost and give it back to you

But you just smile and take my hand

You’ve been there you understand

It’s all part of a grander plan that is coming true

Every long lost dream lead me to where you are

Others who broke my heart they were like northern stars

Pointing me on my way into your loving arms

This much I know is true

That God blessed the broken road

That led me straight to you
Rascal Flatts

The Broken Road – Life itself….. Today is the year anniversary of the passing of my last love, Di. I had 9 ½ wonderful years with Di. A relationship I will never forget and also a chapter in my life where I learned so very much about relationships. This last year has been one of the shortest and at the same time one of the longest years of my life. However, God has smiled upon me and has given me many, many wonderful things as my life -- Friends, Family, Loves, Talents, Abilities, Good Health, and so very much more. I thank the Lord for guiding me along The Broken Road. Now a time has come for a new relationship – a new love for my life – the next part of the path of my life – something already written upon a scroll between God and Me. Blessings yet to come….. Yes! I am so very Grateful and I am so very Hopeful and Thankful!

I am so Blessed!

Life as it Is Today......

2008-03-04T10:43:00.000-08:00

I don’t know why, but for the last three months I have just been unable to post. Lots of things have been happening, but the will to express them as a post has not been there. So many times I have said, “I need to do a post”, but then time has past without such happening.

The projects are still going on – my master bedroom, my master bathroom, and my kitchen – all are still “works in progress”. For one thing, Mother nature has not cooperated with my schedule and thus I am behind. I was talking last night to my friend D and telling her how I could be a procrastinator. But in this sense, Mother nature and other activities have not allowed me to keep up with my projects. However, I am having a dinner gathering on the 15th here at my house, so this weekend will be focused on getting the kitchen cabinet with the sink & dishwasher back into operation. You know how hard it is to have a dinner gathering without a kitchen sink???!!!!

Speaking of my dinner gathering – 10 to 12 soccer referees -- most of which have known each other for years – a whole bunch of war stories -- and just good friends getting together. I am not sure exactly what the menu will be at this time, but that will come. Could anything be better???? !!!!! Well maybe…. But I won’t go there (at least right now)!~

I went back to work the beginning of February. It was time. I am back in sales and really having a good time, but the transition to working every day normal working hours was definitely something that tried my patience. Things are good though as I work with good people and have a wonderful boss. It’s so nice having a boss who actually cares about his people!

Yesterday, I lost a Friend – one who has been very dear to me especially across the last year. You know, in my book real friendships are beyond gold, and it hurt to lose such a friend – especially for the end result. My friend gave up everything including her “self” to “get back” with her significant other. I do not understand the thought process of allowing one’s self to lose the “self” for someone else. In my book, you always must always be ultimately true to yourself as opposed to giving up yourself just to be with someone else. After all, if the other can not accept you for what you are and appreciate all of what you are, then why bother with them???

This past weekend I was in Riverside at the AYSO Section 1 playoffs. Teams that have excelled through their regular season in their home regions coming together to compete against other regions. It was such fun refereeing. It was such fun watching the kids compete. Sunday, I refereed two very good L.A. teams – it was a wonderful match with both sides working as hard as they could. Soccer is such a good game for all ages – it truly is a “game of life”. The experiences within the game all translate to life and it’s experiences.

I mentioned my friend D earlier in this post. She is a very unique and special person. D is one who can look at little things and find ABSOLUTE joy in them. A lesson for me to learn, as so many times it is those little things that come to mean so very much. It is so very nice to have her friendship and companionship in my life now. I am Thankful and I am Grateful…..

Finally for this post, Oh yes, I am ready to learn how to spin. I have the books and I have the pictures -- it is time to learn such an art!

An Early Christmas Present

2007-12-10T21:03:00.000-08:00

Friday I left home for the lands of Alabama and Tennessee -- or more specifically Huntsville, AL and Colombia, TN. I was going to visit friends....
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Bill, Lin, Kathy, & Mary in Huntsville who I have not seen or talked to in 31 years --YES, 31 YEARS! The years have been good to B & L as they looked just like they were when I saw them last -- except for just a tad bit of gray hair. K & M (the daughters) last I saw were very small and are now all grown up. What fun it was to re-connect and catch-up with what has happened over the years, after all they have raised a family since I saw them last! B & L are also in the midst of a remodel of their house, so it was fun to talk about all that was going on with their remodel vs. what is happening with my remodel. Such stories....
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Then on Sunday I drove up to Colombia to see friends I have worked with in the past, but have not seen for 8 years. Again such fun to catch-up with and share what's been happening with each of our lives. Judy & Wallace had just come back from Chile and Argentina -- so lots of pictures and some short movies of the cool things they saw there. We compared notes on our trips -- theirs to Chile & Argentina and mine last year to New Zealand. J & W also have a gorgeous new home that was wonderful to see.

What a wonderful early Christmas present!

Happy Thanksgiving to All

2007-11-22T05:54:00.001-08:00

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The LORD bless you, and keep you. The LORD make his face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you. The LORD lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.
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The sun is rising for another beautiful day here in Southern California and it is Thanksgiving! A year ago I was in New Zealand on the south island enjoying the country's incredible magnificence and the people's wonderful hospitality. It's hard to believe a year has passed -- a year that has been filled with so many emotions.
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Today, I will Celebrate and give Thanks.
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I have so very much to be thankful for -- as I have been so blessed:
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Family, Wonderful Friends, Good Neighbors, and many Acquaintances
for two good children
that Both of my parents are still alive and well
that I have had and continue to have a Wonderful Life
to live in Southern California
for my Home and all its' blessings
for my good Health
for all of the Abilities & Talents I have been blessed with
and All the other Gifts I have been Blessed with
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Today will also be a day of Celebration. I will Celebrate the Life of my late wife Di -- the wonderful and strong person she was; the incredibly talented person she was; the love she had for me and we had for each other; and the short time of life we had together!
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Happy Thanksgiving to You and Yours --

may Yours be also so Blessed!

Shades Of......

2007-10-28T17:33:00.000-07:00

I am just plainly depressed from the events of the last week – primarily the Santa Ana’s (winds) and the fires. Very little has been positive and while I am normally very positive about life itself, this past week has just been “one of those weeks” where I just can’t seem to shake things to the other side. Also, unfortunately the good things that did happen have now been overshadowed by all of the other things that have happened. [Some very good things happened, and I really need to bring them back to the forefront of my mind.] I need an attitude adjustment! Hopefully, the coming week will change my attitude.

Of course, California has been in all the news this past week with all the fires going on. I had no less than 5 fires close to me. The smoke, ash and cinders were all around throughout the week. The fires, smoke and ash sure brought back memories of the Old Fire which I lived through four years ago beginning coincidentally October 25th, 2003. I remember being ready to evacuate – dogs in one car and the cats in the other, losing power around 2 in the afternoon, saving my house [and the neighbors’] by putting out a fire in the back yard with the hose, staying up on the roof and hosing the house down every hour until just before midnight, and taking a walk throughout the neighborhood at midnight and just seeing how many houses were either gone or on fire. I remember the succeeding days without power as slowly life was restored. I remember neighbors helping each other. These were days and events I really do not want to relive. My heart has been with those who were going through what I did four years ago as I watched the images on the news. My gratitude has been to those who have worked so hard for those affected.

Not a lot has happened on the projects this past week due to the fires and the terrible air quality. I did not want to open up the house to work on my bedroom/bathroom, so I worked on other things inside. This week I am hoping the tides will change and I will accomplish a good bit on my bedroom/bathroom. Also, this coming week – a new front door! I’ll post pictures after it’s installed!

Today, has been a day of music and reflection. I have found this wonderful artist called DAVOL. Their/His music is inspiring and really easy to listen to. Again, I have been reflecting -- what’s really important and what is not for me. I can only hope that I have my priorities correct and those that matter can see…..

As the Tree has many Branches, So Does My Life...and just for last week!

2007-10-23T09:26:00.001-07:00

As this tree has many branches, this past week has brought much.

First branch, as a soccer referee. A very good week – two games on Wednesday evening (U16 & U19), one on Friday evening (under 30 coed), three games on Saturday (UI6 & U14), and one on Sunday (under 30 women). Lots of good times had by all – and yes, I can still keep up with the 19 year olds! Thank you Lord for good health!

Second Branch, I have transitioned to look to the future and all the good it will have for me. No longer am I focused on what I have had and have no longer. I am focused on taking all that I have learned from the original KnittyRef and putting it to good use in my future. I know things will be good! I know I will be blessed!

Third branch, my father celebrated his 79th birthday on the 17th. I can say that I am blessed by having both my mother and my father still alive and in good health. I also have my mother-in-law and father-in-law also still living. While my father-in-law struggles day-to-day, my mother-in-law is doing very well. Such a blessing!

Fourth branch, seven months have now passed since Di passed away on the 20th. It was another day of Celebration of her Life – I so cherish the 9 ½ years I had with her and I can only hope I may give all the same love and devotion to another sometime soon!

Fifth branch, my projects are continuing. This week should mark the first time I will be able to sleep in my own bedroom in a long time, while it will be makeshift, it will be my bedroom, and yes the construction will continue.

Sixth branch, Friends, thank you all for all your support, caring, and kindness. One special note though, I have been blessed with a very special friend who has kept me focused on the priorities of life and where life should go. Everyone needs to have at least one friend like this in their life! They allow one to have a blessed and fulfilled life because of what they give! I can only hope I will be able to give back a fraction of what I have received.

Seventh branch, the Holidays are coming and they will be days of Celebration! I am planning on continuing so many of the family traditions without regret. Yes, there will be one missing, however, there will be others added from the many friendships that have been added to my life this year.

Finally, an Eighth branch – I hope that my time will free up and I will be able to try my hand at spinning my own yarn in preparation for projects to come. One can never have too many projects on the slate!

Thank You all, my family, my neighbors, my friends, and my one very special friend…..

Let's Celebrate! and Projects, Projects....

2007-10-05T02:47:00.001-07:00

Let us Celebrate!

Today the original KnittyRef would have been 47. I have asked many and I ask you to today -- take a moment and CELEBRATE something you hold dear in your heart from Diane or something about Diane. She touched each and everyone she met in a very special way – I so cherish all she taught me and showed me about life and relationships. So today is a wonderful day of Celebration!

Projects & Projects:

My life is full of projects around the house. The knitting and spinning will have to wait until I get my house back in order! Shouldn’t be too long though! My bedroom and bathroom are being completely redone. Right now they are down to the wall studs and ceiling joists. The new electrical is complete and I am ready to drywall. From there – there will be a new shower with cultured marble and glass block, new windows in both the bedroom and bathroom, and a new updated closet. In addition to the bedroom, I am in the process of building a new fence around the back yard and I have to put a new roof on the house this fall – so that will be coming! Of course, the new roof will mean the addition of a couple of skylights – a welcome addition to a dark kitchen and hallway! And I should paint the outside of the house, but I don’t know if there will be time before the holidays.

Six Months

2007-09-21T10:56:00.001-07:00

For some unknown reason, I am only able to post to this blog on an “anniversary” date so far – I am sure that with time that will change...

Yesterday, the 20th, was the six month “anniversary” of the Knittyref’s passing. I was figuring that the day would be a day of tears and reflection and remembering. However, a friend sent me some very special thoughts about the Knittyref first thing and my day was completely transformed.. So instead of only tears (yes, there were some), reflection, and remembering – My day became one of some reflection and Celebration of the many things I am thankful for – especially over the last ten years that I was with the Knittyref.
So here’s the short list:

· 9 ½ years with the Knittyref as her partner
· I was asked to move to California by the Knittyref
· 2 wonderful step-kids – you know -- the Boy Child and the Girl Child
· Dogs and Cats
· The Knittyref’s passion for life
· The Knittyref’s passion for knitting and spinning
· Her and our love and passion together for “The Beautiful Game”
· Her creativity
· Her appreciation, adoration, and love for me
· Her appreciation and love of the outdoors
· Her attitude and strength through her cancer
· Caring for her 24/7 during her final months
· Being with her when she passed away
· The abundance of those that admired her so
· The caring, concern & love of those she worked with
· The caring, concern, compassion, & love of those who treated her
· The caring, concern, and love shown to me and the family
· My talents and abilities
· My personality
· My good health
· My love and passion for “The Beautiful Game”
· Good Music
· All of the friends and good people that have and continue to bless my life
· ………………………………………………..

Time, Time, Time, Time

2007-08-20T01:10:00.001-07:00

We wonder where Time goes……….

We’re given many gifts as we go through life.
Some we’re allowed to enjoy for a long time,
others only briefly.
But each gift has the power to change us,
enrich us,
to make us better people.

And ……

It is said it takes a minute to find a Special Person,
An hour to appreciate them,

A day to love them,
But an entire Lifetime to forget them.

Yes, I am the still the hubster and my life is still in such turmoil – filled with such ups and downs…. It is five months today since the true Knitty Ref’s passing and I so want to move on. Most have stopped calling…. and Life is still day by day. Diane taught me so much about life, happiness and what relationships really are to be! However, I am still so frustrated about my short time with her as being so short and my seeming inability to move on and have companionship. At this point I can definitely say that my purpose for the last ten years was to take Di thru her cancer. To make sure she was blessed with pure love and devotion and had whatever she needed – emotionally and physically. But, she is now gone and not coming back…….. I would so like to give the same to someone else. However, at this time, I await my instructions on what the next chapter of my life will be. Hopefully if will also be filled with angels!

Yes, I may have found a special friend, someone very special to help fill my life, a wonderful friend, but unfortunately, as with everything in life seemingly, things are always complicated…... Again, time will only tell……….

Spinning, Di was always at such peace when she was spinning. I will have the opportunity to really learn things about spinning when I go camping in October – back to LimeKiln – a place full of the ocean and the redwoods! There is nothing better than hearing the beating of the ocean and the solitude of the redwoods 24/7.

Peace to all, bless you!

Mark, the new Knitty Ref, also known as the “Hubster”

All Good Things....

2007-06-04T08:22:00.001-07:00

WOW! Lots and Lots and Lots of things happening!

I spent this past weekend as part of the staff of a soccer tournament not too far from home. The tournament began Friday evening and ended Sunday evening. 74 teams ranging in age from under-10 to under-19 – all girls this weekend (the boys part was two weeks ago). I had hoped to have some time in between duties to continue with my knitting – simple wash clothes to start. I do believe I am actually getting the hang of it!. But alas, with so many teams (and corresponding parents, siblings, etc.) there was no time! The games were great and it was wonderful to be out amongst all of those energetic kids and their very passionate family members. Maybe today as I decompress, I will get some QUALITY knitting time in. Hopefully, by my next post, I’ll have pictures!

One of you suggested a “visual” book on spinning, which I have ordered and should be arriving this week. As I have said in the past, I am fascinated by spinning and am eager to try my hand at learning. Diane was always soooo relaxed as she spun, and I hope to receive the same.

The bedroom project is also progressing. However, it has become a bit “larger” of a project than I originally intended. Things are such that it will make it easy to replace the bedroom windows at this time (original windows still in place since 1956 when the house was built). The paint colors I have chosen (a very rich green and deep blue for contrast) are looking good!

Until my next post, have a wonderful week!

When Pigs Fly!

2007-05-11T07:38:00.000-07:00

I believe that it may just come down to “when pigs fly” that this business of knitting and spinning will come to fruit for me. So far, I have found all the neat books Diane had on knitting, including my favorite – Knitting for Dummies. And boy do I feel like one. I know it will all come, but this learning on my own is slow going. Yes, I know it would be faster if I took some classes, but there just isn’t time right now. So it’s very slow – knit one, purl two……..

Does anyone know – is there a Spinning for Dummies book????!!

Other things that are keeping me very busy:

Six years ago, the boy child tried to burn the house down by leaving an unattended candle on a wooden desk in his bedroom. It was a slow night that night for the fire department as we only had seven – yes 7!—engines respond for a one room fire! Even though we were able to keep the fire contained to his room only, smoke got everywhere. At this point, the master bedroom is the only room in the house that has not been repainted. Thus this weekend the paint brushes are coming out along with the oxyclean (works great on cleaning before painting).

The other big thing is that I’m in the middle of a new job search – sales or administrative – but it’s time to get back to work after taking the past few months off to care for and support Diane. If any of you have any leads let me know – needs to be a good people oriented company with decent benefits. Thanks in advance.

Happy Mother’s Day to all of you!

30 Days & Transition

2007-04-20T07:28:00.000-07:00

30 Days…..

The clock has ticked off a month since the Knittyref left us. I am thankful that her suffering has ended and that she is at peace. But, there is such a void left in all our lives. A few points:

Diane loved Soccer. She loved the game. She was a student of the game; after all she was a referee. Fairness in the game was imperative. She truly believed -- “If you’re not having fun, you’re not playing it right.”
Diane loved crafts and was so incredibly talented – stained glass, quilling, needlework, crocheting, and of course knitting, spinning, and whatever with yarn! She was always the most relaxed when she had the needles going away or the wheel was spinning.
Diane lived the courageous life. Living her life by such phrases as -- Live well; Don’t give up; Be strong; Live strong; Never give up; Try your hardest; Have fun doing it; and Don’t dwell in sadness.

Diane lived the kind of life that is noble and brave and strong. There aren’t many people like Diane. She was rare and special and unique. She was a gift to all of us.

The Good Lord has a way of blessing us in the hardest of times. Diane was blessed by us and we were blessed by Diane.

Transition…..

Life goes on as we all know. Unless any of you have a major conniption, I plan to switch this blog over to the story of me – the hubster – and my assault or attempts at learning the fine arts of knitting and spinning. After all, I am also a referee and aspire to be a knitter and spinner. Of course, the other point -- What else would I do with the formidable yarn and roving stash Diane has passed on to me??!!!! I will need your help, please be patient!

And so the story will continue……

Happy Anniversary Sweetheart!

2007-04-10T23:52:00.000-07:00

Happy 9th Anniversary Sweetheart!

A year ago today, the Knittyref told all of you a fairy-tale version of our life. Yes, our life together has had some ups and downs as any relationship will. However, both of us said our vows to each other and really meant them – “for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health”. The first half of our life together was spent in the normal whirlwind of life that we all seem to be in – work, sleep, soccer practice, soccer games, go here, go there, do this, do that! There was little quality time for us. Then the Knittyref’s diagnosis and life changed. We didn’t stop living or doing, but everything became less spontaneous and had to be done in conjunction with her treatment schedule. Life became much more meaningful! Togetherness became so much more important. The second half of our life together has been the best and I will cherish and remember it forever!

Take each day and live it to its’ fullest. Always tell those closest to you how much you love them and cherish them. Be Happy! Be Well!

As I quoted a couple of posts ago:

If I should live forever
And all my dreams come true
My memories of love will be of you

Happy Anniversary Di -- my friend, my companion, my lover, my life – I was so proud and honored to be your husband!

Today we Celebrate!

2007-04-01T08:32:00.000-07:00

From the "program" card at the Knittyref's service....

God Saw She....

God saw that she was getting tired and a cure was not to be.

So He put His arms around her and whispered, "Come with Me".

With tearful eyes we watched her suffer and saw her fade away.

Although we loved her dearly, we could not make her stay.

A golden heart stopped beating.

Hard working hands came to rest.

God broke our hearts to prove to us,

He only takes the best.

Today we celebrate and honor the Knittyref (Diane) and her short time with us.

I, the hubster, celebrate her as my wife, my best friend, my companion, my lover, my teacher, my mentor and my inspiration. She was such a GIFT!

I know that many of you have been touched and blessed by her. I would so appreciate being able to communicate with all of you. I don't know all of the blogs she visited. Please send me an e-mail with your blog address, so I may find you. My e-mail address is mvref@aol.com.

Bless all of you and thanks so much for all the prayers and thoughts!

The End of the Battle.....

2007-03-20T21:49:00.000-07:00

It’s the hubster – with very sad news. Early this morning the Knitting Ref was finally overtaken in her 4 and a half year battle with ovarian cancer and has passed on to her next adventure in the journey of life. She is now at peace….

The One with whom I was to spend the rest of my life with - is gone and I am devastated. I have spent the day trying to just get thru the day! The experiences the Knitting Ref and I have had over the last 9 years I would not trade for anything. The experience of caring for your spouse who is terminally ill is also something I will cherish forever. Today, I have lost so much and gained so much – thanks to these experiences and all of you who have become my friend through the Knitting Ref.

I have posted below the lyrics to one of my favorite songs, Perhaps Love, by John Denver as they are so poignant and speak of how I will remember our love so well.

Perhaps Love

Perhaps love is like a resting place

A shelter from the storm

It exists to give you comfort

It is there to keep you warm

And in those times of trouble

When you are most alone

The memory of love will bring you home

Perhaps love is like a window

Perhaps an open door

It invites you to come closer

It wants to show you more

And even if you lose yourself

and don’t know what to do

The memory of love will see you thru

O love to some is like a cloud

To some as strong as steel

For some a way of living

For some a way to feel

And some say love is holding on

And some say letting go

And some say love is everything

Some say they don’t know

Perhaps love is like the ocean

Full of conflict full of pain

Like a fire when it’s cold outside

A thunder when it rains

If I should live forever

And all my dreams come true

My memories of love will be of you

YOU, through your communications and interactions with the Knitting Ref have become friends of the Kitting Ref. I would love to meet as many of you as I am able, as so many times she has shared things you have posted on your own sites or have made comments on this site. If any of you in the Inland Empire of California are interested, please e-mail me directly at mvref@aol.com and I will share info concerning the service we will be having for the Knitting Ref on April the 1st.

Bless You and Thank You for all your prayers, concern, caring, and love you have expressed for the Knitting Ref.

It's All About Waiting....and Being Comfortable

2007-03-15T10:59:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's the hubster. Thanks so much for all your prayers, comments, and thoughts.

It's all about waiting now--the knitting needles, the crochet hooks, the yarn stash, her unfinished projects, the swifter, the ball winder, and the spinning wheel....... they're all ready and waiting for the Knitting Ref.

However, the Knitting Ref spent last weekend at City of Hope National Hospital. At this point, there will be no more chemo treatments; just love and affection and hopefully peace. [It has been a four and a half year battle with her ovarian cancer.] We believe that miracles do happen, but without a miracle now, the Knitting Ref has come home to be comfortable with her family and friends as she gets ready for her next adventure in the journey of life -- of which, just may be the miracle.

More later.....

Calling ALL Angels…

2007-03-08T22:05:00.000-08:00

It’s the hubster again…. Yes, I know – A whole month since my last update…..and I fear the Knittyref will not post again by her own hand.

It’s just been ugly…… Today the Knittyref was admitted to City of Hope National Medical Center with a very dark prognosis. As most of you are aware, the Knittyref has been a survivor of ovarian cancer since September, 2002. Her fight has been stout, determined and courageous to say the least. However, it now seems that this very ugly disease is making the best of her.

Thus, it is time to call on all of the angels to ask for their blessings. It is time for the miracle……. I would ask that you please include the Knittyref in all your prayers and ask for that miracle.

Bless You and I promise more soon.

The Hubster

The Cup is FULL!

2007-02-07T00:19:00.000-08:00

In the morning when you rise,
I bless the sun, I bless the skies,
I bless your lips, I bless your eyes,
My blessing goes with you.

In the night-time when you sleep,
Oh, I bless you, while a watch I keep,
As you lie in slumber deep,
My blessing goes with you.

This is my prayer for you, there for you, ever true,
Each every day for you, in everything you do,
And when you come to me, and hold me close to you,
I bless you…., and you bless me too.

When your weary heart is tired,
If the world should leave you uninspired,
When nothing more of love’s desired,
My blessing goes with you.

When the storms of life are strong,
When you’re wounded, when you don’t belong,
When you no longer hear my song,
My blessing goes with you.

This is my prayer for you, there for you, ever true,
Each every day for you, in everything you do,
And when you come to me, and hold me close to you,
I bless you…., and you bless me too,
I bless you…., and you bless me too.
Lisa Kelly, Celtic Woman

Well, it’s the hubster again, as the knittyref just doesn’t have the energy to make a post. Thank you for indulging me with some lyrics from one of my favorite artists. Yes, we bless you!

The cup is FULL…. Sorry, we can’t talk of knitting or spinning as the focus is on survival and beating cancer for the knittyref. But with YOUR positive thoughts and prayers as requested, this has been a good week for the knittyref. As a matter of fact, I’m thinking of taking up knitting and spinning so we can discuss what this blog is really supposed to be about! Chemo is such a double edged sword – good as it holds the monster back, bad as it poisons the whole body. Chemo was last Monday and so far the week has been good – the knittyref has been able to eat, drink, and sleep….. Even the weather has been good and the knittyref has been able to enjoy the sunshine and soak up its’ warmth. NOTHING is more wonderful than sunshine and its’ warmth!

Bless You and THANKS!

A Single Candle of Hope

2007-02-03T19:53:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, this has been a hell of a week! Sorry, but it's the hubster again... I really wish we could be back to knitting or spinning, but that's not the way the powers that be seem to wish...... So we have to talk about reality instead.

The knittyref started a new chemo protocol this past Monday. The infusion and the the 40 mllion blood draws (part of the study) were accomplished and the knittyref didn't run out of blood -surprise, SURPRISE!

Today, [Saturday] has been a day of NOTHING is staying down. [The agongy of watching the knittyref deal with this stuff is almost unbearable as an outsider].

A SPECIAL THANKS to all of you that have sent your thoughts, support, prayers, and LOVE to the knittyref as she has dealt with her cancer now for 4 and a half years.

So, I the hubster, ask you to take a moment and say a prayer for the knittyref and ask for the miracle. Thanks so much! We love you all so very much! Thus a single candle of hope......

Angels and things made right...

2007-01-24T20:51:00.000-08:00

Angels and things made right….

Sorry, but it’s the hubster AGAIN! – and I’m going to get religious on you this time.

Here is an angel (fiberoptic with changing colors) that was given to the kittyref the end of last year. We initially thought it was on the corny side, but interestingly enough, it is one of those things that in the evening with some nice music we turn on more often than not.

Yesterday, I mentioned that the knittyref’s new protocol of chemotherapy was to start today. This morning was NOT a good morning for the knittyref and she really did not want to start today. We went to City of Hope anyway. However, when we saw her doctors (two wonderful doctors] they asked her if she would mind not starting until Monday due to some complications that another patient had had with this protocol. WHAT A RELIEF!

Her angels had stepped in….

Memories, Events and Startis and not much Endis…..

2007-01-23T22:28:00.000-08:00

Memories, Events and Startis and not much Endis…..

Sorry, but it’s the hubster AGAIN!

The knittyref hasn’t been feeling up to snuff—lots of sleeping and not really feeling all that good as she gets ready for her next protocol of chemo on Wednesday. Of course, if you haven’t heard, the bizzarro weather we’ve had for the last few days hasn’t helped any – snow, yes SNOW in southern California, just over a week ago and then the WIND – you know Mariah! Well, yesterday was the first day in over 2 weeks she’s had the opportunity to sit outside and bask in the sun.

I know, to most people 1 inch of snow doesn’t mean much, but around here, it’s big stuff. We had the hail storm last year that made it look like snow, but this was the real, honest-to-goodness stuff. It stuck around a lot longer than I anticipated, probably 1 to 1-1/2 hours. So it made me think about cold weather gear. We spent last weekend in Henderson, NV visiting the in-laws, where the warmest it ever got was upper 40’s.

Anyway, I said MEMORIES…. Well, it’s now 9 years to the day since I [the hubster] cruised into town (with some bare necessities – you know – some personal things, 2 dogs, the dog house [in case I really ticked her off], a computer, and a vehicle) to see if the knittyref and I could put together the wonderful life we have had all these years. I remember entering the State of California very early in the morning and the officer at the entry station asking me if I had any animals just as one of my dogs (Great Pyrenees) poked a huge head out the window – surprise! WOW!, what a ride the knittyref and I have had since then!

Then, I said EVENTS…. Well, the girl-child has asked -- and has moved back in with her “significant other” as of this past weekend (with major conditions attached). We now have a full house as both of the kids are now home (19 and 20)! The knittyref is glad to have the girl-child present, but, only time will tell if this is for the best…..

So instead of packing the sweater that’s ¾’s finished, or the waterfall scarf. The knittyref started a hat from some of the Noro leftover from the sweater she finished in November. And, because she wanted to make a pair of combo gloves/mittens as the others were wearing out so fast, she packed the equipment necessary for that. The yarn for these, by the way, is some of the New Zealand haul. It’s a rather unusual fiber combination. It’s 30% possum and 70% merino. Interesting, eh? In NZ possum are not a native inhabitant, and in fact at rather destructive. They are one of the main reasons the Kiwi bird is an endangered species (the possums eat the eggs). All that said, the yarn is incredibly soft and warm.

And, just cause the yarn is so pretty, she started a scarf from the lace-weight yarn she also hauled back from NZ. So there you see, with the exception of the 2-sided sweater, all the current projects she has going. So since she’s only knitting a couple rows a day, this may well be her project output for 2007. (her words) We’ll see……

In closing, I sincerely hope that this latest protocol will bring the knittyref a renewed energy as she certainly is due…. Thanks for all of your thoughts and support out there!

Lots of Startis but no Enditis

2007-01-20T19:06:00.000-08:00

I still haven’t been feeling up to snuff—I know, big shock—and so not much has been happening, other than a lot of sleeping. The bizzarro weather hasn’t helped any. Today was the first day in over 2 weeks I’ve had the opportunity to sit outside in the sun.

I know, to most people 1 inch of snow doesn’t mean much, but around here, it’s big stuff. We had the hail storm last year that made it look like snow, but this was the real, honest-to-goodness stuff. It stuck around a lot longer than I anticipated, probably 1 to 1-1/2 hours. So it made me think about cold weather gear. We spent the weekend in Henderson, NV visiting the in-laws, where the warmest it ever got was upper 40’s.

So instead of packing the sweater that’s ¾’s finished, or the waterfall scarf. I started a hat from some of the Noro leftover from the sweater I finished in November. And, because I wanted to make a pair of combo gloves/mittens as the others were wearing out so fast, I packed the equipment necessary for that. The yarn for these, by the way, is some of the New Zealand haul. It’s a rather unusual fiber combination. It’s 30% possum and 70% merino. Interesting, eh? In NZ possum are not a native inhabitant, and in fact at rather destructive. They are one of the main reasons the Kiwi bird is an endangered species (the possums eat the eggs). All that said, the yarn is incredibly soft and warm.

And, just cause the yarn is so pretty, I started a scarf from the lace-weight yarn I also hauled back from NZ. So there you see, with the exception of the 2-sided sweater, all the current projects I have going. Since I’m only knitting a couple rows a day, this may well be my project output for 2007. We’ll see.

Now Best Friends

2007-01-11T21:09:00.000-08:00

Well, it's the hubster again... signing in for the Knittingref.

In the last post, Gimli (the Pug) was the new member of the family and trying to fit in with the rest of the menagerie. Now several days later, Gimli has decided that he is best friends with Eowyn (the Great Pyrenees). They are best buds, doing everything together including curling up together.

Health-wise, the Knittingref has had a few days filled with of lots of fatigue. A couple of her workmates [and grandma] came over yesterday for a tea party and a good time was had by all. Otherwise, baseline tests were done on Tuesday in preparation of the new chemo protocol coming. We are anticipating good results to come as a result!

Knitting-wise, the waterfall beaded scarf is progressing slowly and will be a thing of beauty when finished – more pictures later. [Probably, better than pictures of the animals!]

The Newest Family Member

2007-01-06T14:20:00.000-08:00

This is being brought to you by the Hubster, not due to any particular infirmity of the Knitting Ref, we're just slowly working on bring him over to the dark side.

And yes, there is a new, albeit hopefully, temporary member of the household. This is (was) Petey the Pug, but the Hubster in all his LOTR’s fascination has renamed the poor baby Gimli (after the dwarf). Petey/Gimli has settled in nicely with the other puppers in the family, but the cats are a completely different story. That will definitely take some doing.

On the health side of things, I’m feeling better—actually took a walk about the shortest block we have—and almost didn’t make it. But food are once again taking on an appeal, although selection thereof has to be made carefully and with great thought.

No new knitting worth showing by now, but the I have a feeling the Waterfall Scarf is going to The be Xmas gift for 2007.

An Honest to Goodness Post

2007-01-02T18:42:00.000-08:00

What with the health issues temporarily resolved and the holidays out of the way, maybe I can get an actual post here.

As to health issues, the chemo I’ve been on has stopped working, so we are investigating options. On the other hand it’s a good thing we’re stopping a this chemo is giving my immuno system a beating. After sleeping 19 hours last Tuesday, we went in to discover my platelette count was only 19,000 (normal for chemo patients is 150,000). No wonder I was so tired. And cold. Very cold. One of the other side effects of this chemo (they all seem to have so many) is that it makes your extremities feel like they are in contact with dry ice for a number of days after infusion. That includes drinking liquids too. Too much fun.

So, to counteract that, I had this cheapo kit from Target for fingerless mitts that were, fortunately, a really quick knit. Downside is they are made from reeeeaaaallllyyy low quality acrylic and are already stetching and pilling badly. They won’t last long. But since my hands seems to be continually cold (yes, in Southern California), I’ll be making another, better quality pair with short fingers, something along the line of Knucks (without all the frou frou) .
I have another FO believe it or not. Plain vanilla sock made with Autermann Step Yarn. It has Aloe and Jojoba oils in it. I really liked the way they knit up and the way they feel on the foot even after a few washings. I’d definitely get some more of that yarn. Mac the official sock inspector likes them too.

What is not an FO is my 2-sided sweater. I think it’s because I have forbidden myself to start another sweater with yarn I got in NZ since it uses the same size needeles. And I really want to start that sweater. And I really was to finish this sweater. So, I’m just contrary enough not to work on either of them at all.

I did start a bit on this gorgeous laceweight yarn that I got in New Zealand. Don’t know why the picture came out so blurry. The colors are outstanding and the yarn feels good; I’m just not up to a fancy pattern. But it will come.

And, my last weakness for 2006, went I went on www.earthfaire.com for beads for the Winter’s Eve socks (more on that below), I found this gorgeous Waterfall Beaded scarf kit (a decent finished picture of which I can't seem to locate anywhere on the web) which just magically arrived along with the beads for Winter’s Eve. The pattern is shockingly easy and the scarf will look even better after it’s blocked. Can’t wait.
I mentioned before that I got the last 2006 installment of 2006 STR Club. I have to say I wasn’t overly impressed with the majority of the selections that arrived, and a few I wouldn’t have picked at all. But the girls at STR hit a home run with these last 2. Since I didn’t have the beads for the Winter’s Eve socks (the pattern included in the pagkage), I decided to start on the Rare Gem yarn that I got. Honey, if this was a mistake, I want more mistakes like this. The colors are spectacular. In my haste I just started a plain vanilla sock, but it quickly became apparent that the color variations required something really special. So. shortly after that picture was taken, it was frogged. Because I think this yarn requires they become Here They Be Dragons socks. And so they shall.
Well, this has used just about all the energy I’ve got for the evening so I’ll end here for now.

Still upright and moving (more or less)

2006-12-26T09:24:00.000-08:00

I keep thinking I'm going to do a proper post with pictures and everything, but I've been feeling less than great, and the day seems to be over before I 'm barely started. So, I'll do a quick catch-up post for now and do something better by the weekend. Christmas was a very low-key affair and the family had great fun. I spent most of the day sleeping. I have been knitting. Nothing special--the brain just can't quite handle much beyond simple knit and purls. Nonethelss, I've finished a pair of socks, started a second pair, and make a pair of fingerless mitts. The chemo I'm currently on makes my extremities extremely, extremely sensitive to cold. I can't even eat or drink anything cooler than lukewarm. Fortunately, that only lasts for about a week, but it's still a pain (literally). So therefore, for the gloves. I just grabbed a super simple pattern and they work o.k., but I am going to do something else a little fancier too. I still owe you pictures of the yarn we picked up in NZ, and I've got to show you the STR "bonus" yarn that came in the last shipment. I hadn't signed up for 2007 because I wasn't real thrilled with the colors that had come, but this one is making me a little sorry I didn't. Well, that's about it for now. Time for a nap. But I promise to talk to you real soon.

Wow--Part I

2006-12-09T18:13:00.000-08:00

This post has been almost more trouble than it’s worth. What with computer troubles, Blogger troubles (one reason why this post is actually in 2 parts), and, oh yeah, a slight infection of unknown origins that put me back in the hospital Wednesday through Sunday. Nothing of a truly life-threatening nature, but annoying enough. Anyway, I’m back home and feeling much better. But I want to continue on our NZ adventure. When last we left off, we were headed to Te Anau. Lovely town. But the best was yet to come.

And it was definitely all about the WOW factor. We left Te Anau early and headed up to the Milford Sound. I’ve done the best I can, but the pictures only tell half the story. The immense-ness of the countryside is rather mind-blowing.

I specifically include the picture of the boat on Milford Sound for perspective. Note that it’s a double decker boat, and it’s still dwarfed by the cliffs.

With all the snow still on the mountaintops, there are dozens and dozens of little waterfalls on the cliff walls. They’re so sparkly in the sun. I wish I could another 20 or 30 pictures in the post, it’s that gorgeous up there. We’re talking about a return trip here, and when we do, the Milford Sound is definitely on the list of must return to places.
{See the next entry for the rest of (at least this part of} the story.

Wow--Part II

2006-12-09T17:38:00.000-08:00

Blankety-Blank-Blank Blooger is driving me crazy! Here's the rest of what I tried to get all in one first post:

Another wow was this Kea. They are the only non-tropical parrots that exist. We had been told they are extremely curious creatures, and this one lived up to billing. We had stopped at a pedestrian bridge over the river when the Hubster noticed a movement in the bushes. Very shortly, this little guy hopped out of the bushes, giving us the once over all the while. Since he wasn’t running back into the bush, we took the opportunity to give him the once over. And he was doing the same to us. After a bit, we started to head back to the car, and this little guy started following us. When we’d stop, he’d stop, and when we’d start walking again, so would he. Once we reached the car, he had to circle around it, checking everything out. It was so cute. When we got back to our lodgings, our hosts told us that Kea’s love shiny things. Fortunately our car didn’t have a lot of chrome on it, or we might have been in trouble.
After this drive, Queenstown was a bit of a let-down. Way, way, way too tourist-y for us. Reminded us of a ski town like Mammoth or Aspen. We spent a leisurely morning getting ourselves together before heading out. We went to a cove to check out the local lime kilns, then we headed up the mountain in the gondola, which did have some pretty spectacular views.

We also watched this crazy person (and no it’s not me or the Hubster) go bungy jumping. Other than that, it was a pretty laid back day.

Insert Witty Title Here

2006-11-22T12:52:00.000-08:00

We didn’t have much time in either Wellington or Christchurch, but that’s no big deal as the weather wasn’t conducive to much outdoor site-seeing. But it wasn’t a total loss as we toured the Christchurch Museum (fascinating) and I got to feed a 3-week-old lamb.

We left gloomy Christchurch and traveled down to Dunedin (pronounced Dun-Eden). The countryside along the way was very pretty. The further south we’ve traveled the more Bavarian the scenery has become. I wish we had had more time to tour Oamaru. The town is very quaint, with lots of Victorian architecture.

I think the trip finally got up with both of us as once we reached Dunedin, we napped before going to dinner. Dunedin is the San Francisco of the southern hemisphere. Not as big as SF of course, but the geography and the architecture. Right down to claiming that they have the steepest street in all of New Zealand. I believe it.

We spent the next day touring the Otago Pennisula. It seems like around every corner was another postcard-worthy vista. We took the high road on our way out and ran into lots of iceberg watchers. I don’t know if the news has reached you all but there are currently 3 very, very large icebergs about 45 kms. off the coast of Dunedin. It’s been huge news here. People have been taking helicopter trips (at NZ$500 a pop) to go out to the icebergs. Some have been foolish enough to try walking on them. Fortunately no one’s been hurt, but still. No views from land yet, but many aren’t ready to give up.

We spent considerable time on Victory Beach. I don’t know why, there’s nothing much to look at:

Beach attire is not exactly what you see on So. Cal. beaches. So what do you wear at Victory Beach? Well, when we were there, this was the height of beach fashion:

(Cause it was about 65 degrees with a wind that tended to cut right through your clothing.)

I have run into plenty of New Zealand wool, but I won't share my haul until I get home.

Toodles.

Green, Green, Green, Green, Green

2006-11-17T00:50:00.000-08:00

{Stupid Blogger won't let me upload all the pictures I want, so you'll have to use your imagination for now.}

Everything here is so green. And every shade of green on the scale. So far, I’m reminded very much of Hawaii with all the lush vegetation that is present everywhere. Hawaii without the heat and humidity.

Since the last post, we’ve been very busy. We’ve driven over 1,700 km (you do the math to convert it to miles) so far. Tonight we’re just outside Wellington in a town charmingly called Lower Hutt. We’ve seen so much, it’s hard to know where to start. So, for now, I’ll give you a brief overview, and when we get back, I’ll fill in more. From Auckland, we drove up into the Northland, and got as far Wharangei. We stopped at the falls.

{And here I'd be showing you a picture of the falls. Very pretty. Oh well, too bad.}

What I found most amazing is that the falls are right in the middle of a residential area. Truth be told, a lot of amazing New Zealand features are found right in the middle of residential areas. But that a whole other post.

We traveled down to Coromandel where we spent the night and on from there to Rotorua. Pretty amazing stuff--all of a geothermal nature. From hot water (well over boiling) pools to mud pools. Too bad you don’t have smell-o-vision. The sulphur smell around town absolutely defies description.

After Rotorua we moved on to Napier. I just have to include a picture of the Huka Falls, which we stopped off at on the way to Napier. The color is this turquoise color, and the volume of water is astounding. Wish we could have spent more time there.
{I WILL be including a picture of Huka Falls another time. Not to be believed.}

From there we drove to Lower Hutt. We’ve spent all our nights at B&B’s and homestays. To a person, every single host we’ve met since we left Auckland has been nothing but warm and generous. We’ve had some great discussions with our hosts. We’ve learned so much about New Zealand and its people from them. Definitely the way to get “into” a foreign country. Tomorrow we fly to the South Island. Can’t wait to see what awaits us! For now, I’ll leave you with an obligatory sheep picture.

What a Day--Or Is It Days?

2006-11-12T22:32:00.000-08:00

16 hours of travel across the Equator AND the International Date Line—and that doesn’t include the hour and a half to LAX. No wonder we’re a little punchy. (And no, Mom, I'm not too tired.)

But I will say, if I’ve got to be on an airplane, Air New Zealand is the way to go. I’ve traveled on a number of carriers, and Air New Zealand is top of the heap, by far. Lovely, lovely crew—whether it be the men or the women. We were on a very clean, very comfortable 767. We wound up having 3 meals during our sojourn. All very tasty (Stuffed chicken, spinach, roasted potatoes, with a small salad and cheesecase for dessert) food, served hot, with lots of beverages (including complementary wine for dinner). And this was regular old whatever-you-want-to-call-it class.

I didn’t sleep much, but then I never can unless I’m completely horizontal. Not that I didn’t try. The Hubster did better in that department, but like I said, we’re both a little punchy. (Really, Mom, I'm fine.)

I can now say I’ve been to Fiji, but other than the airport interior (which I didn’t think TSA or the Fijian equivalent wanted me taking pictures of), this is all we saw of Nadi, Fiji:
We were outside just long enough to recognize that it definitely is a tropical island. But one that we may have to explore in the future.

Here’s our first view of New Zealand.

And it only gets better from there. But that will have to be for another time.

We managed to get through NZ customs without a problem, although they did clean the soles of the hiking, excuse me, tramping boots. (Too much dirt for their sensibilities.) Picked up the rental car without any problems, although I do have to say that driving on the opposite side of the road is still freaking me out not just a little bit.

First stop, the Bavaria B&B. Very large room, with a very small bathroom—I think my closet at home is bigger. But still very nice nonetheless. A comfortable bed which we tried out immediately. Get your mind out of the gutter, we HAD to take a nap.

After a short nap, we walked down to one of the bigger thoroughfares in Mt. Eden, and found a Portuguese BBQ chicken restaurant. Don’t laugh, it was very tasty.

Following lunch, we went up to the top of Mt. Eden, a long-extinct volcano. Spectacular 360 degree views of Auckland and surrounding countryside. That pooped us out (or at least me) enough that we just went back to the B&B. No plans for the evening—other than scrounging up a telephone book so I can maybe scope out some yarn stores.

TTFN

Show Off

2006-11-09T11:02:00.000-08:00

Yup, that’s me. As we’re heading off on our adventure, I have to show off my yummy sweater. I actually have an FO. Amazing!
Pictures kindly taken by the Hubster.
[Back view shown headless 'cause of ugly bed head]
This is the Bettna sweater from the Noro Revisited pattern book. It’s made with 14+ balls of Noro Silk Garden, color 211. I made absolutely no revisions to the pattern. I actually think this pattern would also make an interesting sweater in a solid color. Something to think about.

I will say that this is the third Noro pattern I’ve done and, as has happened with the other 2, the pattern understates the amount of yarn needed. I suppose I could have done it with the 14 balls of yarn if I had just picked up and started at the beginning of every new skein. Because of the color variations and differences in each skein, if I had done that, there would have been a number times that the same color stripe would have been right next, or very near, each other. I wanted the colors more spread out.

I also have to show a close-up of where I had to do surgery. Can’t tell unless you’re right up on it, can ya. I’m soooooo happy. Love, love love the colors.

I am taking this on the plane with me. It’ll be my blankie while I sleep (and more than likely on my body the entire time I’m on the plane—it tends to be a bit chilly when they’re at altitude.)

Well people, it’s time to jet. Talk to you soon!

Happy [Early] Thanksgiving

2006-11-05T19:06:00.000-08:00

Hope I didn't freak anyone out. But, since the Hubster and I won't be in country on the "official" Thanksgiving day, we gathered family and friends and had our Thanksgiving today. Before I go too far, I'll explain the picture. Mama somehow came into possession of this funky turkey. You can "choke" the neck, squeeze a wing or tweak the beak and it plays a corny song. Very strange, but the only Thanksgiving decorating that got done around here. Anyway. It was a fabulous day. Lots of talking and laughing with people I love and like a whole lot. As we had 13 people present for the festivities, we went casual with a serve-yourself buffet and t.v. trays all around the living room. Thanksgiving is when the Hubster takes over the kitchen and cooks. Which is a really good thing. As usual, there was too much food. It's a good thing the kids will be home while we're gone to finish up the leftovers.

One of our friends is an elderly gentleman who made his living as a photographer. After we ate, he graced us with a slide show of his experiences in New Zealand. And Lincoln has quite a way of turning a phrase that made it very enjoyable. I was ready to leave for NZ the minute the travelogue finished. He gave us some great tips, especially about the South Island which is making us more excited than ever. (Not that I needed anything else to get me excited.)

We ate early (12:30) so that the Girl Child could be with us before heading out to work, so everyone had cleared out a little after 3:00. The rest of the afternoon was spent watching the second half of the Broncos game. They won, but I tell you, it's not easy being a Broncos fan. They are on quite a winning season, but it seems like you're never sure until the very last minute that they're gonna make it. All's well that ends well, I guess.

Between the Boy Child's soccer game yesterday and all the visiting today, I got quite a bit done on my latest mindless project--another plain stockinette stitch sock.When I visited the newest (and closest) LYS, I grabbed this yarn without paying too much attention to the label. I just liked the colors (and still do). But when I got home and started working with it, I realized that this yarn is "mit Aloe Vera und Jojoba Ol." You can probably figure out that that means "with Aloe Vera and Jojoba Oil. I really like it. The addition is very subtle but noticeable after working with it for a while. I'm figuring I'll finish 1 sock before Thursday's liftoff, at which point I'll pack it and the remaining yarn for working on in NZ.

And bless my favorite LYS owner's little heart, when I whined to her that I was going to be grossly short of yarn on my Two Piece Sweater, she bustled around and scrounged up 3 more skeins. So while I won't have the sweater finished to take along, it now will be packed for the trip.

Add the necessities for the Storyteller Socks (see previous post), and that's all the knitting supplies I'm taking. No doubt I'll come back with much more yarn than I'm leaving with. (Gotta save room in the suitcase for that, right?)

It's doubtful that I'll be able to post again before we leave--although stranger things have been known to happen. I have promised Mama semi-frequent posts so she'll sort-of be in touch with our daily adventures. Tomorrow is the computer lesson for Mama. She will be the first to tell you she's completely computer illerate and likes it that way. But she's willing, provided I give her step-by-step instructions, to learn a little bit so she can check in on us periodically. Fingers crossed, we'll be able to figure out the intricacies of working online in a foreign country, although a number of the B&B's we're staying at supposedly have computer access. In the past I've purposely stayed away from being that "wired" while we're on vacation, so I've never done this before. Wish me luck.

Here's hoping my next contact with you will more be from the wonderland that is New Zealand. 3 days and counting!

No Pictures

2006-10-30T21:00:00.000-08:00

No pictures 'cause I have absolutely worth taking a picture of. The knitting mojo has abandoned me.

I finished one Halloween sock but I have to say it is the worst fair isle I have ever done in my life and it looks awful. Maybe I can get it together for next Halloween.

And it turns out I should have actually looked at the sweater pattern that I'm knitting up with the Silky Tweed (see last post) before I purchased the yarn instead of relying on the LYS because according to the pattern, I need a little over 1,000 meters to do the sweater. The LYS told me I would only need 6 skeins (which works out to 720 meters) and so that's what I bought. And now of course my LYS only has 1 more skein. So shame on me (but I'm still a little torqued at them too) since I really wanted to finish this before or on our trip. Won't happen now.

My one ray of hope is the Noro sweater. I'm finally coming out of my chemo fog, and have every confidence that I'll finish it before we leave. In fact I'm planning on wearing it on the plane. (I probably just jinxed myself, but oh well.

On top of everything else, many weeks ago, the family decided we'd do Thanksgiving early this year as the Hubster and I will be out of the country on the actual day. The day we picked is this coming Sunday. Sounded like a good idea at the time. And, not only are we doing Thanksgiving here, but it looks like, what with family and friends, there will be somewhere in the neighborhood of 14 people here. Guess I'd better get to some house cleaning.

Fortunately, I'm about 80% packed. You know, the easy part. Like the clothes, meds, toiletries and the like that I'm going to take. The hard part is figuring out what knitting to take. I'm definitely taking the Storyteller socks with some burgandy Cherry Tree Hill for on the plane, but I'd really like to pack an easy sweater for while we'll be in the car and the like. I guess it's time to do some serious stash diving and see what I come up with. I'm also planning on packing some self-striping or varigated sock yarn (kind and color TBD) to have in a pinch to make some plain stockinette stitch socks. I think that's all I'm taking as I'm hoping to find some treasures while we're out and about. ;-)

We're having Halloween festivities at work tomorrow, including dress-up. I'm doing what I've threatened to do for years, and I'm going in my jammies, robe and slippers. To spice things up, I'm also taking one of my wigs and putting it up in curlers and a hair net. Although I'm not drinking coffee anymore, I'll be carrying around a coffee mug to complete the ensemble. Maybe you'll get a picture, maybe not.

Well, time to do a little stash diving. (What, you thought I was going to clean house?) Pishaw.

Where did the week go?

2006-10-22T17:46:00.000-07:00

Actually, I know the answer to the question, but I swear someone's been stealing hours out of my days. I've been back at work basically full time this week, so I've pretty much been coming home and collapsing on the sofa every evening. Add on top of that, I've started the pre-New-Zealand-trip laundry, sorting and packing--oh yeah, and house cleaning. (Only 17 more days 'til we leave!!!)
But that doesn't mean I haven't been knitting. It took a while to work up the nerve on the Noro sweater (more on that later), so until I could find the nerve to do the required surgery, I picked up another project (or 2). Now, I could have picked up something I was already working on, but the brain was not able to handle much more than stockinette stitch. None of the WIP's around here fit the bill. As a result, I found this pattern for a very simple pullover sweater. This is the Two Piece Sweater. A trip to the LYS (and 40% off) resulted in the purchase of Elsebeth Lavold's Silky Tweed (color 05). The picture (on my monitor, at least) is pretty true to color. What it doesn't show are little bits of caramel-y and white color. I really like this yarn. With 40% silk, it slides nicely through the fingers. And, if you don't have to frog or tink, the splittiness is at a minimum. If you do frog or tink, though, it gets really, really splitty. Don't ask me how I know.

This is a really great pattern if you're looking for a simple, good-looking sweater. I don't normally like 3/4-length sleeves, but longer ones don't work very well. (Don't ask about how I know about this either.) The pattern also works very well with my limited brain power. It's all stockinette and reverse stockinette stitches with a few make-1's to add a little interest to the sleeve. (Don't know if you can see them going up the middle of the sleeve.) It's knit from the sleeve edge to the middle of the torso. I've got about 2 more inches of reverse stockinette, then a few inches of stockinette, and the first piece will be done. All together, I think I've spend about 6 hours on this so far (even with the attempted mods/troubles--but I'm not going to talk about that.)

I'm hoping to finish this before we leave. If not, it'll go on the trip as easy-to-do knitting while we're in the car (where we'll be a lot!).
Speaking of close-to-impossible deadlines, I also started a pair of socks with a pumpkin heel. For Halloween. Which is 9 days away. With chemo tomorrow, I think I'm calling this awfully close, but we'll see.

I saw the pattern for the pumpkin heel on another blog--not one I normally read. I printed off the pumpking chart and promptly lost the blog it was from. I would love to give full credit to the blogger who charted this up, but despite my best efforts, I can't find the blog again. If not for the chart, I'd think I hallucinated about it. If you see this and you made up the chart, leave a comment, so I can give you the credit you deserve.

The socks themselves (or I should say itself at this point) is plain black Wildfoote sock yarn. I couldn't find--not that I looked that hard--an LYS that had the requisite orange sock weight yarn, so I took some plain white sock yarn of unknown origin (read, lost the ball band) and dyed it up with orange Easter egg dye. That's the little ball next to the sock. Turned out pretty good, if I do say so myself.

The sock itself is also plain. A little over an inch of 1X1 rib and plain stockinette. The foot will be plain too. I'm kind of wishing now I had dyed up a little more orange so I could make orange toes too, but that ship has sailed. What you see done on the sock was basically accomplished befure, during and between the Boy Child's and niece's soccer games yesterday.

Like I said, with chemo next week, I don't know if I'll finish these before Halloween or not. We'll see.
And finally, surgery on the Noro sweater has been completed. As I told the Hubster, I needed to work up some nerve, and then have plenty of bright light and total focus (read serious uninterrupted time) to take it apart. As it turns out, taking it apart was ridiculously easy. I snipped the yarn on the band where it's attached to the front, and then carefuly unknitted the band up to where I needed to take the two pieces apart. I picked up the live stitches on a straight knitting needle that's smaller than what I used to knit it originally. The reason for that is because I decided the best way to put the band back on is to kitchener the stitches. While I'm not crazy about kitchenering 70-some stitches, I think this allow me to keep the repair as unobstrusive as possible. I only hope it's as easy to put together as it was to take apart.

And, since I'm wearing rose-colored glasses on the other 2 projects, I also am hoping to finish the sweater in time to wear and/or take it to New Zealand.

Speaking of New Zealand--which is about the only thing that does get spoken about around here these days--excitement is reaching a fever pitch. The Hubster's passport arrived last week (nothing like waiting 'til the last minute), and he picked up the trip packet on Friday.

On the downside, there's no road map of NZ in the package--it will be given to us together with specific directions to our B&B's when we pick up the rental car. We were told that the reason for this is because so many people forget and leave their maps in the States. Not much chance of that here, but oh well. I've ordered a map from Amazon which should be here by Tuesday, and then, the hard core planning commences.

On the upside--speaking of the trip, of course--our time is our own. No group tours for us. I am a closet hermit afterall. Just the B&B, homestays and farmstays where we'll stay each night are set. But this also means that we are on our own when it comes to what we will and will not see. Goodness knows I've spent enough time reading guide books and looking at tons of websites, not to mention eliciting help from a few NZ knitters and other who have gone before us. I want to see it all and yet I know (even with my rose-colored glasses) that's just not possible. At this point, I'm setting up a list with must-see's, might-see's, and things to see if we're bored out of our minds. Like that's going to happen.

And, of course, the $64,000 question is: what do I take to knit?

I'm So Annoyed

2006-10-13T15:51:00.000-07:00

Actually, I'm much more than annoyed--at myself. Let's see why. I've been really anxious to finish this sweater. I thought I was going to finish this last night and be able to wear it to work. I was sooooo close. Until I found this:
Do you see it, huh? Do ya? Well, if you can't see it here, let me give you a close-up:
I am soooo mad. I put the lower right-side panel on backwards.

No big deal, right? Only problem is the way this sweater is constructed means I attached the lower panel to the upper panel and then knit the center edge (which goes over to the center back). To compound the problem, I didn't realize the error until after I had sewn up the center back seam and attached the lower back panel. Head slap! (Several times.)

So, the way I look at it, I have 2 options. Option 1) Un-sew the lower back panel, un-sew the center back seam, frog the center edging and then fix my error and re-do it all again. Option 2) Carefully clip the knitting on the center edge (hopefully) and tink or frog the knitting back (hopefully) to where the lower panel joins the upper, fix my boo-boo and (hopefully) re-attach the center edge to the rest of the sweater so it's not obvious.

As Option 1 will take several hours (days?) to accomplish, I am going to attempt option 2. I'm hoping it works. I have loved this sweater from the first moment I saw it in the pattern book (actually on the cover), and it is not disappointing. (My sewing skills, on the other hand, well . . .) This is going to get worn a lot. If I can ever finish it.
To finish off, I'll give you a peek at the back. (And maybe give you a better idea why I don't want to go through option 1.)

The post was going to end here, but I had to share. As if my day hasn't been sterling enough, just as I was finishing this, the Boy Child (remember he's 19; maybe I'd better find another name for him) walked in and he's pierced his lip! This is the child who, when he was small, had a health issue that required having blood drawn on a fairly regular basis for 2 years. Since then, he has been terrified of needles. He broke his thumb a couple years ago and when we took him and when we took him in to have it examined, he almost passed out. I truly never through he would attempt to be pierced or tattooed. And it's his lip. Sigh.

Monday, Monday

2006-10-09T16:33:00.000-07:00

Knitting continues on at a glacial pace. Not because I'm necessarily feeling bad, but because my left hand just won't cooperate with holding onto the needles for very long. I realized I was holding them in a death grip, but even consciously relaxing my hand hasn't allowed me to knit for too long.

So, in lieu of an knitting content, you get a cute cat picture. At least I think it's cute. From left to right you have Inky, Nubbs, and Mac. Ordinarily they are jockeying with each other for the exact same spot on the couch (obviously it's big enough for all of them), but for some reason yesterday, they actually slept together on the couch with Inky using Nubbs for a pillow and Nubbs using Mac for a pillow. Couldn't believe they actually cooperated for so long. Maybe it was yesterday afternoon's perfect napping weather.

Got It in 1

2006-10-06T14:37:00.000-07:00

You Belong in Fall

Intelligent, introspective, and quite expressive at times...
You appreciate the changes in color, climate, and mood that fall brings
Whether you're carving wacky pumpkins or taking long drives, autumn is a favorite time of year for you

What Season Are You?

Many thanks to all the kind birthday wishes. Despite the low-key nature of the day, I had a really, really great day. I went into work for a bit and my co-workers were wonderful. Came home and napped a bit followed by time with the family which I always (o.k., usually) enjoy.

I feel very, very blessed to have the friends and family I have.

46

2006-10-05T08:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to me! Well, I made it another year. Think I'll try for another.

No big whooping it up. I'm going into to work for a bit where there have been whispers that something's up. Then back home to rest for a bit before la familia gets together for a little get-together.

Shedir is kicking my butt. I've restarted it I don't know how many times and some always screws up. The head is getting a little chilly, so I'm giving up (for now) on Shedir and starting a different one. Haven't figured out which one yet, but I will very soon.

And hey, did ya notice I've made 2 posts in 1 week?

Don't Think I'm Gonna Make It

2006-10-03T11:40:00.000-07:00

Finishing Shedir before the hair's all gone, that is.

Fortunately I started with a pretty good head of hair, but this is about the amount I'm losing on a daily basis, so there's still a ways to go.

But I'm having a terrible time getting started on the pattern. I just can't seem to get the pattern set. I know once (if) I get the pattern set, I'll be fine, but I keep seeming to wind up with either too many stitches between the markers, or not enough. It's getting frustrating.

But I will prevail.

Happy Autumn

2006-09-24T10:28:00.000-07:00

Autumn has always been my favorite time of year. The gosh-awful heat around here usually has broken, so you can comfortably sit outdoors. We're heading into the holiday season. My birthday's coming (very soon). And lastly it's apple season.

I love apples. They're my favorite fruit. And Autumn means that it's time to go visit Oak Glen. Just as there's nothing better than picking your own nicely ripe tomato from your own garden, there's nothing better than heading up to Oak Glen and picking up some newly picked apples. (Or pick your own, but my energy level isn't quite up to that.)

So after the Boy Child's soccer game yesterday, we hopped on the motorcycle for a quick apple run. The Hubster's and my taste tends to run tart, so we picked up some Honey Golds and Jonagolds. I'm still not eating much in the way of solid food, but the apples are sitting quite well.

This little tableau was shot on my front porch. The milk can is a legacy from my grandfather's dairy farm. I keep it filled with season appropriate flowers. And the Happy Harvest shovel is from a Joann's sale. I like the look of the basket of apples there so much, I think I'll have to find some artificial ones and keep the basket out there through the fall season.

Today is also my cancerversary. I've been living with cancer for 4 years. I type that with a great deal of mixed emotion. Happy I'm still here. Sorrow for those I've known who couldn't beat this thing. Anger that they can't seem to find a cure. But mostly grateful for what they've been able to do to keep me alive these last 4 years.

I'm still knitting the Noro sweater. I'm to the point I don't think I'll ever finish. The end is so tantilizingly close, but I'm in that black hole where you knit and knit and your piece doesn't grow. (Course it's a little hard to accomplish much when you're only knitting 3 or 4 rows a day.) But I will get there.

If I don't finish soon, I may have to put the sweater on hiatus and start a Shedir from Knitty.com. This chemo is causing me to lose my hair again. For the third time. I've got plenty of scarves and wigs, although I may go for a new look in the wig department. But with the New Zealand trip coming up, I'd like a cap or two. Since I'm going to the land of wool, it'd be nice to have a stylish knit or two to have on the head. Anyone got any suggestions?

The New Normal ver. 3.2

2006-09-16T21:41:00.000-07:00

When I was first diagnosed with this damn disease, one of the first things I had to learn was that what had passed for my normal life was not ever going to be that version of normal ever again. The mad running around, on school committees, soccer committees, coaching and refereeing had to be dialed back to a level I never would have accepted pre-illness. Some things had to be cut out completely. And I despised my "new" life. Until I started recognizing that there had been a lot of chaf mixed in the wheat of my life, and getting rid of some of that wasn't such a bad thing.

And so I picked up the threads of this version of my life and soldiered on. And this new version wasn't half bad. I have been incredibly incredibly fortunate to have been able to work the whole time I've been under treatment, and do a fair amount of traveling and gardening and so forth when I felt up to it. There are a whole lot of women who undergo the same chemos and so forth who spend the the entire time on the couch. I had become very smug that I would just take whatever chemo came along and it would keep me going. Sounds like a pretty nasty way of life to most of you, but the last 4 years have been pretty damn good given the alternative. I know I'm getting pretty far out there on the longevity line for ovarian cancer. If you care for more satistics, check out my rant on June 5. I know I'm lucky.

And then the chemos stopped working and I've been giving you the Cliff Notes version of how thing's have been going since about mid-July. And I was back to thinking about how much this new version of my life sucks. I missed so many things: being in the hospital for the Boy Child's 19th birthday; screwing up on the KSKS deadline (I HATE DOING THAT); making an extremely weak finish to SP8, which includes not properly thanking my truly great pal; and missing my Blogaversary just to name a few. But you know what? The world didn't come to an end. And so while I don't feel great about it, I'm doing o.k.

I'm adjusting to this new version. My improved attitude probably has a lot to do with going outdoors for the first time in a week. (Seriously. I went to the dr. last Friday, came home and hadn't even stuck my nose out the door until this morning.) And why did I go out? To watch the Boy Child play soccer.

Since I missed giving him a proper birthday tribute on "the day" I'll do it now. God blessed me with a boy the likes of which there are very few. From the day of his birth to today, he never went through that stage where he wouldn't give me hugs and kisses in public. In fact one of the proudest days of my life (still) was when he was about 13. We were at a soccer tournament and he was going to go off with some friends to get some lunch while my husband and I stayed at the field. He gave me a hug, and 1 of his friends, in that usual boyish taunting tone says, "Oh, gotta give Mommy a kiss bye." To which he immediately responded, "That's right, *&$%#, because she deserves it." The hubster and I were walking away and allegedly not hearing what was going on, so it was all I could do to keep from turning around and ruin it by getting all mushy.

He graduated high school a year ago and he's still working out what he wants to do with his life. In the meantime he's working hard and doing all those things that 19 year olds like to do. I'm very blessed.

Oh, and if I haven't mentioned it before, he has mad soccer skillz.

My good mood also probably has a lot to do with the fact that at least 1 of the furballs that leave tons of hair all over everything did something to earn his keep.

I was on my usual spot on the couch last night when I heard one of the cats growling. Now, having 5 cats in the house usually means there's some growling and hissing going on from time to time. So I didn't think much about it until it continued for almost 10 minutes. So I started doing the kitty head count to see who was being so cranky. I have determined it wasn't Nubbs (he was busy with a piece of yarn), Inky was sleeping peacefully, and Mac was wandering around quietly. I could see all these critters from where I was sitting, so it was time to actually get off my butt and further investigate. Well, just about that time, L.B., going trotting out of the the kitchen into the family room carrying a mouse by the tail with Felicity in close pursuit. I yelled at the Hubster (poor man, I woke him out of a sound sleep in his recliner), and he popped up and retrieved L.B.'s "toy" for proper disposal. There had been no sounds of struggle or anything else, so I was quite surprised when the Hubster said that the mousey had gone to the great beyond.
That's only the 2nd mousey we've had show up in the house (the 2nd was when we moved in 10 years ago). It's nice to know that at least 1 of these furballs knows how to take care of business.

And some of my good mood could have something to do with the fact that maybe (just maybe) this chemo is doing some good. It's too early to know for sure, but some of the issues I've been having are lessening, so we'll just keep our fingers crossed.

Who knows, I may actually have some knitting content soon.

Long Time, No See

2006-09-04T18:25:00.000-07:00

Well, without going into too gory detail, chemo once again kicked my butt, and in fact put me in the hospital with extreme dehydration. Once I was in there, they discovered that I had blood clots in my lungs. So no more of that kind of chemo.

I've bascially been a sofa slug ever since. Lots of sleeping, and not much else. I take that back. I have been knitting a bit on my Noro sweater. I'm now about 18 inches from putting it all together. I may actually finish it before too long.

I'm now giving myself shots of blood thinner twice a day (which isn't as bad as it sounds), and have met the with doc's regarding which direction we're going to be moving. We start different chemo tomorrow, so we'll see how it goes.

Family and friends have been very helpful and supportive. The flowers were from my niece and her mom. That's about all the energy I have for now. Hopefully, I'll have a better post soon.

O.k., I Can Change My Mind, Can't I

2006-08-20T18:53:00.000-07:00

The Completed Mason Dixon Washcloth. I've decided I do like it done in variegated yarn. So sue me. But hey, I've got 1 xmas gift done. Woo Hoo!

It's been a very slow week. Chemo kicked my butt again. Not as bad as 3 weeks ago, but it wasn't pretty. I picked the aforesaid butt up off the couch last night and went to see Tim and Faith. Great concert. One question though. Why do they have to put the volume up so loud it makes your ears bleed? We were at the Staples Center, and I swear they could have heard the singing in Century City. I guess I'm just going to have to bring ear plugs from now on.

I should also be posting the sock yarn, book and tape meausre that my SP8 sent me. But I'm just too pooped. Nonetheless, thank you very much SP8. I love the colors of the yarn. The Hubster and I are having a bit of a tug-of-war as to who will wind up with these socks. Course, unless he learns to knit, I think we all know who will win, don't we?

Moving A Little Faster

2006-08-13T20:46:00.000-07:00

And just in time for the next round of chemo. Nonetheless, it was a productive weekend. The majority of it was spent working around the house so that when I'm laying on the couch feeling like s*$t, I won't have to look at the filth.

But there was fun stuff too. Friday night was spent at the Redlands Bowl. A truly lovely concert of Columbian and Venezuelan folk music.

Saturday morning I went to my first meeting of the Riverspinners. A small but extremely fun group of ladies. I enjoyed it very much and look forward to next month's meeting. In spite of the all the yakking, I was able to get a fair amount spun. This is some of the roving I got in Solvang. It's merino and I'm finding it quite a bit sticker than what I've worked with before. Not in a totally bad way though.

And I have an FO in spite of it all.
I'm calling these Libery Bay socks. It's the Dublin Bay pattern that's made the rounds on the blogs. The yarn is Lorna's Laces, Liberty colorway. I love the yarn so much, I'm making anklets from the leftovers. Don't quite have enough for a full pair of anklets, but I have some LL in white, so I'm knitting as far as I can with Liberty and then finishing off with the white. Or maybe knitting a bit, then a knitting a chunk of the foot in white and finishing off with Liberty for the toes. Or???? We'll see how I'm feeling once I get to that point.

Lastly, because I need another quick satisfaction project, I'm working on a Mason Dixon washcloth, bobbles and all. All I had was some varigated Peaches & Cream. Definitely not feeling the love. But it's good to hide the boo-boo's this first time around. Any more of these will definitely have to be done in solid colors. And there will be more. In fact many more. I'm thinking one of these with a handmade soap will make a lovely Xmas gift for quite a few peoples on my list.

Hope you have a lovely week.

Walking through Molasses

2006-08-10T13:18:00.000-07:00

Haven't had the energy to put together a decent post. So in lieu thereof, I give you the following that's been making the rounds.

Bold the ones you have done:

01. Bought everyone in the bar a drink
02. Swam with wild dolphins
03. Climbed a mountain
04. Taken a Ferrari for a test drive
05. Been inside the Great Pyramid
06. Held a tarantula
07. Taken a candlelit bath with someone
08. Said 'I love you' and meant it (Daily!)
09. Hugged a tree
10. Bungee jumped
11. Visited Paris
12. Watched a lightning storm at sea
13. Stayed up all night long and saw the sun rise
14. Seen the Northern Lights
15. Gone to a huge sports game (’99 Womens World Cup Final big enough?)
16. Walked the stairs to the top of the leaning Tower of Pisa
17. Grown and eaten your own vegetables
18. Touched an iceberg
19. Slept under the stars
20. Changed a baby's diaper
21. Taken a trip in a hot air balloon
22. Watched a meteor shower
23. Gotten drunk on champagne
24. Given more than you can afford to charity
25. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope
26. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment
27. Had a food fight
28. Bet on a winning horse
29. Asked out a stranger
30. Had a snowball fight
31. Screamed as loudly as you possibly can
32. Held a lamb
33. Seen a total eclipse
34. Ridden a roller coaster (Love 'em!)
35. Hit a home run
36. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking
37. Adopted an accent for an entire day (Actually did sign language all day)
38. Actually felt happy about your life, even for just a moment
39. Had two hard drives for your computer
40. Visited all 50 states
41. Taken care of someone who was drunk
42. Had amazing friends
43. Danced with a stranger in a foreign country
44. Watched wild whales
45. Stolen a sign
46. Backpacked in Europe
47. Taken a road-trip
48. Gone rock climbing
49. Midnight walk on the beach
50. Gone sky diving
51. Visited Ireland
52. Been heartbroken longer then you were actually in love
53. In a restaurant, sat at a stranger's table and had a meal with them
54. Visited Japan
55. Milked a cow (My gp’s had a dairy farm)
56. Alphabetized your cd's (Actually did it for my husband)
57. Pretended to be a superhero
58. Sung karaoke
59. Lounged around in bed all day
60. Posed nude in front of strangers
61. Gone scuba diving
62. Kissed in the rain
63. Played in the mud
64. Played in the rain
65. Gone to a drive-in theater
66. Visited the Great Wall of China
67. Started a business
68. Fallen in love and not had your heart broken
69. Toured ancient sites
70. Taken a martial arts class
71. Played D&D for more than 6 hours straight
72. Gotten married
73. Been in a movie
74. Crashed a party
75. Gotten divorced
76. Gone without food for 5 days
77. Made cookies from scratch
78. Won first prize in a costume contest
79. Ridden a gondola in Venice
80. Gotten a tattoo
81. Rafted the Snake River
82. Been on television news programs as an "expert"
83. Got flowers for no reason
84. Performed on stage
85. Been to Las Vegas (My FIL lives just outside of Vegas)
86. Recorded music
87. Eaten shark
88. Had a one-night stand
89. Gone to Thailand
90. Bought a house
91. Been in a combat zone
92. Buried one of your parents
93. Been on a cruise ship
94. Spoken more than one language fluently
95. Performed in Rocky Horror.
96. Raised children
97. Followed your favorite band/singer on tour
98. Created and named your own constellation of stars
99. Taken an exotic bicycle tour in a foreign country
100. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over
101. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge
102. Sang loudly in the car, and didn't stop when you knew someone was looking
103. Had plastic surgery
104. Survived an illness that you shouldn't have survived (So far, so good)
105. Wrote articles for a large publication
106. Lost over 100 pounds
107. Held someone while they were having a flashback
108. Piloted an airplane
109. Petted a stingray
110. Broken someone's heart
111. Helped an animal give birth
112. Won money on a T.V. game show
113. Broken a bone
114. Gone on an African photo safari
115. Had a body part of yours below the neck pierced
116. Fired a rifle, shotgun, or pistol (All 3 actually)
117. Eaten mushrooms that were gathered in the wild
118. Ridden a horse
119. Had major surgery
120. Had a snake as a pet
121. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
122. Slept for more than 30 hours over the course of 48 hours
123. Visited more foreign countries than U.S. states
124. Visited all 7 continents
125. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days
126. Eaten kangaroo meat
127. Eaten sushi
128. Had your picture in the newspaper
129. Changed someone's mind about something you care deeply about
130. Gone back to school
131. Parasailed
132. Petted a cockroach
133. Eaten fried green tomatoes
134. Read The Iliad - and the Odyssey
135. Selected one "important" author who you missed in school, and read
136. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
137. Skipped all your school reunions
138. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language
139. Been elected to public office
140. Written your own computer language
141. Thought to yourself that you're living your dream
142. Had to put someone you love into hospice care
143. Built your own PC from parts
144. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn't know you
145. Had a booth at a street fair
146: Dyed your hair
147: Been a DJ
148: Shaved your head (When I was losing my hair the first time)
149: Caused a car accident
150: Saved someone's life

Adventures in Spinning

2006-08-05T16:13:00.000-07:00

So Thursday when I said I’d fill you in on my adventures in spinning tomorrow, I really meant Saturday.

The adventure began at Village Spinning & Weaving in Solvang. It probably a good thing this store isn’t any closer to my home. Too much good stuff. (It’s bad enough they have an online catalog.) One of the owners (I wish I had gotten her name) greeted us warmly. At the time we were the only customers in the store, and when she found out I was a new spinner, she nicely asked questions about how much I knew and gave some great tips and ideas.

There was a cute moment during our conversation. The conversation turned to wheels, and when I told Owner Lady that I had just purchased a new (to me) wheel, the Hubster, who had been quietly following me around and listening to our conversation, piped up and told her that I had brought the wheel along with us camping. He was thinking (like most non-knitter/spinners) that such information would elicit an “isn’t-that-weird” type response from Owner Lady. Without batting an eye, Owner Lady says, “Oh, I know a lot of spinners who do that.” The look on the Hubster’s face was priceless.
Although some roving had come with the wheel and I had a pound (!) of plain Corridale roving, I could not leave that store empty-handed. The green is “English Wool”, and the other 3 are merino. Too pretty.

As we were driving away on vacation, I had spent exactly 2 ½ hours being taught how to spin on a spinning wheel. And not a minute of it on MY wheel. So it was with more than a bit of trepidation that I pulled the wheel out of the car at our campsite. After all, I was in a rather public forum. We had the premiere site (#4) there at Limekiln. It one of 2 that looks directly out onto the ocean. At some point, just about everybody who visits eventually walks by on the way to the beach.
But the Big Sur mojo was strong. I tied up a leader on the bobbin, and started spinning. I started with the roving that came with the wheel. It was a bit rough, and I was a bit rough, but the rhythm soon came, and before I knew it, I had spun up all of the dark brown. So then I picked up the off-white. It was feeling good. And I was garnering a fair bit of attention from my fellow campers. The kids were really funny, because they were usually the ones to stop and look while the adults were trying to take surreptitious peeks at what I was doing. And the Hubster invited them in (cause he loves to talk--he’s the talker in the family), and I gave several mini-lessons. It helped that I could b.s. my way through most of it cause after all, what did anybody else know? One of the other campers even asked if he could video me.

Before too long, I was ready to try plying in which I had had no instruction whatsoever, so I read what the book I had brought along had to say, and dove it. Success!
Altogether I have almost 300 yards of 2-ply (mostly) crappy yarn. I’m thinking I’ll make a hat or some such out of it.

After I emptied the bobbins, my new purchases were calling me. I decided to try the English Wool. I really like the colors in the roving, and I figured I might be fairly successful with it. Was I ever.
So far I have 2 bobbins of lace weight that I am absolutely in love with, and I‘ve only used half of the package. Now to find the perfect lace pattern. Any suggestions?

On the way home, we made another pit stop in Solvang and made a few more purchases. 2 more English Wools (the Hubster already has dibs on the blue roving), and 1 more Merino.
What with all this, the alpaca my secret pal sent me, and the Corridale, I’ll have plenty to spin for quite a while. Spinning is something I’ve always (I’m talking like since I was a kid) been intrigued by, and I’m so glad I’ve jumped in. While knitting has been, and will continue to be, very therapeutic, spinning is very quickly developing a higher therapeutic zone. I’m finding it very meditative. Not that I necessarily have to put my whole focus into what I’m doing, but the rhythm of it is very, very soothing.

Lucky Girl

2006-08-03T20:07:00.000-07:00

As promised, full disclosure of what my Knit Sock Kit Swap pal sent me.

When I got home from chemo last Friday, there was a package sitting on my couch, and I had no idea what it could be. A look at the return address told me it was from Debbie in Lincoln, Massachusetts. ????? What the heck was this? I opened the package, removed the (color-coordinated) blue and green tissue paper, and found this:

It was sure purdiful, but I still wasn't sure why Debbie had sent it to me. I opened it up and looked in: Duh! Head slap! (Well, it would have been a head slap if I had been feeling better) My KSKS pal had definitely come through.

I wish I could say I spent the time on Friday closely appreciating my lovely gift. In truth, once the mystery was solved, I set it on the end table (and gazed at it often), but that's about as far as it went until Sunday.

I was feeling slightly more human Sunday afternoon, and was able to give my gift a proper inspection. Some Lorna's Laces in the Island Blue colorway. Delicious. Fiber Trends Walking Away Socks pattern. 3-in-1! The DPN's and stitch markers to do the job. And some Massachusetts chocolates which I am only just now beginning to think about taste-testing. Oh yeah, and a lovely card which I still can't find in this *#*%&#! mess.

But the bag! A class act. Both the inside and outside materials match perfectly. Love the colors. The workmanship on the bag is first rate. And the handle is the perfect finish.

Once again, my dear, my bow down to your handiwork. Perfect in every way. Thank you veddy much.
And last but not least, the cats love the box (as evidenced by Nubbs).

Tomorrow, adventures in spinning!

Back Among the Living

2006-08-02T20:04:00.000-07:00

Literally.

When I say last week kicked my butt, it kicked my butt unlike just about any other time in my treatment. The chemo itself wasn't so bad, but when you combine it with not having eaten a real meal in over a week, a bloated belly, and anesthesia for the new port-o-cath, and it was all just too much.

The first paracentisis removed almost 5 liters of fluid from my abdomen. Monday morning I had another that removed another 3 liters. I've lost a total of 13 pounds (not a weight-loss method I'd recommend) since the 24th of July.

But, the fluid removal made room for food, and as I'm able to eat decent food, I'm slowly on the road to recovery. And the fluid isn't coming back as quickly as before which is a hopeful sign that this chemo is working.

Enough of the ugly stuff. I'm so far behind it isn't even funny. The house is beyond a disaster, but I take it as a sign of good things that I'm starting to care.

I need to say right here a public THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU to the Lincoln Knitter (whose card I of course can't find in the mess, so that's all the info you get for now) for the outstanding, fantastic, super deluxe knit sock kit swap. It came while I was feeling my most horrible, so I haven't even emailed her to let her know I received it. As I get to feeling more capable of actually operating a camera, there will be a blog post that is truly worthy of her creation. Lady, you nailed it! The colors are perfect and the bag is a work of art. I bow down to your superlative skills. I am truly grateful.

And because I already had this on the computer and managed to upload this with only 2 trys, a picture of me spinning at our campsite of Big Sur (more on that soon too).

Thanks to one and all for all the prayers and good thoughts. I'm feeling your positive energy, and I know that it's helping me get through the bad stuff.

Out of the Fog (Temporarily)

2006-07-30T19:55:00.000-07:00

Long story short, Big Sur was everything it has always been, but I was not. I started having bloating issues during vacation that only got worse as time went on. I was able to spin some everyday (it was amazing) and made two fantastic stops at Village Spinning & Weaving.

Without getting too graphic, this week has involved a new chemo regime that is kicking my butt, a paracentisis which provided some greatly needed relief, and a new port-o-cath placed which greatly improved drug delivery. It's been a nasty horrid week, and right now I just don't have the wherewithal to put a pretty face on it.

I've got lots positive to blog about, just no energy to do it. Just wanted to check in and let you all (6 of you) know that I'm still alive, at least for now.

If I'm Dreaming Don't Wake Me Up

2006-07-14T08:15:00.000-07:00

After a really really really long day at City of Hope Wednesday and arriving home in a truly foul mood, I discovered that my wheel had arrived.

Isn’t she purdy? (Pictured next to my car for proportion purposes.) Even with its diminuative size, I’m going to be able to sit on a regular chair to spin as the orifice and treadle are both at just the right height. I was slightly (o.k., a lot) torqued that the wheel arrived with no hooks on the flyer, but the seller was so apologetic I couldn’t stay mad for long. We were able to remedy that problem quickly. It also came with a really great book printed in Australia from the early ‘80’s that has tons and tons of really great information.

I lamented to the Hubster that it wasn’t fair that the wheel came 3 days before vacation and (half) jokingly said we should take it along. He says, “We could do that. It’s small enough, it’ll fit in the car.” So I will get to spend a portion of every day attempting to spin in some of the most gorgeous scenery God has ever made.

But that’s not all! Whilst doing my research regarding all things having to do with spinning, I came across Village Spinning & Weaving located in Solvang, Cali. It is a mere 190 (or 202 miles depending on which map search you use) from home. Literally on the way. I provided this information to the Hubster, and he says we should stop in!

The Hubster has been incredibly curious (in the most delightful way possible) about all things having to do with spinning—from how the wheel works to different kinds of roving, fleece and how it’s all prepared. As a wise man once told me, if you want to learn something well, teach it to someone else. I’m feeling rather proud of myself that I’ve been able to answer just about ever single one of his questions so far. And there have been a lot of questions.

I took my first spinning class on Tuesday, and it was rather frustrating at first. Suddenly, the light dawned, and I was getting the draft-pull-release-whatchacallit rhythm for a bit. It was still crappy yarn, but I was spinning! Hopefully the frustration factor won’t be too high since I’ll be combining both wheel adjustment and learning to spin.

But much more than the wheel is going with me on vacation. Obviously there will be roving, but also my Noro Silk Garden yarn and the Bettna pattern, together with Amelie and my Liberty/Dublin Bay socks. I mean, that’s not so much is it? A 6-7 car drive each way; 2 hour drive up to San Jose and back to pick up the in laws and return them to the airport at the end of the week, and lots of campfire knitting. Hope I don’t run short of projects. ;-)

So bright and (hopefully) early tomorrow morning we will be heading out to some lovely cool weather, gorgeous scenery, lots of time with my wonderful soulmate, and super-fibery pastimes. If I’m dreaming, don’t wake me up.
We are going to the hinterlands, so we’ll be completely (not even cell phone service up there) out of touch until next weekend.

Catch you on the other side!

What Do You Mean It's the 10th?

2006-07-10T16:21:00.000-07:00

I kept telling myself that I'd get to blogging over the weekend. But here it is Monday afternoon and still no blog post. And I've got so much to share--Amelie is almost done; the first Liberty sock is done; and I've swatched for my vacation project.

Oh, and I got some sock yarn from Scout for my KSKS. And that's coming together splendidly, if I do say so myself (but that's for another post). The yarn is 100% superwash merino and it feels so good. What did I get? Puesta del Sol (or Sunset, for you Angleesh speakers). And I'm feeling pretty skippy that she let me name the yarn. Did you click on the link? Go do it now. I'll wait. Go on.

Isn't it the most gorgeous stuff? It's even prettier in person than it is in the picture. After vacation, I've got to get me some of this stuff for myself.

Speaking of vacation, I spent the weekend making sure the trailer was properly provisioned, and doing laundry. Such an exciting life I lead. Thursday will be food procuring, and then it's off we go at 0'dark 30 Saturday morning. Cool temp's here I come!

Happy 4th Y'all

2006-07-04T11:08:00.000-07:00

We are preparing to do the stereotypical 4th of July stuff. The University of Redlands does a fantastic fireworks show, so as soon as the Germany/Italy game is over, I've been tagged this year to go get out and get our place in line. The weather seems to be cooperating, for once. It's been cloudy almost all day, which has kept it in the 80's instead of the 100's of the past few days. The humidity I could do without, but I'm not going to complain (too much).

I've got my knitting lined up to keep me company--I've started the neck decreases on Amelie and she's coming with me as well as the Liberty socks I started during the U.S./Czech Republic game. That and some liquid (non-alcoholic) refreshment should keep me in good shape until the rest of la familia joins me after the gates open.

Hope you all have a happy and safe 4th!

Trying for Cool Thoughts

2006-07-02T20:12:00.000-07:00

How much can you get done in 100+ degree weather? Apparently quite a bit. Of course, there’s very little on the list that I truly wanted to get done this weekend. But it’s just too darn hot.

1. I finished the guy socks. By the end of them I was ready to pull my hair out. These were just too boring for words. But, these were a test knit to see exactly how they’d fit the Hubster. He will get better (all around) socks in the future.

2. Watched England lose. I swear, Rooney needs to grow up. You don’t ever foul like that when the ref is 3 yards away. You’re gonna get thrown out every time. First Beckham 8 years ago and now Rooney. Someone needs to speak to those English lads.

3. Watched France win. Woo Hoo! I am a huge Arsenal fan, and have thought that Henry is a class act from the word go. I’ve been rooting for them and I was just thrilled to see Zidane and Henry connect for the game winner. (We’ll just be good winners and won’t talk bad about Ronaldo, ‘K?)

4. Knit the Baby Kimono from Mason Dixon Knitting. I had a couple balls of the Peaches N Cream in the Pink Lilacs color way and needed another quick gratification project. Mission accomplished.

5. Clean both bathrooms top to bottom. This actually was in the original plan. So was cleaning the rest of the house. A few other small parts look pretty good, but one can only sweat just so much before one gives up.

6. Attended a wedding. Lots of fun. A truly lovely couple and I think this one’s going to last quite a while.

7. Got some goodies in the mail. First, I won a contest on Rachele’s blog (recognizing the lyrics of an ‘80’s song). The prize was “goofy Japanese stuff" from the "100 yen store.” Love it all. The fan is certainly coming in handy in this weather. Some cute chopsticks. A little drawstring bag. A sushi eraser (good thing that was in English. I kind of thought it was candy). And 4 little bars of dark chocolate. Wish our $1 stores had such good stuff.

And last but not least, a package from my SP8 pal. A bottle of Euclan. Yeah! I keep thinking I’m going to get some for myself, but my pal took care of it fore me. And 2 skeins of lovely green alpaca yarn. I have no idea what I’m going to make with it, but it’ll sure be fun thinking about it. It will, however, be tucked away until it’s a little cooler. Oh, yeah, and there was chocolate in that package too. But it disappeared too fast to get a picture. Thanks Pal!

Sorry for the picture quality, but there’s no way I’m stepping 1 foot outside the door and make use of the natural light. You’ll have to make do with the cruddy flash.

Well, it’s 8:45 now and, according to Accuweather.com, it’s still 88 degrees. It feels hotter than that. But, I have no clean clothes for work tomorrow. Yes, I’m working tomorrow. With a skeleton crew and things very quiet, it’s almost like not working. At least I know the office will be nice and cold.

Oh well, off to do some laundry.

Did I Move . . .

2006-06-27T20:59:00.000-07:00

. . . and somebody forgot to tell me? It is so humid, I swear I’m living in Florida. It’s 9:00 p.m. here, and according to Accuweather, it’s 87 degrees and 29% humidity. Yeah, yeah, yeah, I know 29% is nothing for most folks, but this is desert people. I have family in Miami and right about now, I‘m sure the humidity is somewhere in the 80% range. I absolutely could not live like that. But here, we are keeping the house closed up for the 3rd day in a row. Usually by this time of night we’re able to open up windows and enjoy the cool outside. Ish.

Enough complaining about the weather. I’ll complain about something else. Just kidding.

Dad is keeping us hopping. His recovering nicely from his surgery, but now has an erratic blood pressure. If it isn’t one thing it’s 14 others. As a result I’m not getting much knitting done. I’ve started the toe decreases on the socks and that’s about it.

Since I have no knitting pictures worth sharing, I’ll share my baby pumpkin. I was all set to have a little garden this year, but all I managed to get planted was the pumpkins, some onions and some bush beans. This little critter is the Small Sugar pumpkin from Burpee. They’re supposed to be good eating pumpkins that get no more than 10”. I probably have half a dozen currently on the vines with this one being the biggest--about softball size. The vine was growing up the palm tree (that’s the background in the picture), but I came home from work this evening and it appears the weight of the fruit pulled it down. No harm done though.

And for the finale, I’ll leave you with a picture of the evening’s clouds out my back window.

Organized Fidgeting

2006-06-26T07:21:00.000-07:00

How much knitting can be done in 4 days--2 spent at the hospital and 2 melting in the heat at a tournament? On Amelie, from the neck up plus 21 cm's of the front. And about 10 cm's of ribbing through to what you see on the guy socks. Pretty good, eh?

Thursday, my dad had surgery on his nose. Instead of the outpatient procedure that was originally planned, the doctor decided to keep him through Saturday afternoon. My father is not what anyone would call a good patient. And he's absolutely the worst with my mother. So all of Thursday and a large part of Friday was spent with him. While he napped I knitted. When he wasn't napping, I attended to him.

Saturday, Mom had hospital/dad duty and the Hubster and I went to a celebration of life for a good friend, followed by a long drive to a tournament in Temecula where we have traditionally evaluated the referees. We always plan on it being hot, but there's some front going through that made it miserably humid too. Ick!

But I knit. In fact I did a bit of extreme knitting. At one point the wind kicked up so bad, I felt like I was in a hurricane. No pictures. The camera was in the car and I was out on the fields.

And as for the title. This tournament I was at was named for the gentlemen I told you about a few days ago who came up with red and yellow cards in soccer--Ken Aston. A true English gentleman in every sense of the word. One of the things I loved about him was the quirky turns of phrase he would come up with. And I was reminded this weekend that he called all of the needle arts "Organized Fidgeting." I don't know about you, but I think it's the perfect description of what I do. In fact, in the hospital waiting room there was a lady who just couldn't sit still. Every few minutes she was messing with something--her purse, her clothes, the chair, a book. Oi! It was getting on my nerves. I would like to say I was serenely sitting there with my knitting, except that I was having trouble with the gusset decreases on the socks at that point, but I was close.

So now I'm off to work where I'm staying in at lunch (too darn hot and humid) for some more organized fidgeting.

Bad Daughter

2006-06-21T08:17:00.000-07:00

For those of you totally out of touch with reality, today is Wednesday. Father’s Day was Sunday—3 days ago. If I was a good daughter, I would have made this post Sunday. Instead, in the seemingly continual state of never catching up, I’m posting it today. So for a little bit, let’s all just pretend it’s Sunday, shall we?

My father is a remarkable man. Few people alive today have experienced half of what he has. The Depression. World War II. Being a POW in World War II. Have one child predecease him. Watching the other child battle cancer. Those are the downers, and while they shaped him, they did not break him.

He has had a number of “careers” in this lifetime. In no particular order: Printer (back in the days of typesetting), Locksmith, Ordinance (Bomb) Inspector, Furniture Store Owner, Emergency Medical Technician, B-17 (plane) Navigator, Police Reserve Officer, Management Analyst, Gunsmith, Prison Guard, Airplane Mechanic. Not bad for a man who “only” possesses a high school diploma.

There wasn’t much he didn’t know (which was frustrating in the extreme to this teenager); and what he didn’t know, he took measures to learn. Until I was well into my 30’s, there was very little he couldn’t fix. Up to a couple years ago, not one plumber, roofer, electrician, painter, carpenter or mechanic ever set foot on our property to do a job.

He was an older dad (40 when I was born) before the days it became trendy. Not that that got in the way of things. We did lots as a family—camping, hiking, playing together. He (and my mom) were always there for everything—recitals, concerts, softball games, track meets, girl scouts. You name it, I could always count on looking out in the sea of faces and picking out my dad.

He and I have had a difficult relationship through the years. Our personalities are too similar, I suspect. He’s 86 now, and is showing down. Way down. It’s so hard watching this previously vibrant, active man now shuffling across the room and needing help to do even simple things. But that’s all part of the life cycle, I guess.

If you can’t hear it in my description of him, let me state that I love this man with all my heart and soul, and I am eternally grateful that God assigned him to be my dad.

DyeO-Rama Update

2006-06-20T08:35:00.000-07:00

As I told my swap pal, this swap was the toughest I've ever participated in. I was aboslutely, positively a WTF'er before this started, and I still am after. And while I'm not over the top over my offerings, I can live with them.

My pal likes purples and reds, so that's what I went with. On the left is "Flashback"; on the right is "Old Roses" Old Roses is very close (at least on my monitor) to true color. No matter what I did--indoor/outdoor/flash/no flash--I just couldn't get Flashback to photograph color true. In real life, Flashback is lots of shades of purples and turquoises/lt. blues. Flashback gets it's name from the tie-dyed shirt with those colors that I used to have when I was a kid.

Old Roses was immersion dyed on the stove using Kool-Aid Grape and Black Cherry flavors mixed. Flashback was handpainted and solar dyed using Paas Easter egg dye for the blues and Wilton cake dye in violet for the purples.

But this is the real charmer. This is what my swap pal, Jenna sent me. She named it "Earth Song" and the title is spot on. The colors are perfect. She took what little bit of information I gave her and ran with it. P.E.R.F.E.C.T. She also included a sling bag (what the yarn is laying on) for then the need to carry an extra project or 2 (or 6) is needed. Thank you Jenna!

I'm Melting!

2006-06-18T19:34:00.000-07:00

**This isn't actually a long, boring text post. There is a cute cat picture at the end.**

I'm not really. It's pretty warm here, but since we've been working around the house all weekend, I'm tired of sweating!

Before I get to that, though, let me start with Friday night. To me, there's not much better in life than music. Unless it's live music. And there's not much better in life than live music. Unless it's live music in an intimate setting. And there's not much better in life than live music in an intimate setting out under the stars. Well, baby, we got the whole package. Big Bear Lake was having a jazz festival this weekend, and we got to go up and see Acoustic Alchemy. If you like guitar, this is a group you have to hear!

Acoustic Alchemy and I go way back. In the early '90's, I was a single parent, working full-time, and going to school. Study time was at a premium. Usually on my lunch hour, and then maybe 4 hours sometime during the weekend. In order to focus, I developed quite a CD collection of instrumental music. (Yes, children, this is what we had to do before iPod's and the like.) I'd pop in a CD and block out the rest of the world. Back then, they were of a genre called "New Age."

I got the opportunity to see them at a club back then, and then a number of times since. Things have changed a little over the years, and now they're called "Smooth Jazz" (but they're playing the same music--go figure).

My birthday present 4 years ago was to go see them. Instead, I was in the hospital facing cancer surgery, and too sick to care, frankly. The Hubster emailed them to say how bummed we were that we weren't going to be able to see them. About 2 weeks later, I was home recuperating when the mail came. Those sweet guys has sent me a handwritten note, and included autographed photos and their latest CD. Very sweet.

Anyway, we got to go up and listen to them on Friday, and it was a great show. The show was held outside at the Big Bear Discovery Center (A perfect use of tax dollars and public access, IMHO.) Nobody was more than about 150 feet from the stage. Almost 2 solid hours of music. Wunderbar!

Got a late start on working around the house the next morning; slowed down even more cause we HAD to watch the US Men's (and this time they were MEN) team play. And play they did. Too bad they had such a sucky ref.

Just so's you know--I've ref'ed for almost 30 years (besides coaching, playing, teaching, etc.) I generally don't rag on ref's I met Ken Aston, the gentleman who "invented" the red and yellow cards. He always said that cards were to be given out like money--before you gave one out, you had to be sure you were going to get something in return. This entire WC, the ref's have been tossing the cards out like candy. And not getting a damn thing in return, far as I an see. And 2 red cards against our boys. For NOTHING! I can hear Ken spinning in his grave in England from here.

Ah well, after the game, I got the Boy Child's blinds up with a little help from the Hubster. Rearranged the furniture to account for 2 new (to us) recliners. They are very comfy, and I think I really like the set-up. Course, it's greatly enhanced by the second ceiling fan the Hubster installed in our living room. 1 fan at one end of a long and narrow room just doesn't work. And of course, lots of general house cleaning.

So, of course, very little knitting got done. I'm knitting the Hubster socks (the Kroy yarn in Flax from the Sisterhood). Just plain guy socks--not worth a picture yet. I am trying a new technique and do them 2 at a time on circulars. Couldn't get them started on the circ's. So I started them one at a time on DPN's and then transferred them to the circ's. It's working out pretty well.

And, since every post deserves a picture, here's Mac. In the furniture-moving-around, the sofa cushions were all caddywampus, and Mac decided it made a nice house. She's busy making sure Inky doesn't get the same idea. (Excuse the dirty sofa cushions--10 years of kids does that. It's normally hidden by a slipcover.)

That's the weekend in a nutshell.

Lucky, Lucky Girl

2006-06-16T14:47:00.000-07:00

The next time I'm aggravated at my husband, will someone please shove this post under my nose and remind me what a sweetie he really is?

I've been trolling for a spinning wheel for a while now. I know you're supposed to go try a bunch of wheels and perform all kinds of rituals before buying one, but I've never been one to do things the "right" way. I've gone so far as to bid on a couple of wheels on eBay without success. Well, I found one. Given that the price was over an amount I feel comfortable just plunking down without consulting with the Hubster, I called him. The conversation went like this:

Me: Hey, what do you think of me buying an early birthday present? For me?

Hubster: I suppose it's a spinning wheel?

Me: Yup.

Hubster: Sure, go ahead. I suppose you'll fill be in on the particulars later?

Me: Yup.

Please note that the conversation contained no exclamations of dismay, sighing or hesitation whatsoever.

Gotta love a man like that. Wheel details once it's in my greedy little hands.

Hanging Out in Margaritaville

2006-06-15T07:42:00.000-07:00

Oh yes I am. See?

My Spring Feet socks from my pal Abigail. Abi named them Margaritaville, and the names fits exactly. To steal from Mary Poppins (shocking!), they are "practically perfect in every way." I don't care that it was 90+ degrees yesterday, I didn't want to take them off.

Continuing the theme, this is what she put the socks in to send to me.

Hysterical! Not 1 but 2 different kinds of margarita mixes (lime and strawberry), complete with salt, sugar and a little ceramic ring to do your glasses up right. Already making plans to put this to good use.

But that's not all! (That makes me sound like an infomercial, doesn't it?) The mailman also delivered this.
I swapped with Trek for this ultra, ultra cool sock bag. When I saw she had music-themed material, my willpower dissolved. The inside is a really pretty floral print. This is a complete and total endorsement of Trek's bags. If you knit on small projects at all, you've got to have one. I've sewn for many, many, many years, and this is quality work, people. (Yes, I looked closely at seams and everything. She's even matched the lines all the way around the bag. For you non-sewers, that is a true sign of quality.)

Thank you so much Trek. Job well done.

KSKS info

2006-06-14T22:56:00.000-07:00

Gonna get this out of the way for Scout's Knit Sock Kit Swap:

What are your favorite colors? Green in any way, shape or form. Lately I've been attracted to turquoise, oranges and yellows.

Are you a new sock knitter? No. How long have you been knitting socks? Only about a year, but now I seem to always have one on the needles.

Do you prefer solid or multicolored yarn? No preference

What fibers do you prefer in sock yarn? No preference, although I do lean more toward easily washable matreial.

Where do you usually knit socks? Anywhere and everywhere. They're the perfect portable project.

How do you usually carry/store small projects? I just got a sock bag from Trek. Otherwise I've been using baggies.

What are your favorite sock knitting patterns? I've really been enjoying the Socks, Socks, Socks book.

What are your favorite sock knitting techniques? Cuff down on DPN's.

What new techniques would you like to try? I don't know. Surprise me.

Do you prefer circulars or dpns for sock knitting? DPN's

What are some of your favorite yarns? For socks: Socks That Rock and Lorna's Laces.

What yarn do you totally covet? Ummmmmmmmm . . .

Any pattern you would love to make if money and time were no object?

Favorite kind of needles (brand, materials, straights or circs, etc)? I don't play favorites.

If you were a specific kind of yarn, which brand and kind of yarn would you be? Misti Alpaca lace weight.

Do you have a favorite candy or mail-able snack? Dark chocolate (or licorice).

What’s your favorite animal? Once again, I don't play favorites.

Do you have pets? What are their species/names/ages? Dogs: Candy/12/cocker mix. Daisy/3/beagle-lab. Eowyn/1-1/2/Great Pyrenees. Cats: Nubbs, Inky, Mac, Felicity and L.B.--all 2-5 years.

If you were a color what color would you be? Forest green

Describe your favorite shirt (yours or someone else’s).. Peasant blouse. What can I say, I'm a child of the 60's?

What is your most inspiring image, flower, or object in nature? I love roses

Tell me the best quote you’ve ever heard or read. Life is not measured by the breaths you take but by the moments that take your breath away.

Do you have a wishlist? Nope

Anything else you’d like to share with the group today? Have a nice day!

Can I Have Some Catch-Up With That?

2006-06-14T06:36:00.000-07:00

As you can read on the Sisterhood’s blog, a week ago, I got some houseguests. And very welcome houseguests they were. So polite and neat. Yes, the yarn and I had a lovely time. They spent a lot of time with my yarn, getting to know one another. It wasn’t too long though before it became obvious that some of the yarn wasn’t quite ready to settle down here, while others really wanted to stay here with me and my family.

I talked with my yarn and asked if there was anybody with the traveling bug. And a number of them piped up. And so, while I enjoyed have them while they were with me, it was time to say goodbye to some truly lovely yarn. On the right is a sweater’s worth of Sidar Denim. In the lower left corner are 3 skeins of Cascade 220. The red is some Kroy sock yarn. Next to that is some Soy Silk. I made a great triangular scarf out of 1 skein. I hope someone really enjoys it. And then there’s some Joselyn Fiber Farms Dancing Feet. Lovely yarn. And last but not least, some Noro.

Here's a family photo of the yarns that decided to stay. Not included in the picture is some shy Kroy Sock yarn that is currently hiding out on the needles in my knitting bag. I traded out a pattern book too--Dale of Norway for Jaeger. This really was a lot of fun. I would try this again in a heartbeat.

And so the box is on it's way to ????? I'll never tell. I'll give you a hint though. It's on a long trip.

Speaking of knitting bag, look at the knitting bag I won from Designer Hand Knits in Riverside. (I really have to push Nancy harder to get a website.) I’ve been looking at this bag for a while, but it was a bit too extravagant. During her anniversary sale, anyone who made a purchase was put in a drawing for one of several prizes. Too cool. It’s large enough for my knitting and my regular purse paraphernalia. If this post wasn't so long, I'd show you the interior with all the neat little extras. My personal favorite is the yarn guides on each side of the bag. Love it!

Here’s the FO I was talking about the other day. It’s Cascade Yarns Bollicine Yarn. 70% kid mohair and 30% acrylic. It was a joy to knit with. So soft, and only a tiny bit sticky. I think the acrylic in the yarn helped that a lot. I can’t even tell you where I got the pattern from, it’s been so long ago, but it’s low effort/high satisfaction quotient kind of knit.

And last but not least, I have to show you what my Mama’s working on. I’m mentioned my nephew is expecting (oh, you know what I mean), and Mama wanted a portable baby project. So this is the Baby Bib from MDK. She has no idea what the color way is as the ball band has long since vanished into the mists. But it's so cute.

In the knitting bag is a pair of father’s day socks (the Kroy yarn mentioned above), and the Orsa Wrap which is my World Cup Knitting project. I have yet to knit a stitch on that as yet. Hopefully at lunch tomorrow. Provided I’m not napping. (But that's for another post.)

That sort of catches things up. For the next 30 seconds anyway.

And That's All I'm Going to Say About That

2006-06-12T13:38:00.000-07:00

The U.S./Czech game was an embarassment. The boys (can't call them men) looked scared before they even stepped on the field, and they acted like it through the entire game. No offense whatsoever. Come on people, they didn't get called offside even once. Where's our National Team? They aren't in Germany.

And that's all I'm going to say about that.

I was up at 5:00 this morning. Couldn't sleep. Too much happening lately. I'm hoping things quiet down soon. Unlike my usual M.O. (sitting on my butt drinking coffee) however, I got a surprising amount done.

1. Finished a shawl I have not mentioned even once. It's blocking as we speak.
2. Wrote a note to my Spring Feet pal. The socks I blocked last night were not quite dry, so I can't mail them till tomorrow, but everything's ready as soon as they dry.
3. Overdyed my Dye-O-Rama skein. What I had was close to what I wanted to send away, but there were a few areas that needed a little extra attention. It's solar cooking as we speak, and hopefully tonight it will rinse out and be ready to go out by Wednesday.
4. Started another pair of socks. Not the ones I need to have done by Sunday. I started a pair using Lorna's Laces Liberty (Red, White & Blue). Was trying to give our guys a little mojo, you know?
5. Worked on the Boy Child's new curtains. He starts his new job tonight. He'll be working the night shift at a "major home improvement center", stocking and cleaning the store. Since that means he won't be sleeping until daylight, he needs some black-out curtains. I got some dark navy twill to make a roman shade for his big window, and a tailored curtain for the smaller window. I'll have them done enough that his room will be dark by tomorrow morning, but I probably won't be able to have them properly installed until the weekend.

Whew, I'm tired just looking at that. I've got to finish up work, and then hopefully, pictures of most, if not all that stuff tonight.

Bad Day, Good Day

2006-06-11T22:25:00.000-07:00

I have so much I want to blog about (World Cup, Spring Feet, Dye-O-Rama, Secret Pal, Sisterhood of the Traveling Stash and other goodies too), but instead I'm just too whipped.

Boy child had another tournament this weekend. I was managing to get through Friday night and Saturday until (while I was in the middle of refereeing a soccer game) one of BC's teammates comes running up to tell me that BC had had a car accident (yes, he was driving) up the street. He told me BC was o.k., but I have to admit the last 5 minutes of the game were something of a blur.

We got to the corner and found that a guy had gone through the red light and smack into the BC's new (to him) one-week-old car. (*$&@#^%!!!) BC's fine, his friends are fine; the car not so much. Tomorrow we get to play with the insurance adjusters. Can't wait.

Once we got through the stress of getting the report and car towed and all that, I was exhausted! And no, I did NOT get to KIP. Not even 1 stitch.

He was stiff and tired this morning and ready to have a quiet day. I was not at all upset about that idea. When he learned the team won the semi-final, he suddenly perked up and was ready to charge to the fields (an hour away). This scared mama wasn't thrilled about his going, but he is 18 and he has always been raised to listen to his body.

I shouldn't have worried. He played a fantastic game. Didn't even act like he was stiff. Of course I was watching him like a hawk, ready to have the coach yank him if I saw even one little twitch.

And the team won! 1st place in the tournament. At least the weekend ended well.

So I have hope for tomorrow. I'm taking a mental health morning from work to watch the US play, and I'm hoping to get some things done (maybe a lot if the game gets too nerve wracking) before I have to go to work. So hopefully, there will be lots of posting tomorrow. Don't hold your breath though.

Just So's You Know

2006-06-08T19:37:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow starts a month of total bliss in my little world. The World Cup.

My family loves soccer, from playing, to refereeing, to teaching, to coaching, to watching. One of the highlights of my life was sitting in the Rose Bowl watching the Women's World Cup in 1999. And I've spent many, many, many an hour watching my kids play. In fact, that's where I'll be this weekend. Again.

Most of the first round games start at 6:00 or 7:00 in the morning here on the Left Coast. You don't even have to guess what I’ll be doing? And with the nightly offering of drivel on t.v., I will be Tivo’ing the rest of the day’s games for nightly entertainment, followed by early bed so I can get up the next day and start all over again. Can’t wait. (Course, we don’t want to go into the withdrawals I’ll be having come July 10th.) I’m nervous about the U.S.’s chances. They haven’t shown well in games leading up to this, but one never knows.

So, if soccer bores you, just skip over my commentary, straight to my knitting. Cause, obviously, that’s what I’ll be doing while watching the games. I’ve joined Yarn Monkey’s Knitting World Cup. The plan is to finish the Orsa Wrap. And hopefully several, er, a few other projects too.

Right at the moment, I'm agonizing over the L.A. Galaxy's lack of defense. The Galaxy is playing Chivas, and losing 2-0. Oh! Just as I say that Galaxy scores a goal. So they're only sucking half as bad. There have been years that they don't start exactly hot, but this year, I think the team has forgotten how to play soccer.
Such is the live of the soccer fan. Oh well, tomorrow's the World Cup. {Little Happy Dance.}

Let the Games begin! (Oops, that’s the Olympics, isn’t it. Oh well, it still fits.)

World's Fastest Project

2006-06-07T07:49:00.000-07:00

As I was kitchenering the toe of my second Spring Feet sock, I realized I had totally and completely screwed it up. Frogged it all the way back to the beginning of the decreases.

In an attempt to alleviate some of my angst, I decided I needed some quick gratification.

Being blinder than a bat, I have worn glasses since I was 8. I used to wear contacts, but with all the meds I take my eyes have dried up and I'm stuck with prescription glasses. I had transition lenses for a while and hated them. My last pair I got regular lenses, but the frames come with these handy dandy sunglasses that clip on the front with magnets. Love 'em! A hard case came with the glasses to hold the 2 pieces, but it's big. And since I'm wearing the glasses from the minute I open my eyes in the morning until I close them at night, I don't have much need for such a big case.
I was putting the sunglass portion in a pocket of my purse, but that was still causing some hard wear.

So, I knit up a case, muy pronto. I think it took a whole hour. The yarn is some wool worsted I had left over from my Heart scarf. I cast on 21 stitches on size 8 dpn's, and knit until it was 7 inches long. Bound off 11 stitches and then stockinette for 2 inches, followed by K2togs and SSK's on the edges of the knit rows until I had 4 stitches left, then BO those.

Hand felting followed, and voila! An FO. Well, almost. Once it's dry, I'll sew on a flower button I have, and I think that's all I'll need.

Proud Mama

2006-06-06T08:04:00.000-07:00

Well, the Boy Child (maybe I should start calling him Man Child) got a full dose of what it means to be a citizen of the U.S. Today, he voted for the first time in our state's primary election, and he appeared for jury duty. Unlike the rest of us, he actually wanted to serve on a jury and was not just a little bummed that he got excused before even getting into a courtroom. Ah, civic duty.

And, for your viewing pleasure, a bit more evidence that I do, in fact, knit. What you see before you is the Golf Sock from Socks, Socks, Socks. I soooo love this book. It was a gift from my SP7 spoiler. I don't think I would have picked up the book on my own since the socks on the front are a bit avant garde for me. The one downer of this book is that the sizes tend to run small (at least in my opinion). The 2 patterns I've done from this book required upsizing on both. Maybe I'm just knitting for ginormous people (but then that would be me too since both pairs have fit me).

Nonetheless, these have been a fun, quick project, in spite of the intarsia on the heel. And, they are a stash buster, as I already had the purple (which is more color-correct on the heel shot) and white Jawoll Superwash in the stash. Bonus! These are my Spring Feet gift, and will be heading out the door as soon as I finish the toe decreases, hopefully tonight. They only took 1 skein of the purple, and I've got tons of the white left, so foresee a pair for myself in the future.
I'm also feeling inordinately proud of myself as I knit up a quick sunglass holder from some leftover Brown Sheep's wool. I hand-felted it this morning before leaving for work, so I'll have some pictures for y'all later.

Short & Sweet

2006-06-05T20:30:00.000-07:00

As others are waiting for the computer, this has to be short and sweet. Last week my loverly SP8 pal sent me a box of goodies. I was seriously addicted to puzzles, and this could just get me started again. (I just noticed the picture's sideways. Oi!)

I love the notecard, and at this point, the picture is all I have left of the chocolate. Very. Dark. Chocolate. Good stuff. In the baggie, though is what really got my heart going pitter-pat. Alpaca roving in a great creamy white. So soft. I wanted to sleep with it. Seriously. If this doesn't get me serious about spinning, nothing will.
I noticed I also left out the great quilting and sewing notions.

Thank you secret pal! Again!

Speaking of sewing, I really miss Joann's. For close to 20 years, there was a Joann's (o.k. House of Fabric, years ago) less than 2 miles from my house. Over the years I have sewn up a storm-from work clothes, to kids clothes, to prom dresses. It was so nice to be able to just make a quick run to the fabric store for whatever was needed at a moment's notice. The first of the year, however, Joann's, in their infinite wisdom decided to close "my" store, and open up a superstore (a Michael's wannabe, IMHO) about 8 miles away. Now that doesn't sound like very far, but there's no convenient way to get to it, and if traffic is bad on the freeway, it can take 20 minutes to more to get there. I hate it! Especially since I have a wedding to go to that I'm knitting a shawl for, and I need a dress to go with it. (What? Doesn't everybody get an outfit to go with their accessories?) Oh well, I'll be making a special trip tomorrow to see if I can find something I can work with. I'm not exactly holding my breath.

I'm not really in that pissy of a mood, all evidence from this and the last post to the contrary. I guess the dam just broke, and I had to get out some of the schmutz. We'll return to our more positive posting tomorrow.

BIG HAIRY RANT

2006-06-05T11:48:00.000-07:00

Y’all, this is a rant. There’s no other way to put it. It deals with a delicate subject, but it’s been building a while, and I’ve got to put it out there and, hopefully, get over it. Cause, frankly, I don’t know of any way to get around the facts.

This morning I got up, tired and not at all wanting to go to work. I normally listen to the morning news—it helps keep me on track time-wise to get out of the house. And what glorious news did I get to hear? They have YET ANOTHER breakthrough for breast cancer. I am sick to death of hearing about all the wonderful things that are being done for breast cancer. Just since my diagnosis there have been many advances for breast cancer—more advanced screening techniques, drugs up the yazoo, and the list goes on and on.

The 1 thing for ovarian so far? If you get chemotherapy where they pour the drugs directly into your abdomen instead of your veins, you might survive an extra year. Woo Hoo. When is there going to be something really positive about ovarian cancer?

Let me stop here and say that, having watched one of my best friends die of breast cancer 15 years ago, that I wouldn’t wish that on anybody. And it’s wonderful that all this money and effort is being poured into ridding the world of breast cancer. BUT! There are lots of other cancers out there that are 10 times more deadly than breast cancer (lung, pancreatic, mesothelioma, just to name a few), and it feels like damn little is being done about them. For those of us who don’t have a “big” cancer, we’re like little kids outside a candy store looking in. But none of the candy is for us.

I’d like to give you a little comparison:

Breast Cancer:

“A woman’s risk of getting breast cancer in her lifetime is about 1 in 8. Approximately 12% of women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer die from the disease within five years; at ten years, 20% will have died. The most recent available statistics show that 40% of all women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer died from the disease within 20 years.” (And due to improved treatment options that rate will be much less by the time another 10 years rolls around.)

BTW, invert that first statistic and that means 78% are still alive after 5 years.

Survival rates for breast cancer have improved by 2.3% per year since 1990.

The American Cancer Society has a 32-page document on breast cancer statistics.

The best way to beat breast cancer is early detection—breast self-exams and mammography.

For Ovarian Cancer:

“A woman’s risk of getting ovarian cancer during her lifetime is 1 in 67.” “About 76% of women with ovarian cancer survive 1 year after diagnosis, and 45% survive longer than 5 years after diagnosis.” (Note that there are no 10- or 20- year statistics. I can’t find any. I know from lists that I belong to that there are long term survivors out there, but their number is very small.)

Survival rates for ovarian cancer have improved by less than 1% in the last 15 years combined.

The American Cancer Society has 1 paragraph in their general information on ovarian cancer statistics.

There are NO screening tests to find ovarian cancer. (Your pap smear is only to screen for cervical cancer, uterine infections and some STD’s.)

And finally, I think this statement from the latest report of the Gynocological Cancer Foundation regarding ovarian cancer says it best: “The best way to help these women fight their disease is uncertain.”

I know that statistics is just a bunch of numbers, but people, I’m living in the real world. I have never had a remission and I don’t know how much longer my body can tolerate all the abuse it’s received while fighting the cancer. The stupid blood infection really made that hit home. I know I’m damn lucky to have survived almost 4 years. I continue fight the good fight, but I’m running out of ammo.

O.k., rant over. I’m off my pity pot and moving on.

A Quick In and Out

2006-05-31T14:47:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to publicly let my secret pal know I received my package. Don't know if I'll have time later to pictorially share the loot, but I will say he/she got me in all my weak spots. Games! Chocolate! Alpaca!

Woo Hoo!

Blindsided

2006-05-29T19:41:00.000-07:00

I was all prepared to talk about what a great weekend we had. The Boy Child’s team played in San Diego this weekend--took 3rd place, and a generally good time was had by all. I knitted, I ate, I slept, and I came home not too exhausted.

After we got home and all settled in, I did what we all do. Popped on line to what had been happening in Blogland while I was incommunicado. But first, I checked my email. And found the message that totally turned my weekend upside down.

A friend was emailing to tell us that a mutual friend had died this morning. What? Not Cookie! The Hubster and I have known Dave and Cookie for close to a decade. They are some of our soccer buds. We lived more than 2 hours apart, so getting together didn’t happen often. Not at all since they moved up North. But, when we did get together it was old home week. We’d just pick up where we left off. You know, that kind of friends.

Cookie was an amazing lady. An incredible artist--it didn’t matter the medium. Whatever she did was beautiful. 4-5 years ago she decided to try hand painting silk scarves. And, like everything else, what she did was spectacular. I wish I could capture the true beauty of this scarf. I can’t.

When I was going through my first chemo hairlessness, Cookie sent me 4 of her scarves. I chose to wear wigs while I was at work, but the second I got home, off came the wig and on went one of the scarves. Such comfort.

She was smart, funny, sassy. While Dave is big and loud, Cookie would “gotcha” quietly and with great wit. Whatever she did, she did well. One of those people you'd like to hate because they had it so together, but just couldn't because they were so genuine. Even though it meant we didn’t get to see her and Dave as often, I’m glad they moved up North so she got a few years to to be with her family on a day-to-day basis. The world is a little “less” without her in it.

Do me a favor. When you’re finished playing around out there in Blogland, take a minute (or 2 or 10), and get in touch with your “Cookie”. You’ll be glad you did.

Close But No Ceegar

2006-05-26T07:34:00.000-07:00

In amongst other things last night, I tried my hand at dyeing my Dye-O-Rama pal's yarn. She specifically said she didn't want striping yarn, so I'm looking toward more of a Koigu/Socks that Rock kind of coloring.

I used Paas Easter egg dyes. The blue took wonderfully and I love that color. But, I had visions of a purple/blue mottled yarn. Unfortunately, the purple didn't seem to like the yarn so much and has a definite faded reddish/pink hue to it. Wierd.

Plan B is to go get some Wilton's cake dye in purples and work that into something hopefully useable.

No dyeing this weekend, however, because Boy Child has another tournament. This one's in San Diego, meaning an overnight stay in a hotel. I know for those uninitiated in sports parenting, that probably sounds o.k. But those in the know know that what it actually means is listening to uncorraled children (not our team's as they are now 17-19, and too cool to run amok through the hotel) running up and down hallways until all hours. Sigh.

Thanks to those who complemented the socks and blankie. In response to Ann's question, the stripe is a cinnamon-y brown. Love it! Also, if you haven't seen the Mason Dixon Knitting book, you have got to check it out. I won't buy a book unless it has at least 3 patterns that I know I'll do--even more if the book is a hardback. Well, there might be 3 patterns that I won't do out of this book.

I have other news, and I'm very, very jazzed about it. My friend Nancy at Designer Hand Knits (sorry, no website--I'm working on her on that) asked me to teach some classes for her this summer! Lace and socks (but not together). Yea, baby!

I have taught a lot of things over the years--flute; piano; tutored in reading, german and algebra; in soccer I've taught coaches, referees and players; and of course, as a stupervisor at work, I train the newbies. But I've never taught knitting on more than a one-on-one basis. Fortunately, Nancy limits the class size to 7, so that makes it easier. But still, I'm already going into hyper-drive and setting up lesson plans, planning on what examples I need to make up, and what other visual aids I'm going to need. Oh, did I ever tell you I'm a little obsessive/compulsive about stuff like this? Teaching, yes. Knitting, yes. Housework, uh, no.

Hope you all have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend.

Harumph

2006-05-25T20:24:00.000-07:00

Can't think of a decent title, so that's what you get.

I haven't been able to post. We're temporarily down to one vehicle (I don't want to talk about it), so having to drop off and pick up the Hubster from work means less time around home to get the necessary things done, much less the fun stuff. That doesn't mean I'm not knitting. See, see?

Job #1-Mama's socks all done. She and I are very pleased with the result. And I can't believe the compliments I've received while I'm KIP'ing. I need to find some more of this yarn. It's Sockotta Fair Isle (#6673?). I've seen it in oranges and blue/purples, but I want to make me a pair with this colorway. After I'm off my yarn diet in July, I'll start looking in earnest.

Exhibit #2-The Moderne Baby Blanket from the famous MDK book. On the blog, Ann (Kay?) talked about not wanting to knit the blanket in beach ball colors. Well, that's exactly what I'm going for. A big bright beach ball. The pattern also calls for only 4 colors, but I'm doing 5. After the purple section, I'm adding orange. I was a bit hesitant at first, but it's has grown on me big time.

I've also cast on for the Spring Feet socks. I'm trying to knit these 2 at a time on circulars, but you're NOT interested in a picture of 2 socks about 6 rounds in. Boring! There is also no good way to picture my progress on Amelie. Unless you're titillated by pictures of green, long, skinny rectangles. I didn't think so.

And I'm way, way slow in posting this, but I leave you with the pretty card (yes, it's a card) my SP8 pal sent me. Looks like a hydrangea (lilac?) nosegay. Very nice. Thank you SP8. St. Louis huh? Too bad I don't have time to go blog surfing.

Tuckered Out

2006-05-22T13:17:00.000-07:00

I'm really, really tired. The boy child had a tournament this weekend--they took 2nd place--but it meant that I got very little rest. Not that I'm complaining (too much). These tournaments always give us a chance to connect with some really great people (read referees)that we never seem to spend any time with but at the soccer fields or a quick dinner after.

I was able to get a surprising amount of knitting done over the weekend, all things considered. The baby blanket is well on its way. I didn't get anything done on Amelie this weekend (I know I called it Allina before). Like a dork, I left the pattern book at work. Ech! And I didn't even touch Mama's sock. Time to suck it up.

In fact, I'm feeling a little stressed right now because of all the deadlines. I am, and have always been, a list-maker. So here, in an order to get myself together is my To Do list--and yes, it is in order of priority.

1. Mama's sock
2. Spring feet socks
3. Get my Dye-O-Rama yarn dyed
4. Hubster's F.D. socks
5. Nephew's baby blanket
6. SP8's somthin' somthin'
7. Etch some wine glasses for co-worker's wedding

Now, those are all the gifts, and I still want to be doing some things for me, so I guess I'd better get busy, eh?

And of couse, I have no pictures of anything right now. Turn in tomorrow when I'm more rested. I've got plenty to share.

Mission Accomplished

2006-05-18T21:12:00.000-07:00

I got the word that my pal got her socks. Since she knew my blog, I couldn't post until I was sure she had them. So, without any further ado:

I give you the Purl Lace Socks from the Socks, Socks, Socks book which was gifted to me by my SP7 pal. The yarn is Lorna's Laces in Lilac, and these were done on size 1 dpn's. I modified the pattern in that I didn't carry the design down the foot. I didn't think it'd be very comfortable in a shoe.

If you'd like to see them gracing her footies, check out Monique's blog.

Spending the day yesterday at COH, I was able to get the heel turned and the gusset just about finished on Mama's sock #2. But I needed a little break from socks. (That's my story and I'm sticking to it.) In truth, in between my CT scan and Dr.'s appointment, I decided to go check out Skein in Pasadena. Bad idea. Lots of yummy yarns that my LYS's don't carry. Including Jaeger Trinity. It's a silk/cotton/polymide (btw, what animal does a polymide come from? ;D) blend. I picked up color 431, which is a great lettuce-y green. And a pattern book to make Allina (sp?) (It's the green sleeveless top to the lower right.) And it just magically cast on, all by itself. Now if only it would just magically knit itself up.

The Socks Have Left the Building

2006-05-16T20:49:00.000-07:00

Finished, blocked and mailed the SockapalOOOza socks. Will post a picture, probably Wednesday. Cause, you know, I haven’t left Mo in enough suspense.

It was a lovely Mother’s Day. The kidalas brought me flowers and the obligatory goofy card. Very sweet. Then the Mama and I went to the L.A. County Arboretum. We were going to go to Descanso Gardens but traffic was so hideous, we decided to cut the trip short and stopped at the arboretum instead. And it turned out really great.

On the grounds is the Queen Anne Cottage that I bet many of you have seen before and don’t even realize it. Remember Fantasy Island? (Da plane! Da plane!) Well Tatu stood in the bell tower of the cottage for that shot.

Most days it’s closed and the best you can hope to do is press your lil’ face up to the windows and peek in. But twice a year they open it up and you can walk through it. It’s a tiny house, but it’s very, very cool to see how homes were built in the early 1880’s. You can read more about it here.

We didn’t take in all the grounds, but we saw plenty. Here's a tiny portion:

It was a warm, humid day, and we pooped out pretty quickly. After a restorative Starbuck's Blackberry Green Tea Frappaccino (you’ve GOT to try one), we headed home.

I only finished one of Mama’s socks, but she was very pleased that I was making her some socks. She was quite tickled that I only had one done. She’s anxiously awaiting the 2nd, so I guess I’d better get busy!

More Catch Up

2006-05-15T14:51:00.000-07:00

I suddenly realized that I hadn't posted by answers to the Dye-O-Rama questions. I actually am not too picky--other than no pink!--so I don't know how much this will help/hinder. But it gets it off my to do list.

Your favorite colors? Already answered this to her, but for anyone else who hasn't heard this (several times): GREEN--all flavors.

Preferred yarn weight (Fingering, Sport, DK, maybe even Worsted)? I tend to prefer the lighter weight yarns, but will occasionally go for a project in the heavier weights.

Do you prefer solid or multicolored yarn? Depends on the project.

If your buddy is able to do so, would you like a variegated, self-striping, or self-patterning yarn? No preference.

Would you be interested in a wool blend sock yarn (nylon, tencel, silk, acrylic, alpaca, etc.)? No preference.

Imagine the perfect colorway. What would you name it? Earth Song.

What was the biggest appeal to you for joining this dye-along? Trying something new.

General yarn/fiber questions:

Have you dyed yarn/fiber before? Just a few times. But I want to do more, more, more!

If so, what’s your favorite dye and method? I'm not experienced enough to have a preference.

Do you spin? I'm going to. Soon. (See previous post of 5/14.)

Have you knit socks before? Yup.

Do you use sock yarn for just socks or in other patterns too? If it fits the pattern, anything goes.

What are some of your favorite yarns? No strong preference.

What yarn do you totally covet? Anything with Alpaca. Not really applicable for this swap, I know.

Next 4 deleted as I got nuttin' to say.

Nothing to do with knitting/yarn/fiber in any way but seemed kinda fun:

Do you have a favorite candy or mail-able snack? Chocolate.

What’s your favorite animal? Other than my dogs/cats?

Do you have pets? What are their species/names/ages? Dogs: Candy-12/Cocker mix; Daisy-2/Beaglador (Beagle/Lab mix); Eowyn-1/Great Pyrenees. Cats: Nubbs-5; Mac-3; Inky-3; Felicity-2 1/2; L.B.- 1 1/2. All but Eowyn are rescues.

If you were a color what color would you be? My favorite color.

Describe your favorite shirt (yours or someone else’s). Huh?.

What is your most inspiring image, flower, or object in nature? My favorite place (at least up until now): Limekiln State Park.

Tell me the best quote you’ve ever heard or read. My current favorite: Life is not measured by the breaths you take but by the moments that take your breath away.

Do you have a wishlist? Only in my head.

Darn Near Perfect

2006-05-14T10:18:00.000-07:00

I woke up yesterday with a great feeling of anticipation. And the day was totally everything I had hoped for and more.

My friend Nancy is celebrating her 3rd anniversary as owner of Designer Hand Knits, and yesterday was her big sale/party. She asked me if I could come help her out. Like I needed to be asked to, as the Hubster put it, “Go play in the yarn.” Got there early, helped, along with several others, her set up, not only in the store, but out into the courtyard of the building that houses her store.
And then the people started coming. And coming. And coming. It was a very busy day, but it totally convinced me that in my next life I want to own a yarn store. Oh, and a spinning store. Definitely, a spinning store.

When I wasn’t helping with other’s knitting and the yarn shopping, I was drooling over this:

The lady with the apron is Patty, and she’s my new guru. I pestered her with a ton of questions about spinning. And she’s going to teach me how to spin! Yeah!!!!!!!

And I am inordinately proud of this:
My first, very crappily spun yarn. But that’s o.k. It’s a start, and I didn’t suck too badly. So I have a spindle and a little bit of roving, and I’m going to work on that, and Patty’s going to teach me how to work a spinning wheel. She only has 30 or so wheels.

The energy flagged about 3:00, so I headed home for a nap. But the day wasn’t over yet. Nosiree. We had tickets to a concert. And what a concert. Country music this time out. Josh Turner, who’s voice can melt butter. (The Hubster threatened to bring a drool cloth along.) His set was too short for my taste, but he’s only released 2 albums so I knew we weren’t going to hear a lot of him.

A short break, and then Sara Evans took the stage. Goodness, that lady has a set of pipes. My fav. female singer for years has been Martina McBride, but I’ve got to say that Sara now takes a close second.

Another short break, and then Brad Paisley. Now, I have to say that up till now I have not been overly enthused with by Mr. Paisley. I mean, he’s had some good songs but he’s never been on my must-see list. Well, y’all, he is now. What an entertainer! And can someone please tell me how I have been oblivious to the fact that the man can wail on a guitar?

Overall, a totally great combination. Total music time was well over 2 ½ hours. And we had great seatmates. Lots of fun all around. The only downside? And these are obviously paltry, I hesitate to mention them. We’ve been to so many concerts lately where flash photography isn’t allowed, I purposely left my camera at home. And second, it took us almost an hour to get out of the parking lot. If you’re in Southern California and want to go to a concert in Hyundai Pavillion at Glen Helen, be prepared to wait in the parking lot. The sound system, stage and seating make it a really great venue, it’s just that ingress and egress is only on 1 small road, so the cars really back up.

Other than that, a totally great day. And the greatness promises to continue through today. Mama is coming over after church, and we are headed to Descanso Gardens near where we will have a little one-on-one time with some fantastic flowers. And the SockapalOOOza socks will be finished by tonight. Provided they dry by morning (which is not really an issue, as warm as it is today), they will be outta’ here!

So I will just say a quick Happy Mothers Day to all the mothers out there, and I’ll see you later.

Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh

2006-05-12T07:56:00.000-07:00

Look what I found when I got home last night. A return address I didn’t recognize. Could it be?

It didn’t take long to rip the box open and peruse the contents. No pictures of the stuff inside the box as I was too busy investigating everything.

Postcards. Yes plural. My wonderful pal lives in far off Japan, but was born and raised in Missouri. Quite the difference in locales there. Some lovely dark chocolate with mint that had to be immediately sampled. Yum. The little cake was intriguing. The labels, front and back, are ALL in Japanese. Not even a hint as to what it might be. Sniff, sniff. No clue there. Fortunately, her letter, on the lovely stationery with a picture of Mt. Fuji on it, says it’s “green tea soap.” Oh goody! Can’t wait to give that a try.

But the piece de resistance (aren’t I bi-lingual are these days).

Socks in Broncos colors! For when I’m watching my beloved Broncos play next winter. Her letter provided quite a chuckle. She writes, “As a life-long KC Chiefs fan, I hope you appreciate the sacrifice involved in making Broncos socks!” Sacrifice recognized and appreciated. For the uninitiated, the Chiefs and the Broncos are in the same division and, as a result, play each other 2 times a season. Quite the rivalry. The only team the Broncos like less than the Chiefs are the Raiders--and nobody likes them. But that’s for another post.

My pal is Rachele, and I feel very, very lucky. Her plate is very full these days and I'm amazed she was able to crank these babies out. I’m really looking forward to spending some time getting to know her. Thank you, thank you, thank you Rachele. Job well done.

Socks on Board

2006-05-11T21:03:00.000-07:00

Well, I'd love to show you the lovely package that I discovered upon my arrival home today, but &$^#* Blogger isn't letting me upload any pictures. Suffice it to say, my sock pal did great. As soon as I can get some pictures up on this &$(%) blog, I'll share.

Now, no time to waste, I'm coming down the homestretch on my pal's socks. See you at the finish line!

Catching Up

2006-05-10T21:32:00.000-07:00

Too much time has passed since we had the Relay for Life. But I wanted to get this out there.

My family and friends were quickly on board when I first signed up for the Relay as team captain. Little did I realize that when I signed up in February, months of planning and fundraising had already been going on. So our team had a little bit of a late start. But I'm quite proud of my crew. With just a few people doing the funraising, and in less than 2 months' time, our little team raised over $2,100. Such a small sum in the fight against cancer, but adding our little bits to other people's little bits make for a lot of bits.

It's hard to believe after today's temperatures in the low 90's that 2 weeks ago we were walking in cold and rain. We got there about 7:00 a.m. to set up camp (one of the pictures I can't seem to upload). Our team's theme was Hope on a Butterfly's Wings, and our shelter was covered with butterflies.
Each one of the little butterflies has the name of friends and family or family and friends of friends who have had cancer. Too many butterflies.

The camera batteries died just as the opening ceremonies started (of course), so I don't have any pictures. The ceremonies were very moving, even if they did start late. They started with the usual thanks for coming and participating speeches. Then they had the survivors' lap which I walked. It was very moving. Then the Relay began. There were a number of high school teams. During the opening hours of the Relay, they were very energetic and high spirited. It was kind of fun to watch them poop out as the day and night progressed.

Our team had 18 walkers all total. Unfortunately, they weren't all together at one time to get a group picture. But I want to thank Jody, Donn, Jackie, Chris, Vanessa, Nick, Bill, Gabriel, Ted, Ruby, Jimmy, Amy, Mary, Mama, the Niecelet, Girl Child, Boy Child and of course the Hubster for participating. Many thanks too, to those of you in Blogland who contributed.

The Niecelet spent the majority of her walking time like this (cell phone connected to ear).

I spent the majority of the time like this (knitting).

At dusk, they lit 100's of luminaria surrounding the track. Each of the luminari had the name of someone with cancer. Too many. They also had luminaria up in the stands. The whole thing was beautiful. It rained during the night, making walking a bit miserable (although we had plenty of umbrellas and rain ponchos). Morning dawned bright and beautiful--hardly a cloud in the sky. Too bad the relay couldn't have been a day later.

Even though I felt crappy from fighting my stoopid infection and the weather was less than ideal, the family was already thinking hard on ideas for next year's Relay. Because, of course, what we are all working toward is a

Another Contest

2006-05-10T15:35:00.000-07:00

I saw this on The Knitted Purl. Oh my, have you seen the Gracie & Co. Needles. Gorgeous!

Here goes:

I would love a set of Gracie & Co. needles because one of the big reasons I knit is the wonderful feeling I get from the natural fibers sliding through my fingers. By extension, I use mostly all wood and bamboo needles for the wonderful organic feel of them in my hands. You just can't get that from a metal or plastic needle.

And there you have it. Short and sweet.

Big Tease

2006-05-09T21:09:00.000-07:00

I know I keep promising a big update, and I will. No, really. I've just run into some difficulty with my Sock pal socks, which will be amusing (in about 30-40 years), but I'm having to redo sock #2. I was really sure I'd be done by now, but somehow, while sock #2 was sitting in my car while I was in the hospital, there was some weird chemical change to the yarn that lightened it substantially. I'd say it was sun damage, but it was inside a plastic bag under a jacket. Heat maybe? I don't know. All I do know is I've had to start from square 1. But no worries, Mo. I will have them to as like I promised. Your patience is soooooo appreciated.

Although I haven't received my socks yet (not complaining, mind you, just using this by way of introduction), the postman has been busy making deliveries to my domicile.
Exhibit A:

2 of the hottest knitting books out there. Amazon was offering a package deal for the 2 of them together. How could I resist. I've only been able to skim through them. They look as great as all the talk out in Blogland says they are.

I also got my Knitpicks order. It came really fast too. 3 skeins of Dye Your Own Wool for Dye-O-Rama, together with a book on dyeing yarn, and some goodies to spoil my SP8 pal. And, the Fair Isle sock pattern. And, uh, some sock yarn for the Fair Isle sock pattern.

I completely fell off the wagon (all on 1 day though), and got some Opal Prisma yarn in green and Cherry Tree Hill Supersock yarn in the Birches colorway. Both were on sale, and just jumped in my bag. What can I say?

Pictures of all the yarn-y goodness will be forthcoming. No, really.

In Lieu Of . . .

2006-05-08T21:38:00.000-07:00

In lieu of a post with substantive content, I give you the meme that I've seen several places:

1. Grab the nearest book.
2. Open it to page 161.
3. Find the fifth sentence.
4. Post the text of the sentence along with these instructions.
5. Don’t search around and look for the coolest book you can find. Do what’s actually next to you.

The east coast comprises a labyrinth of straggling peninsulas, with hidden coves between plunging headlands.

From The Rough Guide to New Zealand describing the Northland province of New Zealand's North Island.

What can I say, I've been keeping this and another travelogue close by while preparing for our trip.

I have lots to update, but as I've been spending a little more time at work everyday, I have also been spending a little more time in bed sleeping. It was a good weekend, if too short. Mama really liked the shawlette I made her, as well as all the attention she got from la familia. And, she liked all the birthday wishes from blogland. Thank you!

A really good post soon, I promise!

Sing Along

2006-05-06T10:54:00.000-07:00

Knit a little, clean a little, knit a little, clean a little, rest, rest, rest, knit a lot, clean a little more.

Sung to the melody of Pick a Little, Talk a Little, from the musical The Music Man

I know, it’s probably way before your time for most of you, but that basically sums up my weekend. My stamina is not improving at a pace I’d like, but since I don’t want a relapse either, I’m trying to be prudent and mot push too hard. But since the rest of my family seems to be able to live in filth up to their eyeballs, it’s not easy.

Yesterday was my Mama’s birthday. This remarkable lady is a force of nature. You would hard pressed to guess her age. I have been hugely blessed to have her as a mother. She is a big reason I am the woman I am today. She will drop everything at a moment’s notice to aid those she holds near and dear. Everyone she ever meets immediately falls in love with her. And, don’t bother to shake her hand, she’s a hugger. (She even hugged the teenager to rear ended her and totaled her car.) But don’t get on her bad side. She can be scary I tell ya. (Something else I got from her.) I absolutely adore this woman. Here’s hoping for many, many more!

In other news, the SockapalOOOza socks are progressing, although not so much yesterday as we were busy with birthday celebrations. But since my pal discovered my blog (Hi Mo!), I’m going to prolong her agony by not showing any pictures. Yet.

Moving on--I get Berroco’s Knitbits by e-mail, and I have to say most of the patterns are something I would NEVER in a million years do. But just about the time I think I should unsubscribe, some little goodie comes along like this:

I know, it’s a silly little keychain, but I have loved this colorway of Suede. I just couldn’t figure out what to do with it. And, it’s quick. Like 10 minutes. (O.k. 15. It takes way longer to cut the yarn than twist it up.)

Suede is not my ONLY yarn purchase. Nope, I bought these:

To make a mitred square baby blanket for my nephew. Too bright? I don't care. I love these colors. But are you listening SYAC people? No sock yarn purchases for over 6 weeks now. Oh yeah!

And because I have been so text heavy lately, here’s a gratuitous kitty picture. I normally will have 1 or 2 cats perched close by when I’m on the couch, but since I got home the hospital, we’ve been having nightly fights over who sits on mommy’s lap. Here were last night’s winners: Inky (White/Brown), L.B. (Grey tabby), and Mac (black).

Well, back to it. (Knit a little, clean a little . . . .)

Look Ma--2 Hands

2006-05-04T09:22:00.000-07:00

This totally crappy picture is to show that I am sooooo happy to have 2 usable hands once again. As usual, things didn't go quite as I hoped and I didn't get cut free until this morning. But! I don't care! I'm. Free!

Much knitting is being done. I still don't have a lot of stamina, but I can definitely knit. I have to say, though, that I'm not sure what was better--being able to knit again or this morning's shower; the first in many days.

Another bit of exciting news: I've been wanting to learn to spin yarn (yeah, I know, like I need another obsess..., er, hobby). I've tried learning how to work a drop spindle on my own with limited success. I have, up until yesterday, had little success in making contact with anyone with the requisite knowledge. But at lunch time yesterday, I decided on the spur of the moment to drop into my LYS. As I walked in, one of the other regulars looks up and says, "You knit socks, don't you?" And she introduced me to my new friend. Who spins. And who wants to learn to knit socks. Sometime in the coming weeks, we'll be getting together to trade knowledge. It's a match made in heaven. Yeah!

Gotta go now. Must. Knit.

Yarn People Are Taking Over The World

2006-05-03T09:36:00.000-07:00

O.k., so it's not knitted, but a guy who covers a car in yarn can't be all bad.

Check it out here.

Been a While

2006-05-02T12:32:00.000-07:00

Despite my protestations about being bored spitless, I have not spent any time on my blog (although I've spent lots of time surfing). Doing things 1-handed doesn't twice as long, it's more like 4 times as long, so typing isn't real high on my list.

But because Secret Pal 8 is starting and I can cut and paste a lot of this, I'm posting today.

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? I'm an alpaca addict. I'm not much of one for novelty yarns.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? I have 3 generations of needles/hooks, and so I keep them in a ginormous plastic divided case. Not pretty, but it keeps everything together.

3. How long have you been knitting? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? I was originally taught when I was a kid, but have only really picked it up in the last 3 years. I would put my skill level at a beginning advanced.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? Nope--too lazy.

5. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.) I am definitely a "spice girl" in this regard--vanilla, cinnamon and the like. Citrus is another favored scent

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy? I am a chocoholic from the word go--the darker the better.

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin? Oh dear, I could use up a lot of bandwidth here. I sew, cross stitch, needlepoint, do stained glass, quilling, flower arranging, woodworking, and all kinds of home improvement projects around the house (heck, the house is just one big DIY project). I want to learn to spin, but that's on hold for now.

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) It's easier to say that about the only kind of music I'm not wild about is rap and hip hop. Now I don't want to brag, but the Hubster and I have a huge CD collection, and I know there's several CD's in just about every category there is. The computer loves digital music.

9. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can't stand? Love, love, love green. Also into turquoise, yellows and oranges lately. I am NOT a pinky pink person.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets? As my profile states, I'm married with 2 adult (in age only) children. 5 cats, 3 dogs and 1 bird are my only pets. ;-)

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos? Love scarves and mittens, not so much on the hats and ponchos.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? Lace.

13. What are you knitting right now? Socks, socks and more socks (gifts), and baby things for my nephew's upcoming child.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts? That's the best kind!

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? I'm an equal opportunity needler. It's more dependent on the project.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift? Both, and I wouldn't want to be without!

17. How did you learn to knit? My mother and both grandmothers all had a hand (pardon the pun) in my knitting education.

18. How old is your oldest UFO? Knitting--only about 1-1/2 years. Cross-stitch? My daughter is 20 and I started a Xmas stocking when she was 2 months old. You do the math.

19. What is your favorite holiday? Do I have to pick a favorite? Sorry, but I'm one of those "nuts" who has an article of clothing of Valentines, St. Patrick's, 4th of July, etc., and decorates accordingly

20. Is there anything that you collect? I didn't start the collection myself, but I've been given so many angels, especially since I was diagnosed with cancer, that now I'm hooked.

21. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? Nothing I'm particularly antsy to get. Some of the best ideas I've gotten are from other people, so I would enjoy trying a "whatever" that my SP thought was particularly enjoyable. Oh, and no subscriptions.

22. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? Knitting continental.

23. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements? Yup. My foot is 9 inches long, 8-3/4 inches in circumference.

24. When is your birthday? October 5.

Well, there you go. Only 30 hours (and you'd better believe I'm counting) until knitting freedom.

Home--You’d Better Believe It’s Sweet

2006-04-28T20:09:00.000-07:00

Yes, I’m home, home, home! Thank you to one and all who sent me all the well wishes. They do a body good.

I was beginning to wonder if I was ever going make here. The doc told me Wednesday night that I was going home the next day, so of course I was up early (as if you aren’t disturbed anyway what with all the blood letting, er, taking, and the like) and I waited. And waited, and waited some more.

The doc finally came in about 1:00 and finally started the wheels rolling. I’ll spare you the gory details; all I’ll say is I’m not what the nurses call an “easy stick.” Right now I’m feeling more affinity with pincushions than I am the human race. I finally took my first breath of freedom around 7:00 P.M. After an hour drive home before my lil’ head got to hit my own pillow.

I’m feeling very, very much better. I still have a few more days of IV antibiotics, but the worst part of the whole thing is that, because of the catether’s location, I can’t knit. I was doing a bit of knitting between naps, however, part of yesterday’s horror show was that the IV came out and they couldn’t find any other vein to use but one right on my wrist. After several pokes to get this one, I’ll let my arm completely atrophy before I bend my wrist and risk a repeat of Thursday’s fun and games.

But I tell ya, I’m going through withdrawals. Nobody at work can understand why I want to work half days. I’m going through all my books, and I’m can only stand just so many movies.

I bit the bullet and emailed my pal and sock sister that I’ll be delayed. I really hated to do it, but it just wasn’t happening. (Yea, I’m the type who’s always early to appointments.) I’m working up a few ideas to make her waiting worthwhile.

Well, time for another nap.

Off Axis

2006-04-26T14:36:00.000-07:00

{Sorry if this post has an inordinate number of spelling errors. The system I'm on is incredibly slow, while my fingers are not. But, I'm not complaining; I'm just thrilled to have this limited acess}

Just when you think things are going pretty well, life has a funny way of slapping you upside the head. This is coming to you from my hospital bed. Yes, hospital. I am currently being treated for a nasty blood infection. But let me start at the beginning.

Friday evening I had a low grade fever, and woke up Saturday morning not feeling 100%. But it was the Relay weekend, and so I soldiered on. I started feeling better, but stil wasn't all "there" through the weekend. I'll save the Relay recap for another post.

Monday morning was my onc. appointment, so I figured I'd talk to them about my concerns. And they jumped right on it. I was going to go into a big explanation, but long story short, the subcutaneous catheter that had been used for IV chemo was haboring a bug which got dislodged when the nurse went to draw a blood sample from it. It then became a blood infection and I was pretty sick.

Fortunatly, my docs immediately admitted me and started IV antibiotics. We're still waiting for the cultures to fully incubate to find out exactly which bug Im duelng with, but whatever they've got me on is doing a really good job thus far. Once we get the final results, I can go home with a nice bag of meds (pills, I hope).

All this has really thrown me off my game. Monday and Tuesday I was too sick to care, but today I'm really stressed because there is no way I'm going to finish my SockapalOOOza socks for a timely mailout. I haven't answered my Spring Feet questionaire, but will soon.

And, while I have some limited Internet access here in the room (which is actually pretty cool, all things considered. I'm typing this on a wireless keyboard and viewing it on the t.v. screen), I can't access my AOL email. So if anybody's emailed me and I haven't answered, give a couple days. I feel so cut off.

Well, that's about all for now. I think (no, I know) I'm ready for a nap.

I Resisted Temptation. Really.

2006-04-20T21:25:00.000-07:00

After work, I went to my LYS’s project night (cause we can’t use that “other” name), and I’m glad I did. I spent most of the afternoon dragging, but once I got there, started gabbing, and knitting of course, I perked up a lot. Nancy’s getting ready for her trunk shows in mid-May, and she’s got a lot of new really great yarns in. But I resisted.
What’s this then? This is this month’s sock club selection from TheKnitter.com, and I have to say I think I like this one best of all. The yarn is Trekking XXL with the exciting color name of 78. The pattern is called Haleakala, and it’s a neat looking lace sock with a picot cuff. It’s hard to resist casting on immediately. But resist I must.

I think I’m over my SockapalOOOza angst. This new pattern is going along swimmingly. The pattern is easily contained in my pea brain. I was able to work on it at the LYS and I’ve got about 3 inches of the leg done. These will not, however, photograph well until they're all done and blocked. I should be mostly, if not all, done with these by the end of the weekend.

Then the Hubster’s (2) and Mama’s (1 more) socks by April 30th. I won’t jinx myself by saying no problem, but . . . you know.

Catch Up

2006-04-19T21:24:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to do a decent post the last few days, but too much to do, plus not sleeping well equals no post. We're counting down to the Relay for Life, and that means lots of shopping and gathering and decoration-making. I'll leave that for another day.
Our anniversary weekend up in Big Bear overall was quite lovely. As predicted, the weather on Friday was rather dicey. On the trip up we hit rain, fog, snow, sleet, and hail. This view is out of our window at Golden Bear Cottages. It's a nice family owned place. The place has been around forever, but it's well maintained overall and cozy. If you look closely, you can see the sleet bouncing off the car.
Saturday morning dawned bright and sunny if a bit chilly. The Hubster made a delicious breakfast after which we lazed around the room all day. We only ventured out for dinner at the Evergreen Restaurant. Delicious dinner with a great view of the lake.

Back to the room. More vegging out until midday Sunday when it was time to make our way back down the hill for Easter lunner (lunch/dinner) with my folks.
Big Bear Lake is in a bit of a valley. The surrounding hillsides prevent a lot of clouds from settling in, so very often when it's cloudy down in the valley, it's gorgeous, bright sunshine up at the lake. Such was the case this weekend: This view is as you come up over the ridge and overlook the valley. My house is somewhere down below the pea soup.
I was not totally sloth-like this weekend. See, I finished Topi in plenty of time for the Relay. Can't get a good picture of it on my head yet, so this will have to do for now. Since I couldn't get my hands on some good teal colored cotton quickly, I took some white Lily's Sugar N' Cream cotton and dyed it with Rit dye (only dye I could get my hands on quicly and easily). It seems to be pretty colorfast--no transfer while I was knitting it up--so we'll see how we manage with it on my head all day Saturday.
I also knit up some squares for Warming Grace. Got them all blocked yesterday. They're not quite dry enough to be put in the mail tomorrow, but come Friday, they'll be winging their way North.

And the SockapalOOOza sock? I was hoping you wouldn't notice that there's no picture. I'm starting to get a little nervous. I was having a terrible time with the Vine Lace pattern. I'm sure it's me, but I don't have the time to spend trying to figure it out. So it's been frogged and I've started a different pattern with the same yarn. I'll not name it for now for fear I'll jinx it.

I've got plenty more to add, but I'll try to do another post tomorrow. For now, it's time to get busy.

I'm a Sucker for a Contest

2006-04-16T15:56:00.000-07:00

Kat is having a contest to list the most unusual unusual places we knit. My top 5 unusual (or in my case usual) places are:

1. At my children's soccer games and track meets.

2. In line (at the grocery store, bank, fast food drive-through, etc.)

3. At medical appointments (dr.'s, labs, medical procedures, etc.)

4. At resturants waiting to be seated and for our food to come.

5. And--next week during the Relay for Life--I will be knitting while walking around the track during the 24-hour relay.

Unusual enough? You be the judge.

You Want Socks?

2006-04-13T22:15:00.000-07:00

We got your socks right here. At least pieces of socks. In order to provide updates for both SYAC and SockapalOOOza, I submit the following:
Mama’s sock. For now, only one. I had started (only about 5 rows) the second sock when I got so sick last week. The finished sock went AWOL temporarily. Turns out I left it behind at work. But since I didn’t have sock #1 to compare to the growing sock #2, this pair stalled.

As I was recovering over the weekend, I wanted something mindless to knit, so I cast on, what else, but another sock:
And have got as far as turning the heel. I’ve been carrying this around in my purse, what I call my “waiting“ project, so I get a row done here, a row done there as I wait (usually in line).

And finally I’m not even sure I can call this a sock yet, but:
I finally settled on yarn and pattern for my sock pal. Yes, I know I previously asked for opinions on 4 variegated yarns. But after looking at them--a lot--I decided they were too heavy handed for what essentially will be a late spring/early summer sock. Plus, I yearned for a lacy pattern. Thankfully, my SP7 pal provided me the perfect inspiration: The Vine Lace Socks from Socks, Socks, Socks. Also, in true SYAC spirit, I dove into the stash and pulled out this lovely Lorna Lace’s Shepherd Sock yarn in Lilac. Houston, we have lift off. (About time, don’t ya think?)

So that’s the beginnings of 3 pairs of socks.

In my own oblivious way, I’ve been very successfully ignoring the fact that the first week of May is only a couple plus weeks away. So what’s the big deal? Well, in addition to my sock pal’s socks, I have got it in my head that I MUST have Topi in teal for the Relay for Life. The Hubster’s birthday is the 30th, and I have it in my head that he needs a pair of socks. And Mama’s socks need to be done by the 5th.

For those having difficulty with the math (me), that makes 1 cap and 3 pairs of socks in 2 1/2 weeks. Better get cracking.

We're off to the wilds of Big Bear tomorrow. Have a blessed Easter weekend.

Happy Anniversary Baby!

2006-04-11T22:06:00.000-07:00

If you’re here for knitting tonight, I’m afraid you’re out of luck.

If, however, you’re here for a love story, then grab the drink of your choice, sit back, and dig in.

Once upon a time, there lived a lady of the realm who had a rather hum-drum life. She lived in a little house with her children and her 4-legged friends. She woke up, she went to work, she ran hither and yon taking said kidlets to their assorted activities, she went to bed. “Romance. Isn’t that a kind of lettuce?” she thought. Obviously, our heroine did not spend a lot of time getting to know the opposite sex.

Now, this lady had a rather unusual hobby--she was a soccer referee. She had spent many years honing her craft with the help of a kind and generous mentor. Said mentor could be annoyingly persistent when he wanted to see his protégé get better. Such was the case one summer when the kindly mentor harassed the living crud out her to go to a weekend-long class. Grudgingly, she went.

As was usual at these events, the class ratio was 30 men to 1 woman (hint to all you single women out there). And there were a number of interesting men present. But our heroine was tired and only wanted to get through the stupid classes so she could sleep. Nonetheless, there was one knight who was smart and funny and kind, and our heroine felt a small chink in her armor. But our knight lived in a far off land. At the end of the weekend, phone numbers were exchanged with promises of keeping in touch, without much hope by our lady fair of ever hearing from the knight again.

But lo and behold! The knight did call our lady fair. And he continued to call. He traveled the many miles from his land to visit. He had the lady travel to his land to see him in his natural habitat. Much money was spent on telephone bills and airplane tickets. The kids liked him. The parents like him. The friends liked him. She rrrreeeeaaaallllly liked him.

Very, very quickly, romance blossomed (and no it isn’t a kind of lettuce). Six months after they first met, the knight left his land to live in the lady’s realm. Nine months after they first met, they wed.

This isn’t a fairy tale, this is real life. That was 8 years ago. I wish I could say we lived happily ever after. But events intrude to make life bittersweet. I can tell you that I love this man more today than I did the day we married. And I didn’t think that was possible. I was married once previously. I have said many, many times that as badly as I married the first time, I married twice as good this time.

When you’re saying your vows, you hear the words, “for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health.” And many times, they wind up being just that: words. Well, my husband has gone above and beyond in keeping his vows. Little did we know that 4 years into our marriage, I’d be diagnosed with cancer and be in treatment ever since. And he has not only stood by my every single second--going to doctor’s appointments, tests procedures, holding my head while I’m throwing up, you name it--he has spent a lot of the time carrying me.

He is my friend, my lover, my life, and I am proud to be his wife.

Happy Anniversary M.

Southern California, I'm Sorry

2006-04-10T23:08:00.000-07:00

As Southern Californians already know, and for those of you elsewhere who don’t, the weather this week is scheduled to be less than spring-like. And y’all, it’s my fault. I humbly apologize.

You see, 8 years ago tomorrow, I married my soul mate. The wedding was absolutely lovely. The reception, a lot of laughs. And through it all, it absolutely poured. Because I had broken my wrist just prior to the wedding, we decided to postpone a “real” honeymoon and drive up to Big Bear to spend the weekend. Torrential rains in the lowlands=snow in the mountains. After we made the rather treacherous trip up to the cabin, the Hubster turns to me and asks, “Is this normal weather for April?” To which I confidently replied, “Of course not.”

The next year, still on our newlywed high, we made a weekend trip back up to our honeymoon hideaway. And what kind of weather did we have? Snow. And again the following year, when it was time to again make the pilgrimage? Snow.

In fact, it has rained (“down the hill” as the locals say) every year around our anniversary--plus or minus 1 week. Some years, we’ve almost made it completely “dry,” but there has always been that small shower in that 2-week period. People, I’ve lived in Southern California my whole life, and I swear I don’t remember this kind of weather smack dab in the middle of April. Until the Hubster moved out here from New Mexico. Mother Nature is just loving to mess with us. In fact, the weather seems to be in direct proportion to the grandiosity of the anniversary plans. A couple of years, what with soccer tournaments and chemo regimes, we haven’t done much of anything. Those years=reasonably good weather.

This weekend, we’re planning on heading back up to our cozy hideway for the weekend. On the Goldwing. And the weather forecast? C'mon, do I really have to say it?

Really people, I am sorry.

The Lost Days

2006-04-09T21:53:00.000-07:00

I went to bed Wednesday feeling just fine. When I got up on Thursday morning, it was a different story. I wasn’t feeling the best, but it wasn’t bad enough to keep me home. Or so I thought. I made it into work and proceeded to spend the next 30 minutes at my desk shuffling papers and trying very hard not to throw up.

I gave up, came back home, and took my temp. When you’re on chemo your immune system is takes a beating. Any sign of a temp over 100.5F and into urgent care you go. Still hoping to avoid that, I called into the triage nurse. Long story short, I wound up in urgent care on an IV being given lovely anti-nausea medications (much needed by this time), and was sent home with a diagnosis of a nasty stomach virus.

The next 3 days are something of a blur. One thing that is not a blur (at least not completely) is that my final package from SP7 arrived Friday. It wasn’t until today, though, that I’m finally able to truly appreciate it’s fabulousness. Talk about a grand finale!

I start with the book--Socks, Socks, Socks. I start with that because I was carrying it around in my hands the other day when I was at my LYS. Turns out it was the store copy and I’d have to wait for Nancy to get a new shipment in. Not any more. So many really great patterns. Where to start?

Second, she made sure to include treats for my 4-legged roommates. Let it be told all the treats have been taste tested by the appropriate parties and it’s paws up all around.

Third, the human treats. My rumbly tumbly is not quite ready to appreciate the Boston Baked Beans, chocolate rocks, dark chocolate bars and mints, but I will attest to the yumminess of the honey. (Which I managed to forget to get in the picture. Very cute bear dispenser.)

Next, the knitting notions. Stitch markers, both commercial and handmade (by my pal? Very cute, btw), needles holders, and a yarn cutter. Always useful. Always appreciated.

And finally, the yarn. Oh, the yarn. Thank you so very much my special pal! Artyarns Merino in delicious greens and eggplant, Sunshine yarns in sunny colors with 2 more stitch markers (I have SO be wanting to get my hands on some of this yarn), and some handsome fingering weight yarn from Blackberry Ridge Woolen Mill. None of these special yarns has graced my stash before and now I’m blessed with such sweet, sweet fibery goodness!

I’d love to introduce you to my pal, but she remains a secret pal yet. In my addled state, I may have missed a card or note (believe me, these past few days, that’s sooooo probable), but other than a return address near Boston, Mass. I’m no closer to knowing who she is. No fear, I’ve sent her an e-mail, and I’m sure all will be known in good time.

So for now, I will publicly say thank you, thank you, thank you Secret Pal. I have been truly and richly spoiled.