Gramknits

Forgot the pictures

2008-09-01T10:50:00.000-07:00

More that remiss

2008-09-01T10:43:00.002-07:00

Okay, I am embarrased but this summer has gotten to me and I have been, as mentioned above, more then remiss on blogging. I can't say this will be over for another month but I did want to put on the go to school "jumper" I made Jade. I had to make it a bit larger and was worried but this is on over her shorts outfit so it should be fine for school. I will return shortly as the autumn winds force me to spend more time in the house. Oh, the other picture is me, about 60 pounds lighter then the May blog and sitting on my son's Harley. You will note I put sitting, not riding or driving.

Long time no blog

2008-07-19T12:45:00.003-07:00

Wow, it is amazing how fast this summer is flying by. We have had everything in the way of weather this year. Tons of snow, cold,damp days, flooding. Maybe it is finally all over and we can get on with it. I have been busy with a lifestyle change and it isn't over with so I will just try to jot a note now and then for the time being and let you in on whatever I decide will be the final outcome. Meanwhile I still haven't finished those kneesocks and by the time I mail them they will be going to CO. instead of Texas as the kids out west are once again on the move. Same company for my son but a new and better position. A few days ago Jade was over and insisted on wearing the dress I made her some time ago. You can tell by the length that she is, as my Mom would say, growing like a weed. Their Mom will have finished her college courses for the summer soon and I will have to have the kids each have a "sleep-over" with grandma where they have a day of doing just what they want. Logan can OD on the computer and who knows what Jade will want but it is sure to involve a project. She is something like her grandmother in that way. The pond is overgrown with flowers but they are still nice so I also added a picture of it. I know I need to thin it out as you can't even see the middle and back part of the pond now but at least it looks like it has been there a while and not fresh. So off to walk the dog but will try to take the time the next cloudy day to type again.

I lost it

2008-05-20T17:38:00.003-07:00

I must have been off the computer too long. I can't find my post. I hope this doesn't go on twice. I have been off the computer for a while. I had company and for a short while my computer was messed up. Luckily for me a friend's husband has me up and running again. So a quick catch-up is that spring is really...really here. I put the spiral knee sock that I am knitting Meghan by the lilacs. I love the colors together. I might just have to make something in that lovely lavender to go with them. I just found out Meghan will be in Wisconsin part of the summer watching Jade and Logan. What fun. I hope we find time to go somewhere. Maybe we can even engage her in lying a new floor in the kitchen. Teenagers are such fun. I have also been getting the Santa nightshirt ready and as soon as I finish Santa's face I will put on a picture of the finished project. I did seem to lose my magnifier so that will require a trip to a craft store. Oh, woe is me...You can imagine I would just hate doing that....Ha LOL.

A cap with Bling

2008-04-28T16:21:00.003-07:00

Jade's birthday has been kind of confusing this year. Her Mom had a memorial service to go to for her aunt and her dad had to be in Seattle for work so it was decided it would be this coming weekend instead. that gave me time to knit up a quick hat for the extra wait. It will be for next winter but she will have it ready and will now have a special hat just like her Mom has a special hat. this is the Captiane but I just can't take the heavy stripe across the brim. So I decided to add some bling by sewing on some rhinestone hearts. I hope Jade will like it. There is nothing like something fun and quick to make.

Color at last!

2008-04-21T14:44:00.002-07:00

I had to go outside and see what survived what was a harsh winter. the tiny red tulips were up weeks ago in the snow and are always out before their bigger brothers. A bunch of violets in the lawn (I know they will have to go but for now I am just grateful for the color and a very few of loads of daffodils. Spring has finally come

Finished

2008-04-19T13:39:00.002-07:00

I am afraid it stretched out when I pulled it out of the sink. Honest, it really is heavy. So a careful hot water wash may be in the works. The buttons look kind of off looking across and down but there are two on the right and one on the left. Sort of quirky but I like quirky things. Started semi spring cleaning today and did get the screens washed and in the bay window so the smell of spring can come wafting into the house. I even washed the shower curtains and liners. For some reason I hate doing those so it tells you that even though I am not all out I am taking this spring cleaning stuff seriously. Tonight I will wind some yarn for a cap and then off to sew doll bodies. I have a wonderful friend who will be here bringing the counted cross faces and if I don't have the bodies finished and the clothes made my name will be mud in more ways then one. Daffodils are finally blooming and the tulips are heavy in bud. It makes me think that there is finally going to be an end to this long long winter.

A retro for the Domestic Goddess

2008-04-13T09:17:00.002-07:00

I uncovered the sewing machine. It did act up a bit for a while. I think it's mad at me for not giving it enough attention. After a bit of fooling with it and sewing on some scrapes, it came around so that I could make Jade, the Domestic Goddess in the making, a couple of aprons. No, I am not kidding about the Domestic Goddess part. Last weekend she showed up at my house in her apron saying it was getting too small and could I make her another one. At that point she asked me if I knew what she had in her pocket and pulled out a spatula. I have been called a Martha Stewart but I have never liked aprons. Oh well, how can you say no.The light is bad and I can't seem to get a good picture but the white one trimmed in red reminded me of the 50's so I put it on good or not. Maybe Jade will grow up to be a CEO but right now she is into homemaking. I am also continuing to work on the top for Melissa. About 5 more inches and I can cast off. I am really a wimp about this top. The pattern is easy and I think it will be very nice but it is heavy... heavy. Am I the only one who hates it when what you are knitting weighs on your hands? I have lots more to do and need to get this done so I can get busy with my other projects. I have the body of sleeping Santa to make before my crafting buddy arrives to put it together. I have socks and a hat on the back burner. Then it is almost time to go out into the garden. Yes, it snowed yesterday but only a little bit so I can't help but think the time is coming soon to be planted and weeding. So back to knitting.

Last week

2008-03-30T06:00:00.004-07:00

Yes, last week I was busy and didn't get to work much on knitting. that didn't mean there were no projects going on as Jade and Logan were at my house for a couple of days. Melissa, a teacher had spring vacation one week and they had it the next so the grandmothers each did a couple of days of play. The projects got sent home but we did computer t-shirt transfers, made tissue paper flowers, Mod paged some boxes and baked shortbread dipped in white chocolate with, of course, spring sprinkles. There were games, reading and puzzles so I really didn't get much else done but they only stay little a short time. Remember there was a time when it was fun to do the dishes instead of putting them in the dishwasher. Logan is already getting past that stage and would just play computer games if he had his choice. When spring comes they can help in the garden. My mother always said that if it was planted by a child it would grow and she has proved right through the years. I also put in a picture of the newest member in the Texas household. Seems to me that Nathan has found himself a protector. I'm told that Elmer spends each night curled up by his buddy Nathan. With all the activity managed to mess up Melissa's top and had to pull out to the setup row and start again. That happens when you are in a hurry and think you know what the instructions are going to say so you just go ahead and don't bother to read carefully. I have been suitably chastised and am once again knitting away. I have also ordered some yarn from a new supplier and will post about it when it comes in. I also included a picture of the Chew since Lady Jane with her dynamic weight loss got to be front and center the last post. Meanwhile...don't worry about the mud and have a happy spring.

And the Biggest Loser is.......

2008-03-22T11:45:00.002-07:00

You guessed it. Lady Jane. If you look carefully you can now see that she actually has a leg bone. She gives all the credit to her trainer Chewie who runs her daily and her Mom who continues to give her good for you cat food even though she would rather have the McD's type. LJ says she will always be a big cat but it is nice to jump again especially when trainer Chewie comes barreling after her for her evening exercise. Now on a more depressing note, we just had another snowstorm in Wisconsin. This winter has been about two years long. I once again couldn't get out of the garage even though I stayed home on Friday so the Easter Bunny is made in the old style where you use what you have in the house and cut it out of a regular round cake pan. Actually, the snow this time of year isn't quite as bad. You know it can't last too long so you can grit your teeth and bear the storms. While snowed in I also got a good start on a sweater that I am making Melissa. The color reminds me of an aged bourdeau. Lucky Melissa with her wonderful coloring can wear what most of us can't so it is always fun to find a special color I want to work on and make it for her. The man who does my plowing has finally done the drive and off to Walmart to find a vacuum belt. Issy is great on the floors but yesterday I wanted to go over the walls and of course it was only minutes before I smelled that burnt rubber odor. Murphy's Law strikes again.

A touch of Spring

2008-03-15T16:38:00.003-07:00

Here is Jade's top from the sister act. I started the hat but decided that she would have more fun with the tote so one of these days I will get going on that. Meanwhile the yarn arrived for her Mom's top. It is called simply Grape and it does look the color of a glass of grape juice. Maybe I can get that cast on tonight. Spring continues to inch its way to Wisconsin. The college kids are out in their shorts although I see no one was wearing sandals yet. Maybe I will be the first one to do that. Now it is once again off to a cup of hot tea. Sometimes it seems that there is just nothing happening and I hate to be repetitive when I post. Does anyone else have that problem? Maybe that is because my life is pretty calm. Not that I am complaining. I have had my share of chaos and am willing to accept things going a bit more smoothly.

Sister Act

2008-03-09T09:17:00.004-07:00

My youngest grand-daughter is 4 years old and lives in Wisconsin. Just like her grandmother she had a difficult time with family relationships. She insists that my oldest granddaughter, age 16, who lives in Texas is her sister. She thinks Meghan is perfect and so when I had some yarn left over from making Meghan a top I thought Jade would like one that was the same color as her "sister's." I am not crazy enough to make one that is quite as time consuming for a 4 year old who will be growing out of it at a lightening rate but I did find a cute pattern in the Family Circle's Easy Knits for Kids book that looked like a fast knit. So here is the start of Jade's top. If the weather keeps staying below normal I should have it finished before too long. I know I am not the only one have a problem with the winter in the mid-west this year but I am starting to act like a mummy that just sits, drinks tea and reads while dreaming of the coming spring. That , of course, does not mention that since I feel the need to bake in cold weather I also am busy stuffing my face and taking things to work so that I don't finish them off myself. That's the bad news. The good news is there are tulips up on the side of my house. Most are still covered in inches of snow but this brave bunch is where I shovel by the steps. Uncovered from the ice pack and snow mound the stems are at least 3 inches above the ground. Yeah! Spring must really be coming.

Another top finished

2008-02-23T16:32:00.002-07:00

Here is Meghan's next gift spread out and drying. For some reason I had a difficult time getting a picture and will try to do better later but I really did get it done. For some reason Lady Jane seems to think that wet or not this is a good place to stretch out and rest so I have been guarding the spare room. Today there was sun. Thank-you thank-you thank-you God. We are supposed to have snow again Monday leaving me in quite quandary. I can't put my car in the garage behind my house because I can't make it up the hill which is all ice. I can't leave it in the drive if it snows because the plow can't get in and I might not be able to get out to help matters. OHHHHHHHHH This has truly been a long winter. Last week, when I was still using the garage, I couldn't get the car out because of the ice rink hill. The next day I hit the garage door opener to give it a try and the opener went up but the door didn't tearing off the top part of the door and, picture this, bending the metal frame. I keep thinking that spring has to come soon. Chewie and Sera and blowing their coats. I only hope that their biology knows something I don't. Meanwhile, back to doing a little work on the quilt and reading.

Gilbert

2008-02-17T09:44:00.004-07:00

I finished my Gnome and his name is Gilbert. I'm not sure why but it seems to fit him. Sorry about the picture but it is another overcast day here in Wisconsin. Gilbert kind of matches my house so he blends in and even with sunshine I am not sure he would be too outstanding. I think that is what Gnomes do though...hide. Hopefully, I will get Meghan's sweater blocked this afternoon and then I can post a picture of that. Meanwhile here is the further saga of the Chew and Lady Jane. He chases her enough that she has managed to get off some of that weight and is now becoming a jumping cat. No, I don't think he is trying to get her but to play. At least they don't run all the time as you can see by the picture. Now off to bake. Another one of those days with heavy rains causing flooding and snow expected soon. What a winter!

The Good Part of Bad Weather

2008-02-10T12:45:00.000-07:00

We are really being blasted with the cold. But after feeling down and depressed I finally found a good reason for being stuck in the house. I had made poopie paths for the dog so he could get out and be somewhat protected from the bitter winds but they weren't deep enough to protect me and I really needed something different to do. I have finished all but 7 inches on the back of the top I am making Meghan and my eyes were crossing so I went back to one of my oldest friends the sewing machine. Last summer while rummaging I found a pattern that I just haven't had the time to work on. Look hard because it will be a while before you see it again. I have managed to get the basic done but there will be hours and hours of handwork before I get to the quilting. I got this because I was feeling like a rotton gram because it was easier to make Jade something then Logan. All the boys are harder. Jade is just close in distance so she gets the quick to put together goodies. Slender Meghan is getting to the point where she looks like a model so it is fun to knit for her. Then I saw this I thought it was something that a boy could keep until he was a man grown. If I get it done I will have to see that all the other grands that are male get something similar. These are for the long haul and so it will be a while before the finish line is in sight but hopefully it will be worth it.

What the "kids" think of this winter

2008-02-09T13:03:00.000-07:00

It is plain to see that both Chewie and Lady Jane are not impressed with the Wisconsin Winter this year. Meanwhile, as the wind blows I continue to work on Meghan's spring top. Right now the sun is shining but the wind is picking up. This morning was used get the ice chunks the plow put in the driveway moved so that they didn't freeze there this evening. The brownies are in the oven. By now you know I always seem to bake when it is cold outside. No wonder people in this climate gain weight in the winter. The yarn has arrived for the gnomes but they will have to wait until I finish the top. I always wonder how people can have a dozen projects going at one time. I would never finish anything. More power to them.

Pictures are worth a 1000 words

2008-02-07T06:08:00.000-07:00

Thinking of Texas

2008-02-02T14:36:00.000-07:00

I started a sweater for the Texas grand-daughter the other day. I was going to make something simple and had emailed her the pattern for approval. When they were sold out of the yarn I wanted I got a great buy on some Noro cotton and silk blend so decided to stick with a pattern that I know she likes. It reminds me of the fresh green color of spring. This will be a bit sturdier then one I made her out of hemp so maybe she will be able to wear it without something underneath for that warm Texas springtime. Meanwhile in the Midwest we are having snow again and it looks like the forecast is snow every day this week so I pulled out my Typically Texas Cookbook. It was put together by our electric Coop when I lived in Texas and has some really great recipies. I ended up making the poppy seed coffee cake rolls. I love the smell of baking bread in the house when it is overcast and snowy outside. Time in my part of the country to start thinking of ways to fight off SAD. Baking is one of the ways for me. Back to knitting and if you see this Jacki you know I switched patterns. But I know Meghan loves this one and it looks really different in this light spring color.

The snake

2008-01-21T10:36:00.000-07:00

I managed to finish one sock and wouldn't you know it, it's snowing again with no one around to take a picture. I really wanted a picture of the heel. It is the old eye of the partridge but with this yarn it really makes a nice pattern. Now off to make another one. Oh, the Packers lost last night. I am trying to convince myself that there were millions of people watching the game and it isn't my fault just because I had tea and muffins instead of beer and brats while watching. Talk about being responsible for the world. I know it's a "woman thing" but when do we ever get over that responsibility factor.

Salamander

2008-01-20T09:49:00.000-07:00

My co-worker, Peaknit, who I think of as one of the sock queens is always singing the praises of Wollmeise so I had to try some. Wow, it is hard to get because it always seems to be sold out. Salamander was one of their new offerings and I managed to get a skein. She knows what she is talking about. It really is nice to work with. I think this looks a bit like snake skin. That's a compliment by the way. You can't see the pattern very well in the picture but when the socks are finished I will post again...this time on a foot. Meanwhile back to the kitchen. The temperatures are way below zero if you take into consideration the wind chill. That's supposed to be Packers weather and although I am not a huge football fan even I might have to watch this game. So Poppy Seed Muffins and tea as I knit and watch the game.

the hat on a head

2008-01-12T15:34:00.000-07:00

Here is my beautiful daughter in law Melissa wearing her cap. My boys were both lucky in the girls they married and the girls, I should say women, both are great looking. I couldn't resist putting this on as I thought it fit the way her hair flips up.

Another cap

2008-01-12T07:29:00.000-07:00

I forgot to put on the picture of the seaman's cap I made. Can't give a hat to one person and not the other when they are in the same household. Plus, the last time my son came by he was taking the kids snow tubing and didn't have a hat. I hope he just leaves this one in the car. I have also added a picture of Lady Jane and Chewie. They seem to getting along fine and take turns give each other baths. Returned to work to be overwhelmed. That is not a good excuse for not blogging as often as I should but it is an excuse. We have been short someone for almost a year now and hopefully we will be back at full staff in a couple of months. So off to the library and pet food store. Clothes to Wash and beds to make. Wow, does anyone besides me think that this never ends?

the newsboy hat

2007-12-31T12:01:00.000-07:00

I have all this lovely yarn that I have received in swaps that I really must use up. This is another great swap gift. It is wool, angora and silk. I think the silk is what shows up shiny in the picture. It doesn't have quite that shine in person. Anyway, I thought I would surprise my Wisconsin daughter-in-law with this. It should go great with her hair and her husband (my son you understand) said I can't make her any old lady hats. I think this will qualify as youthful. The yarn knit up fast and just slide off the needles. I made the majority of this yesterday and finished the bill this AM. I have resolved to use up some of this great yarn and am glad I did. So many projects can be made with a skein or two and I have been avoiding them for larger things. Sometimes I need to be reminded of the old saying that the best gifts can come in small packages.

A contribution to Green

2007-12-30T07:59:00.000-07:00

I wrote yesterday that I was making myself a book bag to take to the library. Thanks to a wonderful swap partner I had hand spun, hand dyed yarn in such a great color. I started out wanting to make myself a Doctor's satchel but didn't have enough yarn and I did want it all in one color. However, I did have enough that with a little combination of yarn I could make a book bag and here are the results. I am thinking of sending it through one more cycle to make it just a hair smaller. I have to keep it big enough to drag home all those large size craft and pattern books as well as my weekly reading material. Thanks again Maggie, I love the yarn and it felted up great!

When you don't have to go anywhere,,,It's Beautiful

2007-12-28T16:16:00.000-07:00

Just a couple of snapshots taken at dusk from the patio door. Winter has once again hit Wisconsin. I am working on a book bag to take my books to the library. I am not the most green person around. There are things I am willing to do and things I am not. For example, I am not willing to give up my AC and have my head stuffed up all summer. I am willing and able to have my own garden and buy from the farmer's market. So...the library in our towns gives you wonderful heavy plastic book bags. Because I am there so often they are replaced about every 2 or three months. Here is a place I can go green. I am knitting and felting a book bag so it won't have to be replaced. Hopefully it is true that every little bit helps. I'll post again when it's finished and you can give me your opinion.

One more pair

2007-12-27T07:55:00.000-07:00

I just finished what I think is the last pair of felted mittens for this year. This pair is more classic and not as "femme" as the ones I posted a few days ago. I try to make the gift match the recipient. Now I am working on a large tote to handle dragging my books back and forth to the library on a weekly basis. I have some wonderful hand spun yarn that I received from a swap that reminds me of a creamsicle and that is going to be the basis with some other bits and pieces. I love to felt because you really don't know what you have until it comes out of the washer. It is kind of a mystery process. You start out with something that to me is large and usually kind of ugly looking. Soap, water and a little beating up and it comes out beautiful. Come to think of it, life is like that. Often the things that you fear or hate the most come to be the things that are the best thing that ever happened. They just need soap, water and a little beating up. Off to clean my years accumulation of junk hidden in my roll top desk. I have added a picture of the family members. Lady Jane is showing her "svelte" figure and Chewie is asking can I get her just once. (He has found that if he runs at her she takes off to get out of the way. Some times she just stops and sits down instead of running and hiding. In this case Chewie, who does not have the best brake system, ends up running right past her. What a crew. Hopefully the demon Jealousy will soon be gone and I won't have to be petting with both hands whenever one or the other comes for loving.

Getting Closer

2007-12-21T17:54:00.000-07:00

Here is the felted mittens and I have another in the works. Logan's sweater is all packed. Of course I forget to take a picture in the frenzy of getting gifts wrapped. I managed to get the flu again. My son came and said, "Oh, I had that last week." I think that was just before he came and gave me a big hug and kiss on leaving. I also have added a new member to the family. Lady Jane, a rather plump, okay let's say obese cat is now in control of the house. She persists in rubbing against the Chew so that he will smell of her. She also decided that he needed a bath today. Pictures will follow. Right now wrapping takes priority as I lost a day or so there sitting on the throne.

Forging Onward

2007-12-15T14:35:00.001-07:00

I just finished hammering out a few more Christmas Projects. Actually, I only have a couple left so I can take a nice deep breath and slow down. Logan's sweater will be dry soon and then to just put on the sleeves and sew up the sides. Yea... I also made him a nightshirt this morning but forgot to take a picture. No problem, I am sure you have all seen a nightshirt. The bag holds a special gift for my daughter in law that mowed the yard for me and picked raspberries when I had the bum knee. I bought a new sewing machine over a year ago. It converts to a full embroidery machine and I really haven't had time to play around with it so yesterday I played. I have some things to figure out yet but it is good enough for a Christmas gift bag and who knows what I will accomplish next - if I take the time that is. Wisconsin is having quite a winter. Lots of snow and ice. I don't like driving in the stuff but I have to say it is really beautiful outside. Talk about a picture postcard. I think I will go and made a pot of tea before rolling up some Kahlua truffles I have chilling in the refrigerator. I will take the tea and sit and admire the sparkling landscape. Sometimes I have to remind myself that holidays are to enjoy. Tea and truffles anyone?

What is a Princess?

2007-12-11T17:19:00.000-07:00

Jade and Logan have been visiting quite a bit last week while Mom and Dad were in rehearsals and preformance of the Christmas Band. She always brought with her a book called what is a Princess? It says things like a princess is brave. Jade said she was brave. A princess is polite. Jade said she was polite. A princess likes clothes. Jade said she definitely like clothes. We were doing fine until we got to a princess is smart. Jade said, "I'm not sure about that one Grandma." Of course that makes me think she is very smart. Meanwhile, I made her an Elizabethan Christmas dress for her Christmas Performance. I lost the pattern for a while so part of it is by guess but it sparkles like a Princess so I think she will like it. I'm on the sleeves to Logan's sweater and that just leaves his nightshirt and a pair of felted mittens for a friend. I still have some shopping but I keep reminding myself I have a couple of weeks yet. Now I will go and get my cup of tea. Wisconsin was hit with another winter storm. It looks like it is going to be an "old time" winter. right now it looks like a picture postcard outside. Peace and Christmas, they seem to go together.

Winter Hits Wisconsin

2007-12-02T09:06:00.000-07:00

We finally got our first storm yesterday. That made it a great day to cook, sew and knit. Here is a casual outfit I made for the princess. I am still working on Logan's sweater so nothing new to report on that front. I am also getting together a package for the Secret Santa Swap. Of course, I forgot some things I have to put in and the package is all sealed so today I will have to try to make a slit in the tape and stuff in the other items. when the kids were little and my husband, who wasn't a ex yet, was home there was nothing that made me feel better then a nice winter storm. I was crazy until everyone got home safe but after that there was such a nice cozy feeling. I still get that. I made cardamon cookies and spritz so the smell filled the house and it was a time to be a peace. When I lived in TX. everyone because upset over a winter storm, even one that I saw as very mild. I think they miss that nice safe feeling of being warm and cozy and watching the wind blow outside. So let it snow.....as long as the roads are all cleared for work on Monday. Oh, yes that is a real blue pointsetta. I love the new colors.

Another gift done

2007-11-25T06:10:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I had to work the most of the morning but this skirt is quick so I managed to finish it in the PM. I don't see Jade wearing this much but with her 50's bobbed hair and a pair of saddle shoes she will be retro all the way.

so here is the poodle, or should I say Kitty skirt.

Stocking Stuffers

2007-11-23T17:18:00.000-07:00

This morning I did stocking stuffers. Well, the stockings will have to be large but I got some bears material the other day and decided that some of the kids would like throw pillows for their teams too. then you can't send two out of three boys pillows for their rooms so construction truck pillows seemed in order. I did manage to get the cat done for Jade's poodle skirt but got no further. Maybe tomorrow. Remember slow and steady wins the race, even when it is the race to get things done for the holidays.

Working away for the holidays

2007-11-18T13:43:00.000-07:00

The front of Logan's sweater is completed and I took a little break. The tea cozy went fast...well, except for the felting. I have a nice new gentle washing machine and with less agitation it takes at least one or more times to get my felting finished. If I can continue to turn things out at a steady pace I will be OK. The question is how do you stay steady during the holidays. right now I am struggling with finding a pan large enough to brine the turkey. So far I have had no luck. I bought a 21 pound turkey. Do you think I just might have created my own problem. Everyone said they wanted leftovers so it looks like leftovers they will get....if I can figure out a way to submerse this thing that is.

Yikes!

2007-11-10T19:22:00.000-07:00

I was out raking leaves today and it finally hit me. It is almost mid November. I have put in a picture of the sweater I need to finish for Logan by Christmas. That wouldn't be a probelm. What the yikes means is I also have a reto poodle skirt outfit to make Jade, a wall hanging, pillows for a bunch of people, a felted tea cozy.....well you get the idea. the list goes on and on. I must no panic...I must not panic...I must not panic.

another Great Swap package

2007-11-02T15:35:00.000-07:00

I was feeling kind of light headed when I had the sinus infection and so once again signed up for a couple of swaps. I have been so lucky with my swap partners and this is no exception. In this swap you were to look at the profile and send things you had around the house. No fair buying anything new just for your partner. i think my partner did a wonderful job. I only wish I could get a better picture of the fabric that is dotted with sparkling stars. Thanks again partner. I already have ideas how to use my wonderful haul.

Halloween 07

2007-11-01T16:50:00.000-07:00

Here are Logan and Jade back from trick or treating. There is also a picture of Chewie so was so exhausted after they left he did his mush mouth thing. The final picture is my Thanksgiving cactus that doesn't seem to understand it is a month away from Thanksgiving. No time to work on my sweater with Halloween here but I am thinking you will get a quick preview this weekend. By the time I started the pattern Logan had grown and so I had to order more yarn. Lucky for me in this case I can just add another color because I would hate to try and match more then a year later. I need to remind myself when it comes to yarn I should always get more then I think I need. anyone else have the problem?

A squirrel of his own or almost done

2007-10-28T15:17:00.000-07:00

I had scheduled some time off and wouldn't you know it, I ended up sick with a sinus infection and a messed up back. Just goes to show you that some plans are not meant to be. Anyway, I did get most of the things done and I will call on friends for help stripping wallpaper at a later date. Meanwhile while I am getting ready for winter I hung the bird feeders. It took the squirrels about 3 minutes before they found them back up and they are busy hanging upside down and doing their gymnastics to get every little seed. This drives Chewie crazy. Chewie then drives me crazy. It is kind of a round robin type of thing. I don't think it will last for long but I bought the Chew a squirrel that he could catch and squeak. Maybe it will hold his attention for a few minutes. These soft paletted dogs can made the strangest sounds when they want something. Oh, I did start a sweater and will let you know how that goes as I get a bit further along.

All is not lost

2007-10-20T13:37:00.000-07:00

Before falling into bed for my healing nap I managed to finish this dress. I love the little hat. It goes to one of the people I work with for his new baby girl. Every little girl needs something in satin and now they make washable bridal satin. I'm so tickled about washing satin. It makes it perfect for that special baby outfit.

The wind The trash The Chew

2007-10-19T14:40:00.000-07:00

I thought I had everything planned. I took off Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of this week. I was going to strip wallpaper from the computer room, clean out the garage from the garden mess, dig out the garden and do a ton of miscellaneus things, finishing socks. sewing a gift, starting an afghan. That didn't include the regular like washing cleaning etc. I was even planning on fitting in a visit to a friend on Wednesday. I just knew I could do it all. Of course I woke up Tueday with a sore throat, a dripping nose and all the other signs of a really big head cold on the way. Add to that that we have had some tremendous winds and spitting rain and you know I haven't finshed any of the big projects. I have managed to cover up and fall asleep in my chair after drinking enough hot liquid to make me slosh. I did mush to the store to get a few more boxes of Kleenex. I was really feeling disgruntled when Chewie taught me a lesson. Thursday was garbage day. I think I already told you we have had some really gusty winds. It doesn't take much to figure out that the garbage was blown all over the neighborhood. Now add that I live in a college town. College garbage includes lots of beer cans and beer cartoons. If I was going to take a snooze I had to take Chewie for his walk so off we went. Chewie was not content to pass by a single piece of blowing trash. He had to stop and sniff everything. He seemed to prefer the Miller Lite. I was thinking my cold would soon turn into pneumonia when I realized something. My Chew hates the water and yet he was willing to put up with the discomfort to explore. (I don't think I need to mention he is a young dog). Anyway, the brain cells kicked in and I figured that if he was willing to put up with what he hates to explore the new then I could find something exciting about doing something other then what I had planned.... even if exciting came in the form of hot tea, a good book and a long nap. So now the Chew and I are taking a rest. The wallpaper will still be there as will the garage, the pond and the garden.

A Tale of 2 Socklets or Free at Last

2007-10-17T16:23:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had that pattern that you make a lot harder then it should be? I certainly did that with these socklets. It all started when I joined a KAL and found out I couldn't figure out the pattern at all. Not being one to give up I decided that what I needed to do was knit a practice pair of toe up socks. About 2 weeks later, one lost knitting needle (Thanks for the loan Stacie) and somewhere in the neighborhood of 12 tension headaches I have finished. I don't know why I am so stubborn and can't just fold once in a while. It is something I am going to have to work on. Meanwhile I am off to a couple of new projects. One is sewing and the other is crocheting. Areas in which I have much more competence. I know. I have knit things that are much more difficult but for some reason my mind just didn't want to go around these so it is time to put them in the wash and call it quits. My mother would have said they were almost the finish of me. My area is targeted for severe weather so I ran out and picked some flowers. I think the colors look nice with the socks and it got me outside for a few minutes.

Failure and being a savey saver

2007-10-13T06:47:00.000-07:00

I have started to get busy crafting again. I joined a KAL making socks in the Firestarter pattern. I am an abject failure at this sock. I wasn't big enough so I decided since I have never done toe up socks maybe I better do a simple pair first. I am putting on a picture of my second one and there are tiny little holes in the toe area. I give up. This sounds like something that I need to work on when the snow blows and I am happy to be curled up in the recliner instead of something I want to toss so I can get outside and finish up the work in the garden. Meanwhile see my $0.69 vest that I made for Melissa. She is a teacher and I thought she might like to wear it to school. Actually it is $2.38 plus tax. Both the fabrics come from the Good Will Store. they sell any piece of fabric for .69 and both the outside and lining were purchased there. I love seraching through their bins. I found this after Christmas last year and ran into it while I was seraching for some fabric for a baby gift. I forgot all about it but that only makes it more fun. It is like getting a gift. If you haven't taken time to check out the resale shops you might make the effort. I am always surprised at the treasures I find.

Way too Small

2007-09-30T06:19:00.000-07:00

I was working away on my first toe up sock and thought I finally had a running start. The last laugh is on me. Although I managed to figure out the toe it is way way too small for my wide foot. I think I will take a break and find a pattern for a toe up that fits a male foot. If I can get that down I can do some adaptations on the pattern for the KAL. Meanwhile, the weather stays beautiful so what I really should do is go outside and work in the yard. This may be my favorite season but it also is the harbinger of winter, not a time to garden in Wisconsin unless you want to make snow carrots. Here is the toe before I make it into a nice mess of crinkled yarn. five starts and then too small. Do you think I ought to be learning something from this?

finished the shawl and on to the sock

2007-09-29T16:44:00.001-07:00

I finally managed to finish the shawl I was making my neighbor. Okay, so I didn't block it but she will have that done in a nano second. I have also been working on some socks for the Firestarter KAL but I can't say there are going very well. So far I have pulled them out five times. Maybe it is take a break. Maybe I should just break the knitting needles. I let you know what I decide.

The cool weather makes things go faster

2007-09-22T15:46:00.000-07:00

I really needed to have the "shot in the arm" of cool weather. I am a real lazy bones when the weather is warm and especially when it is humid. The cooler evenings have helped me get more done on the shawl for Phyllis. I need to get it done before the October winds bring down the leaves so I am working away. I have also started a KAL with my friend at peaknits so I am under the gun so to speak. I have accepted that I may be starting when everyone else is done but that's okay. I have yarn that is so squishable that it will be fun to work with one I get going. Meanwhile here is a picture of the shawl or I should say 1/2 the shawl. You knit it in halves and then knit it together. I think it is done that day because of the pockets. At least this way I know I reached the half way point.

The Autumn Day

2007-09-15T14:42:00.000-07:00

There is one word for today and that is MAGNIFICENT! The breeze is past crisp, the air has the smell of fall and the color of the sky is Indian Summer even though we are only into September. It is time to start doing more blogging. Last night I had Jade over for a Girls night out. She said I could only take the one picture and maybe tomorrow when she had another sleep over I could take another. I think that was a hint but it didn't work. She was happily playing with her friend when I left her house earlier today. I love Autumn. I have juicy Macintosh apples in the refrigerator. I am thinking of stews, soups and meatloaf. Best yet, it is time that I was soon settle down to doing more crafting. I won't be fast at first but I have started on my neighbor's shawl. She picked the pattern and it is certainly easy enough. The problem was the yarn. I would have never guessed it would be so difficult to find a soft pink in an ultra bulky. I finally manged though and have started so hopefully when the winds blow in Wisconsin this winter she will have something to snuggle in like a warm hug. There is a busy couple of weeks coming at work but then I should be back to the computer on a more regular basis as I finish up the work in the garden and hunker down for the cold days to come.

A Large Vest and lots of Grape Jelly

2007-09-03T12:38:00.000-07:00

I finally finished that vest I started. Bummer. I shrunk it and it still is way too big. Eureka, I got a great idea. There is a woman at work that it ought to fit. I think I will take it in and give her a surprise gift tomorrow. I know I will never pull it all out and maybe it will be something bright for her day. If not she can give it to the Goodwill and I will never know. Besides finishing the vest we went to the County Fair yesterday. The kids always have to have their share of rides, games and junk food before school starts tomorrow. I came home exhausted and was going to start on the shawl I am making the neighbor when my son called. He said they had a neighbor who had grapes and wasn't going to use them so he told Jared to come and pick them. I wasn't going to turn down washed and stemmed grapes so I went off to their house. They did have lots of them. I brought some home and made grape jelly. The kids are going to do grape juice using my old easy can recipe and make some wine. I love the way the house smells when you are jelly making. Yum, the neighbor with the grapes, the kids and myself will have that wonderful touch of summer this winter when the winds blow. Making memories is always better then doing nothing.

More Lazy days

2007-08-05T09:20:00.000-07:00

It's raining outside, not that we don't need it but it does make it a perfect day to curl up with a good book. I have scads of tomaotes in the garden but the big ones don't seem to want to turn red. Even the green zebras are taking their good natured time to ripen. My pepper plants on the other hand are going crazy. They really like the hot dry weather. I was just curling up with a good book today when I had some unexpected company for breakfast. Jared had taken Logan fishing. (He insists that the rain is the best time to go) Logan cast and his fishing pole ended up in the water so after Jared waded in to get it he stopped at my house to use the dryer. It was the perfect time to make some pancakes and give them some of the peppers. I also had the chance to give them a shampoo that came in from Prairie land herbs. If you like herbal products this is a definite must visit site. I haven't tried a link in this newer formant so hopefully if you click here you will find it. If not I will try again later because it is really worth a visit. Now, I am going back to being lazy. Summer will be over one of these days and the projects will be posted but for now I will bake some zucchini and put my nose back in my book

The sights, sounds and smells of summer

2007-07-22T11:02:00.000-07:00

The gentle breeze wafts the smell of the sweet flocks in the open patio door and it is hard to believe that summer will soon turn to fall. The spring flowers and early roses around the pond have given way to Black-eyed Susans, lilies, coneflowers and even a few Hollyhocks. It was a wonderful weekend to let the wind play with my hair while indulging myself in the last Harry Potter Book. Okay, so I might have shed just a couple of tears to see it end but I know I can visit him any time by opening a book into his world of magic. I discovered Harry the first year he came out and thought it would be something like my old favorite the Hobbit. It wasn't, but Harry had his own way of gripping your heart. How wonderful to be the author and have those characters live in you mind. Oh, great news! Chew had all the tests and he passed them all with a negative. He is heartworm, Erlickia, bacterial free. He has taken off about 6 pounds since I got him and is, as the woman who brought me Napoleon said, a stunning Shar Pei. He likes to hide where the bittersweet climbs the fence and peer into the neighbors yard looking for their dog, Bear. I threw in a few pictures of the garden around his area. The flowers have almost grown over the witch's ball and have covered the dancing bronze fairies that twirl in the spring flowers. No knitting or at least no yet this weekend but there is cucumber salad and tuna salad melding in the refrigerator. Ah.h.h.h. The lazy days of summer.

The vest is coming along

2007-07-18T14:09:00.001-07:00

Things are looking up. I called to tell the company that they forgot to bill me for my Internet service and they told me I had this month free. I can bend my knee enough to sit down and type on the computer and Izzy is happily cleaning my floors while I sit. You would think I would have finished this while I was doing all the sitting but for some reason I seemed to be more hooked on reading. Summer is never my best time. I like crisp breezes and chilly nights. You will most likely see a lot more work from me when fall comes stealing in. I do think the vest will turn out fine and I am prepared to shrink it a bit with a good hot wash. More later

Izzy

2007-07-14T06:46:00.000-07:00

I been off the computer for a bit but hopefully am back and ready to go. right now I am obsessed with Izzy my irobet vacuum. I have been under all kinds of bills, mostly vet and dentist and so the money went there and not for fun things. I was at my youngest son's and he had purchased a robot vacuum. Now I figure that I started vacuuming about age 10 and that means I have been doing something that I really don't like to do for 51 years. I had to have one. I found a nice refurbished one on the Internet and decided to give myself a treat. I LOVE IT! The problem is that instead of just letting it go I am busy watching it run. I guess that will wear off soon enough and I will leave it to its own devices. It docks itself on the charger when it's done so there is really no reason not to just come home and have the house vacuumed but I can't leave it alone quite yet. Kind of that dropping off you child the first time at the babysitters. I've started a shawl for my neighbor and will be posting more on that as well as my rather large vest. I didn't think the knee surgery would throw me off as much as it did. So off to check the garden and raspberries and to the pet store for more treats. Chewie really likes his treats.

Oh well, I like my vests big anyway

2007-06-24T14:39:00.000-07:00

See what you can get accomplished when you are stuck with an elevated knee. I had my surgery on Thursday. I have read 4 books, did this much on my vest, taken a few "side trips" and am still slow. It wasn't the surgery. considering the Dr. said it was worse then it had looked in the MRI, it really is not much to put up with. Unfortunately, I had a nasty reaction to the non-steroidal anti-inflamatory before I got the the surgery and my stomach is still giving me fits. That leads me to the big vest. No, I haven't lost that much weight, although it would be nice to take some off and not eating is sure to make me drop a few pounds. I did a swatch, well it was kind of a swatch. I wanted the vest size to fall in between the upper two sizes on the pattern. I decided that a size bigger needle would do the trick. I forgot that cotton and linen, the blend in the yarn, sort of stretches. I'm big but not as big as this vest. I like it anyway, I will wear it because I don't have the energy to go yanking and I really might like it that big. There must be something wrong but I just don't have the perfect gene. I will fool around with this and make it work. Meanwhile back to my chair and I will let you know how it comes out.

Unbelievable Gift

2007-06-22T04:03:00.000-07:00

I have the most amazingly generous secret pal 10. Well she is not so secret anymore but she is amazing. Here is the package she sent. It isn't impossible for me to get to the shop she co-owns and I have to plan a trip one of these days because it looks like "home" to me. Check it out at prairielandherbs.blogspot.com. Now on to the gift that range from hand spun yarn, that she dyed and spun just for me to special shampoo and doggie treats to make package for Chewie, who by the way is wiggling with delight. (well, maybe not about the bath) She has sent just "tons" of herbal soap that I love and a wonderful package of all kinds of herbal products. I have popcorn from Iowa. A kit to make mittens. Knitting needles, a Cocoa package from Penzi, you name it she has thought of it. Secret Pal you are wonderful and if I were a tad closer I would have to see if Chewie liked that kitten. Take care and do stay in touch. I will be blogging about what I make out of all the wonderful things that you have sent. I am even getting weak on spinning so maybe we can chat about that one of these days. May you be blessed with pals who are half as great as you.

Slip Sliding Away

2007-06-17T14:17:00.000-07:00

Time has really gotten away from me. After I banged up my knee everything seems to take so much time that I haven't been blogging like I should. I am doing some knitting and wanted to get this on so my secret pal can see that I have started something with the wonderful pick yarn she sent. It's a vest called Iris. I will be a bit slow but it will get done. Right now I am ruinating because I seem to have come down with a cold and that means they will probably put the surgery off for a week or so until my nose stops running like a sieve. Patience, I need to cultivate patience! Off to get the clothes out of the dryer and wish my sons Happy Father's Day, or in the case of the youngest, Happy Birthday, Happy Father's Day. Have a great day, both of you.

the last package is ready to go

2007-06-10T10:57:00.000-07:00

I have put together my last package for secret pal 10. Hope she likes it. I always enjoy secret pal. I have been so very lucky in the people who got my name and I hope the ones I have had the opportunity to spoil feel the same. Now off to the post office tomorrow.

Short and Sweet

2007-06-10T03:54:00.000-07:00

I've been a bit under the weather so I will make this short and sweet. the answer to the trivia question is I believe voldemort. I started working with some beautiful yarn my secret pal sent and am getting my final package ready to go to my secret pal. Pictures later.

Hogwarts trivia

2007-05-30T14:55:00.001-07:00

Ron and Hermione in the Order of the Phoenix

Finally Finished

2007-05-24T17:30:00.000-07:00

I bet you thought I would never finish those anklets. If you didn't think like that I did. Here they are. I managed to mess up my knee so I have been leaving the garden early and sitting down as a result I finally got these done. The yarn is from my wonderful secret pal. It is so soft and wooly. I have to block them and put them away for those crisp fall days. I will be slow at knitting and crafting in general until the garden is up and going but I will be posting as I get things finished. Meanwhile I hope I don't bore you with garden pictures. That is my spring priority.

A special Iris

2007-05-22T16:50:00.000-07:00

I put this in and last year when it was just ready to bloom I broke it off dragging the hose. Needless to say I have gone to a sprinkler system. I love the color and wanted to show it off.

My terrific Ravenclaw partner

2007-05-21T18:16:00.000-07:00

I am so excited about this wonderful package from Paula. Look, just look at the tiny little socks on the bag. This will be my bag to take the socks I am knitting to work from here on out! It's wonderful. Not only that but she hand dyed the yarn just for me and the color is perfect. I am the book fan. Dare I admit that I have never managed to sit through one of the movies without falling asleep. My kids would understand. They have the movies and I have tried more than once but I guess I am a reader and not a watcher. Anyway, perfect, yes, perfect color in the stitch markers and I certainly never expected birch needles. Add a pattern that I am anxious to try and chocolate to quiet the ranging beast. I could not have asked for better. Thank-you Thank-you. ( I had to put in a picture of the bag full and then with contents. It is just so great!

Hogwarts trivia for quidditch round 2

2007-05-21T18:02:00.000-07:00

. Who is the Fat Lady's friend?-
Violet-
When the Fat Lady was attacked by Sirius Black and fled her portrait, who took over for her as guard of Gryffindor Tower?
sir Cadogan
3. Usually when Harry is in Dumbledore's office, what are the portraits of previous headmasters doing?-
Snoozing-
4. Which one of the Triwizard champions did not go to the World Cup?-
Fleur Delacour
5. Who did Harry give his Triwizard winnings to?-
Fred and George Weasley
6.The next two are anagrams. Rearrange the letters to get the correct words.
Minerva Mcgonagal
7. Oliver Wood
8. What author's name appears on the book "Quidditch Through the Ages"?- - Kennilworthy Whisp
9. What does the Keeper do in a game of Quidditch?- Keeps the brooms in good working order-
Guards the goal
10. In the Goblet of Fire why did the Mad Eye Moody imposter put Harry's name in the goblet?
He wanted Harry to win the tournament
Picture Scavenger Hunt sorry but I can't get the pictures to upload and don't know how to make the links so I am in for the trivia only.

What a haul!

2007-05-17T18:11:00.000-07:00

Oh I am to be envied. My secret pal sent me another great package. Homemade jam, some of her favorite coffee, enough yarn to make a wonderful summer top, great pasta, a wonderful book and a fabulous vase for my flowers. I got so excited that I ran and got the camera to take a picture and promptly lost it, not the picture, the camera. As I told my Pal, I can be a fruitcake at times. Anyway, the camera was in the broom closet and I am back in business. I can't tank you enough pal and only hope you have a partner who is as good to you as you are to me. Thank-you Thank-you Oh...Oh, Just look at the spectacular color of that yarn.

Hogwarts Swap Package.

2007-05-17T03:34:00.000-07:00

My swap partner is in college and so had to take a description from her mother as to the contents. hopefully, this picture will help. Have fun knitting. The grey heather is my way of sending silver in natural yarn.

Hogwarts package is in the mail and One more picture

2007-05-16T15:54:00.000-07:00

My weekly hogwarts posting and one more sign of Spring

2007-05-16T15:46:00.000-07:00

tiny lilacs that will rebloom if I take the time to prune off the blossoms. My package went out a few days ago so hope my swap partner likes it.

SIGNS OF SPRING

2007-05-16T15:39:00.000-07:00

Garden time

2007-05-13T06:53:00.000-07:00

We finally had some nice weather yesterday and I managed to clean out the pond and get in fresh water. No knitting but that does take back stage while I am getting the gardens ready for the summer. I miss having lots of land and it is always a challenge to me to get in everything that I want to plant. I hope to get my package finished for my hogwarts swap partner this week but don't want to put a picture in so my pal will be surprised when she gets it. I still have to do a couple of things including making stitch markers so will see how it goes and let you know. Meanwhile the picture tells you what has been occupying my time. As you can see, I have lots to dig out behind the pond. Oh well, it will all get done eventually. Lucky me has a friend coming to take raspberry bushes. I hate to throw them out and they can really take things over if you have a small area.

Quidditch Trivia Answers and still no second anklet

2007-05-07T16:53:00.000-07:00

I am still working on the second sock and the garden but meanwhile I have to get my Hogwarts Swap answers down. Here are what I think.

1. Who isn't or hasn't been a Quidditch captain? This is a bad question. Cho is a captain in the newest book. Otherwise, it's Cho.Cedric DiggoryCho ChangOliver WoodMarcus Flint

2. Who are the Gryffindor chasers? (books 1-5) Alicia, Angelina and Katie
Hermione, Dean and SeamusAlicia, Angelina and KatieFred, George and OliverParvati, Colin and Neville

3. Who are the Slytherin beaters? (books 1-4) Derrick and Bole are the beaters in the first books. Later it is Crabbe and Goyle.
Crabbe and GoyleFlint and MontagueDerrik and BolePucey and Warrington

4. What type of broom isn't made anymore? Silver Arrow
FireboltSilver ArrowNimbusComet

5. The Slytherin team all ride the same broom, what is it? Nimbus 2001
Cleansweep SevenNimbus 2000Comet 260Nimbus 2001

6. Which of these is not a Quidditch team? Tudshull Tornados (It's supposed to be Tutshill Tornados)
Pride of PortreeAppleby ArrowsTudshill TornadosCaerphilly Catapults

7. Who is Head of Hufflepuff House? Professor Sprout
Professor BinnsProfessor FlitwickProfessor SproutProfessor Sinistra

8. Which Hufflepuff student is reported to have been one of the only peple to have ever given Hufflepuff success? Cedric Diggory
Justin Finch - FletchleyCho ChangCedric DiggoryLily Evans

9. In Book 1 who was the first Hufflepuff student to be sorted? Hannah Abbot
Hannah AbbottTerry BootSusan BonesLisa Arygle
10. What is the emblem of Hufflepuff House? Badger
DeerBeaverBadgerBear

Hogwarts Swap Questionaire

2007-04-29T16:06:00.000-07:00

1. What Hogwarts house have you been sorted into? Ravenclaw

2. List your three favorite double-point needle brands, including size and length.
Any of the bamboo and I like the shorter ones. I really don't have a favorite brand.

3. Would you like to try a new brand needle? If so, which brand? Size? Length?
I am always up for trying something new. I use both metal and bamboo. I haven't tried any of the ones made of wood yet but they can be pretty pricey so don't feel obligated.

4. If you are a RAVENCLAW, do you prefer the colors in the film or the book? Do you have a strong preference? I think it would matter on the yarn. The blue and bronze would be my preference if you could find a good bronze. that said, I think silver would be easier to find and I like that too.

5. If your pal decides to send candies or chocolates are there any that you don't like? Candy, Chocolate that I don't like...Are you kidding? I like it all and too much.

6. What are your favorite scents? In the spring I like lilac or rose scents.

7. Do you have any allergies? Sure, but I don't think anyone is going to send me dust mites or medicine so you are safe. All the yarns and I seem to get along well.

ONE DOWN & ONE TO GO

2007-04-28T17:39:00.000-07:00

I can't beleive how long it's taking me to do this pair of anklets but here is the first. I got the yarn from my secret pal in Secret pal 10 and I really love the way it feels. Thanks again Pal.

I'm "baby-sitting again

2007-04-28T07:08:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Jade,the weekend before Logan and this weekend Sera. but I will get back to knitting one of these days. If the weather holds I can burn up my sticks today and when Sera goes home Sunday I can quickly mow the lawn. A couple of friends came over and started my mower. Seems that I got too much Stabol in it for the winter but fresh gas helped so I am off and running for the summer. I keep telling myself I will catch up. I wil catch up. I will catch up.

While you are waiting for me to finish at least one sock

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

p align="center">

You are The Wheel of Fortune

Good fortune and happiness but sometimes a species of
intoxication with success

The Wheel of Fortune is all about big things, luck, change, fortune. Almost always good fortune. You are lucky in all things that you do and happy with the things that come to you. Be careful that success does not go to your head however. Sometimes luck can change.

What Tarot Card are You?
Take the Test to Find Out.

Secret Pal-Hogwarts and Spring

2007-04-24T16:59:00.000-07:00

It's raining this evening so I might not be able to get out in the garden tomorrow for the rose trimming session. Maybe I can even take time to knit a few rows. I sent another package to my secret pal and she has already thanked me. The package was sort of elective but I can't post a picture as I can't find it. Oh well, I will be sure I have a picture safely stored before I send the next installment. Meanwhile, I continue to work on the Hogwarts Sock swap. Not much going on now until I get who my secret pal will be but I continue to have fun with the trivia questions. I am also getting the opportunity to take a look at some new blogs. Wow, these people are creative.

Spring finally has started

2007-04-22T18:52:00.000-07:00

I am behind and getting things done outside. Spring came in with a blast of snow this year and I really put things off that should be done so other then a few rows on my anklets there was no knitting this weekend. I did have Jade come and visit. She and I planted seeds and did a "project." (Anything I craft with the grandkids they call a project.) Jade made a Ghost mobile. It went home before I got a picture but I am sure she will find somewhere to hang it up until the next project takes its place. I also got a surprise gift or I should say gifts. I have raspberry bushes. As anyone knows who has these pesky things, raspberries taste great but they mulitply like rabbits. I am always looking for someone to give them to as I hate to toss them away. My youngest son brought a friend from work that needed to replace some of hers and she brought me switchplates. I have one in the kitchen and one in the bathroom. I will have to get some brass screws or touch up the ones I have with a brush of gold paint but I am tickled with them. I am guessing that for the next few weeks knitting will take a back seat to working outside. Today, when Jared and family brought the friend, they helped clean out the pond. So water needs to go in and plants pulled from the garden where they were buried for the winter. There is also lots of weeding out there. Stay tuned and I will post as I work my way through.

My answer Hogwarts Swap

2007-04-19T17:56:00.000-07:00

I am not sure if I am supposed to post my answer on my blog or send to my hostess. Just so I am covered I think that is Ron talking about Dobby.

ANOTHER GREAT HAUL

2007-04-19T17:51:00.000-07:00

Wow, look what my secret pal 10 sent. Gorgeous hand spun yarn in deep vibrant colors, the most wonderful smelling herbal soap...that I think she makes herself and green tea to sip while I sniff and knit. I can't express how much I am enjoying her packages and email. Kudos to you secret pal

More for Hogwarts

2007-04-16T17:57:00.000-07:00

I love the books and think this will be so much fun. So another post for Hogwarts. You never know if they will give points for posting your house.

Hogwarts Swap housepoints everyone

2007-04-15T17:43:00.000-07:00

Keeping busy

2007-04-15T16:19:00.000-07:00

This weekend I had to put in a little time at work so didn't get as much done as I planned. Sera, my youngest son's Shar Pei came to play with his "cousin" Chewie so Logan decided that it would be a good time to stay at Grandma's house for the evening. In the morning he helped me wind some yarn. Actually he helped me wind lots of yarn. He did up 9 skeins for me. I think it is going to be a sweater for him with elephants but I am not certain so I told him I wasn't sure what I would make with it. I did manage to sneak in a few minutes to start some of the yarn my secret pal in Secret Pal 10 sent. She said the skeins were somewhat short and suggested I start from the toe up. I thought I could always finish the toe in white but then after looking I decided this would be the perfect color for anklets with blue jeans when fall again comes knocking on the door. The colors in the picture are not at all good. The yarn ranges from a soft pink through blue and lavender. I fooled around with the hue and satuaration but just made things worse. Maybe I can get a better picture when they are done. Anyway, I have started even though I swore I would get a shawl done for my neighbor first. You know what they say, the best laid plans of mice and men.

I'm slow this week

2007-04-13T17:40:00.000-07:00

I have spent the week looking at new projects but not starting anything. I did manage to get out my swift and yarn winder and get the wonderful yarn my secret pal sent to me ready to go. My excuse is the weather. I am putting a picture of the tree off my patio on so that you can see that it has been snowing in Midwest. I also have a picture of Chewie resting after playing in the snow. I will be back soon with more things. right now I really need to get a package together for my secret pal. Have to work a bit this weekend so I may not get to a new project just yet but give me a chance and away I go. I have to make a tee shirt for Logan and a shirtdress for Jade so I can't put things off too much longer.

Easter Collar

2007-04-08T09:52:00.000-07:00

Okay, I have to admit I have a weakness for, of all things, dog collars. My youngest tells me it is my way of dressing the dog. He's probably right because I don't like the kind of dog I have in cutsie outfits so I just get seasonal collars. Anyway, some of those special collars can get kind of pricey so I decided to see if I couldn't make one myself. Here is the results and both Chewie and I like it. It was ribbon marked down from over $3 a yard to 5o cents, stiffner and a suede cloth backing. As you can see, the materials cost a little of nothing. I think I might be on to something. He can have collars for everything.

The Sheep Swap

2007-04-05T16:57:00.001-07:00

Look what I got and all the way from Canada when the partners were only given out days ago. I think this primitive sheep is perfect. It arrived at my work and we were working on making a pattern so we can all make some. I have been so lucky with the people I have paired up with in the swaps. Now off to the rest of the computer. Can you believe I deleted my inbox instead of my spam file and then went on to trash and got rid of it forever.... before even finding out. So...if some of you don't hear from me please drop a line because I have really done it this time.

Blue bonnets and the Sheep Swap

2007-04-04T10:34:00.000-07:00

I came home in time to see that I had been given my partner in the sheep swap. It is one skein of wool yarn and something that is a sheep so I am sending a picture of what I will be sending my swap partner in Germany. Hope she likes it. I am also working on updating you on the TX trip, I seem to be doing this in small increments. It is Blue Bonnet time in TX. If I remember correctly that is the TX flower and in certain areas of the State the roadsides are covered. Here is my youngest Texas grandson among a patch of bluebonnets not far from his home. He is a cutie and the imp in his eyes is for real.

What a wonderful Pal!

2007-04-03T11:11:00.000-07:00

I'm back from TX where it stormed every day but two. We did manage to get some planting done and I have a sandal's mark so when it was sunny it was hot, at least compared to Wisconsin. i used to live in TX so I know it is going to get much much hotter. The big news is.... What did I return to? A great package from my secret pal in Secret Pal 10. I love every item. You would think that she had known me for years. I wanted to get this up on my blog right away and so will make this short and sweet with more from TX later. Last night as tired as I was I had to go through the Folk Shawls book. One of these days I see a Sampler Shawl in the works. That is after I finish all those other items I have in mind. Anyway, here is my haul and a wonderful one it is. The fingering weight yar is alpaca and silk from the UK. she said she really loved it and I can hardly wait to try it out. Oh, the picture of Chewie is because I wanted to put the chew toy she sent him in with the rest for a picture but you can see that he is not moving his little (maybe I should say big) paw to let me take it.

Getting ready

2007-03-24T16:54:00.000-07:00

Why does it always take me so long to get ready to go any place? I am not leaving until Wednesday AM. True, I am working Monday and Tuesday but still how much should I have to do? I will have all the convenience of home except more things. If I need something there will be a store available. Now tell me....why did I have to clean out the refrigerator? My neighbor and kids will be sharing the care of Chewie. Both have seen my refrigerator when it is stocked with those little mystery green filled containers. Oh, and then there is the need to hem my pants. I hemmed pants for people at work last week. I have no problem just rolling up my jeans at home...but no, here I am snipping and pinning. It isn't that it is hard. It does take time and when you add in the refrigerator and ironing, well, you get the idea. So no knitting at the present. I am enjoying looking at the garden catalogues. I am even thinking about buying lottery tickets and telling the Chewie caretakers to scratch one a day. I did see that my secret pal got her first package. She seems to like it and I am having a wonderful time reading her blog. It is just packed full of things plus it sounds as though she has a really interesting job. Not to forget that in secret pal there are both the spoilers and spoilees. My spoiler has been a great communicator. I can hardly wait to read her blog. she has already helped me find a pattern and to top it all off she spins and thinks I just might be interested in some hand spun yarn. YES! I might might might be interested. How lucky can you get. Two great people. Now off to soak and get out the kinks. If I am lax in the new week or two I will be back.

Done

2007-03-18T09:01:00.000-07:00

I did it. All they need is blocking and I am ready to put on the Birkies and pretend it is summer. As you can see Chewie isn't sure if he is impressed.

Secret Pal 10

2007-03-17T13:12:00.000-07:00

Because I am leaving for a short vacation soon I wanted to get my first package out for my secret pal. She loves blue and hates pink. (Sorry about the bath soak pal). she said she also loves lavendar and showed a picture from her garden so she can plant the seeds in a pot or outside when the weather warms up a bit. Hope she likes she first haul. Oh, the funky socks have arrived at my granddaughter's house so here is a picture of them modeled on her slender leg.

It's an orphan but I hope not for long

2007-03-15T16:24:00.000-07:00

Here is the funky toed sock I said I would post a picture of. My hope is to get time to make the match, put them on when I leave for TX and grab them off when the plane touches the ground. I hate to wear shoes in the winter. My birkies are calling.

Spring fever

2007-03-14T05:51:00.000-07:00

Spring is finally coming to Wisconsin. When driving home last night I saw the ice on the river had broken up. We are supposed to have a bit of snow tomorrow and maybe Friday but I can't help but think that is about it. I finshed one sock of a toed sock so I can get into my flip-flops early. My feet will be so happy to breath again. Will post a picture later. I purchased this merino wool from ebay and I love the colors. I have found that I really like the superwash wool for socks but I will take exception to this one. Off to work for a few hours and then home to start the spring cleaning out. I really do get that spring cleaning feeling. It started last weekend and although the intensity is going, it is still with me. Thank God, it doesn't last forever. I like a clean and tidy home but enough is enough. I'm more anxious to get into the gardens than clean. The seed cataloges are worn from paging and it's getting to be time to place an order. On the 28th I will be flying to Texas to visit with my oldest son and his family. Lots of grandkids to hug and spoil. They are planning to put some raised veggie gardens in his new home and I can't wait. Tomato plants here I come. By the time I'm back it will be garden time in the midwest. Yeah!

I've been lazy

2007-03-03T10:38:00.000-07:00

I have certainly been remiss in blogging the past couple of weeks. With the snow and winds I have felt more like curling up with a good book then getting on the computer. Plus the computer keeps wanting to be shut down before it works correctly. Anyway, the good news is I finally finished the toed socks for my granddaughter in Texas. I hope the gold doesn't itch her toe. The back is cabled all the way down the heel but it is hard to see in the picture. I really like this pattern and will have to make myself a pair of socks with it one of these days. Chewie has had the last two injections for heart worm so I am busy trying to keep him quiet. He really loves his painkillers. He must feel no pain but certainly gets a high. I have to keep an eye on him so he doesn't try to sneak out and go to the neighbors hoping that someone has had a tooth pulled and might have a bit of medication left over in the medicine cabinet. Secret pal 10 starts soon so I really need to get back in the habit of getting an entry on my blog every few days. I am back and promise to do better.

I GIVE UP!

2007-02-13T09:07:00.000-07:00

I don't know if it is me or the pattern. Here is a tank top and shrug I knit out of bamboo yarn. The gauge is correct but the shrug was really small and had to be adjusted. Being brave or let's admit it somewhat stupid, I went back to it and knit the tank top. The top is too large, go figure...I didn't make any adjustments because I thought that I would adjust again when finished. I even put the top in the dryer on high. It's still too large. Maybe this is just one of those projects that is not supposed to be, or maybe the person was slated for wants something really loose to work in the garden. I have been under the weather the past few days but as long as I am sitting in my chair I might as well have needles in hand so at least this is finished even if never used and I am thankful to be working on something else. Toed socks next. I will let you know how they come out.

Another package ready to go

2007-02-10T09:23:00.000-07:00

I finally got together the rest of my package for the stitch markers swap so here it is. I took a picture of the markers earlier. I have been remiss at blogging the past week or so and really need to get going. I just ordered some sock yarn from the internet that looks wonderful and if it is half as yummy when it arrives I won't be able to wait to get a picture on my blog. Repeat after me, I will not keep buying sock yarn. I like to knit socks but there are things I would rather knit. Oh, but sock yarn seems to come in the most wonderful colors! This one is hand dyed and one of my presents for Christmas was a yarn winder. I love watching it wobble around and get the yarn all tidy. It is so nice to not have to wind from my swift any longer. I is still cold in Wisconsin but I have to bundle up and get to the storeand post office. Got to get that package in the mail. Chewie has about little over a quarter of his heart worm treatment finished and is giving me a disgusted look because I told him it was time to clean the house. He hates it when the vacumn makes it's growling noises. He doesn't run, but he sniffs it and keeps a close watch.

Secret Pal 10 Questionaire

2007-02-04T12:56:00.000-07:00

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? I like about anything that is soft. I really prefer the natural years but that is not saying there are not some acrylic blends out there that are very nice

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? I have a very old hand made needle holder for my straights, my circular are in a tote and my wonder pal in secret Pal 9 made me a holder for my double pointed needles

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? I have been knitting since I was about 8 or so. I am really not sure the exact age. I was taught by a family friend who used to knit for a living. I think they probably did to give me something to keep me busy so I didn't bug them all the time.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? No, I use them but I have never filled out a wish list.

5. What's your favorite scent? it depends upon the season. In the spring I like Lilacs, fall is apples and pumpkin well you get the idea. I am not fond of some of the vanillas out there. There are so bad ones.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy? Yes, Yes Yes I have many sweet teeth. I like almost all kinds of candy and love to try different things but I have to say that my favorite would be chocolate

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin? I sew, so a small amount of counted cross, quilt, crochet. I would love to spin but want a castle wheel and that is currently not in the budget.

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) My computer can play MP3s but I am 60 percent deaf and so music is really not one of my "things"

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand? I like them all but vary between the rich bolds in fall and winter and the pastels for knitting for the spring and summer months.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets? I live alone although one of my sons and his family live very close so I am with them frequently. I have a dog that is currently going through heart worm treatment. Hopefully he will come out fine.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos? I have about all the scarves I need unless it is the type you wear for decoration and not for winter weather. I have quite a few pair of mittens but can always use more warm ones. I haven't worm ponchos in years but I think it might be time to start again now that they are back in popularity.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? whatever catches my eye. Sometimes it is a felted bag, some times it is a sweater. It is fun to knit for my grand kids.

13. What are you knitting right now? Finally finishing a long put off tank top with matching shrug of bamboo. I keep running out of yarn. Hope this does it.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts? Yes, there are so many creative people out there.

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? I like circular because I can use them as straight or circular. I have some of all types and it depends upon the yarn. Some are better with bamboo some with aluminum etc so I can't say I have a favorite.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift? I own both a swift and a yarn winder

17. How old is your oldest UFO? I threw a bunch out years ago and try to finish so I would have to say this top I am working on. I started it last fall about September or October. that makes me sound better then I am. When I gave the toss to the Good Will I had UFO's that were years and years old.

18. What is your favorite holiday? Hard to say...If it is by Christmas I say Christmas. If by Easter I say Easter. It changes with the seasons

19. Is there anything that you collect? Reproduction and antique prints, kitchen gadgets

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? Nothing in particular. I think that my subscription to Interweave Knits is about up and that is the only magazine I had coming in the mail. there are some interesting looking ones out there though.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? If it is new and looks interesting I would be interested in giving it a try no matter what it was.

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements? I knit socks but ear a size 10 shoe and my foot is quite wide so if someone needs exact measurements I can email them.

23. When is your birthday? February 11th.

EVENING ROSE GARDEN

2007-02-04T12:40:00.000-07:00

One of the skeins of yarn I recieved from my knit kit partner was an incrediable soft bulky wool called Evening Rose Garden from Rose Garden Fibers. I have really large hands and the kids are ready for winter so since I couldn't wait to try out something with this great stuff I decided it was time to make a bag to hold the beads and things I use to make stitch markers. This is the result. The knitted button is a little large but it works and I love the colors in the yarn. My partner spoiled me so I have lots of other yarn for mittens and this bag beats the zippered plastic bag I was using.

A Present for Princess

2007-02-03T13:34:00.001-07:00

I love stitch markers. It is kind of an obsession so when I saw a swap for stitch markers I had to join. Lucky me, I got someone with the nom du plume (or is de plume?) of Princess Kate so I hope she likes her markers. I also want to thank my pal Stacey over at www.http://www.peaknits@blogstop.com for inspiring me to make some stitch marker bags. So friend, here is one with ribbon and one with the buttons. Oh, and yes, the buttons are not quite level. Pull the fabric Princess, they will even out.

Back at it

2007-02-02T15:54:00.000-07:00

Wow, I must have made things sound much worse on the blahs then they really were. Thanks to all the emails and notes to keep my chin up. Honest, it was more like what my mother used to call being at loose ends. Nothing is just right and nothing captures your imagination. Anyway, I have been busy trying to keep Chewie calm now that he has started his heart worm treatment. Curses to being told he was heart worm negative and finding out he was positive. So that takes some of my time. It is also really cold here so I am trying to do nice cozy warm things. I did make another felted bag. I am not sure where this one is going to find a home but it looks to me like it belongs to someone who wears blue jeans and doesn't need a huge bag. Now off to find something new to try. I will keep you posted.

the January Blahs

2007-01-27T17:08:00.000-07:00

The month of January has hit me with full force. The grey sky is so sad it almost seems as though it will press down and force tears from eyes. It have all this wonderful new yarn and keep looking through all my patterns but nothing seems to excite me enough to get started. Today, once the regular housework was done, I sat in my cuddle (a fuzzy zipper blanket that I figured is at least 25 years old) and was content to read a book and drink some tea without having at least a hundred projects going through my head. Maybe we need this time of rest. It might feel lazy but it also might be a time of reflection and renewal. Sometimes I think that we could all benefit by using a bit more introspection so maybe the blahs are really the Yeahs and we should be happy to have these lazy days to grow in knowledge and perhaps self understanding. I doubt if this will last long so I might as well enjoy it.

Another wonderful package

2007-01-21T07:33:00.000-07:00

I just got another wonderful package from Petra, my now unveiled secret pal in secret pal 9. The shadows of evening show on the picture but I could not wait to get this up and on my blog. Petra has done a wonderful job of spoiling me and continued right to the end. This time the package included among other things, some wonderful yarn, a book that has not only sock patterns but the history of socks. (I am a pushover for this type of thing) needles... knitting and other, and best of all a needle case that she made herself. She always includes candy and treats for my dog as well as a paper item. I have been so very fortunate to have her as a pal to introduce me to the world of longer term "swaps." I only hope that she had someone spoiling her that was at least 1/2 as nice as the way she spoiled me. Thank-you again Petra Oh, and I don't know why but Chewie is in love with the blue/green yarn I have to zip it up in the tote because he wants to snuffle it all and time.

It's done Well, almost

2007-01-20T13:42:00.000-07:00

Whenever Jade gets something she says is that "my cute little _______". so in this case her cute little dress is finished. Well, I do have to hem it but as it is lined I don't want to guess and have to do it again so I will wait until she tries it on. It is a drop waist so there might not be much skirt when it is hemmed. Time to get back to my knitting. The weather here is cold and it will be nice to cuddle up in the recliner and listen to the click of the needles. I get lazy in the winter. With all of the yarn my secret pal sent me in the Mitt kit exchange I really need to get a top I have on my needles finished. I have put this off because I am afraid that I don't quite have enough yarn and am not sure where to get more. I also am a basket case because my dog that was supposed to be heart worm negative starts his heart worm treatment this coming week. I don't know any way to keep a young dog quiet for weeks. My vet keeps trying to reassure me that it will be fine and even gave me the information they have on the treatment. It still makes me really nervous. I really really like this dog and there is always a possibility of a problem with this treatment. Enough rambling. Off to my chair and those knitting needles.

Lucky Lucky Me

2007-01-18T17:07:00.000-07:00

I just got my package from my secret pal in knit kit and I hit the jackpot. Wow, did she ever send me some wonderful things. There is not 1, not 2 but 7 skeins of yarn. Two knitting magazines and a knitting book. Tea with a mug and lots of candy for holing up during the cold winter weather. If that wasn't enough there are two bags for knitting. One of them she did some hand work on and it is so adorable. To top it off she sent all kinds of beautiful stitch markers. Oh, I know I am the luckiest person there is.

The dust cover is off

2007-01-14T14:57:00.000-07:00

I finally got the dust cover off of my sewing machine. It was a bit mad at me and I had to put in a new needle to show it that I meant business and was not planning on deserting it after only sewing up a pulled out seam. I will admit that the majority of today was dedicated to reading and just being lazy but I did manage to get the bodice of Jade's dress put together. I have a tendency to go off the beaten path and that goes for my patterns as well as my life. I have used eyelet with the dotted swiss and now am wondering if I didn't make a mistake. What do you think? Oh well, I am out of elastic button fastening tape and will have to make some so this will be put off for a little bit anyway. Maybe by then I will have decided if it looks more old fashioned if I take out the eyelet. Jade will probably love it no matter what because there are beads on it. They aren't big but they are beads. Chewie is whining for attention. He starts his heart worm treatment soon and that scares me to death. I was told he was negative but when I got him and took him to my vet, no such luck. Of course by then I was in love with him so here we go. I don't know how to keep a young dog quiet for all of at least a month. I must tell the vet that I will be the one who will need a tranquilizer to get me through this.